Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor, located at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu, is a significant and historic marina in the heart of Honolulu. Established in 1913, it has been an integral part of the Ward neighborhood for over a century.
Originally known as the fishery of Kukuluae‘o, the harbor was sold by the Victoria Ward family to the territory of Hawaii. Now it is managed by The Howard Hughes Corporation.
It offers a range of facilities and services, catering to both commercial and recreational needs. It has slips ranging in size from 30’ to 100’, making it versatile for accommodating various boat sizes. The harbor provides three loading docks, electricity, water, vehicle parking, and restroom facilities for both members and visitors.
Kewalo Basin Harbor is not only a hub for boating activities but also a popular spot for various water excursions and maritime adventures. It’s conveniently located in the Kaka’ako district of Honolulu, which is just steps away from the shops and restaurants in Ward Village and a quick ride to Waikiki. This location makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the vibrant city life and the serenity of the ocean.
The harbor has a fuel dock, which operates daily, and a pump-out station for the convenience of boaters. For visitors, parking is available but limited, so it’s advisable to use public transportation or ride-sharing services.
The harbor’s management focuses on facility upgrades, including increased security and dock renovations, and extends marketing support to encourage foot traffic and interaction within the Ward Village community. This effort is part of a broader vision to connect Ward Village from mauka (mountain) to makai (ocean), making it an even better ocean destination and urban fishing village for the community.
For those interested in boating excursions, Kewalo Basin Harbor is a departure point for various tours and activities, including glass-bottom boat tours, whale-watching excursions, and sunset cruises. These experiences offer a unique way to explore Oahu’s South Shore and the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
Kewalo Basin, nestled along the beautiful South Shore of Oahu, serves as a vibrant gateway to the island’s rich marine adventures. This prominent harbor, located just between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, is more than just a picturesque setting. It’s a central hub for ocean enthusiasts, fishermen, and visitors seeking to explore the wonders of the Pacific.
Location
Kewalo Basin’s prime location offers easy access from various parts of the island, making it a convenient starting point for numerous sea-bound journeys. Situated close to the famed Ala Moana Beach Park, the basin provides a stunning backdrop against the Honolulu skyline. Its proximity to major tourist areas like Waikiki and the Ala Moana Center positions it as an ideal spot for visitors looking to immerse themselves in oceanic activities without straying too far from the city’s amenities.
Here are detailed directions for both car travel and public transportation, including estimated travel times and parking tips.
Directions to Kewalo Basin Harbor by Car
- Begin on Kalākaua Ave, heading southeast toward Uluniu Ave.
- Take a left turn onto Liliʻuokalani Ave and continue for approximately 0.3 miles.
- Proceed on Ala Wai Blvd for about 1.5 miles until you reach Atkinson Dr. Note: Left turns onto Atkinson Dr are not permitted Monday to Friday between 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM.
- After turning left onto Atkinson Dr, continue for roughly 0.3 miles.
- Follow Ala Moana Blvd for about 1.4 miles. You will then need to make a right turn onto a partially restricted usage road.
- Kewalo Basin Harbor, located at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, will be on your left after approximately 0.3 miles.
Estimated Travel Time
The total estimated travel time from central Waikiki to Kewalo Basin Harbor is approximately 20 minutes, but this may vary depending on traffic conditions.
Parking and Navigating Waikiki’s Streets
- Kewalo Basin: Offers both metered and free parking spots. Arriving early is recommended on weekends and holidays.
- Tips for Navigating Waikiki: Be cautious of one-way streets and pedestrian zones. A GPS is recommended for accurate directions.
Public Transportation Options
Routes 42 and E on TheBus can be used. Check current schedules and routes for accuracy.
Whether driving or taking public transportation, these directions should help you reach Kewalo Basin from Waikiki. Always plan ahead, especially if you have scheduled activities, to ensure a stress-free start to your marine adventure.
For more information, you can visit the official website of Kewalo Basin Harbor.