Lanai Town Guide

Kaumalapau

Kaumalapau is Lanai's west coast harbor, shaped by pineapple-era shipping, cargo barge service, breakwater views and its role as the island's main commercial port.

Plan Your Visit

Located on the west side of Lanai is the coastal village and harbor of Kaumalapau. The harbor was built by James Dole, the founder of the Hawaiian Pineapple Company. He purchased the entire island for $1,100,000 because he planned to turn Lanai into the world's largest pineapple plantation (which he later accomplished).

He knew he had to build a harbor to ship the crops by barge to the cannery in Honolulu. In 1926, Kaumalapau Harbor was completed and included a 400-foot-long (122 m) concrete wharf and a large harbor basin with a minimum depth of 30 feet (9 m).

At the peak of its operation, Kaumalapau Harbor was a model town. All the social necessities and machineries needed for efficient pineapple production were available. Lanai's pineapple industry ended in 1980 because the fruits could be produced cheaper in other parts of the world.

Kaumalapau Harbor can be reached via Highway 440, 3.5 miles (5.6 km) west of the airport. At present, the harbor is used by cargo boats to bring supplies to Lanai and is closed to visitors on barge days, which are Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Key Features

Lanai's main commercial harbor on the west coast
Located at the end of Kaumalapau Highway / Highway 440
Harbor was completed in 1926 during the pineapple plantation era
James Dole developed the harbor for pineapple shipping
Original harbor work included a 400-foot concrete wharf
Cargo barge service still makes Kaumalapau important to Lanai
Breakwater and harbor views are part of the west coast setting
The harbor may be closed to visitors during active barge operations
Kaumalapau is a working port, not a beach town
Zip code is 96763

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kaumalapau on Lanai?

Kaumalapau is on the west coast of Lanai at the end of Kaumalapau Highway / Highway 440.

What is Kaumalapau known for?

Kaumalapau is known as Lanai's main commercial harbor, with pineapple-era shipping history and cargo barge service.

When was Kaumalapau Harbor completed?

Kaumalapau Harbor was completed in 1926 as part of Lanai's pineapple plantation shipping system.

Can visitors go to Kaumalapau Harbor?

Visitor access can be limited by cargo operations, port rules and barge schedules. Stay out of restricted areas and obey posted signs.

Is Kaumalapau a beach destination?

No. Kaumalapau is a working harbor and historic port area, not a swimming beach.