Taxi at cruise port

Hello! I’ve heard contradictory info on whether there are available taxis at the cruise port or not. If we don’t rent a car would we be able to get a taxi there and back to Duke’s Kauai for dinner? I’ve been hearing taxis are limited specially at night?

At the Kauai cruise port (Nawiliwili Harbor near Lihue), taxis are available, but availability can be limited, especially during evenings or later at night. Many visitors report that while you can usually get a taxi during daytime hours, nighttime demand can exceed supply, so it’s not as reliable as in larger cities.

Here’s what you should consider when planning your trip to Duke’s Kauai or similar evening outings without a rental car:

  • Taxi services: Local taxi companies do serve the cruise port, but you may need to call ahead or book in advance for evening trips. Some popular companies include Kauai Cab and Quick Cab.
  • Ride-share options: Uber and Lyft are operational on Kauai, but availability can fluctuate. Sometimes a driver may be 15–30 minutes away, particularly in evenings.
  • Shuttles / hotel transport: If staying near Lihue or in a resort, some hotels and Duke’s Kauai itself may offer shuttle service. It’s worth checking with them in advance to see if evening pickups are possible.

Practical tips:

  • Call a taxi in advance if you plan an evening dinner from the cruise port.
  • Have a backup plan such as a scheduled shuttle or a confirmed ride-share pickup window.
  • Keep in mind that late-night trips may have higher fares or wait times.

Overall, daytime trips from the cruise port are generally fine with taxis, but for dinner or evening outings, it’s safest to either pre-arrange your transport or rely on shuttles/ride-share apps to avoid waiting or missing your reservation.


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