Honolulu Cruise Port
Honolulu Harbor Cruise Terminal (Pier 2)
Honolulu, United States Port
Hawaii UN/LOCODE USHNL Port of call
Honolulu Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Region | Hawaii |
| UN/LOCODE | USHNL |
| Contact | |
| Address | 521 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA |
| Port phone | +1 808-587-2150 |
| Website | hidot.hawaii.gov |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 21.30000, -157.85000 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The Pier 2 cruise terminal in Honolulu sits exactly 2.5 miles (4 km) from Waikiki Beach, a $15.00–$22.00 taxi ride that takes 12–15 minutes depending on Ala Moana Boulevard traffic. Located on the southern shore of O'ahu, the destination is the energetic capital of Hawaii and serves as the primary ocean cruise port for the Central Pacific. The disembarkation flow here has been observed to be efficient, but Honolulu is a city of distinct pockets; walking between them is rarely productive for a passenger on an 8-hour clock. You are 45 minutes by road from the legendary surfing swells of the North Shore and approximately 18 miles (29 km) or 30 minutes from the turquoise waters of Kailua Beach Park. It is worth knowing that traffic in Honolulu is among the most congested in the United States, particularly between 3:30 PM and 6:00 PM. This port rewards the traveler who pre-books their Pearl Harbor tickets exactly 56 days in advance and punishes those who attempt to 'wing it' at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial gates. Expect a city that blends the grit of a working Pacific Ocean port with the polished luxury of high-end Waikiki. It is a place where you can touch the only royal palace on American soil before lunch and stand over a sunken battleship before your all-aboard call.
Honolulu — Port Overview
History
Honolulu rose to prominence in the late 18th century after King Kamehameha I conquered O'ahu in 1795, eventually moving the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii here in 1845. Its deep-water harbor made it the strategic center of the Pacific Ocean fur and sandalwood trades. The city's architectural narrative was forever changed in 1882 with the completion of Iolani Palace, a symbol of King Kalākaua’s desire to place Hawaii on an equal footing with European monarchies. However, the most pivotal and somber date in the city's modern identity is December 7, 1941. The surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor catapulted the United States into World War II and transformed Honolulu into a massive military staging ground. Travelers today can still see the physical scars of this era, from the bullet holes in the hangers at Hickam Field to the massive concrete structures of the 'Batteries' built into Diamond Head’s volcanic slopes. It is worth noting that most visitors overlook the history of the 1893 overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani, which took place just steps from where your ship docks. This event ended the Hawaiian monarchy and set the stage for statehood in 1959. Today, the skyscrapers of the financial district stand in sharp contrast to the historic Mission Houses, dating back to 1821, which represent the earliest Western structures in the islands.
The Verdict
Honolulu is a destination that rewards the prepared. Those who make the most of this port tend to be the ones who arrive with a confirmed Pearl Harbor reservation and the flexibility to adapt to the city's notorious traffic. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Honolulu
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pearl Harbor National Memorial (USS Arizona) | Historical Site | 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818 | +1 808-422-3300 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | nps.gov | Free |
| Iolani Palace | Historical Site | 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813 | +1 808-522-0821 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tue-Sat | iolanipalace.org | USD $33.00 USD |
| Bishop Museum | Museum | 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817 | +1 808-847-3511 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | bishopmuseum.org | USD $29.00 USD |
| Waikiki Beach (Kuhio Beach Section) | Tourist Attraction | Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | 24 hours | gohawaii.com | Free | |
| Diamond Head State Monument | Natural Feature | Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815 | +1 808-587-0300 | 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Gates close at 6:00 PM) | dlnr.hawaii.gov | USD $5.00 USD |
Pearl Harbor National Memorial (USS Arizona) · Historical Site
FreePearl Harbor is not merely a tourist attraction; it is a profound site of national mourning and reflection. When you stand on the white concrete bridge of the USS Arizona Memorial, the silence of the Pacific Ocean is broken only by the occasional bubble of oil—the 'Black Tears of the Arizona'—still rising from the hull after 80 years. Visitor feedback is consistent that the 'Road to War' museum gallery is just as impactful as the boat trip itself. Look for the massive scale model of the Akagi aircraft carrier; most visitors rush past it to get to the boat queue, but it provides the essential context for the attack’s complexity. Arrive at least 60 minutes before your scheduled boat time. The security screening is rigorous, and no bags larger than a clutch purse are allowed. The total experience takes about 3 hours. This is a day that rewards quiet observation over frantic photo-taking. Stand at the very back of the memorial to see the names of the survivors who chose to be interred with their shipmates; it is the most moving detail of the architecture.
1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818 ·+1 808-422-3300 ·7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily ·www.nps.gov
Iolani Palace · Historical Site
USD $33.00 USDIolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States, and its 'American Florentine' architecture is a striking anomaly in the center of Honolulu. Completed in 1882, it featured electricity and telephones before the White House—a testament to the Hawaiian Kingdom's forward-thinking nature. As you walk through the Blue Room, notice the portraits of the monarchs; their eyes follow you with a weight that reminds you this was a site of deep political struggle, not just a residence. Consider taking the audio tour narrated by Hawaiian historians; it adds a layer of cultural depth that generic guidebooks miss. Look for the crown jewels in the basement gallery, particularly the Order of Oceania. The palace is an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand why Hawaii’s identity remains so distinct from the mainland. The grounds are equally significant; look for the Coronation Pavilion, which now serves as a stage for the Royal Hawaiian Band. It is a place where 19th-century elegance meets the sobering reality of the 1893 overthrow.
364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813 ·+1 808-522-0821 ·9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tue-Sat ·www.iolanipalace.org
Bishop Museum · Museum
USD $29.00 USDThe Bishop Museum is the premier institution for Pacific history and culture. Founded in 1889 in memory of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the last descendant of the royal Kamehameha family, it houses the world's largest collection of Polynesian artifacts. The Hawaiian Hall is a three-story Victorian masterpiece of dark wood and soaring ceilings. Look up to see the massive sperm whale skeleton suspended from the rafters. You will find that most people miss the 'Pacific Hall' on the second floor, which brilliantly explains the navigation techniques of the early voyagers. This experience provides the 'why' behind the settling of the islands. It is far more than a collection of feathers and stones; it is a living archive of a civilization. If you only have time for one cultural stop, make it this one. The planetarium also offers a unique show on 'Wayfinding,' showing how ancient sailors used the stars to find these tiny islands in the vast Pacific Ocean. It is a humbling and enlightening look at human ingenuity.
1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817 ·+1 808-847-3511 ·9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily ·www.bishopmuseum.org
Waikiki Beach (Kuhio Beach Section) · Tourist Attraction
FreeWaikiki Beach is the postcard of the Pacific. While some call it 'touristy,' standing on the shore as the turquoise waves of the Pacific Ocean break over the reef remains a quintessential Honolulu moment. The beach is actually a series of connected parks; the Kuhio Beach section is the most iconic, featuring the statue of Duke Kahanamoku with his arms outstretched. You’ll be walking the same sands where Hawaiian royalty once surfed on 18-foot wooden planks. Most visitors stick to the sidewalk; instead, kick off your shoes and walk the water’s edge for the full sensory experience. Look out toward Diamond Head for the ultimate skyline view. Feedback indicates that a cocktail at the 'House Without a Key' at the Halekulani Hotel is a way to enjoy Waikiki without the sand. The beach is a vibrant, chaotic, and beautiful crossroads of the world. Even if you aren't a swimmer, the energy here is infectious. It is the heart of Hawaii's tourism identity, and for good reason—the color of the water here is a shade of blue you will not find elsewhere.
Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 ·24 hours ·www.gohawaii.com
Diamond Head State Monument · Natural Feature
USD $5.00 USDDiamond Head, or Lēʻahi, is the defining landmark of the Honolulu skyline. Formed 300,000 years ago during a single, explosive volcanic eruption, the crater now offers the most famous panoramic view in the islands. The hike to the summit is roughly 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip. It is a steady, hot climb that rewards you with a 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and the entire south shore of O'ahu. You’ll be walking through history as you navigate the tunnels built for the coastal defense system in 1908. This hike takes about 45 minutes up and 30 minutes down for a person of average fitness. The payoff is the moment you emerge from the bunker at the top and the wind hits you; the blue of the ocean stretches infinitely toward the horizon. Do not attempt this in flip-flops. Many cruise passengers struggle because they underestimated the vertical gain. Bring more water than you think you need. It is a grueling, sweaty, and ultimately triumphant experience that anchors your memory of the island's scale. If the climb is too much, the view from the crater floor is still impressive.
Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815 ·+1 808-587-0300 ·6:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Gates close at 6:00 PM) ·dlnr.hawaii.gov
Eating & Drinking in Honolulu
The culinary identity of Honolulu is a 'Plate Lunch' culture—a beautiful, high-carb collision of Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Native Hawaiian influences. You must try Poke (raw marinated fish), but skip the versions at the cruise terminal; head to 'Paina Cafe' or 'Maguro Brothers' for the real thing. Traditional Hawaiian food is centered on Poi (pounded taro root), which many tourists find bland, but it is the soul of the culture. Locals drink 'POG' (Passion fruit, Orange, Guava juice) or local craft beers from Maui Brewing Co. A common mistake is thinking 'Hawaiian Pizza' is local—it isn't. Instead, seek out Malasadas (Portuguese donuts) from Leonard’s Bakery; they are the true sweet treat of the city. For a unique spirit, try Okolehao, a traditional Hawaiian moonshine made from the root of the ti plant, now being revived by local distilleries.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helena's Hawaiian Food | 1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817 | +1 808-845-8044 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tue-Fri | helenashawaiianfood.com | $20.00–$35.00 USD |
| Musubi Cafe Iyasume | 2427 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815 | +1 808-921-0168 | 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Daily | iyasume-musubi.com | $5.00–$12.00 USD |
| Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian | 2259 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | +1 808-923-7311 | 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Daily | royal-hawaiian.com | $18.00–$25.00 USD |
Helena's Hawaiian Food
$20.00–$35.00 USDThis is the real deal. Helena's is unpretentious and legendary. Order the 'Menu D' to get a sampling of everything. The Pipikaula (dried beef) is hung over the stove to cure and has a smoky, rich depth you won't find anywhere else. Be prepared for a wait; it's a small room and they don't take reservations. It's a 15-minute Uber from the pier but feels a world away from the resort zone. Cash is preferred.
1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817 ·+1 808-845-8044 ·10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tue-Fri
Musubi Cafe Iyasume
$5.00–$12.00 USDSpam Musubi is the unofficial state snack of Hawaii. This tiny cafe specializes in the perfect rice-to-meat ratio. It’s the ultimate 'grab and go' food if you are heading to the beach. The version with avocado and egg are recommended. It’s salty, sweet, and incredibly satisfying. There are multiple locations in Waikiki, but the Kuhio branch is the original. It’s a literal 'hole in the wall' experience that defines Honolulu street food.
2427 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815 ·+1 808-921-0168 ·7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Daily
Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian
$18.00–$25.00 USDThis is where the 'Pink Palace' meets the Pacific Ocean. While every bar in Waikiki serves a Mai Tai, this is the most iconic setting. You are sitting exactly where Hollywood stars of the 1950s sat. The view of Diamond Head from your table is unrivaled. It’s expensive, but you are paying for the history and the breeze. Go around 4:30 PM to catch the live Hawaiian music as the sun begins to dip.
2259 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 ·+1 808-923-7311 ·11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Daily
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the terminal, Uber and Lyft are the most reliable ways to move around Honolulu. They are consistently 20% cheaper than traditional taxis and more transparent with pricing. If you are on a budget, 'TheBus' is an award-winning transit system; buy a 'HOLO Card' for $2.00 USD at any ABC Store and load it with a $7.50 USD day pass. Do not rely on Biki, the city’s bike-share program, for long distances; Honolulu’s humidity and aggressive traffic make cycling stressful for those unfamiliar with the routes. One navigation tip: Honolulu directions are rarely North/South. Locals use 'Mauka' (toward the mountains) and 'Makai' (toward the ocean). If you ask for directions and someone says 'Go Mauka on Ward Ave,' they mean head away from the Pacific Ocean. The walking time from Waikiki Beach to the Honolulu Zoo at the far end of the strip takes about 20 minutes; plan accordingly if you intend to walk the length of Kalākaua Avenue.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Honolulu
Iolani Palace
9:00 AM (90 min)
The only official state residence of royalty in the United States. The 'Grand Staircase' made of Hawaiian Koa wood is a masterpiece of 19th-century craftsmanship.
- 15-minute walk North from Pier 11 or 5-minute taxi from Pier 2. ($10.00 USD)
- Entry: $33.00 ($33.00)
- Book the 'Self-Guided Audio Tour' if the docent-led ones are full; it allows you to pace yourself through the throne room.
SALT at Our Kakaʻako
11:00 AM (60 min)
An urban courtyard filled with murals and local boutiques. Perfect for a quick, high-quality poke bowl from Redfish or a coffee from Arvo.
- 10-minute walk South-East back toward the harbor. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Walk one block over to Cooke Street to see the best concentration of POW! WOW! Hawaii street murals.
Lunch Recommendation
Marugame Udon Waikiki
It’s a Honolulu institution. While the line looks long, it moves in 15 minutes. It offers authentic, handmade Japanese noodles for a fraction of hotel restaurant prices.
Order: Nikutama Udon (hot udon with beef and soft-boiled egg), Vegetable Kakiage Tempura
2310 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
Cost: $15.00–$22.00 USD
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Honolulu
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
8:00 AM (180 min)
The most visited site in Hawaii. You must watch the 23-minute documentary before taking the Navy boat to the USS Arizona Memorial.
- 30-minute taxi/Uber from Pier 2. ($35.00 USD)
- Entry: Free (with $1.00 reservation fee) ($1.00)
- The 'Arizona' reservation is for a specific time. Arrive 60 minutes early to clear security; they will not hold the boat for late arrivals.
Waikiki Beach (Central)
12:00 PM (120 min)
Walk the sand, see the Duke Kahanamoku statue, and browse the high-end shops of the Royal Hawaiian Center.
- 25-minute taxi from Pearl Harbor. ($40.00 USD)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Avoid the main beach directly in front of the Moana Surfrider; walk 10 minutes east toward the Natatorium for more space.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee your return to Pier 2 or Pier 11, you should leave Waikiki no later than 90 minutes before your 'All Aboard' time. While it is only 2.5 miles, Ala Moana Boulevard can become a parking lot at 4:00 PM. A taxi will cost $20.00 USD and take 15-25 minutes in traffic. If you are using 'TheBus,' leave Waikiki 2 hours early as schedules are frequently delayed by traffic. If you are running late, call the Port Agent (number provided in your ship’s daily program) immediately. Unlike small Caribbean ports, Honolulu Harbor is highly regulated; once the gangway is up, the ship rarely re-opens it. Missing the ship here means a very expensive flight to your next port (likely Maui or Ensenada), as the Jones Act prevents most foreign-flagged ships from letting you re-board at the next US port if you originated in Honolulu.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Honolulu
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: Year-round, with peak season from October to April.
24°C–30°C (75°F–86°F). Humidity is constant at 60–70%. Tradewinds blow from the NE.
What to wear: Layering is rarely needed, but a light sweater is essential for the high-intensity air conditioning found in malls and buses. Wear high-quality walking sandals or sneakers; the heat from the asphalt in Waikiki makes thin-soled flip-flops uncomfortable for long walks. A wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses are non-negotiable to combat the intense glare from the Pacific Ocean. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics; avoid heavy denim which becomes oppressive in the humidity.
Weather risks: Sudden 'passing showers' can happen anytime. High surf advisories may cancel some boat-based excursions.
Winter brings larger waves to the North Shore, while Summer is noticeably more humid with less wind.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (December–February) | Slightly cooler with temperatures ranging from 19°C–27°C (67°F–81°F). This is the 'rainy' season, though rain usually falls in short, intense bursts. | The hiking trails at Diamond Head become slick and muddy. The North Shore beaches experience massive swells (30ft+) making swimming impossible and shorelines dangerous for onlookers. | Diamond Head State Monument trail, North Shore beaches, Nu'uanu Pali Lookout. | Carry a lightweight rain shell. If you are heading to the North Shore, watch the waves from a safe distance behind the 'warning' flags. Footwear with grip is mandatory for hikes. |
| Summer (June–August) | Hot and humid with consistent sunshine. Temperatures average 24°C–31°C (75°F–88°F). Trade winds provide a cooling breeze. | Extreme heat on exposed surfaces. The concrete path at the Pearl Harbor Memorial and the ascent at Diamond Head offer virtually no shade, leading to rapid dehydration. | Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach. | Start all outdoor activities before 9:30 AM. Apply high-SPF sunscreen every two hours and carry a refillable water bottle. Avoid Diamond Head after 11:00 AM. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In Honolulu, the 'Aloha Spirit' is not a marketing slogan; it is a legal and cultural framework. A simple nod and a smile go a long way. When greeting, a light hug or a kiss on the cheek is common among friends, but for a visitor, a respectful 'Aloha' is perfect. Dining is casual; however, if you are invited into a local home or a small family-run shop, always look to see if there are shoes at the door—taking them off is mandatory. Tipping is standard American style: 18-20% for restaurants and 10-15% for taxi drivers. One specific rule: never take lava rocks or sand from the beach as a souvenir. It is considered deeply disrespectful to Pele (the volcano goddess) and is actually illegal in many areas. Queuing behavior is generally very polite; locals rarely honk their horns or push in line. A common misunderstanding is the 'Shaka' sign—it means 'hang loose' or 'thank you,' but use it sparingly and authentically, or it can come across as 'tourist-y' posturing.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Waiting for 'TheBus' to get to Pearl Harbor on a short port call. |
Thinking you can 'walk-in' to Diamond Head without a reservation. |
Trying to swim at the North Shore during the Winter season. |
Spending your entire day only on Kalākaua Avenue in Waikiki. |
Practical tips
Cards are accepted almost everywhere, including most 'TheBus' kiosks and small cafes. However, you will need cash for the smaller 'hole-in-the-wall' eateries like Helena's or for tipping tour guides. Tipping 20% at restaurants is expected; 10% for taxis is standard. To earn goodwill, learn five words: 'Aloha' (hello/goodbye), 'Mahalo' (thank you), 'Keiki' (child), 'Ono' (delicious), and 'Pau' (finished). Regarding safety, car break-ins are the most common crime; never leave bags visible in a rental car, even at busy lookouts like Diamond Head. Dress code is 'Island Casual'—shorts and a polo shirt are acceptable even in nice restaurants, but 'beachwear' (bikinis/no shirts) is only for the sand; put on a cover-up before entering a shop. The best time to avoid crowds at Waikiki is before 8:00 AM. If you are heading to Pearl Harbor, remember that bags are not allowed; you will have to pay $7.00 USD to store them in a locker, which can take 15 minutes of your precious time.
Cruise Lines Visiting Honolulu
Port of Call
Embarkation / Disembarkation
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FAQ — Honolulu
Can I see Pearl Harbor and the North Shore in one day?
Technically yes, but it is best avoided for cruise passengers. A proper Pearl Harbor visit takes 4 hours, and the drive to the North Shore adds another 2.5 hours round-trip in traffic. You would spend 7 of your 8 hours in a vehicle. To do both safely, you must depart the ship at 7:30 AM, book a private driver for $600.00+, and accept that you will only have 30 minutes at the beach. Most Waterways Cruise clients find this exhausting rather than enjoyable. Choose one and do it well.
What is the bag policy at Pearl Harbor?
It is extremely strict. No bags of any kind—including purses, backpacks, camera bags, or fanny packs—are allowed inside the memorial for security reasons. You may only carry a wallet, phone, and camera (no case). Storage lockers are available at the entrance for $7.00 USD per bag. Expect a 15-minute queue just for locker storage during peak times. It is best to leave all non-essential items on the ship to save time.
Is the Waikiki Trolley worth the price?
For first-time visitors who want a 'hop-on, hop-off' experience, the Blue Line (Ocean Coast) is excellent value at $25.00 USD. It provides stunning views of the coastline that you can't see from a standard city bus. However, the Pink Line (Shopping) is often overcrowded and slower than taking a $15.00 Uber. If you have a specific destination like the Palace or a restaurant, skip the trolley and use a rideshare service to maximize your limited shore time.
Do I need a car rental for a day in Honolulu?
No. It is generally not recommended. Parking in Waikiki costs $40.00–$60.00 USD per day, and traffic congestion is severe. Between the time spent at the rental counter and finding parking, you will lose 2 hours of your day. Uber and Lyft are plentiful and significantly more efficient for a 4-to-8-hour port call. Only rent a car if you are determined to drive the entire 112-mile (180 km) perimeter of the island.
What should I do if the USS Arizona Memorial tickets are sold out?
Do not panic. While the boat tickets are often reserved 56 days in advance, the National Park Service releases a second batch of tickets 24 hours prior at 3:00 PM HST on Recreation.gov. If you miss those, you can still visit the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, the museums, and the USS Bowfin submarine for free or via a separate fee. You can also take a 'standby' number at the park, though wait times can exceed 3 hours.
How far is the walk from the cruise ship to the Aloha Tower?
If you dock at Pier 11, you are already at the Aloha Tower. If you dock at Pier 2, it is a 12-minute (1 km) walk along the waterfront. The path is flat and paved, but it is entirely unshaded. During the mid-day heat, a $10 is recommended.00 taxi instead.
Is the water safe to drink in Honolulu?
Yes. Honolulu has some of the cleanest, best-tasting tap water in the United States, as it is naturally filtered through volcanic rock. You will find drinking fountains at all major parks and museums. Bringing a refillable bottle is encouraged to reduce plastic waste on the island.
Where can I find a real Hawaiian Luau during my port call?
Most luaus are evening events (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM) located 45 minutes outside the city at Ko Olina. If your ship departs at 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, a traditional luau is impossible. However, 'Nutridge Luau' is closer to downtown and sometimes offers afternoon cultural demonstrations. Check your all-aboard time carefully; a missed-ship connection due to a late-running luau is a common and expensive error.
What is the best way to get to Diamond Head?
A taxi or Uber is the only way to reach the crater floor directly. 'TheBus' #2 or #23 will drop you on the highway, leaving you with a 15-minute uphill walk just to reach the trailhead. Given the heat and the difficulty of the hike itself, pay the $25.00 USD for a taxi to drop you at the visitor center.
Are there any hidden costs at the Honolulu port?
The main hidden cost is the $7.00 per bag storage fee at Pearl Harbor and the $5.00 per person entry fee for Diamond Head, which must be paid by credit card (no cash). Also, be aware that many Waikiki restaurants add a 15-20% 'service charge' automatically for groups of 6 or more—check your bill before adding an additional tip.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.