Kaunakakai Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Kaunakakai, Hawaii government websites.
About Kaunakakai, Hawaii
Government Type
City Council
Kaunakakai is a city in Maui County, Hawaii. Use the official town and county resources on this page to reach the clerk, court, assessment, public records, and Freedom of Information request pages serving residents and researchers.
Residents seeking criminal records, such as arrest records, mugshots, or booking records, should start their inquiries with the local police records unit. For full criminal history checks, requests can be directed to the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center, which is part of the state’s Bureau of Investigation. Archival records and databases may offer online lookup options, Maui County Circuit Court is the judicial body serving Kaunakakai, handling civil, criminal, and family cases. To request court records, individuals can use the Hawaii State Judiciary’s online portal or visit the clerk’s office in person, where staff can assist in navigating the request process. For vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, Maui County Clerk’s Office is the primary source, with applications available online or at designated locations. Property records, essential for real estate inquiries or ownership verification, can be accessed through the county assessor and recorder’s offices, which also maintain online databases for convenience. Residents can file general public records requests under the Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act, which mandates that agencies respond within a typical timeline of 5 to 10 business days. This framework encourages transparency and ensures that the public can access important information in a timely manner, an informed community in this serene Hawaiian town.
Kaunakakai, Hawaii Public Records & Government Resources
Hawaii Courts, Kaunakakai Records
Hawaii State Judiciary court records for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii USA.gov Public Records Guide
USA.gov guide to government public records and information for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii US Bankruptcy Court Case Locator
PACER bankruptcy case locator - find bankruptcy filings from Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Unclaimed Property Search
Search for unclaimed property and money belonging to Kaunakakai residents.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Social Security Death Records
Social Security Administration death records and survivor benefits for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii National Sex Offender Registry
National Sex Offender Public Website - search sex offenders near Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii FBI Most Wanted Criminals
FBI national most wanted criminals - search for Kaunakakai area subjects.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Voter Registration Records
Find voter registration information and public records for Kaunakakai residents.
Kaunakakai Hawaii PACER Federal Court Records
Public Access to Court Electronic Records - search federal court cases for Kaunakakai.
Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Hawaii
Quick search for missing children near Kaunakakai Hawaii.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Archives and Genealogy
Hawaii State Archives genealogy and historical records for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court District of Hawaii for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Inmate Search
Hawaii Department of Public Safety corrections inmate lookup for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Missing Persons
Hawaii Police Department missing persons database for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Sex Offender Registry
Hawaii sex offender public registry for Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Criminal History Records
Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center records for Kaunakakai residents.
Kaunakakai Hawaii Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Kaunakakai.
Molokai Police Station
Obtain police services for Kaunakakai
Molokai Public Library
15 Ala Malama Kaunakakai, HI 96748 (808) 553-1765
Kaunakakai Elementary School
Information about the local grade school
Kaunakakai Census Data
Find social and economic characteristics and demographics for Kaunakakai
Kaunakakai Births, Deaths, Marriages, and Divorces
How to order official certificates and contact links
Kaunakakai Hawaii Sex Offenders Search
Child safety, internet safety and missing children
Kaunakakai Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center
search for an individual's conviction information
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement services for Kaunakakai, Maui County come from the Maui Police Department, which covers Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. The department maintains its headquarters in Wailuku, with additional precincts scattered across communities including Lahaina, Kihei, and Hana.
While individual communities may have their own police presence, coordination across precincts ensures a unified response to major crimes and emergencies, creating a law enforcement network that spans the county's far-flung geography.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Maui Community Correctional Center in Wailuku operates as the primary detention facility serving Maui County. When individuals arrive at the facility, they undergo booking procedures that include fingerprinting, photographing, and documentation of personal information. Residents seeking information on current detainees can use the Hawaii Department of Public Safety's online portal for inmate lookup services. Visitation at the center requires advance scheduling, with specific rules governing how long and how often visits may occur.
Arrest Records
The Maui County Sheriff's Office and the Maui Police Department both maintain arrest records for Maui County. These documents contain details about the circumstances of each arrest, the charges brought against individuals, and identifying information about those taken into custody. Residents and legal representatives may request copies of arrest records by submitting formal applications to the appropriate law enforcement agency, following procedures established under the Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act.
Court Records
The Hawaii State Judiciary operates both district and circuit court locations in Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii to serve Molokai residents. These courts address everything from traffic infractions to serious felony prosecutions, handling civil disputes alongside criminal matters. Those needing access to court records for the area, including case dockets and filed documents, can search the Hawaii Judiciary's online portal or make in-person visits to the local courthouse. The U.S.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Maui County cover felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and sex offender registry information. Residents can request criminal records through the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center, which offers background checks statewide. The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General supports these efforts by providing additional resources and information to ensure accurate and up-to-date criminal records for Maui County residents.
Public Records Access
Property records and land information for Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii fall under the purview of the Maui County Department of Finance's Real Property Tax Division. The county's online GIS portal gives residents access to assessment data, parcel maps, and ownership histories for properties throughout the area. Historical records and land surveys stretching back to the 19th century are preserved at the Maui County Archives in Wailuku. For those tracing the ownership lineage of a particular parcel, the local Bureau of Conveyances office provides access to official deed and title documents.
Vital Records
Vital records for Kaunakakai, such as birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses, are maintained by the Hawaii Department of Health's Vital Records Office in Honolulu. Residents can request copies of these important documents through the state's online portal or by mail. The Kaunakakai Public Library also provides access to historical vital records on microfilm for genealogical research. The Social Security Administration's local office in Kahului can assist Kaunakakai residents with obtaining Social Security cards and accessing death record information.
Business & Licensing Records
The Maui County Department of Planning regulates business operations in Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii. This office handles commercial building permits, business licenses, and zoning approvals for entrepreneurs throughout the area. Those looking to launch a new venture can find guidance on Maui County's website, including permit application forms and contact details for local planning staff. The Kaunakakai Chamber of Commerce offers another valuable resource for business owners, creating networking opportunities and championing the interests of the town's commercial sector.
Economy & Demographics
Kaunakakai's economy is largely driven by its role as the commercial and transportation center of Molokai. The harbor and ferry terminal are major employers, supporting shipping, logistics, and tourism-related businesses. Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of taro and other tropical crops, is another important industry for the town. Molokai Ranch, one of the largest private landowners on the island, also plays a significant economic part through its diversified operations.
While tourism is more muted in Kaunakakai compared to other Hawaiian destinations, the town's unique cultural attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities continue to draw visitors seeking an authentic island experience.
Elections & Voter Records
Voters in Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii receive election services through the Maui County Clerk's Elections Division at 200 South High Street, Suite 106, Wailuku, HI 96793 (phone: 808-270-7749, website: mauicounty.gov/87/Elections-Division). Registration happens through Hawaii's statewide online system at hawaiivotes.org, which requires a Hawaii driver's license or state ID number. Deadlines close 30 days before any election, with online registration ending at 4:30 PM Hawaii Standard Time on that cutoff date.
As an unincorporated community, the town has no municipal government or local elections. Instead, residents participate in county, state, and federal contests. Maui County's Mayor and nine County Council seats are elected countywide, with Molokai residents casting ballots in these races held during even-numbered years. The next county elections arrive in November 2026, when the Mayor's office and all nine council seats appear on the ballot. The Mayor serves a four-year term, while Council members serve two-year terms depending on the seat. One County Council seat is reserved exclusively for a Molokai resident by charter, giving the island dedicated representation. Residents can locate their assigned polling place using the voter registration lookup tool at hawaiivotes.org by entering their name and date of birth. Molokai typically hosts polling locations at community centers and schools, including sites in the town itself. Hawaii operates under a primarily mail-in voting system established by Act 136 (2019). All registered voters automatically receive vote-by-mail ballots approximately 18 days before each election. Voters may return ballots by mail with an Election Day postmark, deposit them at secure drop boxes, or vote in person at voter service centers. Election records available to the public include the statewide voter registration list, purchasable for political purposes under HRS §11-97, campaign spending reports filed with the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission at ags.hawaii.gov/campaign, and precinct-level results published by the Office of Elections at elections.hawaii.gov. In the November 2024 general election, Maui County reported roughly 63% voter turnout, with 67,523 ballots cast out of 107,449 registered voters, reflecting the mail-ballot system's reach. The November 3, 2026 general election will feature Hawaii's gubernatorial race as Governor Josh Green's term expires in 2026, all four U.S. House seats for the state, and potentially a U.S. Senate seat if an incumbent declines to run. State Senate and House of Representatives seats covering Molokai - currently part of State Senate District 6 and House District 13 - will also be contested, along with Maui County offices including Mayor and County Council. Under Hawaii's vote-by-mail system, absentee ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters. Those needing replacement ballots or preferring to vote in person can visit voter service centers beginning ten business days before Election Day through 7:00 PM on Election Day.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online Statewide Portal | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: Yes: Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: Limited: State Office Required | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10, Maui County and Hawaii state systems provide excellent online access to most public records, with court, property, business, and election databases freely searchable, though vital records require state office processing and some historical documents require in-person research.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii?
Public schools in Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii are administered by the local school district. For information about school enrollment, academic performance, and school ratings, residents should contact the Maui County school administration or the Hawaii Department of Education. School district boundaries, student-teacher ratios, and test scores are available through the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
2 What are the crime statistics for Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii?
Crime data for Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii is maintained by local law enforcement agencies. Residents can access crime data through the FBI Crime Data Explorer or by contacting local law enforcement directly.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii Library?
The Kaunakakai Public Library provides access to various public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. Library patrons can access property records, court records, and genealogy resources through the library's reference section. The Maui County library system may offer additional branches and digital resources. Contact the library directly for hours, available databases, and research assistance.
4 Where is the Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii Public Library located?
The Kaunakakai Public Library serves residents of Kaunakakai and the surrounding Maui County area in Hawaii. Contact the library directly or visit the Maui County library system website for the current address, phone number, hours of operation, and available services.
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii?
Fingerprinting services for Kaunakakai, Hawaii residents are available through the local police department and authorized third-party providers in Maui County. Fingerprinting is commonly required for background checks, professional licensing, employment screening, and immigration applications. The Hawaii Department of Justice or state police may also process fingerprint-based background checks.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Kaunakakai, Maui County, Hawaii including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Hawaii Department of Health. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Maui County Clerk's office may also process vital record requests. You will need valid photo identification and proof of eligibility. Processing times and fees vary by office and request method.
7 How do I register to vote in Kaunakakai, Hawaii?
To register to vote in Kaunakakai, Hawaii, residents can register online through the Hawaii Office of Elections's website, by mail, or in person at the Maui County elections office. Hawaii requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Hawaii Office of Elections's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Kaunakakai, contact the Maui County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8 How do I look up property records in Kaunakakai, Hawaii?
Property records for Kaunakakai, Hawaii are maintained by the Real Property Assessment Division's Office and the County Hawaii Bureau of Conveyances. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within County, including parcels in Kaunakakai. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The County Hawaii Bureau of Conveyances maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Hawaii counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the County offices at the county courthouse. The County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Kaunakakai, Hawaii?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Kaunakakai, Hawaii residents are available through both county and state offices. The Hawaii Department of Health, Office of Health Status Monitoring, located in Honolulu, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Hawaii. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
10 How do I find business license records in Kaunakakai, Hawaii?
Business licensing for Kaunakakai, Hawaii operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Kaunakakai town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Kaunakakai limits. County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all Hawaii businesses must register with the Hawaii Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the Hawaii Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant Hawaii licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Kaunakakai, contact the Kaunakakai clerk's office and the County economic development office.