Kailua Pier
A vibrant hub on the Big Island, Kailua Pier offers stunning ocean vistas, boat tours, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for sunsets and dolphin spotti...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Kailua Pier
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub on the Big Island, Kailua Pier offers stunning ocean vistas, boat tours, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for sunsets and dolphin spotting.
"The water is so astonishingly blue, it doesn't look real! And, the views of Kona and the King Kamehameha temple are stunning."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The golden hour views from Kailua Pier are spectacular. Don't miss it!
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins; they often put on a show near the pier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Hour Views
Kailua Pier
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky in vibrant hues over the Pacific. A truly magical experience.
Dolphin Encounters
Offshore from Kailua Pier
Spot playful spinner dolphins on boat tours or from the pier. A delightful surprise for any visitor.
Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Race
Kailua Pier
Experience the thrill of this renowned outrigger canoe race, a vibrant cultural event.
Local Feline Friends
Around Kailua Pier
Encounter the friendly feral cats that call the pier area home. A unique and heartwarming sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Aloha Spirit
Respect the Ocean & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The golden hour views from Kailua Pier are spectacular. Don't miss it!
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins; they often put on a show near the pier.
⚠️ Be Shark Aware
Sharks have been sighted. Always check local advisories before entering the water.
🐾 Friendly Felines
You'll likely see local cats. Be respectful and don't feed them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The golden hour views from Kailua Pier are spectacular. Don't miss it!
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins; they often put on a show near the pier.
⚠️ Be Shark Aware
Sharks have been sighted. Always check local advisories before entering the water.
🐾 Friendly Felines
You'll likely see local cats. Be respectful and don't feed them.
🛶 Canoe Race Spectacle
If visiting during the Queen Liliuokalani race, expect a lively scene!
🚤 Boat Tour Fun
Glass-bottom boat tours offer great views of marine life.
🚶♀️ Stroll Ali'i Drive
Walk from the pier along Ali'i Drive for shops and restaurants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kailua Pier is a beloved spot offering stunning ocean views, especially at sunset, and a lively atmosphere with boat tours and local activities. Visitors appreciate the free access, clear waters, and the chance to see marine life like dolphins. Some caution is advised due to occasional shark sightings, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"This pier is free and open to public foot traffic. On either side, you will find beautiful, sandy-bottomed beaches with shallow turquoise water, nicely protected from big waves. Although it is used for commercial purposes, like docking tour boats, it's also a fun place for locals and tourists to enjoy the ocean. You will see people fishing, launching paddle boards, and kids jumping off the railings. The water is so astonishingly blue, it doesn't look real! And, the views of Kona and the King Kamehameha temple are stunning."
Michelle Porter
"A very lovely pier. The water is crystal-clear. A historic site is just on the other side of the pier."
Walter R
"Took the glassbottom boat trip. Very good look at tropical fish and the reef. Bonus was the spinner dolphins that put on a free show outside our boat. Crew was amazing as well."
Donald Norris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kailua Pier is located in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors arrive via cruise ship, and the pier is a short walk from the ship docking area.
Parking can be found in the vicinity of Kailua Pier, though it can get busy, especially during peak times and events. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, Kailua Pier is centrally located in Kailua-Kona, making it a pleasant walk from many hotels and shops along Ali'i Drive.
Besides walking, you can use ride-sharing services, taxis, or rent a car to explore Kailua-Kona and the surrounding areas.
The pier itself is generally accessible, but specific accessibility details for surrounding areas and attractions should be confirmed directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kailua Pier is free and open to the public for foot traffic. There are no admission fees to walk on the pier.
Kailua Pier is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening, allowing visitors to enjoy its atmosphere at various times.
Yes, for specific activities like glass-bottom boat tours or parasailing, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
While generally open, be mindful of any event-specific closures or restrictions. Always respect posted signs and local guidelines.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Kailua Pier. Ensure you have the necessary permits if required by local regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy fishing, watch boat traffic, take glass-bottom boat tours, go parasailing, or simply stroll and enjoy the ocean views. It's also a starting point for the Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Race. +1
The waters are generally calm and protected, but be aware of potential marine life like sharks. Always check local advisories and swim in designated areas. +1
You'll find beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, views of Kona, and the historic King Kamehameha temple nearby.
The pier area and adjacent Ali'i Drive offer a variety of shops and restaurants catering to tourists and locals.
Yes, you can often spot tropical fish and sometimes spinner dolphins from the pier or on boat tours.
📸 📸 Photography
The pier itself, especially during sunset, offers stunning photographic potential. Look for shots of boats, marine life, and the coastline. 
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday offers clear, bright shots of the turquoise water.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. Always check current restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
A versatile lens for landscapes and potential wildlife shots is ideal. A polarizing filter can enhance the vibrant blues of the ocean.
The end of the pier offers panoramic views. The beaches on either side also provide unique angles of the pier and coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a glass-bottom boat tour for an engaging way to see marine life without getting wet.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, saving money on meals. For affordable activities, consider fishing from the pier or simply strolling along Ali'i Drive to window shop and soak in the atmosphere.
❤️ Couples
+1 Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along Ali'i Drive, perhaps stopping for a sunset cocktail at one of the oceanfront bars. Consider a sunset cruise departing from the pier for a truly memorable evening. The serene atmosphere and stunning scenery make it an ideal setting for couples to connect.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Marine Life Encounters
Beyond dolphins, the clear, turquoise waters teem with tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs, making it an excellent location for snorkeling and diving excursions. While swimming directly from the pier is possible, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings. Sharks have been sighted in the vicinity, so always heed local advisories and observe safety precautions.
For those interested in a closer look, consider booking a snorkeling tour or a glass-bottom boat trip. These excursions often provide opportunities to see these marine wonders up close in a safe and guided manner. Remember to always maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding or disturbing any wildlife.
Cultural Significance and Events
The pier also serves as a vibrant venue for local events and tournaments. It's famously the starting point for the Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Race, one of the largest outrigger canoe races in the world.
+1 During this time, the atmosphere is electric, with paddlers from around the globe converging to compete. Witnessing this event offers a unique insight into the strong tradition of outrigger canoeing in Hawaii. Beyond major races, the pier often hosts smaller local gatherings and is a hub for community activity. Observing the daily life and participating in or watching these events can provide a deeper connection to the local culture and the spirit of Aloha.
Exploring Ali'i Drive
Along Ali'i Drive, you'll find everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining options, many with stunning ocean views. It's also a prime location for shopping, with boutiques selling local crafts, clothing, and jewelry. The street buzzes with activity, especially in the evenings, making it a perfect place for a leisurely walk after a day of sightseeing.
For those interested in water activities, many tour operators and rental shops are located on or near Ali'i Drive, offering excursions like snorkeling trips, sunset cruises, and parasailing. The proximity of these services to the pier makes it incredibly convenient for planning your adventures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit