Kaumalapau Harbor
Kaumalapau Harbor is Lanai's primary commercial seaport, located on the island's rugged west coast. Once central to the island's pineapple export industry, the harbor is now a scenic and quiet location known for dramatic sea cliffs, vibrant sunsets, and fishing opportunities. While not ideal for swimming, the nearby tide pools attract marine life and adventurous visitors alike.
Jagged high cliffs, wide bluffs, crystal clear waters and miles of pristine coastline – these are the features of Kaumalapau Harbor on Lanai. This harbor is Lanai’s principal commercial seaport. It used to be a busy port during the island’s pineapple-growing period, when pineapple was exported. Today, Kaumalapau is a rather quiet harbor. It is surrounded by dramatic sea cliffs, which rise to heights of 1000 feet (305 m), making it an impressive sunset-viewing location.
The harbor is often wrongly labeled as a beach, but the commercial nature of the area makes most water activities unsafe. It is, however, an excellent place for recreational fishing. Here you can fish from a boat dock or sit on one of the rock walls.
Also worth checking out are the Kaumalapau tidepools to the right of the harbor. Low sea cliffs surround the area and create a nice natural shield. If you’re the adventurous type, take a walk over and see some rare species of small fish and other marine creatures. Be sure to bring a pair of reef shoes, and wash off the sunblock if you have any because the chemicals can damage the ecosystem within the little pools.
Kaumalapau Harbor is approximately 7.5 miles (12 km) west of Lanai City. Access to the harbor is limited on Thursdays due to freight activity and security matters.
Key Features of Kaumalapau Harbor
- Commercial Port: Lanai's main freight harbor, formerly used for pineapple export
- Scenic Landscape: Surrounded by 1,000-foot cliffs and vast ocean views
- Sunset Spot: A favorite destination for dramatic sunset viewing
- Fishing Access: Popular shoreline fishing from rock walls and docks
- Tide Pools: Explore natural pools to the right of the harbor, home to small marine life
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Kaumalapau Harbor?
No, swimming is not advised due to commercial operations and hazardous underwater terrain.
Is fishing allowed at Kaumalapau Harbor?
Yes, fishing is allowed from the rock walls or dock areas. It's a popular local fishing spot.
Is it a good place to watch the sunset?
Yes. The high cliffs and unobstructed views make it one of Lanai's best sunset spots.
How do you get to Kaumalapau Harbor?
The harbor is located about 7.5 miles west of Lanai City via Kaumalapau Highway.
Are there tide pools nearby?
Yes, small tide pools are located just to the right of the harbor. Reef shoes are recommended.