The Ultimate Hilo Cruise Port Guide: Top Hilo Shore Excursions & Things to Do

If your cruise itinerary includes a stop at the Hilo side of the Big Island, you’re in for a treat. Stepping off the ship in Hilo is like entering a different world compared to the sunny, dry volcanic plains of Kona. Here, it’s all about cascading waterfalls, emerald rainforests, and the awe of active volcanoes.

Your ship will dock at Pier 1 in Kuhio Kalanianaole Park, but the island’s most iconic attractions aren’t within walking distance. To truly experience the magic of Hilo during your limited time in port, you’ll need a plan. In this guide, we’ll break down Hilo cruise port logistics, how to get around effectively, and the absolute best Hilo shore excursions that handle all the transit so you can focus on the adventure.

Hilo Cruise Port Logistics & Layout

Understanding the port’s layout is the first step to a stress-free day. Most major cruise lines like Norwegian, Princess, and Celebrity dock at the Hilo Harbor’s Pier 1. The terminal itself is functional, with basic facilities and local greeting committees, but remember to have your ID and ship card ready for re-boarding.

The port is located about 2 to 3 miles from downtown Hilo. While that might sound close, the walk is largely through an industrial area and isn’t particularly scenic or pedestrian-friendly. Typical drive times to the downtown area are about 5-10 minutes, but traffic can pick up when a 3,000-passenger ship is in town.

Getting Around: Why Logistics Matter

You might hear about the “free Walmart shuttle” or consider using public transit, but for a strict cruise schedule, these can be risky moves. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available in Hilo, but they can be incredibly scarce and expensive when thousands of passengers disembark simultaneously. Relying on a taxi or a bus could mean spending your precious shore time waiting on a curb rather than exploring a waterfall.

Top Hilo Shore Excursions

The best way to maximize your port day is to skip the logistical headaches and book a dedicated tour with transportation. While the ship offers its own excursions, these are often crowded “big bus” tours that follow a rigid, tourist-heavy circuit. For a more authentic Hawaii experience, look for private or small-group tours that take you away from the masses and onto private land.

The Kolekole Waterfall Zipline Tour

For an unmatched Hilo adventure, look no further than our Hilo Cruise Port Kolekole Zipline Tour that is also Hawaii’s #1 zipline tour. We’ve solved the transit nightmare by offering direct pick-up and drop-off right at the Hilo cruise port.

After picking you up, we’ll whisk you away to 300 private acres that’ll quickly feel like your own slice of paradise. This includes thriving rainforest, colorful agricultural fields growing tropical fruit (sampling encouraged!), and crowd-free waterfalls. 

You’ll soar through the canopy on seven lines that weave you through the rainforest canopy. Our grand finale zips you directly above a 450-foot ravine and over the 250-foot Kolekole Falls. It’s a perspective of the island that very few ever get to see. And you can do all this completely relaxed and stress free,  knowing your transportation back to the ship and arriving on time are handled.

Kolekole Waterfall Hike & Swim Tour

Maybe you prefer to keep your feet a bit closer to the ground and get the chance to swim in a waterfall. Our Kolekole Waterfall Hike & Swim shore excursion is also a fan favorite. This accessible hike takes you through tropical flora (imagine every shade of green) to the base of the 250-foot Kolekole Falls and two other falls, including one that you can swim in. There’s nothing quite like the refreshing and utterly peaceful experience of swimming in a crowd-free natural pool at the base of a picture-perfect waterfall. 

Alternative Things to Do Near Hilo

If you decide to rent a car and navigate the island yourself, there are two “must-sees” near Hilo:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: 

The world-famous park is roughly a 45-minute drive from the port and features Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a landscape that feels like another planet. For cruise guests with limited time, the “must-see” circuit includes the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku)—a walk-through cave formed by ancient molten rivers—and the Steam Vents, where groundwater meets hot volcanic rock to create dramatic plumes along the caldera’s edge.

Akaka Falls State Park: 

Located 25 minutes north of Hilo, Akaka Falls State Park is home to its namesake 442-foot waterfall. Although the waterfall is accessed via a short .4-mile paved loop trail, don’t be fooled by the term “paved.” It is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. There are steep steps, narrow sections, uneven surfaces and uphill and downhill slopes. But the lush surroundings will make you feel like you’re walking through Jurassic Park as you stroll to the waterfall. You should plan for crowds since this is a popular stop for big buses associated with the larger cruise ships.

While the two above attractions are well worth visiting if you’re staying on the Big Island, we caution cruise guests about trying to visit either destination on their own. Keep a close eye on the clock! Managing a rental car return and navigating traffic back to the pier before the “all aboard” time can be incredibly stressful. If you choose this route, always allow an extra hour of “buffer time” to ensure you don’t miss your cruise ship. 

Ready to Explore Hilo?

Don’t spend your day in port standing in rental car lines or squeezed onto a crowded shuttle. Choose a Hilo shore excursion that takes you away from crowded tourist spots and where the logistics are handled for you from start to finish. We’re here to make your Hilo port day the highlight of your entire cruise. Start planning your Hilo excursion today to ensure you get spots on the tour of your choice during your day in port.