Hilo Port (Pier 1)
Matson Terminal Guide
The East Side's logistics lifeline. Navigating Hilo Harbor without the hassle.
Hilo Terminal Stats
Port Name:
Matson / Hilo Harbor (Pier 1)
Address:
Kuhio St, Hilo, HI 96720 (Access via Kalanianaole Ave)
ACCEPTED CARGO:
+3 to 5 Days (Honolulu Barge Transfer)
Gate Hours
MONDAY - FRIDAY
07:00 AM – 11:30 AM
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
⚠️ LUNCH CLOSURE: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Strictly Enforced. Gates are locked.
The "Honolulu Transfer" Explained
Unlike Oahu, ships from the mainland do not dock directly in Hilo. Logistics work in three steps:
Step 1:
Your car arrives in Honolulu (Sand Island).
Step 2:
It is transferred to an inter-island barge.
Step 3:
The barge sails overnight to Hilo Harbor.
This adds approximately 3-5 days to the standard transit time. We account for this in your quote and schedule.
Finding the Gate
Hilo Harbor is a mix of cruise ships, containers, and fishing boats. Do not get stuck in the cruise terminal.
From Hilo International Airport (ITO)
- Head West on Airport Rd/Kekuanaoa St.
- Turn Right onto Kanoelehua Ave (Hwy 11).
- Turn Right onto Kalanianaole Ave.
- Look for the "Matson" or "Pier 1" signage on the Left (Makai side).
- Landmark: If you pass Keaukaha Beach Park , you went too far.
☔ LOCAL TIP: Hilo rains. A lot. Bring an umbrella for the vehicle inspection. The port is an open lot, not a covered garage.
Westbound: Shipping to Mainland
The USDA inspectors in Hilo are aggressive about mud due to the rainy environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
I live in Kona. Can I pick up in Hilo?
Yes, but it is a 2-hour drive via Saddle Road. Ask for a Kona quote if you want to avoid the drive.
Do you ship EVs to Hilo?
No. Due to barge safety regulations, we strictly handle Gas/Diesel vehicles only.
Ship to the Big Island with Confidence.
We handle the barge coordination so you don't have to.
