Cruise Port Nawiliwili: Kauai Hawaii Cruise
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Nawiliwili is the main cruise port of Kauai. There is plenty to do on your own from the port of Nawiliwili. It’s also a jumping-off point for some of the best shore excursions in Kauai.
Cruise Port Nawiliwili Guide: (Jump To)
Things To Do at Cruise Port Nawiliwili, Kauai
It’s easy to explore Nawiliwili, Hawaii from a cruise ship. There are many things to see and do on foot from the Kauai cruise port.
Nawiliwili Harbor
Map: Google Maps
Start your exploration with a visit to the picturesque harbor itself. The area immediately surrounding the ship is a busy shipping and container park. However, the nearby Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor is a great place to see small boats and yachts at dock. It’s also one of the best places to snap a photo of your ship in the picturesque port. The small boat harbor is also home to many local businesses offering affordable alternatives to the shore excursions sold onboard.
Kilohana Estate and Kauai Plantation Railway
Map: Google Maps
Link: Official Website
Take a scenic train ride through the Kilohana Plantation, where you can learn about the island's agricultural history, see tropical fruit orchards, and enjoy the lush scenery. After the train ride be sure to save time to visit Kilohana Estate, a beautifully restored plantation mansion surrounded by tropical gardens. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the grounds, shop for local crafts and souvenirs, or dine at the on-site restaurant. Luaus and Rum tastings are also available.
Kauai Museum
Map: Google Maps
Link: Website
Discover the rich history and culture of Kauai at the Kauai Museum, located in the nearby city of Lihue. (Read below for the best ways to get around the island) The museum features exhibits on Hawaiian artifacts, traditional crafts, and the island's natural history.
Grove Farm Homestead
Map: Google Maps
Link: Official Website
Take a guided tour of the Grove Farm Homestead, a historic sugar plantation dating back to the 19th century. Learn about the island's plantation era, explore the restored buildings, and stroll through the lush gardens. Tours are available only when booked in advance by email or telephone (last-minute tours are best booked via phone). See the website for booking details and contact information.
Nawiliwili Park
Map: Google Maps
Enjoy some outdoor recreation at Nawiliwili Park, which offers picnic areas, walking trails, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the harbor and surrounding coastline. If you’re just looking to stretch your legs and touch land from the cruise ship, this park is perfect for you. It’s just a few short steps from the port.
Menehune Fishpond
Map: Google Maps
Take a walk to view the ancient Hawaiian fishponds near Nawiliwili Harbor, believed to have been built by the mythical Menehune people. These historic sites provide insight into traditional Hawaiian aquaculture practices. The walk from the port to the Menehune Fishpond Overlook takes about 45 minutes each way. The walk is along the shoulder of a busy and winding road, so proceed with caution.
TropiCats Cat Cafe
Map: Google Maps
Link: Website
Located on the top floor of the Harbor Mall this non-profit sells lots of one-of-a-kind cat-related gifts. If you’ve been missing your feline friends back home for a small fee you can cuddle up with one (or more) cats in the cat cafe. Note, that the cafe doesn’t serve food, just cat cuddles. Spending time with the adoptable cats or making a purchase in the store helps support the Kauai`i Humane Society.
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Best Restaurants Near Cruise Port Nawiliwili
If you’re planning to get a quick bite or are looking to sample Hawaiian Cuisine during your time at the Nawiliwili Cruise Port, we recommend these great local restaurants in Kauai.
Duke's Kauai
Map: Google Maps
Located at the Kauai Marriott Resort, Duke's Kauai is known for its beachfront setting and delicious Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. Enjoy fresh seafood, grilled meats, and tropical cocktails while taking in views of Kalapaki Beach. While the prices are a little higher than some of the other restaurants on this list, you can’t beat the view from the restaurant located just a few steps from the beach.
Kauai Beer Company
Map: Google Maps
If you're a fan of craft beer, don't miss the Kauai Beer Company, located near the Kauai Museum. Sample a variety of locally brewed beers, paired with tasty pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and salads. You’ll need to utilize one of the transportation options listed below to reach this restaurant. While you’re there be sure to sample the famous Black Limousine and Lihue Lager. The affordable menu pairs nicely with any of their small-batch brews.
Lilikoi Bar and Grill
Map: Google Maps
Located in the Harbor Mall, this local favorite is famous for its delectable baked goods. The restaurant shines during brunch and lunch but it is great at all times of the day. The drink menu includes many fun locally inspired cocktails. Visit during their 3-5 pm happy hour for great deals.
South East Asia Kaua'i
Map: Google Maps
Featuring Thai and Japanese food, this restaurant offers ocean views from its second-story location in the Harbor Mall. The Instagram-ready sushi dishes are some of the best and most affordable on the island.
The Jammin' Banana Bakery & Cafe
Map: Google Maps
Hawaiian coffee is world-renowned for a reason. Sample a cup at The Jammin' Banana. The cafe is easily reachable by foot from the cruise ship. If coffee isn’t your thing, their banana cream pudding and banana bread are also worth making a visit to enjoy.
Best Shopping at the Port of Nawiliwili, Kauai
There is much shopping within walking distance from the port, or accessible via free (or low-cost) shuttles from the port. (more on getting around the island below). Here are a few recommendations.
Anchor Cove Shopping Center
Map: Google Maps
Just a short distance from the port, Anchor Cove Shopping Center features a mix of shops, restaurants, and services.
Inside the shopping center, you’ll find ABC Stores. This popular chain with locations across Hawaii is similar to a 7-11. Inside you’ll find hot and prepackaged food items, a vast selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, plus all kinds of souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Other gift shops in the plaza include Crazy Shirts, with a collection of Kauai and Hawaii clothing items. Including a ton of Hawaiian chicken shirts. Unique Gift Shop and Kauai Products Fair also offer a collection of souvenirs. You’ll also find locally crafted jewelry at Maui Divers Jewelry.
Harbor Mall
Map: Google Maps
The other popular shopping spot adjacent to the port is the Harbor Mall. Here you will find a bunch of great restaurants, some of which we’ve mentioned above, as well as the super-fun TropiCats Cat Cafe.
Inside the mall, you can shop for some great and affordable beachware (Hawaiian shirts anyone!?) at Beach Wave Boutique or Yong's Aloha Fashions. Cement the memory of your port day with a tattoo from Blue Wave Tattoo Kauai.
Our favorite shop in the mall is BeachRail. Here you can find the biggest and most unique selection of souvenirs near the port. The shop also caters to model railway and model building enthusiasts.
Kukui Grove Center
Map: Google Maps
Located a bit further from the port in Lihue, Kukui Grove Center is the largest shopping mall on Kauai. Often free shuttles are offered to this mall. Here you will find some familiar brands shopped by locals on the island including Target, Costco, and Home Depot. Intertwined with these anchor brands you’ll find smaller shops with local flair.
Bubba’s Toy Box is a must-visit for unique toys and educational items. Clothing with a Hawaiian flare is available from numerous shops like Jeans Warehouse, Deja Vu Surf Hawaii, and Pineapple Lily.
I bought some of the best $5 grocery store sushi I’ve ever tasted at Times Supermarket, a large grocery store with a heavy Asian influence. Other great Hawaiian food items are available at the mall’s food court.
Alakoko Gift Shop
Map: Google Maps
Link: Website
This rather hidden gift shop is located a few blocks away from the Kauai Museum. We love it because it is a not-for-profit artist’s collective that sells art, food items, and clothing created by local artisans. Be sure to make a stop if you’re visiting the museum.
Cruise Port Nawiliwili Shore Excursions
The Cruise Port of Nawiliwili in Kauai offers a range of experiences, from exploring the island's natural wonders to immersing in its rich culture. To save money try booking an excursion through one of our partners like Viator or Get Your Guide. These are ideas for the best shore excursions in Nawiliwili, Kauai.
Napali Coast Boat Tour
Experience the stunning beauty of the Napali Coast on a boat tour. Marvel at the towering sea cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls that make this coastline famous. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life along the way.
Waimea Canyon Tour
Visit Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Take in panoramic views of the canyon's colorful cliffs and deep valleys, and explore scenic lookout points like Waimea Canyon Overlook and Pu'u Hinahina Lookout.
Wailua River Cruise and Fern Grotto
Embark on a leisurely cruise along the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto, a natural lava rock formation draped with ferns. The journey is made by motorized boat or on a guided kayak adventure.
Helicopter Tour
Get a bird's-eye view of Kauai's dramatic landscapes on a helicopter tour. Soar over lush valleys, rugged coastlines, and hidden waterfalls, and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon from above.
Luau Experience
Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau experience. Enjoy a feast of local cuisine, live music, and Polynesian dancing under the stars. Participate in activities like lei making and hula lessons to learn more about Hawaiian traditions. Traditionally done at night, this may be hard to enjoy before your ship departs, but if you’re spending the night or visiting outside of a cruise, be sure to experience a luau.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Discover the underwater world of Kauai with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion. Swim among colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and perhaps even sea turtles or manta rays in crystal-clear waters.
Zip Line Tour
Experience the thrill of zip lining through Kauai's lush landscapes. Soar above treetops and valleys, and enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls and mountains on an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
We recommend the GoCity Pass to save loads of money on attractions.: Check it out by clicking this affiliate link: GoCity
Best Beaches at Cruise Port Nawiliwili, Kauai
There is really only one beach within walking distance from the Port of Nawiliwili. Other great beaches on the island of Kauai would require a long taxi ride or a pre-booked shore excursion. The great news is that Kalapaki Beach is wonderful!
Kalapaki Beach
Map: Google Maps
Located adjacent to the cruise port, Kalapaki Beach is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with golden sand and gentle waves, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the shore. Chairs, umbrellas, and other swimming and beach items are available for rent from the adjacent resort. The paved pathway makes for a great oceanside stroll after a dip in the water.
How To Get Around The Cruise Port of Kauai
Many great shops and restaurants are accessible on foot, however, there are other options available to see more of the island.
Rideshare on Kauai
Both Lyft and Uber are available on the island. However, on cruise ship days the demand can be high making prices higher and decreasing availability.
Free Port Shuttle in Kauai
There is a free shuttle to the Harbor Mall and other local destinations on the island. Look for the red trolly car. Make sure to board the right shuttle for your intended destination.
Kauai Bus
There is a local bus available to get around the island. While it is not the fastest way around the island, it is the cheapest. Trips cost just $2 with an all-day pass available for just $5. Download their app to track the busses and for more useful information.
Things To Do at Cruise Port Nawiliwili, Kauai
Explore Nawiliwili Harbor
Visit the Kilohana Estate and Kauai Plantation Railway
Learn at the Kauai Museum
See the Grove Farm Homestead
Relax at Nawiliwili Park
Walk to the Menehune Fishpond
Cuddle with a Cat at TropiCats Cafe
Sample Hawaiian Coffee at The Jammin' Banana Bakery & Cafe
Try a locally made beer at Kauai Beer Company
Support local artists while shopping at Alakoko Gift Shop
Swim or sunbathe at Kalapaki Beach
