HONOKOHAU

• Latitude: 19.6697
• Longitude: -156.025
• North Pacific
• Marina in US

Location: Kailua-Kona HI 96740 US

Web-site: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dobor/honokohau/

Marine Port: Honokohau Harbor, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA

Introduction: Honokohau Harbor, situated on the beautiful west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, serves as a central hub for marine activities in Kailua-Kona. It is popular among recreational sailors, commercial fishing operators, diving enterprises, and tourists. The harbor is named after the historic Honokohau settlement, known for its rich cultural significance.

Key Specifications and Features:

• Location:

  • Coordinates: Approximately 19.6768° N, 156.0205° W
  • Proximity: Located near the town of Kailua-Kona and a short drive from the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. It provides easy access to major highways for logistical convenience.

• Harbor Infrastructure:

  • Docking Facilities: Honokohau Harbor has extensive docking facilities that cater to a variety of vessels including recreational boats, commercial fishing vessels, and charter ships.
  • Berthing Capacity: The harbor is equipped with numerous slips for small to medium-sized boats. It also has visitor docks for transient vessels.
  • Depth: The average depth of the harbor ranges between 15 to 25 feet, accommodating a good range of recreational and commercial boats.
  • Loading/Unloading Areas: Equipped with loading docks to facilitate the transfer of goods and equipment to and from vessels.

• Services and Amenities:

  • Fueling: On-site fueling stations provide gasoline and diesel, which is essential for both local and transient boaters.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Availability of repair services including engine repairs, hull maintenance, and other marine services.
  • Waste Disposal: Facilities for waste disposal including oil and bilge water disposal to maintain environmental standards.
  • Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers for the comfort of harbor users.
  • Parking: Ample parking for both long-term and short-term visitors, including spaces for trailers.

• Activities and Attractions:

  • Water Sports: Diving, snorkeling, and fishing charters are readily available, with several operators running tours and excursions.
  • Marine Life: The harbor is a prime departure point for whale watching tours, particularly during migration seasons.
  • Recreation: Canoe paddling and other traditional Hawaiian water sports are popular in the surrounding waters.
  • Culture: Proximity to the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, which offers insights into ancient Hawaiian culture and archaeology.

• Environmental and Safety Protocols:

  • Regulations: The harbor is governed by strict environmental regulations to protect the delicate marine ecosystem surrounding the Big Island.
  • Safety Measures: There are measures in place including emergency response plans and safety equipment to ensure the security of both the marine operators and visitors.

Economic and Social Impact:

• Economic Hub: Honokohau Harbor contributes significantly to the local economy through tourism, fishing, and marine-related activities.
• Community Integration: It serves as a community hub, hosting events, and supporting local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and service providers.

Conclusion: Honokohau Harbor is not only a vital maritime facility on the Big Island of Hawaii but also a vibrant community space that supports a range of economic and recreational activities. Its comprehensive facilities and strategic location make it a key player in Hawaii’s marine and tourism industries.