Hotel Recommendations Night before and after Cruise

Question

We are a family of 6 (myself, husband, three 13 year old kids, and my mom). We arrive from the East Coast of the US at 8:30 pm the night before our cruise. We board at 11:30 the next morning. Can anyone recommend a shuttle hotel from the airport to stay at that night? I'd like to avoid an Uber to the hotel as well as one the morning of to the port. Should we stay near the airport or near the port? Since it's just an overnight something economical would be ideal. When we return from our cruise we do not depart until.the evening of the next day. We'd like to see Oahu - specifically Pearl Harbor - as well as other sights. Where should we stay on the back end? I'm thinking of renting a car for that day so we can explore? We could get to the airport after the cruise to pick up the car so we can drop it back off there when we depart. Any hotel recommendations for the night after the cruise? I was thinking of Waikiki that night? This will be our first trip to Hawaii.

Answer

Hi there,

Planning a short stay before and after a cruise on Oahu with a large family can be simplified by choosing hotels with shuttle services and convenient locations. Here’s a detailed guide to help you maximize comfort and minimize hassle.

Night Before the Cruise:

Since you arrive at 8:30 pm, you’ll want a hotel close to the cruise port (Aloha Tower/Pier 10 area or nearby) to avoid a stressful early morning commute. Many hotels near Honolulu Harbor offer shuttle service to the port, which can be more convenient than arranging a separate Uber.

Airport Proximity vs. Port Proximity: Staying near the airport is convenient if you’re concerned about a late arrival, but the drive from the airport to the port is typically 25–30 minutes. Staying near the port saves time in the morning, which is especially helpful with kids and a senior traveler.
Recommended Shuttle Hotels Near Port:

Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach – Offers shuttle service to the cruise port, family-friendly, mid-range pricing.
Holiday Inn Express Waikiki – Offers shuttle options to the harbor, has family rooms, and is economical.
Prince Waikiki – Upscale, with port shuttle service; larger suites suitable for families of six.

If you prefer to stay very close to the airport, consider: Courtyard by Marriott Oahu Airport, or Best Western The Plaza Hotel – both offer airport shuttles, but you’d still need an early morning shuttle or Uber to the port.

Night After the Cruise:

Since you plan to explore Oahu after the cruise, a hotel in Waikiki is ideal. This gives you access to restaurants, beaches, and activities without additional driving from the port, and you can rent a car for the day to explore Pearl Harbor, North Shore, or other attractions.

Recommended Waikiki Hotels:

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort – Central location, easy access to beach and restaurants, family-friendly rooms.
Hilton Hawaiian Village – Larger resort with multiple pools, beach access, and spacious family accommodations.
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa – Family-friendly, convenient location, good for one night after a cruise.

Exploring Oahu Post-Cruise:

Renting a car after the cruise is smart, as you can explore Pearl Harbor in the morning, then drive to other attractions such as:

Diamond Head Crater hike – moderate hike with panoramic views of Honolulu.
North Shore – Famous beaches like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach.
Hanauma Bay – Snorkeling (check if reservations are required).
Punchbowl Crater / National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific – scenic overlook and history.

You can return your rental car near the airport in the evening before your departure, simplifying your last day.

Tips:

Book hotels with shuttle service in advance, especially for the night before the cruise.
Consider family suites or connecting rooms, since you have six people.
For the post-cruise night, Waikiki gives flexibility for dining, beach walks, and a comfortable stay before flying out.
Factor in traffic – Honolulu can be busy in the mornings and evenings, so plan extra travel time to and from the airport or cruise port.

In summary, for convenience and minimal stress, stay near the port the night before your cruise and in Waikiki the night after. Use a car rental for daytime exploration after the cruise and return it near the airport in the evening before your departure.

Hotel Recommendations Night before and after Cruise

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