🇺🇸 Honolulu, USA — Cruise Port Guide
Oʻahu's capital blends the iconic surf of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head crater with the solemn wartime history of Pearl Harbor.
Updated September 2026
Quick facts
Getting ashore
When to visit Honolulu
April-May and September-November shoulder seasons are driest with fewer crowds; summer highs run mid-to-upper 80s°F, winter mid-70s to low 80s°F, with occasional showers November-March.
Getting back to the ship on time
Independent trips to the North Shore or Pearl Harbor can hit heavy H-1/H-2 freeway traffic, so build in a large buffer to get back to the pier before the ship departs.
All-aboard is ship's time — check it in the daily programme, and set your watch to it.
Things to do in Honolulu
Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona
Honor WWII history at the memorial and museums; reserve tickets early.
Diamond Head hike
Climb the volcanic crater trail for sweeping Waikiki coastline views.
Waikiki Beach
Swim, surf, or relax on Oʻahu's most famous golden-sand beach.
Hanauma Bay snorkeling
Snorkel a protected volcanic bay teeming with tropical fish; reserve ahead.
Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout
Take in dramatic windward cliff and valley views from the historic pass.
Iolani Palace
Tour the only royal palace on US soil, home of Hawaiian monarchs.
Popular excursions
Waikiki Surf Lesson
Learn to stand up in the gentle rollers where modern surfing began.
What to eat
- Poke
- Kalua pork
- Loco moco
- Spam musubi
- Shave ice
Weather by month
Best time to visit: Apr–Oct (dry season)
| Month | High | Low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 80° | 66° | 2.3" |
| Feb | 80° | 66° | 2" |
| Mar | 81° | 68° | 2" |
| Apr | 83° | 70° | 0.6" |
| May | 85° | 71° | 0.6" |
| Jun | 87° | 74° | 0.3" |
| Jul | 88° | 75° | 0.5" |
| Aug | 89° | 76° | 0.5" |
| Sep | 89° | 75° | 0.7" |
| Oct | 87° | 74° | 1.8" |
| Nov | 84° | 71° | 2.4" |
| Dec | 81° | 68° | 3.2" |
Local phrases
A little history
The 'aloha spirit' means kindness, respect, and harmony; greet warmly and treat elders respectfully.
Remove your shoes before entering homes; it's a deep-rooted local custom.
Tipping is expected US-style — 15–20% at restaurants and for guides and drivers.
Respect sacred sites, never take lava rocks, and never disturb honu (sea turtles).