Oahu Cruise Port

The basics

Honolulu has two cruise ship terminals: The first is at Pier 2, the harbor’s main cruise terminal, and the second is at Pier 11, located next door to Aloha Tower Marketplace and its warren of stores and waterfront restaurants. Passengers pre-booked on a shore excursion typically meet their tour guides inside whichever terminal they’ve landed at. If you are heading out independently, downtown Honolulu is less than 15 minutes away on foot.

Things to know before you go

• Honolulu Harbor is a handy port of call for those who wish to explore Honolulu.

• Porters are found in both cruise terminals. They wear Aloha (Hawaiian) shirts and work for tips.

• Honolulu Harbor does not offer wheelchair services.

• Wi-Fi is not available in either terminal, but you can find it in the Aloha Tower Marketplace.

• Paid luggage storage is available.

How to get there

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is around a 15-minute drive from the cruise terminals. Hail a cab or book a private or shared shuttle to reach the harbor, or take a public bus from the airport, which will get you to your destination in about 40 minutes.

When to get there

If your cruise is embarking from Honolulu, it is best to arrive at least two hours before your ship's departure time; take care not to come too early, as you might not be able to get through security. If Honolulu is a port of call on your cruise, sightseeing excursions are typically timed to your ship’s schedule.

Downtown Honolulu

Just a 15-minute walk from the terminal, Downtown Honolulu offers plenty to see and do. You can see Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States, and the King Kamehameha statue, which honors the monarch who founded the Kingdom of Hawaii. You can also get a great meal in Chinatown, followed by a cocktail in one of the neighborhood’s many bars. Next to Pier 11, the Aloha Tower Marketplace hosts regular live music.