Honolulu Harbor
Honolulu Harbor is Oahu's historic and bustling seaport, serving as a gateway to the city of Honolulu since the early 1800s. Today, it is Hawaii's primary commercial harbor, welcoming cruise ships, container vessels, and over 500,000 visitors annually. With attractions like the Aloha Tower, shopping at Aloha Tower Marketplace, and sweeping harbor views, it's a dynamic hub where Hawaii's maritime history meets modern commerce and leisure.
Honolulu Harbor, Oahu
First used as a port over 200 years ago, Honolulu Harbor (view panorama) × has grown from a small 12th century landing point for the first North American and European visitors to Hawaii, into an expansive harbor operating as the gateway to the modern metropolis of Honolulu.
The port itself at Honolulu Harbor was really born in 1825 after a sunken ship was used as a wharf! Eight years later a real dock was constructed and by 1840 efforts had begun to deepen the area, creating a more suitable port. By 1905 the harbor had grown to over 3,500 feet (1,067 m) long, with the modern day 45 foot (13.7 m) deep main channel and 30 berth facilities that allow for the huge amount of commerce and passengers that pass through Honolulu Harbor each year.
These days the port receives over 500,000 cruise ship passengers annually, handling as much as $3.3 billion in imports and $200 million in exports! This makes for a thriving port area within easy reach of the bright lights and excitement of downtown Honolulu.
The Aloha Tower Marketplace complex with its wide ranging retail outlets and restaurants sits at the center of the harbor experience for many. The complex houses some 60 stores making it the ideal place to pick up gifts or simply browse around for a few hours, and if all the shopping gets your stomach rumbling, some of the restaurants in the complex are said to be amongst the best in Hawaii. Another famous landmark that is located here is the Aloha Tower. There is a viewing platform at the top, which is the best place for a spectacular view of the harbor.
Unlike some other ports, Honolulu Harbor (view panorama) × is so much more than a just gateway; it offers a veritable feast of entertainment, shopping and nightlife all with a wonderful, port-side atmosphere.
Key Features of Honolulu Harbor
- Hawaii's main seaport: Receives over 500,000 cruise ship passengers each year and processes billions in imports and exports.
- Aloha Tower landmark: This 10-story beacon has welcomed ships since 1926 and offers panoramic harbor views from its observation deck.
- Aloha Tower Marketplace: Harborfront shopping and dining complex with restaurants, local boutiques, and university facilities.
- Central location: Situated in downtown Honolulu, close to Chinatown, historic buildings, and waterfront attractions.
- Scenic views: Offers picturesque sights of Diamond Head, Honolulu skyline, and harbor activity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do cruise ships dock at Honolulu Harbor?
Yes, Honolulu Harbor is a major port for cruise ships arriving in Hawaii and handles hundreds of thousands of cruise passengers annually.
Can I go up the Aloha Tower?
Yes, the Aloha Tower features a free observation deck offering 360-degree views of the harbor and downtown Honolulu.
Is there shopping at the harbor?
The Aloha Tower Marketplace at the harbor offers shops, restaurants, and a waterfront promenade for visitors.
Where is Honolulu Harbor located?
It's in downtown Honolulu, bordered by Nimitz Highway and close to Chinatown, Bishop Street, and the Iwilei commercial district.