Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Kauai?

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Cruise Ships Dock in Kauai

The island of Kauai is a popular destination for cruise ships, and for good reason. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and towering volcanoes, Kauai has something to offer everyone. But where do cruise ships dock in Kauai?

There are three main ports of call for cruise ships in Kauai: Nawiliwili, Port Allen, and Wailua. Each port has its own unique charm and offers visitors a different experience.

Nawiliwili is the largest and most popular port of call for cruise ships in Kauai. It’s located on the south shore of the island, and it’s just a short drive from some of Kauai’s most popular tourist destinations, including Waimea Canyon and the Napali Coast. Port Allen is located on the east shore of the island, and it’s a smaller and more secluded port of call. It’s a great option for visitors who want to avoid the crowds. Wailua is located on the north shore of the island, and it’s home to the Wailua River, which is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting.

No matter which port you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable time exploring the island of Kauai.

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Port Location Notes
Nawiliwili Harbor Kapaa The main port of call for cruise ships in Kauai.
Port Allen Lihue A smaller port that is sometimes used by cruise ships.
Hanalei Bay Hanalei A beautiful bay that is sometimes used by cruise ships for day trips.

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Ports of Call in Kauai

Kauai is a Hawaiian island with four ports of call: Nawiliwili Harbor, Port Allen Harbor, Lihue Airport, and Kapaa Airport. Each port offers its own unique set of amenities and attractions, making it the perfect destination for a cruise vacation.

Nawiliwili Harbor is the largest and most popular port of call in Kauai. It is located on the south shore of the island and is home to the island’s main cruise terminal. Nawiliwili Harbor is also the closest port to the island’s major tourist attractions, including Waimea Canyon, the Napali Coast, and the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Port Allen Harbor is located on the east shore of Kauai and is the second-largest port of call on the island. Port Allen Harbor is a smaller and more intimate port than Nawiliwili Harbor, and it is often preferred by cruise passengers who want to avoid the crowds. Port Allen Harbor is also the closest port to the island’s lush rainforests and waterfalls.

Lihue Airport is the main airport on Kauai and is located just a short drive from Nawiliwili Harbor. Lihue Airport is a convenient option for cruise passengers who want to fly directly to Kauai and avoid the long ferry ride from the mainland. Lihue Airport is also the closest airport to the island’s major shopping and dining destinations.

Kapaa Airport is a small airport located on the north shore of Kauai. Kapaa Airport is a convenient option for cruise passengers who want to explore the island’s north shore, which is home to some of Kauai’s most beautiful beaches. Kapaa Airport is also the closest airport to the island’s Wailua River, which is a popular spot for kayaking and tubing.

Cruise Ship Lines that Dock in Kauai

The following cruise ship lines offer cruises to Kauai:

  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Holland America Line

Each cruise line offers a variety of different cruise itineraries to Kauai, so you can choose the one that best fits your interests and budget.

Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of 7-day cruises to Kauai from Honolulu. These cruises depart on Mondays and Thursdays and include stops at Nawiliwili Harbor, as well as other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui and Oahu.

Royal Caribbean International offers a variety of 7-day cruises to Kauai from Honolulu. These cruises depart on Tuesdays and Saturdays and include stops at Nawiliwili Harbor, as well as other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui and Oahu.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of 7-day cruises to Kauai from Honolulu. These cruises depart on Wednesdays and Sundays and include stops at Nawiliwili Harbor, as well as other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui and Oahu.

Princess Cruises offers a variety of 7-day cruises to Kauai from Honolulu. These cruises depart on Fridays and Mondays and include stops at Nawiliwili Harbor, as well as other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui and Oahu.

Holland America Line offers a variety of 7-day cruises to Kauai from Honolulu. These cruises depart on Tuesdays and Saturdays and include stops at Nawiliwili Harbor, as well as other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui and Oahu.

Kauai is a beautiful Hawaiian island with four ports of call that offer a variety of amenities and attractions. Cruise ship lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line offer cruises to Kauai from Honolulu.

3. Things to Do in Kauai

Kauai is a beautiful island with a lot to offer visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Kauai:

  • Visit the Na Pali Coast. The Na Pali Coast is one of the most iconic landscapes in Hawaii. It is a rugged coastline with towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and secluded beaches. There are a number of ways to experience the Na Pali Coast, including by boat, helicopter, or hiking.
  • Hike the Kalalau Trail. The Kalalau Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Kauai. The trail follows the coast from Kee Beach to Kalalau Beach, and it offers stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, and waterfalls.
  • Go surfing at Hanalei Bay. Hanalei Bay is one of the best places to surf in Hawaii. The bay is protected from the wind and waves, making it a great place for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
  • Visit the Waimea Canyon. The Waimea Canyon is often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It is a deep canyon with towering cliffs and waterfalls. The canyon is located in the center of Kauai, and it is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and sightseeing.
  • See the Painted Churches. The Painted Churches are a group of historic churches in Waimea. The churches are known for their colorful exteriors, which were painted by local artists in the 19th century. The churches are a popular tourist destination, and they are a beautiful example of Hawaiian architecture.

4. Getting to Kauai

There are three main ways to get to Kauai: by plane, by ferry, and by car.

  • By Plane. The most popular way to get to Kauai is by plane. There are two airports on Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH) and Kapaa Airport (OGG). Lihue Airport is the main airport on Kauai, and it is located about 3 miles from downtown Lihue. Kapaa Airport is a smaller airport that is located about 10 miles from downtown Kapaa.
  • By Ferry. There is a ferry that runs between Oahu and Kauai. The ferry takes about 4 hours to travel between the two islands. The ferry is a good option for people who want to avoid flying or who want to bring their own car to Kauai.
  • By Car. You can also drive to Kauai from the mainland. The drive takes about 24 hours, and it is a long and challenging drive. However, it is a good option for people who want to see the rest of the Hawaiian Islands before they reach Kauai.

Kauai is a beautiful island with a lot to offer visitors. There are a number of ways to get to Kauai, and there are plenty of things to do on the island. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous outdoor experience, Kauai has something to offer everyone.

Where do cruise ships dock in Kauai?

There are two main ports of call for cruise ships in Kauai:

  • Nawiliwili Harbor, located on the south shore of the island, is the main port of call for cruise ships. It is home to the largest cruise ship terminal in Hawaii, and can accommodate ships of up to 100,000 gross tons. Nawiliwili Harbor is also the closest port to Lihue, the island’s capital city.
  • Port Allen, located on the east shore of the island, is a smaller port that can accommodate ships of up to 50,000 gross tons. Port Allen is located closer to the island’s most popular tourist attractions, such as Waimea Canyon and the Napali Coast.

Which port is better for my cruise?

The best port for your cruise depends on your interests and budget. If you are looking for a more convenient port with easy access to shops, restaurants, and transportation, then Nawiliwili Harbor is the better option. If you are looking for a port that is closer to the island’s most popular attractions, then Port Allen is the better option.

What are the different cruise lines that visit Kauai?

A variety of cruise lines visit Kauai, including:

  • Royal Caribbean
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • Holland America Line
  • MSC Cruises
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • TUI Cruises
  • Azamara Cruises

What are the different types of cruises that visit Kauai?

Cruises to Kauai range from short, 3-day cruises to longer, 14-day cruises. There are also a variety of cruise styles to choose from, including:

  • Leisure cruises, which offer a relaxing and casual vacation experience
  • Adventure cruises, which offer a more active and adventurous vacation experience
  • Family cruises, which are designed for families with young children
  • Honeymoon cruises, which are designed for couples celebrating their honeymoon

What are the best things to do in Kauai?

There are a variety of things to do in Kauai, including:

  • Explore the island’s stunning beaches, such as Poipu Beach, Hanalei Bay, and Waimea Bay
  • Go hiking in Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”
  • Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Na Pali Coast
  • Visit the historic town of Hanalei
  • Take a helicopter tour of the island
  • Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

How can I get to Kauai from the mainland?

There are a few ways to get to Kauai from the mainland, including:

  • By plane, flying into Lihue Airport (LIH)
  • By ferry, taking the ferry from Honolulu to Nawiliwili Harbor
  • By cruise ship, sailing to Nawiliwili Harbor or Port Allen

What is the best time to visit Kauai?

The best time to visit Kauai depends on your interests and budget. The island has a mild climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 75F to 85F. The “shoulder seasons” of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are typically less crowded and offer more affordable rates than the peak summer months (June-August).

there are three main ports where cruise ships dock in Kauai: Nawiliwili Harbor, Port Allen, and Lihue Harbor. Each port offers its own unique set of amenities and attractions, making it the perfect choice for a cruise vacation. Whether youre looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting adventure, youre sure to find it in Kauai.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.