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Port of KAWAIHAE

USKWH🇺🇸USA

Port Location

About Port of KAWAIHAE

Kawaihae Harbor is a significant port on the west coast of the island of Hawaiʻi. It serves as a key transshipment point for goods and supplies, handling bulk cargo and general cargo. The harbor accommodates various vessel types and features pilotage and tug services.

Background
Kawaihae is an unincorporated community on the west side of the island of Hawaiʻi in the U.S. state of Hawaiʻi, 35 miles (56 km) north of Kailua-Kona. Its harbor is one of only three on the island, together with that of Hilo and Honokohau Harbor.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
11ft
Elevation
-9999m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Drydock
Medium
Repair Code
C

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
56160 →
GeoNames ID
5848751 →
Wikidata
Q5958712 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →

Identification

UN/LOCODE
USKWH
Country
🇺🇸USA
Time Zone
UTC-10
Feature Type
HBR (Harbor)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Fair

Region

Area
North Pacific
Sub-area
Hawaii
Latitude
20.0335°
Longitude
-155.8286°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of KAWAIHAE?+
The approach to KAWAIHAE is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Kukuihaele Lighthouse at 16.6 NM to the ENE. Other aids include Keahole Point (22.6 NM SW), Laupahoehoe Point (33.3 NM E), Napo'Opo'O (34.5 NM S), Pauka'A Point (44.8 NM ESE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of KAWAIHAE on?+
The Port of KAWAIHAE is situated on the North Pacific Ocean in US. The area falls within the subtropical climate zone with mild winters and warm summers, which can influence port operations and seasonal shipping patterns.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of KAWAIHAE?+
You can track vessels near KAWAIHAE (USKWH) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for USKWH on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of KAWAIHAE?+
The Port of KAWAIHAE operates in the UTC-10 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.