Planning a cruise to Honolulu can be exciting and overwhelming, with countless things to consider. Did you know the Port of Honolulu has two bustling cruise terminals near most city attractions? This article provides all the information you need for an effortless journey, including terminal details, transportation options, local highlights, and safety tips.
So, let’s dive into this Cruise Port Honolulu Guide – your ticket to an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure!
About the Port
The Port of Honolulu, your gateway to paradise, offers two impressive cruise ship terminals. This vibrant hub of harbor activities is more than a docking station; it’s the starting point for many unforgettable vacation experiences in Hawaii.
The primary port on the island, Honolulu Harbor, seamlessly opens avenues for cruise ship passengers keen on island-hopping adventures.
Closer to shore and within walking distance from the port lies an array of waterfront attractions and sightseeing spots that encapsulate the spirit of Oahu. Right at one terminal, you’ll find Aloha Tower Marketplace — an astonishing local landmark teeming with shops, restaurants, and entertainment outlets guaranteed to add charm to any traveler’s itinerary.
Cruise Terminal Information
Honolulu proudly boasts two main cruise ship terminals, Pier 2 and Pier 11. Situated at the West end of Channel Street, you’ll find the primary terminal, Pier 2. This location is just a 10-minute walk away from Downtown Honolulu, where you’ll find several shops and restaurants to grace yourself.
Pier 11 serves as the second cruise ship terminal in Honolulu. It is conveniently located next to Aloha Tower and offers easy access to some city attractions right off your ship. Both terminals have numerous facilities and services tailored specifically to meet passenger needs.
The Port of Honolulu stays busy due to its constant influx of thrilled tourists ready to explore this tropical paradise’s offerings on land or sea. From the moment you disembark from your vessel, expect pleasant experiences thanks to Honolulu’s efficient port management and warm aloha spirit.
When you arrive at the cruise terminal, there’s no need to rush off to buy a lei. A traditional Hawaiian greeting symbolizing love and respect, a lei will be provided to you upon arrival at the terminal.
How To Get Around
Exploring Oahu Island has never been easier, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. You can decide to board a bus, hop in a taxi, or drive around in a rental car. Tourists often enjoy the scenic trolley rides, which navigate through critical points of interest, allowing you to soak up the island’s beauty while on your transit.
Shuttle service is available for cruise passengers at Honolulu Harbor. Getting off your ship and into the action of Waikiki is made simple by these transport services. While neither of the ports has free accessible Wi-Fi, if you get to the Aloha Marketplace near Pier 11, you can connect to the network.
Things To Do
There are plenty of exciting things to do in Honolulu while on your cruise vacation. Start by visiting the Honolulu Aquarium, where you can explore marine life and even see sharks up close.
If you’re interested in history, head to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and tour the USS Arizona Memorial. For relaxation, spend a day at Waikiki Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.
Another must-visit is Diamond Head Crater, an iconic volcanic crater with stunning panoramic views. Nature enthusiasts will love Hanauma Bay, known for its vibrant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling or diving.
Beach Pass Information
To make the most of your time in Honolulu, don’t miss out on the incredible beach access available. Head to Waikiki or Ala Moana Beach Park, popular tourist attractions offering beautiful white sand shores and crystal-clear waters.
Whether you prefer lounging under an umbrella with a good book or trying out exciting water activities like snorkeling and surfing, these beautiful beaches have something for everyone.
Local Cuisine & Best Places To Eat
Indulge in the flavors of local cuisine during your visit to Honolulu. There are plenty of dining options near the cruise port, where you can sample delicious seafood dishes and other unique Hawaiian delicacies.
If you’re looking for cheap eats, try some fresh ahi tuna or treat yourself to one-of-a-kind dishes at the recommended restaurants, Moku Kitchen, and Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood.
For coffee lovers, there are cozy coffee shops around Port Waikiki Cruises, like Kona Mountain Coffee, where you can enjoy a caffeine fix with stunning views.
Shopping Opportunities
Near the Honolulu cruise port at Pier 11 is the Aloha Tower Marketplace. This marketplace features a wide range of dining and shopping options for you to explore. If you’re closer to Pier 2 Cruise Terminal, Downtown Honolulu has multiple boutique stores and cafeterias to treat even the pickiest individuals.
If you’re more about actually spending the greens, the Ala Moana Shopping Center is where you’ll find most treats. It’s just a few minutes away from Aloha Tower.
Local Currency
The local currency at the Cruise Port in Honolulu is the American dollar (USD). This means you don’t have to worry about exchanging your money if you’re coming from the United States or another country that uses US dollars.
You can easily use cash for any transactions, as well as credit cards, which are widely accepted at the port and throughout the city. If you do need to exchange your foreign currency into US dollars, there are convenient currency exchange services available right at the port.
Just keep in mind that the US dollar is not only used in Honolulu but also across Hawaii, including Kona (Kailua Bay) Cruise Port.
In addition to using cash and credit cards, another popular payment method in Honolulu is cashless payments. These include mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, as well as contactless card payments.
Safety Tips
To ensure your safety while exploring Cruise Port Honolulu, it is essential to follow these safety tips. Firstly, avoid carrying a large amount of cash with you and instead use credit or debit cards for transactions.
This will minimize the risk of losing money due to theft or misplacement. Secondly, leave valuable belongings on the ship to prevent them from being stolen or lost while you are out and about.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
While Honolulu is highly regarded as a safe city for tourists and locals alike, it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings while in the cruise port. This means checking for any suspicious activity and reporting it immediately if necessary.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Cruise Port Honolulu is during April, May, September, and October, when the weather is most pleasant. Late spring, from April to early June, is optimal for a Hawaiian cruise.
This season generally offers better weather conditions in Hawaii, with fewer chances of rain or storms. If you want to witness Hawaii’s beautiful landscapes and lush scenery, May is the prime month for your visit.
During this time, you’ll see the island at its finest, with colorful flowers blooming everywhere. Springtime brings affordable opportunities for cruising Hawaii while enjoying favorable climates and scenic beauty.
Popular Cruise Lines That Visit Cruise Port Honolulu Guide
Popular cruise lines that visit Cruise Port Honolulu include Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises. These cruise lines offer vacation itineraries to the beautiful destination of Honolulu, allowing you to explore all that Hawaii has to offer.
When visiting Cruise Port Honolulu, you can take shore excursions to must-see attractions like Pearl Harbor memorials and the famous Waikiki Beach. This allows you to pay your respects at historical landmarks while also enjoying the golden sand beaches and clear waters.
FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions.
How far is Honolulu from the cruise port?
The distance between Honolulu and the cruise port is around 6 miles or a quick 30-minute drive from the Honolulu International Airport. The cruise port terminal is situated approximately halfway between the airport and Waikiki and offers easy access to both locations.
If you want to explore further, the famous North Shore of Oahu is just a 40-minute scenic drive away. From here, you can enjoy stunning beaches and unforgettable shore excursions. So whether you want to relax on Waikiki Beach or venture out to experience more of what Oahu offers, the cruise port in Honolulu is conveniently located for an unforgettable vacation.
Where does the cruise ship dock in Honolulu?
The cruise ships dock at two central locations in Honolulu: Pier 2 and Pier 11. These docks are conveniently located in the heart of Honolulu Harbor, next to the iconic Aloha Tower. When you step off the ship, you’ll find yourself right in the center of all the action.
The Aloha Tower Marketplace is just a short walk away from both terminals, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for you to explore during your visit.
Booking Information
To make your booking process as smooth as possible, here is some essential information about booking your cruise to Honolulu. The Port of Honolulu has two cruise ship terminals, each offering excellent facilities for embarkation and disembarkation. Both Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer great deals to each port.
Once you have your cruise booked, make sure you don’t miss the top attractions. The memorial at Pearl Harbor sells out quickly. Also, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the Hawaiian Islands from above with this can’t miss helicopter tour.
Conclusion
Discover the beauty and excitement of Honolulu with the Cruise Port Honolulu Guide. From exploring the vibrant city to soaking up the sun on picturesque beaches, this guide provides everything you need to make your visit unforgettable.
Don’t miss out on any of the incredible experiences that await you in this tropical paradise. Plan your trip today and get ready for an adventure like no other!
