Top Shore Excursions for Your Hawaii Cruise

A Hawaii cruise lets you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island by both sea and land. But what should you do once you're on shore? Here’s a guide to the best experiences you won’t want to miss.

From snorkeling and whale watching to visiting sacred landmarks and exploring stunning canyons and volcanoes, Hawaii offers a range of shore excursions. Whether you're a foodie, movie buff, or adventure-seeker, there's something for everyone.

With 8 to 10 hours available on each island—though some cruises offer overnight stays—there’s plenty of time to explore Hawaii’s top attractions and indulge in activities tailored to your personal interests.

Excursion options, schedules, and pricing can differ depending on the cruise line. Here are our top recommendations for Hawaii cruise shore excursions, along with expected costs.

Prices can vary between different cruise lines and third-party providers. To help you get an idea of what to expect, we’ve provided the following price guide for each tour.

• $ = Less than $70
• $$ = $70 to $140
• $$$ = $140 to $200
• $$$$ = Over $200

Honolulu, Oahu

Pearl Harbor

Cost: $$-$$$

Visiting Pearl Harbor, one of Oahu's most iconic landmarks, can be a challenge if you go solo. The World War II memorials dedicated to the tragic bombing on December 7, 1941, are located on an active military base with strict security measures. Bags are not permitted, and phones and wallets must be stored in a clear plastic bag or pocket. A guided tour simplifies the process, offering access to multiple key sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin submarine, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, with all necessary reservations handled for you.

Various cruise lines offer different Pearl Harbor excursions, each with distinct site visit combinations. Be sure to check the tour details before booking. If your cruise departs or arrives in Honolulu, Pearl Harbor tours are often available on embarkation or disembarkation days, sometimes bundled with hotel or airport transfers. Additional tours may include a Honolulu city excursion, taking you to Diamond Head Crater and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

What you should know: Most Pearl Harbor excursions last between five and seven hours and are suitable for all ages. The tour involves significant walking, and visitors will need to climb stairs to explore the Battleship Missouri, where Japan’s formal WWII surrender took place on September 2, 1945. A short boat ride takes you to the solemn USS Arizona Memorial, where 1,177 sailors and civilians lost their lives, many of them still entombed within the sunken wreck.

Diamond Head Crater Hike

Cost: $$

Diamond Head Crater, the striking volcanic formation frequently featured in Waikiki Beach photos, offers more than just a scenic view — it’s an exhilarating hike. Adventure seekers can tackle the climb to the 763-foot summit for breathtaking panoramic vistas of Waikiki, downtown Honolulu, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

The hike involves ascending a series of moderate yet sometimes uneven switchback trails, leading to a narrow 200-foot tunnel. After that, you’ll navigate two steep staircases (76 steps and 99 steps). Those opting for the more challenging route will ascend the 99 steps and spiral staircase to reach the historic lookout bunkers. If you prefer an easier path, the scenic Loop Trail leads to the summit, followed by a descent into the bunker and down the stairs. You can also reverse the route and descend via the Loop Trail.

What to know: If possible, book an early morning hike to avoid the heat that builds up later in the day. Be sure to wear comfortable sneakers, a hat, and bring sunscreen and water. The round-trip hike spans 1.6 miles and takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the pace of your group. Total tour time is typically three to three and a half hours.

Oahu's North Shore Tour

Cost: $$-$$$

If you’ve explored Honolulu or prefer a retreat from the city, a North Shore tour offers a peaceful escape. Journey through the Ko’olau Mountains to discover Oahu’s North Shore, a breathtaking coastline known for its towering winter surf, waterfalls, sugarcane fields, and historic fish ponds. The area is a visual paradise, with charming small towns where you can sample local dishes like garlic shrimp and shop for fresh macadamia nuts and pineapples.

Tour highlights include watching surfers take on the legendary Banzai Pipeline (seasonal, in winter), visiting the Byodo Temple — a Buddhist shrine surrounded by lush mountains, built in 1968 to honor the centennial of Japanese immigration to Hawaii — exploring the stunning Waimea Valley waterfalls, and touring the historic town of Haleiwa.

What to know: North Shore excursions usually last five to seven hours, with a significant portion spent on the tour bus. For cruises that end in Honolulu, some cruise lines offer North Shore tours with a panoramic drive, coupled with an airport drop-off (available for those with flights after 5 p.m.).

The Polynesian Cultural Center and Luau

Cost: $$-$$$$

Located in Laie on Oahu's northern coast, the 42-acre Polynesian Cultural Center is a vibrant living museum that celebrates Polynesian heritage, both past and present. Explore six faithfully recreated villages representing Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand (Aotearoa), Samoa, Tahiti, and Tonga. Each village showcases its unique culture through traditional performances, music, and interactive activities. Visitors can engage in hands-on experiences such as drumming on a Tongan drum, climbing a coconut tree, weaving a lei, or practicing spear throwing.

At the 119,000-square-foot Hukilau Marketplace, you can sample local Hawaiian delicacies and purchase authentic crafts. Don’t miss the Ukulele Experience, where you can witness the transformation of rare koa wood into the beloved ukulele.

Many cruise lines offer excursions to the Polynesian Cultural Center, or you can opt for a private tour. Most tours include visits to the six recreated villages (available as guided, group, or self-guided tours), an evening show of 'Ha: Breath of Life,' and an authentic luau or buffet dinner. Guests attending the luau can enjoy classic Polynesian dishes like crispy garlic shrimp, Kalua pork, fresh fish, and more.

Your visit also contributes to the larger Pacific Island nations community. The center is partially staffed by Brigham Young University students, many of whom come from the very Pacific Island nations they represent. This sponsorship program offers students tuition, housing, books, and meals in exchange for part-time work at the center, along with a paycheck for their personal expenses.

What to know: The length of the tour varies between seven and 10 1/2 hours, depending on your selected package. The excursion begins and concludes with a 90-minute motorcoach drive through scenic landscapes. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Monarchs Tour

Cost: $$

If you're fascinated by Hawaii's royal past, a visit to Iolani Palace is a must. This historic palace, built in 1882, served as the last residence for Hawaii's monarchs. It is the only royal palace in the United States and was the home of King Kalakaua, who commissioned its construction, and his sister Queen Liliuokalani, who was imprisoned here after the U.S. annexed the islands. Nearby, you can also see a statue of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in 1810, and Kawaiahao Church, built in 1842.

For a deeper dive into Hawaii's royal heritage, take an extended tour to other important sites like the Pali Lookout, where King Kamehameha I defeated the island of Oahu in 1795, and Mauna Ala, the royal mausoleum where six of Hawaii's last eight monarchs are laid to rest.

What to know: Most Iolani Palace and royal history-focused tours last about four hours and typically combine a motorcoach ride with a self-guided audio tour through the palace.

Kahului, Maui

Haleakala Crater

Cost: $$$-$$$$

A visit to Haleakala Crater is a highlight for many Maui visitors, with several ways to experience the 10,023-foot volcanic peak that defines the island’s landscape (last erupted in 1790). Some excursions require overnight stays or late sail-away times to accommodate the trip.

The name Haleakala translates to 'House of the Sun,' and the most unforgettable experiences are sunrise or sunset tours. For a sunrise tour, you’ll depart the ship before 3 a.m., traveling up the winding roads to the summit in the dark to watch the sun rise over the 3,000-foot deep crater, casting its golden light over the vibrant cinder cones. Alternatively, a sunset tour allows you to admire the crater before watching the sun dip beneath the clouds, leaving a starlit sky in its wake. Daytime panoramic sightseeing tours also let you take in the breathtaking scenery of Haleakala’s slopes and crater.

For the adventurous, a downhill biking tour offers an exhilarating way to experience Haleakala. After a minibus ride to an elevation of 6,500 feet, you’ll ride 14 miles down the mountain’s switchback roads, passing through Upcountry’s rural farmland. Note that most biking tours don’t include access to the summit or crater.

What to know: Haleakala tours generally last between four to seven hours. Due to its high altitude and volcanic terrain, tours are not recommended for those with heart or respiratory conditions. Temperatures at the summit range from 45 to 65 degrees, so it's wise to bring a sweater or jacket.

Road to Hana

Cost: $$$-$$$$

Driving Maui's famous Road to Hana is a challenging journey — a 52-mile stretch filled with over 600 curves and 59 one-lane bridges. But, with a professional driver at the wheel of a minibus, you and your group can relax and take in the stunning views without the stress. Most cruise lines offer full-day tours to Hana, a peaceful village on the island's rugged east coast, surrounded by volcanic rock and black-sand beaches.

Beyond the excitement of this iconic drive, which takes about two to three hours, a Road to Hana tour reveals Maui’s dramatic scenery, from its serene bays and tropical fruit groves to towering lava formations, lush ferns, and cascading waterfalls. Key highlights include the black-sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park, Pua'a Ka'a State Park, and the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe'o Gulch, with its multiple waterfalls and tranquil natural pools.

What to know: Road to Hana tours typically last between nine and 10 hours, include lunch, and are not recommended for those who are prone to motion sickness. Depending on the cruise line, the sites visited may vary, and some tours offer opportunities for swimming.

Molokini Crater snorkel

Cost: $$$

Maui is home to one of Hawaii's top snorkeling destinations, Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic islet that lies mostly underwater about 2.5 miles off the southern coast of Maui. This protected marine conservation area can be reached by a scenic catamaran sail, during which guides will provide snorkeling gear and offer tips for exploring the crystal-clear waters full of vibrant marine life. Some excursions also include a stop at Turtle Arches, a lava formation known for frequent sea turtle sightings. During whale season (December to April), it’s also possible to see humpback whales in the area.

What to know: Molokini Crater snorkeling tours typically last around four hours, with all gear, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks provided. Water conditions can fluctuate, so if you're prone to seasickness, it’s best to consider this before booking.

Whale watching

Cost: $$

If you’re cruising Hawaii between December and April and have a passion for whales, Maui is the place to be. This is when over 10,000 humpback whales migrate to the island to mate and give birth. As you venture out on a whale-watching boat (or an adventurous Zodiac), you’ll be treated to the sight of tail slaps, breaches, and calves swimming alongside their mothers. Most tours are led by naturalist guides, and a portion of the proceeds often goes toward whale conservation through the Pacific Whale Foundation.

What to know: Whale watching tours typically last about three hours. While sightings are likely, they are not guaranteed. Keep in mind that water conditions can change, and seasickness may occur.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

Waimea Canyon tour

Cost: $-$$

Often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific,' Waimea Canyon is a stunning 10-mile-long gorge that plunges up to 3,000 feet. The vibrant red and green hues of its jagged cliffs make for a striking contrast. Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, the area now requires reservations for individual visits. You can take in the breathtaking views from various lookout points.

A typical shore excursion to Waimea Canyon provides around 30 minutes for sightseeing and photography. These tours involve a scenic 90-minute drive each way from the cruise terminal to the canyon. Along the way, many tours stop at other notable attractions like the Spouting Horn blowhole and small towns in Kauai's Koloa district.

Keep in mind, however, that Kauai's frequent rain showers — being the wettest island in Hawaii — can sometimes cloud the views of the canyon, potentially dampening the experience. For clearer skies, visit during Kauai's dry season, which lasts from April to September.

Things to remember: Most Waimea Canyon tours last about four to five hours. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, some of the longer 'Best of Kauai' excursions combine a visit to the canyon with a scenic cruise down the Wailua River to the iconic Fern Grotto.

Hollywood in Hawaii tour

Cost: $$$

If you're a fan of 'Jurassic Park,' you probably know that much of the 1993 film was shot on Kauai. But the island has been the backdrop for many other iconic films and TV shows as well. Movie tours are a popular way to explore Kauai, especially for film lovers. These excursions typically take place on minibuses or motor coaches equipped with screens, allowing you to watch scenes from the films while visiting the actual filming locations. Some tours even let you stop and take your own photos at these famous spots.

In addition to 'Jurassic Park,' Kauai has also served as the filming location for a variety of other famous movies and TV shows, including 'Tropic Thunder,' 'Pirates of the Caribbean,' 'Six Days and Seven Nights,' 'Blue Hawaii,' 'South Pacific,' 'Donovan's Reef,' 'Gilligan's Island,' 'Fantasy Island,' and even 'The Amazing Race.'

Things to know: Most movie location tours last around five to six hours and offer plenty of scenic sightseeing. Even if you're not familiar with the films, it's still a fun and relaxing way to explore the island of Kauai.

Wailua River cruise and Fern Grotto

Cost: $$-$$$

Kauai is home to Hawaii's only navigable river, the Wailua River, which leads to one of the island's most beautiful and secluded destinations: the Fern Grotto. This laid-back excursion combines a scenic cruise along the river with insights into Hawaiian culture, accompanied by live performances of traditional Hawaiian music and hula dancing. The family-run boats that operate this tour offer local commentary, making for a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Reaching the Fern Grotto, a natural lava rock cave draped in tropical vines, involves a brief 10-minute walk along a mostly flat, paved, and shaded path. Once you arrive, you'll be treated to photo opportunities and extra entertainment. Many Wailua River cruises also make a stop at Opaeka'a Falls, a stunning 151-foot waterfall that tumbles into a serene pool, perfect for pictures.

Important to know: Wailua River and Fern Grotto tours typically last between three and four hours. If you choose a combined tour that also includes a visit to Waimea Canyon, expect the day to last around seven hours, with lunch included.

Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Price: $-$$

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the top attractions on the Big Island. It's easily accessible from both cruise ports, though the quickest drive (about 30-35 minutes one way) is from Hilo. While most cruise lines offer excursions to the park, most tours only give a brief introduction, covering just a fraction of what this 505-square-mile park has to offer.

The main highlight of most tours is visiting various viewpoints and steam vents along the rim of Kilauea Crater. A guide typically provides insights into the volcano's history, geology, and its current state. It's rare to witness active molten lava, and many tours don't include a trip along the famous Chain of Craters Road. Some tours, however, do feature a walk through the ancient Thurston Lava Tube, which is over 500 years old.

For a more in-depth experience, consider a longer, more expensive excursion that can last up to seven hours. These tours may combine a visit to the national park with a helicopter tour for aerial views, as well as stops at local waterfalls or botanical gardens near Hilo.

Important to know: Most standard tours of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park last around four hours and may include stops at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center for tastings and shopping. The walk to the Kilauea crater rim mostly follows gravel or dirt paths, but some areas near the rim can be uneven and pose trip hazards. Due to volcanic gases, these tours are not recommended for people with respiratory issues.

Hilo waterfalls and gardens

Price: $-$$

Hilo's location on the lush, leeward side of the Big Island makes it a prime destination for stunning waterfalls and tropical gardens. Many cruise excursions combine visits to several of these natural wonders or pair a single waterfall stop with a tour of a botanical garden, tropical zoo, or orchid farm.

The two most famous waterfalls near Hilo are Rainbow Falls, a 100-foot cascade known for the beautiful rainbow that appears on sunny mornings, and the impressive Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet through a lush tropical forest. Other stops on these tours may include the tranquil Liliuokalani Gardens (the largest Japanese garden outside Japan), Nani Mau Gardens, or the Pana'ewa Rainforest Gardens and Zoo.

Important to know: Excursions to waterfalls and gardens typically last between four and seven hours, and you should be prepared to walk for a good portion of the tour. Rainbow Falls is easily accessible from the parking area. To reach Akaka Falls, you'll need to navigate several steps and walk a half-mile circular trail.

Volcano Winery

Price: $$-$$$

Situated on Hawaii's Big Island, Volcano Winery is the southernmost winery in the United States. Perfect for wine lovers with an adventurous spirit, this family-owned winery offers a chance to sample unique blends made from local fruits like guava, honey, and tea, combined with classic grape varieties like pinot noir and Cayuga. Located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, the winery also crafts a selection of 100% grape wines, offering an extraordinary tasting experience.

Important to know: Tours of Volcano Winery typically last about three hours, during which visitors can explore the winery and enjoy a tasting of its distinctive wines.

Kona, Hawaii

Kona coast snorkel

Price: $$$-$$$$

For those who missed snorkeling in Maui, Kona's dramatic lava coastline presents another incredible opportunity to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems. Many cruise lines offer catamaran snorkeling excursions, where even beginners can enjoy the beauty of colorful corals and the diverse reef fish in the calm waters of Kona's secluded bays and coves. Keep an eye out for dolphins as well, as they sometimes make an appearance.

If you're seeking a more thrilling experience, consider a Zodiac snorkel tour. This adventure includes a fast-paced ride in a 24-foot motorized raft, giving you close-up views of stunning coastal caves and lava tubes, followed by time to snorkel in Kona's clear waters.

Important to know: Most catamaran snorkeling trips are suitable for all ages and typically last around four hours. These excursions include either breakfast or lunch, and all necessary gear, including flotation devices, is provided. Many catamarans also feature fun additions like a diving board or waterslide. On the other hand, Zodiac tours are more physically demanding and may not be suitable for individuals with back or neck issues. You'll also need to be able to climb back into the raft using a small ladder with just four rungs.

Atlantis Submarine

Price: $$-$$$$

For a unique underwater experience, Kona offers the chance to dive 100 feet beneath the surface aboard the Atlantis Submarine. As you descend into the clear waters off Kona's coast, you'll witness an incredible array of marine life. The submarine, which is also available in Maui and Oahu, is fully air-conditioned, U.S. Coast Guard-certified, and equipped with individual portholes for viewing the ocean’s wonders.

Important to know: Atlantis Submarine tours typically last around 90 minutes. These excursions are not recommended for those who suffer from claustrophobia or motion sickness. Participants must be at least 3 feet tall and able to ascend and descend a vertical 12-step ladder to board and exit the submarine. Prices can vary significantly depending on the cruise line.

Kona coffee tour

Price: $$-$$$$

Kona's rich volcanic soil is famous for producing some of the world's best coffee. If you're eager to experience a fresh cup straight from the source, this port is the perfect spot. Cruise lines offer a range of coffee-themed excursions, from those focused on the art of coffee farming and production, to others that highlight tastings and offer opportunities to purchase coffee souvenirs.

For those with a passion for local flavors, some tours blend coffee tastings with chocolate samplings from locally grown beans or visits to Kona's breweries. More extensive day-long excursions combine a coffee farm tour with a cloud forest hike or even a trip through Kona's historic landmarks, often including a snorkel in Kealakekua Bay.

Important to know: Most Kona coffee tours last between three and four hours. Prices vary significantly depending on the type of experience, ranging from a basic visit to a tasting room to an immersive farm-based roasting tour.

Place of Refuge and Painted Church

Price: $-$$

This guided bus tour is a must for history enthusiasts, taking visitors to some of the Kona Coast's most significant cultural and religious sites. The first stop is Kealakekua Bay, where Captain Cook met his tragic end at the hands of native Hawaiians in 1778, marked by a monument honoring the event.

The next stop is St. Benedict's Painted Church, a charming Catholic church built in 1899. While its exterior is simple and traditional, the interior dazzles with vibrant murals painted by Father John Velghe, a Belgian priest who created the artwork to help teach the local Hawaiian population to read.

The final destination is Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, or the 'Place of Refuge at Honaunau.' Dating back to 1650 and carefully restored, this ancient Hawaiian sanctuary once housed the remains of chiefs and served as a refuge for defeated warriors seeking protection.

Good to know: Excursions to the Place of Refuge and Painted Church usually last between three and four hours and require little walking.