The Kona Cruise Port in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii is a popular destination for cruise ships with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. As one of the top tourist destinations in Hawaii, Kona offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for travelers of all ages and interests.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the island’s natural beauty, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Kona has something to offer everyone. In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the must-see attractions and local cultural experiences that you won’t want to miss on your next Kona cruise port stop.
Where is the Kona Cruise Port Located?
The Kona cruise port is located in the center of historic Kailua-Kona on the west side of the Big Island. Since the bay is too shallow for large cruise ships to dock directly, passengers arrive by tender boat at Kailua Pier.
From there, you are within walking distance of:
- Restaurants and coffee shops
- Ali‘i Drive shopping
- Beaches and snorkeling spots
- Excursions and outdoor adventures
One of the biggest advantages of Kona is that many top attractions are only a short drive away. Aloha Adventure Farms, for example, is located about 10 to 15 minutes uphill in Holualoa.
How Do You Get Around From the Kona Cruise Port?
Since you likely won’t be renting a car for just a few hours in port, getting to us is actually very simple. While there isn’t a dedicated shuttle, Kona is a small community and everything is close by:
- Uber & Lyft: These are very active in the downtown area. Just open your app once you’re on the pier!
- Local Taxis: You’ll usually see a line of friendly taxi drivers waiting near the pier exit. Just tell them you’re heading to Aloha Adventure Farms in Holualoa—they know exactly where we are.
- Pro Tip: Plan activities close to Kona so you can maximize your time without worrying about long drives back to the ship.
What Are the Best Beaches Near the Kona Cruise Port?
The Big Island is home to some of Hawaii’s most unique beaches, from white sand stretches to lava-lined snorkeling coves. Kamakahonu Beach is the closest beach to the Kona cruise port and is located right by the King Kamehameha Hotel.
However, if you have some time to explore and are willing to take the drive to other beautiful beaches on Big Island, we have plenty other gems to share with you.
🌊 Makalawena Beach is the #1 rated beach on the Big Island. This is a totally secluded beach and it takes about 20 minutes to walk there from the area where you can park your car. It is all part of the adventure, you even get to walk on lava to get to the beach!
🌊 Hapuna Beach has hit the top ten beaches multiple times out of all the islands, and it’s no joke! This white sand beach is open from 7 am to 8 pm daily and one thing to be aware of is that there is a $5 parking fee if you are parking your vehicle. Hapuna Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, etc. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to see some whales in action!
🌊 Mahaiula Beach is another beautiful spot worth visiting. Known for its mix of black and white sand, calm tide pools, and stunning turquoise water, it’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing beach day on the Big Island. Whether you want to swim, explore the shoreline, or simply soak in the scenery, this beach has a little bit of everything.
Top Kona Shore Excursions & Outdoor Adventures
If you are looking to get beyond the shops and crowds near the Kona Cruise Port, an outdoor adventure is one of the best ways to experience the island. One popular option is the Big Island ATV Tour at Aloha Adventure Farms in Holualoa, located just a short drive from the pier.
This two-hour guided tour takes you through jungle trails and Polynesian villages representing Hawaii, Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa. Along the way, you will learn about Polynesian culture through interactive stops and activities while taking in some incredible scenery along the slopes of Hualālai.
Guests ages 16 and older can drive their own ATV, while younger children and anyone who prefers not to drive can ride comfortably in a guided UTV. It is a great option for families, groups, and cruise visitors looking for something more memorable than a typical port stop.
Pro Tip: Add on an Exotic Fruit Tasting Tour to your day! After your ride, savor the freshest tropical flavors like pineapple, dragon fruit, and passion fruit while learning about Hawaii’s rich agricultural history.
Where Can You Snorkel Near the Kona Cruise Port?
If you want to spend part of your Kona port day in the water, there are several great snorkeling spots nearby. One local favorite is Two Step Beach, located next to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, also known as the City of Refuge. The clear water, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life make it one of the best snorkeling areas on the Big Island. The lava rock coastline adds to the dramatic scenery and gives the area its unique feel.
Hapuna Beach is another great option, especially if you are looking for a mix of swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling. While it is best known for its wide white sand beach, snorkeling can also be excellent, especially near the rocky areas at either end of the beach.
A few important things to keep in mind before getting in the water:
- Lava rocks can be slippery and difficult to enter or exit from
- Ocean conditions can change quickly
- Always check surf and weather conditions before snorkeling
- Give marine life plenty of space and follow local wildlife guidelines
If you want to do something more memorable than shopping along Ali‘i Drive, Aloha Adventure Farms offers a fun way to experience a different side of the Big Island just minutes from the cruise port.
Big Island ATV Tour
The most popular experience is the Big Island ATV Tour, where you will:
- Ride through jungle trails
- Visit Polynesian villages representing Hawaii, Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa
- Try hands-on cultural activities
- Learn about island traditions in a fun, interactive setting
It is a great way to explore beyond the typical tourist stops while taking in incredible scenery along the slopes of Hualālai.
Polynesian Wood Carving Tour
If you are looking for something more relaxed, the Polynesian Wood Carving Tour is a great option.
Led by Mani, a fourth-generation master carver from Tonga, this experience takes place in an open-air carving hut overlooking the Kona coastline. You will learn traditional carving techniques and create your own piece using locally sourced wood to take home with you.
Exotic Fruit Tasting Tour
You can also add an Exotic Fruit Tasting Tour to your visit and sample tropical fruits grown right on the farm, including:
- Pineapple
- Dragon fruit
- Passion fruit
Along the way, you will learn more about Hawaii’s agricultural history and unique growing conditions.
Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or simply a break from the crowds, Aloha Adventure Farms offers an easy and memorable addition to your Kona port day.
Where to Shop and Eat Near the Kona Cruise Port
If you’re looking for shopping near the Kona Cruise Port, head north to Waikoloa Village (about 40 minutes away). What’s a vacation without leaving a dent in your bank account?!🤪
One of the most popular and beautiful places to shop on Big Island is located in Waikoloa. With two shopping centers to choose from, both King’s Shops and Queens’ Marketplace offer a variety of shops for your entire family. Waikoloa Village is about a 40-minute drive from the Kona cruise port and the drive is absolutely beautiful! You will see the geography change from tropical to lava rock as you drive along the west side of Big Island. Some shops found here include:
- Na Hoku
- Crazy Shirts
- Giving Bracelets
- Kokonut Drop
- Rip Curl
If you’re looking for some yummy food after some shopping, here are some restaurants that are worth checking out:
- Foster’s Kitchen
- Island Fish & Chips
- Romano’s Macaroni Grill
- Waikoloa Pizza
- Sansei Seafood, Steakhouse & Sushi
- Gypsea Gelato
- Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill
Make the Most of Your Kona Port Day
The Big Island of Hawaii is an island full of natural beauty, wonders, and adventure. Whether you choose to spend your day snorkeling at Two Step Beach, riding through lush landscapes on a Big Island ATV Tour, carving your own Polynesian wood carving with a master carver, or savoring the island’s freshest tropical fruits on an Exotic Fruit Tasting Tour, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Aloha and safe travels from the Kona cruise port!
Kona Port Frequently Asked Questions
Where do cruise ships dock in Kona, Hawaii?
Cruise ships visiting the Kona cruise port anchor offshore in Kailua Bay, as there’s no deep-water dock. Passengers are tendered to the Kailua Pier, right in the heart of downtown Kona. From the pier, you’ll find restaurants, beaches, shops, and excursions all within walking distance, making Kona one of the most accessible and scenic Hawaii cruise ports on the Big Island.
What is the best thing to do near the Kona cruise port for families?
Our UTV tours are a huge hit for families. They allow everyone to sit together in one vehicle, making it a safe, fun, and educational way for all ages to explore the jungle and our Polynesian villages.
How far are the best beaches from the Kona cruise port?
Kamakahonu Beach is the closest beach to the Kona cruise port, located right by the King Kamehameha Hotel. If you’re looking to venture farther, Hapuna Beach (about 45 minutes north) offers world-class white sands, while Makalawena Beach and Mahaiula Beach are local favorites for snorkeling and swimming. Each offers a unique Big Island experience, perfect for cruise passengers seeking a beach escape.
What are the best shore excursions from the Kona cruise port?
Top-rated shore excursions from the Kona cruise port include an ATV Tour through the Holualoa area, a Polynesian Wood Carving Tour with a local master craftsman, and an Exotic Fruit Tasting Experience to sample fresh island flavors. For water lovers, popular excursions include snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, kayaking, or even a Manta Ray Night Dive—one of the most unforgettable experiences on the Big Island.
How do I get around from the Kona cruise port?
Most attractions near the Kona cruise port are easily accessible by foot, taxi, or shuttle. If you plan to explore farther beaches or farms, renting a car near the pier is a great option. Many local tour operators also provide direct pick-up and drop-off at the cruise terminal, so you can enjoy Big Island excursions stress-free. Be sure to plan ahead, as transportation options can fill up quickly on cruise days.
