Kaunakakai

Kaunakakai is Molokai's main town, known for small shops, groceries, food stops, harbor views, Ala Malama Avenue and Kaunakakai Wharf.

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Kaunakakai, Molokai

Kaunakakai, the largest and main town on Molokai – the Hawaiian island without traffic lights and big chain stores – is located on the island's south shore. With a few mom-and-pop stores selling groceries and other supplies, Kaunakakai is the main shopping hub for Molokai residents.

The town is just three blocks in size and most of the stores and eateries are located on Ala Malama Avenue. Many of the buildings are still the original construction, such as the Molokai public library, which was built in 1937. It is the only library on Molokai.

Barges and tugboats deliver all essential items at the nearby Kaunakakai Wharf. In the past, sugar and pineapple plantations dotted this port town where King Kamehameha V used to spend his summers.

Key Features

Molokai's main town and service center
Small shops, markets and food stops sit close together
Ala Malama Avenue is the town's main walkable street
Kaunakakai Harbor and the long wharf are nearby
Gas, groceries and basic errands are easiest to plan here
Kamehameha V Highway runs through the south shore town area
Molokai Airport is a short drive west of town
The town has county offices, churches and local businesses
Harbor activity and wharf access can change with work schedules
South shore views look across the channel toward Lanai
Evenings are quiet, and many businesses close early
Zip code 96748

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kaunakakai on Molokai?

Kaunakakai is on Molokai's south shore along Kamehameha V Highway, east of Molokai Airport.

What is Kaunakakai known for?

Kaunakakai is Molokai's main town, with small shops, markets, restaurants, county offices, harbor access and the long Kaunakakai Wharf.

Can visitors walk around Kaunakakai?

Yes. Ala Malama Avenue and nearby side streets are easy to walk, with food stops, stores and local businesses close together.

Is Kaunakakai a good place to get gas and groceries?

Yes. Kaunakakai is the main place on Molokai for groceries, gas, food stops and many basic visitor needs before longer island drives.

What is near Kaunakakai Harbor?

The harbor area includes Kaunakakai Wharf, south shore water views and working harbor activity. Stay clear of restricted work areas and follow posted signs.