Kaumalapau, Lanai
Kaumalapau is a small harbor village on the west coast of Lanai, known historically for its deep connection to the island's pineapple industry. Built by James Dole in the 1920s, the harbor was once a bustling shipping hub during the height of Lanai's pineapple exports. Today, it serves as Lanai's main cargo port, bringing essential supplies to the island. While closed to visitors on barge days, the area offers a glimpse into the island's agricultural and maritime past.
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 of Kaumalapau
- Historic harbor: Built by James Dole in 1926 to export pineapples to Honolulu
- Cargo entry point: Still used today for shipping supplies to Lanai
- Closed on barge days: Harbor access restricted on Wednesdays through Fridays
- Access: Reachable via Highway 440, 3.5 miles west of Lanai Airport
- Legacy: Symbol of Lanai's agricultural and commercial transformation in the early 20th century
- Zip code: 96763
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kaumalapau known for?
Kaumalapau is known for its historic harbor built by James Dole in 1926 to export pineapples. It now serves as Lanai's main cargo port.
Can visitors access the harbor?
The harbor is closed to visitors on barge days - Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays - due to cargo operations.
How do I get to Kaumalapau?
You can reach Kaumalapau by driving west on Highway 440 from Lanai Airport, about 3.5 miles away.
Is Kaumalapau still involved in pineapple production?
No, Lanai's pineapple industry ended in 1980. The harbor now serves only for cargo shipping, not agricultural exports.