Its 1200 inhabitants make Kaunakakai the largest town on Molokai. Despite the well-known song "The Cock-eyed Mayor of Kaunakakai," the town has not yet got its own mayor. Kaunakakai is an example of ribbon development with one wide main thoroughfare, Ala Malama Street, forming its center and only single-story houses built either side.
Kaunakakai's harbor enjoyed particular importance as a center of trade. The decline in pineapple growing lost it this importance and today it is only a small fishing port.
Nearby are located the remains of King Kamehameha I's summer residence. He was born on Molokai and lived here as Prince Lot before he succeeded to the throne.
Molokai Airport is located not far from Kaunakakai in Hoolehua, an area of detached houses.