Kailua Pier

The basics

West-facing, Kailua Pier is a great place to grab a Hawaiian sunset. Many of Kailua-Kona’s restaurants, shops, and bars can also be found right here alongside historical gems like Hulihee Palace—so when you come here, make a day of it.

Even beyond outfitters, views, and history, this area offers some of Kona’s most accessible snorkeling and diving. You can access a small coral reef right off the shore, filling the waters with tropical creatures. If you do snorkel here, go with a buddy, and rent a dive flag before heading out to avoid trouble with boats.

Things to know before you go

• Cruise ships are allowed at Kailua Pier on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Avoid those days if you’d like to avoid larger crowds.

• Snorkeling is allowed off the beaches around the pier. That being said, boats tend to call the shots here, so make sure you have a dive flag to stay safe.

• There’s no parking on the pier itself, but there are several nearby lots and plenty of street parking around the area.

• The pier has public showers and restrooms.

How to get there

Most visitors will drive to Kailua Pier or walk from their hotel (the Courtyard by Marriott is right here). Right in Kailua-Kona, the pier is easily accessible from the Hawaii Belt Road (HI-19), about 7 miles (11 kilometers) south of the Kona International Airport. If you’re here for an excursion with an outfitter, they’ll likely give you specific directions on where to park.

When to get there

If you’re here for a scheduled adventure, be sure to arrive early to find parking, locate your destination, and mill around; you might want to spend a few minutes checking out Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark, the thatched residence of King Kamehameha I. Get here after 4pm and you might spot people weighing their massive catches of the day.

Center of the action

Though boats certainly still take advantage of Kailua Pier, this area has grown into a destination for many besides captains and anglers. Kona’s biggest events take place here, from the annual IRONMAN World Championship and Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament to the Kona Surf Film Festival and Kona Brewers Festival. You might just run into a party when you visit.

Ways to explore

Located on Aliʻi Drive in downtown Kailua-Kona, Kailua Pier serves as a key departure point for a variety of popular ocean experiences. You can choose from guided snorkeling or diving trips, dolphin and whale‑watching cruises, deep‑sea fishing, glass‑bottom boat trips, and even sunset sails. It’s also a popular gathering point for culinary walking tours and immersive food‑and‑culture strolls along the waterfront.

While the pier itself doesn’t have parking, most tours meet nearby, and public or resort-paid parking is available within walking distance. Aim to arrive early to secure your spot, especially for sunset or evening excursions.

Accessibility

Kailua Pier and the surrounding waterfront are accessible for those using wheelchairs and strollers.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Reef-safe sunscreen, refillable water bottle, light towel, snorkeling gear (for the small coral reef off the pier)

What to wear

Non-slip, comfortable shoes for walking and boarding boats, layers for brisk mornings and evenings

Not allowed

Drones

Amenities

Restrooms, showers

Address

Kailua Pier is on Aliʻi Drive in downtown Kailua-Kona at the waterfront and near shops, cafés, and hotels. It’s accessible via rental car, taxi, cruise‑ship tender, and public transit. The pier is a convenient meeting point for tours and experiences.

Driving

From Kailua-Kona, head southeast on Palani Road onto Kaahumanu Place; the pier will be on your right. From the airport, drive about 10 minutes via Palani Road and Aliʻi Drive. Parking is limited; consider walking or using public transportation.

Public transportation

Hele‑On Bus Route 201 (Kona Trolley) stops on Aliʻi Drive at Kaahumanu and Palani, offering hourly service to the pier.

Best times to visit

Early morning typically offers calmer ocean conditions, and tours often depart before midday. Sunset is another popular time, especially for scenic sails and waterfront strolls.

Best days to visit

Visit during the week for fewer crowds, especially if you’re booking walking and food tours. Be aware of cruise ship days, which can be extra crowded.

Best months to visit

Kailua Pier is a year-round destination, but winter months (December–March) bring the chance to spot humpback whales on seasonal cruises.

Special events

During the October Ironman World Championship, the swim starts and finishes at Kailua Pier; spectators arrive early, and the pier becomes notably crowded.