Anchorage· Maui· Hawaii
Nuaailua Bay Anchorage (Keanae)
20° 51.9′ N · 156° 9.3′ W · approximate
The Coast Pilot's 'only suitable anchorage for moderate-size vessels' on Maui's whole northeast coast, partly sheltered by Keanae Point below the deep green Keanae Valley.
Practical
Approx: plotted mid-bay between Honomanu Bay and Keanae Point (OpenStreetMap features) from the Coast Pilot description. Coast Pilot: somewhat exposed to the NE trades but partly protected by Keanae Point; a 250 ft vessel can anchor in 13 to 15 fathoms in the middle of the main bay, bottom quite even with good holding. Approach on a due-south course, keeping about 0.3 mile off the west shore and well clear of the 15 ft lone black rock 0.3 mile off the east shore. Windward coast: rain, swell and wind are the norm; usable only in light trades or south winds, never in north swell. No services.
Best for
A rare windward-coast anchorage in light trades
Season
Light trades or kona (south) winds; dangerous in north swell (Oct-Apr)