Kona (Kailua Bay) Cruise Port
Kailua Bay Cruise Port is situated on the west side of Hawaii’s Big Island in the Kona district, and travelers shuttle to land via the Kailua Pier, located just a stone’s-throw from Kailua Village. The port serves as the ideal jumping-off point from which to explore the Big Island's major attractions, including volcanoes, waterfalls, and sandy beaches.
The Basics
Visitors that disembark at Kona are generally interested in outdoor adventure, local culture, and—of course—lounging on the beaches. Book a cultural tour to uncover island history, visit cultural sights, and sample the local coffee or head out on city tours, beach hopping excursions, or trips that head to volcanoes and beyond. Many such tours even offer port pickup.
To reach the island’s remote parks and beaches more easily, rent a car or hire a private guide. For shopping, visit the Kona Farmers and Crafts Market, which is typically held twice weekly.
Things to Know Before You Go
Kona (Kailua Bay) Cruise Port is a tender port, so you'll be taken ashore via tender (small boat).
Outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the island’s numerous forest reserves, or Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano.
This area of Hawaii is typically dry and sunny, so bring sunscreen if you’re hiking, strolling, or lounging on the beach.
Foodies should sample the local coffee, which is grown in the hilly regions above Kailua-Kona.
Travelers who want a taste of luxury can find spas, resorts, and world-class golf courses near Kailua-Kona.
You can easily walk to Kailua Village from the port.
How to Get to Kona From the Kona (Kailua Bay) Cruise Port
Passengers typically transfer via tender (smaller vessel) directly to the Kona Pier. The most convenient ways to get to Kona from the pier are by booking a shore excursion that includes port pickup or walking into town. For travelers who want to explore independently, car rental agencies are located only a short distance from the pier.
Port Information
Hawaiian and English are the official languages of Hawaii, but you may also hear Spanish, Tagalog, and Portuguese. The US dollar is the local currency and ATMs are dotted across the island. Tipping is customary, as it is in mainland US.
Trip ideas
- Hilo Cruise Port
- Kailua Pier
- Kona (Kailua-Kona)
- Hulihee Palace
- Voyagers of the Pacific Luau
- Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
- Kahaluu Beach Park
- Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
- Keauhou Bay
- Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
- Honokohau Harbor
- Kekaha Kai State Park (Kona Coast State Park)
- Kona Coffee Living History Farm
- Captain Cook Monument
- Kealakekua Bay
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