Top Marinas in Hawaii You Must Visit on Your Trip

When people think of Hawaii, they mostly imagine beaches and sunsets. But if you own a boat or dream of life on the water, there is a whole other side waiting to be experienced.  

The islands are home to some of the most practical, scenic, and well-equipped marinas in Hawaii, each offering more than just a place to dock. Whether you are a professional boater, a liveaboard enthusiast, or someone browsing a marine property listing service, the right marina can change your entire trip or even your lifestyle.  

Some are perfect for weekend stays, others for those looking into liveaboard marinas in Hawaii, and a few offers hidden gems through berth space rental listing platforms.  

So which ones are worth your time? Which offers the best mix of location, amenities, and atmosphere? Stay tuned, at Marina Match- a leading platform to list your marina for rent/sale, we will highlight the top and best marinas in Hawaii, that you consider for your next trip.  

What Are The Different Types of Marinas In Hawaii?

Hawaii has a variety of marinas that cater to different boating needs and lifestyles.  

• Public marinas offer general access for recreational boaters, providing amenities such as boat slips for rent, fuel docks, and maintenance facilities.
• Private marinas are usually part of residential or resort communities, featuring exclusive access, improved security, and upscale services, including options for yacht dock for rent.
• Commercial marinas cater to charter operators, fishing boats, and tour vessels, with facilities designed for larger groups and transient visitors.
• Dry storage marinas provide secure on-land storage and launching services for boats, appealing to those looking for long-term boat protection or a dock for sale.
• Club marinas are associated with yacht or sailing clubs and offer social amenities, organized events, and dedicated berths for members.

List of The Top 10 Marinas in Hawaii

Looking for the best marina in Hawaii that fits your boating lifestyle?  

Whether you are planning a short stay or eyeing Hawaii marina vacations, here is the complete list of the ten top marinas in Hawaii: - 

1. Ala Wai Harbor  

2. Ko Olina Marina  

3. Honokohau Harbor  

4. Haleiwa Harbor 

5. Maalaea Harbor 

6. Hilo Harbor  

7. Kewalo Basin Harbor  

8. Lahaina Harbor 

9. Hawaii Kai Marina 

10. Keehi Lagoon 

Let's discuss in detail what these best 10 marinas in Hawaii offer to all the boaters and marina owners: - 

1. Ala Wai Harbor

Located in Honolulu, this is one of the largest and most popular marinas in Hawaii, offering direct access to Waikiki and plenty of nearby amenities. 

2. Ko Olina Marina 

A luxury option with top-tier facilities, it is ideal for those looking for upscale services and a quiet escape from the city buzz. 

3. Honokohau Harbor

Perfect for those who love deep-sea fishing and adventure. A great choice for storing boats in Hawaii. 

4. Haleiwa Harbor

A North Shore favorite known for surfing vibes and local character. Great if you want to soak up authentic island culture. 

5. Maalaea Harbor 

Centrally located in Maui, it is a smart pick for island hoppers and those looking for reliable Hawaii boat slips. 

6. Hilo Harbor 

Ideal for more relaxed boaters who prefer calm waters and quieter surroundings. 

7. Kewalo Basin Harbor 

Close to downtown Honolulu, it is popular among both recreational and commercial boaters. 

8. Lahaina Harbor 

A favorite during whale-watching season and great for quick ocean access. 

9. Hawaii Kai Marina 

A private Hawaii Kai Marina community option, perfect for families or long stays. 

10. Keehi Lagoon 

One of the most practical liveaboard marinas in Hawaii, offering affordable, extended stays. 

Each of these marinas in Hawaii offer a unique experience, so choose the one that fits your trip style best. 

Why You Should Visit a Marina in Hawaii?

Visiting a marina in Hawaii provides a unique combination of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking natural beauty.

• You can enjoy a wide variety of water activities, including parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, and wakeboarding, particularly at popular spots like Koko Marina in Oahu.
• Experience the vibrant marina lifestyle with easy access to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions nearby, such as the Ala Moana Shopping Center and Waikiki Beach.
• Discover excellent opportunities for fishing and whale watching tours from marinas like Maalaea Harbor and Ala Wai Yacht Harbor.
• If you are a boat owner, take advantage of available mooring for sale and berth for sale options. Find convenient dock space for rent to enjoy easy access to the ocean and island adventures.
• Explore nearby natural wonders, including Hanauma Bay for snorkeling and Kailua Beach, both just minutes away from many marinas.
• Find convenient dock space for rent to enjoy easy access to the ocean and island adventures.
• Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture through events such as luaus and visits to the Polynesian Cultural Center, often easily accessible from marina locations.

How to Choose The Best Marina in Hawaii For Your Next Trip?

Selecting the right marina improves your Hawaiian boating experience with comfort and convenience.

• Consider marinas offering a private dock for exclusive access and security.
• Look for full-service facilities that cater to your boating needs, including fuel docks and maintenance.
• Explore options if you want to list your marina for rent or find rental opportunities.
• Check availability of marina berth property for sale if interested in a permanent spot.
• Proximity to amenities and local attractions enriches your stay.
• For investment or lifestyle, seek waterfront property for sale near marinas for scenic views and easy access.

Choose The Top Marinas in Hawaii With Marina Match  

Choosing the right marina in Hawaii will add convenience, comfort, and real value to your boating experience, whether you are managing a dock or sailing in for a stay.  

With Marina Match, it is now easier to connect with the right people. Dock, berth, and marina owners can list your marina for rent, rent your jetty to boat owners, or even list your jetty online to reach a wider audience.  

Boaters looking for dependable options can also list your yacht dock for shared access or browse the ideal yacht parking space for rent across Hawaii’s prime locations.

Everything you need is in one place ready when you are.

‘’Opportunity does not always knock out. Sometimes, it anchors’’.

Search and list today on Marina Match to connect faster with a growing marine community. 

FAQs on Top Marinas in Hawaii

Q: What is the largest marina in Hawaii?

A: Ala Wai Harbor in Honolulu is the largest marina in Hawaii, featuring 699 berths and accommodating vessels up to 85 feet. It is a hub for sailing events and home to prominent yacht clubs, located between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. 

Q: Where can I live on a boat in Hawaii?

A: Living aboard a boat in Hawaii is restricted; however, some marinas like Ala Wai Marina allow stays up to 90-120 days with permits. Private marinas or yacht clubs may offer liveaboard options, but costs and regulations are strict. 

Q: Can you sleep on your boat in Hawaii?

A: Sleeping on your boat is possible in designated marinas with proper permits and fees. Regulations limit liveaboard durations, and safety measures like watchkeeping are advised, especially during overnight stays on open water. 

Q: Can you legally sleep on the beach in Hawaii?

A: Sleeping on the beach is generally prohibited unless in designated camping areas with permits. State parks require camping only in specific sites, and overnight stays on beaches without permits are illegal.  

Q: What is the most budget friendly island in Hawaii?

A: Oahu is the most budget-friendly Hawaiian island to visit, offering affordable lodging, extensive public transportation, and numerous free or low-cost activities without sacrificing the authentic island experience.