Friday

06-06-2025 Vol 1983

Discovering Honolulu Cruise Port: Your Guide to the Gateway of the Pacific

The Honolulu cruise port, officially recognized as Honolulu Harbor, is a bustling hub that welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, providing easy access to the tropical attractions of Hawaii.

Situated conveniently close to the vibrant heart of Honolulu, the port allows for effortless exploration of the city’s finest neighborhoods and attractions.

Additionally, its proximity to the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and the hotel-dense area of Waikiki makes it an accessible point for travelers.

Cruises from the Honolulu Harbor typically sail around the stunning Hawaiian Islands, making stops at destinations like Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island.

For those looking for longer sea adventures, several cruises extend to other Polynesian islands, including Fiji and Tahiti, as well as to locations across the continental U.S., Canada, or even New Zealand.

No matter the itinerary of a cruise, embarking from Honolulu guarantees charming views and a scenic sailaway into the vast Pacific Ocean.

**Honolulu Cruise Port Address**

The Honolulu cruise port operates from two main piers:

– Pier 2, located at 521 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI 96813.

– Pier 11, at 23 Aloha Tower Drive, Honolulu, HI 96813.

Both piers are within a half a mile of each other, emphasizing the importance of knowing which pier you are using for a smoother journey.

**Honolulu Cruise Terminal Information**

Among the various cruise lines operating from Honolulu, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is unique in offering weekly departures year-round from the port.

Other cruise lines generally engage in one-way eastbound or westbound transpacific cruises with stops at other Hawaiian Islands.

Most cruises dock at Pier 2, while Pier 11 serves as an alternative location when necessary.

Cruise lines that use the Honolulu Harbor include well-known companies such as:

– Carnival Cruise Line

– Celebrity Cruises

– Crystal

– Cunard Line

– Disney Cruise Line

– Holland America

– Norwegian Cruise Line

– Oceania Cruises

– Princess Cruises

– Regent Seven Seas Cruises

– Royal Caribbean

– Seabourn

– Silversea Cruises

– Viking

For a complete schedule and details, travelers can visit the official Hawaii ports cruise schedule website.

**Honolulu Cruise Terminal Directions**

Getting to the Honolulu cruise terminal is relatively straightforward, with clear routes from various locations:

From Waikiki, travelers should head west along Kalakaua Avenue or Ala Moana Boulevard before continuing on to Channel Street, which leads directly to Pier 2. This drive typically takes about 15 minutes.

If departing from the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, the route involves heading north on Rodgers Avenue, turning right onto Hawaii Route 92, and then right again onto Channel Street. This journey also takes approximately 15 minutes.

For those coming from Ko Olina on the island’s west side, the drive takes at least 40 minutes via Interstate H-1.

Meanwhile, a trip from Haleiwa on the North Shore takes almost an hour, requiring travelers to navigate from Interstate H-2 south to Interstate H-1 east.

**Honolulu Cruise Port Parking**

Parking options at the Honolulu cruise port can be limited.

While there are no parking garages directly at the port, the Aloha Tower Marketplace near Pier 11 offers short-term parking with uncertain availability, typically costing around $20 per day.

For those seeking a park-and-cruise arrangement, the options are scarce, thus using a taxi or ride-hailing service is recommended.

**Airports Near Honolulu Cruise Port**

The only major airport on Oahu, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), is the primary gateway for travelers flying into the Honolulu cruise port, situated around a 15-minute drive away.

Various domestic and international airlines operate flights to this airport, with prominent carriers including Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.

**Getting to the Honolulu Cruise Terminal from HNL**

Some cruise lines do provide transportation between the airport and the cruise terminal; however, this service is often reserved for those who purchased airfare through the cruise line.

If that option isn’t available, independent shuttle services such as LeaLea, Speedi Shuttle, and Honolulu Airport Transfer can bridge the gap, with fares ranging from $22 to $40 per person.

**Taxi Service from HNL Airport to the Honolulu Cruise Terminal**

Taxis can be easily found at HNL, with a standard fare to the Honolulu cruise terminal generally around $40.

While designated taxi pickup locations at the airport are not extensive, passengers can locate them on Level 1, typically at the center medians outside the baggage claim.

For those who prefer ride-hailing options, Uber fares are about $30, while Lyft rides hover around $20.

Alternatively, local service Holoholo charges roughly $25 for similar trips. For all three ride-hailing services, pickup locations are on Level 2 in front of lobbies 2, 5/6, and 8.

Considering public transportation, TheBus is the only option available at HNL, charging $3 per ride. Travelers aiming for Pier 11 should board Bus 20 and disembark at the S. King Street + Bethel Street stop, about 0.3 miles from the port entrance.

For Pier 2, travelers will get off at the Ala Moana Boulevard + Opp South Street stop, with just 0.2 miles left to walk. The ride duration varies from around 30 to 40 minutes, but it’s essential to note that neither stop is located directly at the cruise terminal, requiring some luggage maneuvering.

**Honolulu Cruise Terminal Services**

Currently, there isn’t any Wi-Fi service available at the port.

However, visitors can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi at the Aloha Tower Marketplace near Pier 11.

**Hotels Near Honolulu Cruise Port**

Although there are no hotels within easy walking distance of the Honolulu cruise port, numerous accommodations lie within a brief 15-minute drive.

It’s vital to note that no hotels offer designated shuttles to the port or park-and-cruise packages, thus necessitating taxi or ride-hailing services to reach the terminal.

Among the closest hotels is the Aston at the Executive Centre Hotel, situated less than a mile from Honolulu Harbor and primarily catering to business travelers.

Offering modern guest rooms and several condo-style suites with full kitchens, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay before their cruise.

Another nearby option is the Ala Moana Hotel, conveniently located adjacent to the world-renowned Ala Moana Center.

This mid-range hotel, just a 10-minute drive from the cruise port, is ideal for those wanting to shop for last-minute essentials or beach attire before their journey.

For travelers seeking luxury, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort provides a chance to relax in world-famous Waikiki, also only about 15 minutes from the Honolulu Harbor, with breathtaking views from Kahanamoku Beach.

**Restaurants Near Honolulu Cruise Port**

Exploring dining options is effortless with plenty of culinary hubs near the Honolulu cruise port.

Chinatown, just a couple of blocks away from Pier 11, boasts a plethora of restaurants serving delectable Asian cuisines.

One standout eatery is The Pig & The Lady, highly favored by both locals and tourists, drawing in crowds for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious menu offerings.

Also nearby is Kakaako, which is known for its trendy food scene and is located merely under a mile from Pier 2.

Salt at Our Kakaako serves as a popular food stop, offering an excellent selection of eateries and shops worth exploring.

**Shopping Near Honolulu Cruise Port**

For last-minute shopping or snacks before departure, there are various options close to the Honolulu cruise port.

Palama Express, a small convenience store located in the Aloha Tower Marketplace close to Pier 11, provides a limited selection of Asian-inspired snacks, beverages, and prepackaged meals.

For more substantial inventory, both Safeway and Longs Drugs (CVS) are situated behind Chinatown, about a five-minute drive from Pier 11 and a ten-minute drive from Pier 2. Here, visitors can find essential items like snacks, drinks, and sunscreen.

Lastly, the Ala Moana Center, located just 10 minutes from the ports and right outside Waikiki, offers a comprehensive shopping experience with over 350 stores, including a Target and local grocery options like Foodland Farms.

In summary, whether planning for a cruise or merely passing through, the Honolulu cruise port and its surrounding attractions, accommodations, and services provide a welcoming gateway to the exquisite landscapes and experiences that Hawaii has to offer.

image source from:https://thepointsguy.com/cruise/honolulu-cruise-port-guide/

Abigail Harper