Kaunakakai Harbor
Kaunakakai Harbor is the main port on Molokai, located on the island's south shore. Featuring Hawaii's longest wharf at 1,900 feet, it serves both commercial and recreational boats. Visitors arriving by ferry from Maui dock here. The harbor also includes restrooms, a boat ramp, and limited swimming access, offering scenic views of Pier Island and surrounding waters.
Kaunakakai Harbor, Molokai
Kaunakakai Harbor (view panorama) × is located on Molokai's south shore, next to Pier Island at the end of a wharf that extends seaward about 1,900 feet (580 m). It is a commercial and recreational harbor, with 29 boat slips and mooring spaces, two docks and a boat launching ramp. Kaunakakai Wharf is the longest wharf in the state of Hawaii.
The harbor was dredged by the Corps of Engineers in the 1930s. It was completed in 1934 and cost $105,000. Visitors who take the ferry (named Molokai Princess) from Maui to Molokai arrive here at Kaunakakai Harbor. Harbor facilities include an office and public restrooms.
There is a small marked swimming area on the right (west) side of the wharf, but it is not used much. You'll have to climb down some boulders to get to it.
Key Features of Kaunakakai Harbor
- Main harbor on Molokai: Supports commercial vessels, ferries, and local recreational boating.
- Longest wharf in Hawaii: The 1,900-foot-long wharf extends into the calm southern waters of the island.
- Ferry arrival point: Ferries such as the Molokai Princess arrive here from Maui.
- Historic dredging: Harbor dredged and completed by the Army Corps of Engineers in 1934.
- Scenic and functional: Offers limited swimming, boat launching, and panoramic ocean views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kaunakakai Harbor used for passenger ferries?
Yes, it's the docking point for ferries like the Molokai Princess that travel between Molokai and Maui.
How long is the Kaunakakai Wharf?
The wharf extends approximately 1,900 feet from shore, making it the longest in the state of Hawaii.
Can I swim near the harbor?
There's a marked swimming area west of the wharf, though it's not frequently used and access requires climbing over boulders.
Are there boat launch facilities?
Yes, the harbor includes a boat launching ramp and mooring areas for commercial and recreational boats.
Where is Kaunakakai Harbor located?
It's located on Kaunakakai Place, on Molokai's south shore near the town of Kaunakakai.