Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

United States

Snorkel pristine coral gardens teeming with tropical fish and encounter gentle sea turtles in crystalline Hawaiian waters.

Currency United States Dollar (USD)
Language English
Time Zone HST (UTC-10)
Best Time to Visit Mar–May
Typical Duration 7-18 nights
Price Range From $50 pp
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Gateway to Hawaii's Big Island, offering pristine beaches, world-class snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, and access to Mauna Kea volcano and Kona coffee country.

Cruises that visit Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Build Your Day in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM
Usually about 9 hours ashore
Getting around:
Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill The Sweetie Ahi poke bowl was incredible - fresh, tasty, and flavourful. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 7k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area Beautiful beach, clear, beautiful water and lots of room for sun bathing. State park · ★ 4.8 · 6k
La'aloa Beach Park (aka Magic Sands) Bathwater-warm water, good waves, and clean. Public beach · ★ 4.6 · 5k
On the Rocks A great casual restaurant right on the beach in Kona. Grill · ★ 4.4 · 5k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Kona Brewing Co. Awesome beer and food with an atmosphere only found in Kona. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 4k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Kahalu’u Beach Park Shaded picnic area, showers, lifeguard, bathrooms. Park · ★ 4.6 · 4k
Island Lava Java Laid-back cafe, bakery & American grill Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 4k
Broke Da Mouth Grindz- KONA Hawaiian & Filipino bites in a chill hub Hawaiian · ★ 4.5 · 3k Closed · Opens 11 AM Wed
Jackie Rey's Kona Colorful local find for seafood specials Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 3k Closed · Opens 3:30 PM
Quinn's Almost by the Sea Everything we ordered was delicious and reasonably priced. American · ★ 4.4 · 3k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Sunset Kai Lanai Vista views, fire pits & Hawaiian fare Hawaiian · ★ 4 · 3k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Kekaha Kai State Beach Swimming is great when it's calm but if the waves look rough, stay out. Public beach · ★ 4.7 · 2k
Big Island Grill The food portion is generous and the quality was excellent. Hawaiian · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Kona Inn Restaurant Great food, great service and a one of the best views in Kona. Seafood · ★ 4.2 · 2k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Kona Commons Shopping Center A lot of shops, big and small, in a nice area. Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 2k Open · Closes 5 PM
Huggo's Been in Kona for a few days by far this is the best food and atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k Closed · Opens 4 PM
HiCO - Hawaiian Coffee, Kona Coffee Friendly staff, great vibes, and top notch coffee and food. Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Fish Hopper Kona Ali'i Drive and view of Kona Harbor is breathtaking while you eat. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k
Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar Casual oceanfront spot for global fare Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 2k
Kona Inn Shopping Village Relaxing and cozy place to shop and eat with restaurants facing the ocean. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Keauhou Shopping Center Lots of parking.*** The view at Keauhou shopping center is spectacular! Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Kona Coffee & Tea ... relaxing and lovely atmosphere, great food and amazing coffee Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Island Ono Loa Grill The food was colorful, beautifully presented and tasted even better. Hamburger · ★ 4.6 · 2k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Magics Beach Grill Best sunset cocktails in Kona. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Journey Cafe Big Island The portions were generous and the food was creative and very good. Cafe · ★ 4.7 · 2k
Don's Mai Tai Bar & Restaurant Great view of Kailua Bay and town with very good bar food. Bar · ★ 4.3 · 1k
Big Kahuna Beach Grill The presentation of the food was attractive, and the portions generous. American · ★ 4.3 · 1k
Kai Eats + Drinks The food was absolutely amazing—fresh, delicious, and beautifully prepared. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Kona Coast Shopping Center Great shopping center, lots of options for food, shopping, and activities. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 1k Open · Closes 9 PM
Lanihau Center It is a big store with wide aisles and was not cluttered. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 1k Open · Closes 9 PM
Ali‘i Sunset Plaza Great burger and art studio, gem store, crowded parking Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Da Shark Shack Awesome, tiny island drink bar with insane views of the ocean. Grill · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM
Coconut Grove Marketplace Lots of great gifts and food with ocean views . Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 1k Open · Closes 2 AM
Kohanaiki Beach Park Great beach for swimming, surf, and whale watching, and beautiful sunsets Public beach · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Kona Heaven Coffee High quality coffee, good food, enjoyable atmosphere and pleasant staff. Coffee shop · ★ 4.4 · 1k
Wawaloli Beach Park Tide pools at low tide in the mornings and beautiful sunsets. Park · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Kona Wave Cafe Tried the ube latte and kona wave acai bowl and they were delicious! Açaí shop · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Kona Crossroads This strip mall's parking lot has a beautiful view of the ocean. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 1k Open 24 hours
Cheeky Tiki Perfect Hawaiian Tiki bar atmosphere with lovely views of the water. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Aloha Vibes They have a small bar area, outdoor ocean sunset seating and indoor. Grill · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Sam's Hideaway The bartender is great and the selection of good alcohol is impressive. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Dolphin Spit Saloon Strong drinks, laid back atmosphere, friendly staff and dogs. Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Pink Mocha Cafe The baristas were super friendly and the coffee is incredible. Coffee shop · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Honu's on the Beach Hotel venue for Pacific Rim fine dining Restaurant · ★ 4.1 · 0k
La Bourgogne | French Restaurant A beautiful set three course meal with matching wines. French · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM Wed
Kailua Beach Clean, Plenty of private space, not busy. Public beach · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Waterfront Row Shopping Center It is a nice stroll shop and a walk along the water front. Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Kings Coffee Company Awesome coffee, awesome food, and friendly service and staff! Cafe · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Walua Social Dine-in·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM
The Temple Kitchen + Bar You can enjoy wonderful food and cocktails while overlooking Kailua bay. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 4 PM
Tante's Local Grindz The short ribs were incredible and the potato Mac salad was delicious. Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Crave Cafe Amazing coffee and sandwiches 🥪 Ambience is very cozy and peaceful ☺️ Coffee shop · ★ 4.7 · 0k
King Kamehameha Mall This old mall may need some paint on the roof, but it's still a gem. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

About Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua-Kona stands as one of Hawaii's most vibrant cruise destinations, with nine major cruise lines calling at this scenic Big Island port. While primarily a port of call, Kailua-Kona serves as a popular hub for Pacific cruises, with nearly 200 upcoming sailings ranging from leisurely seven-night itineraries to longer voyages exploring the Hawaiian Islands and beyond. Cruise passengers will find themselves among a diverse fleet of vessels, from luxury expedition ships to large resort-style cruisers, all drawn to this iconic Hawaiian location.

When your ship arrives in Kailua-Kona, you'll discover a charming waterfront town steeped in Hawaiian history and culture. The area offers excellent snorkeling opportunities in pristine tropical waters, as well as easy access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or authentic island experiences, Kailua-Kona delivers the quintessential Hawaiian cruise port experience that keeps passengers returning year after year.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Snorkel with Manta Rays

Experience one of Hawaii's most magical encounters at Kona's world-famous manta ray night dives and snorkeling sites. These gentle giants glide gracefully through the water just offshore, creating an unforgettable underwater spectacle. Local operators offer guided tours perfect for cruise passengers with limited time in port.

2

Kailua Pier Historic District

Walk along the iconic Kailua Pier, where King Kamehameha I once ruled and where Hawaiian history comes alive. Browse nearby shops and galleries celebrating local culture, then grab fresh poke and plate lunch from waterfront vendors serving authentic island cuisine.

3

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau Park

Visit this sacred 16th-century Hawaiian place of refuge, just 20 minutes south of the cruise port. Explore reconstructed temples, ancient fishponds, and pristine beaches while learning about traditional Hawaiian customs and spiritual practices from knowledgeable park rangers.

4

Kona Coffee Farm Tours

Discover why Kona coffee is world-renowned by visiting local farms on the volcanic slopes above town. Sample freshly roasted beans, learn about the unique growing conditions, and purchase premium coffee directly from farmers in this charming agricultural region.

5

Sunset Beach Relaxation

Unwind at nearby Kahaluu Beach Park or Maniniowali Beach, where calm, turquoise waters and dramatic lava rock formations create postcard-perfect scenery. These accessible beaches offer excellent swimming, tide pools to explore, and stunning sunset views before returning to your ship.

Cruise Lines at Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Cruises Departing From Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Cruises Visiting Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Ship Schedule at Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Location

Other Cruise Ports in United States

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii?

Nine major cruise lines operate from Kailua-Kona, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea, Viking Ocean Cruises, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. With 195 upcoming cruises available, you'll have numerous options to choose from for your Hawaiian vacation.

When is the best time to cruise from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii?

The peak months for cruising from Kailua-Kona are March, April, May, September, and October. These months offer pleasant weather and are popular times to visit Hawaii, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred cruise dates and cabin.

How much do cruises from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii cost?

Cruise prices from Kailua-Kona range from $492.50 to $67,990 per person, depending on the cruise line, ship, cabin type, and itinerary length. Ocean cruises from this port offer options for various budgets, from affordable getaways to luxury experiences.

Is Kailua-Kona a tender port or dock port?

Kailua-Kona is primarily a tender port, meaning passengers are transported to shore by small boats rather than docking directly at a pier. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at the tender landing to transport you around town and to nearby attractions.

What can I see and do in a day at Kailua-Kona?

Kailua-Kona offers excellent snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, historical sites like Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, and the scenic Kona Coast. You can also enjoy local restaurants, shops, and beaches, or take a short excursion to nearby attractions like coffee plantations or volcanic landscapes.

What other Hawaiian ports can I visit from Kailua-Kona?

From Kailua-Kona, cruises typically visit other Hawaiian islands including Honolulu, Kahului-Maui, Nawiliwili, and Hilo. Many itineraries also extend beyond Hawaii to Papeete, Tahiti, offering a broader Pacific island experience.

What type of cruises depart from Kailua-Kona?

Kailua-Kona primarily offers ocean cruises, which are traditional multi-day voyages visiting various ports throughout the Hawaiian Islands and Pacific region. These cruises range from short getaways to extended journeys, providing diverse itineraries for different travel preferences.