Kaunakakai Harbor

Kaunakakai Harbor is Molokai's main commercial harbor and small-boat harbor, with the long Kaunakakai Wharf, barge activity, boat ramp areas, old ferry history and south shore views near town.

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Kaunakakai Harbor, Molokai

Kaunakakai Harbor 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. The former Maui-Molokai ferry, once known as the Molokai Princess, used Kaunakakai Harbor before regular service ended in 2016. Harbor facilities include an office and public restrooms.

A small marked swimming area has existed on the west side of the wharf, but Kaunakakai Harbor is a working harbor and is not a good swimming destination. Boats, rocks, murky water and harbor activity make caution important.

Key Features

Molokai's main commercial harbor on the south shore
Long wharf extends about 1,900 feet into the water
Kaunakakai Wharf is known as the longest wharf in Hawaii
Harbor project was completed in 1934
Working waterfront handles barges, boats, loading areas and harbor equipment
Recreational small-boat facilities include a ramp, docks and berths or moorings
Public restrooms and a harbor office are part of the harbor area
The former Molokai Princess ferry ended service in 2016
Regular Maui-Molokai passenger ferry service does not currently run
Swimming is not recommended because of boats, rocks, murky water and currents

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kaunakakai Harbor located?

Kaunakakai Harbor is at the end of Kaunakakai Place on Molokai's south shore, near Kaunakakai town.

Is Kaunakakai Harbor Molokai's main harbor?

Yes. Kaunakakai Harbor is Molokai's main commercial harbor and also has recreational small-boat facilities.

Does the Maui-Molokai ferry still run?

No. The former Molokai Princess ferry ended service in 2016, so visitors should not plan on regular passenger ferry arrivals here.

What facilities are at Kaunakakai Harbor?

The harbor area has a long wharf, boat ramp, docks, berths or moorings, restrooms, an office and working waterfront areas.

Can visitors swim at Kaunakakai Harbor?

Kaunakakai Harbor is not a good swimming stop. Boats, ramps, rocks, murky water, currents and harbor work can create hazards.