Port of Hilo

Hilo is a commercial harbour serving the eastern side of the island of Hawaiʻi. Cargo shipping and cruise visits share a waterfront that connects the island with wider supply and passenger networks. The marine terminal lies in Kūhiō Bay, behind the inner end of the harbour breakwater.

The breakwater shelters the working basin from the more exposed waters of Hilo Bay. Separate pier facilities accommodate cargo and passenger activity; improvements completed at Pier 4 expanded cargo handling, while work at Pier 1 improved the area used by cruise passengers.

Inter-island freight is an important part of the harbour’s practical role. These movements support the circulation of goods between islands, while cruise calls bring visitors ashore through a commercial port whose function extends well beyond tourism.