The interaction of inertial and kinematic demands is investigated using data from five physical models of pile-supported wharves using a large-scale geotechnical centrifuge. The wharf structures in this study were subjected to a suite of recorded ground motions, therefore associated superstructure inertia, and earthquake-induced slope deformations of varying magnitudes. The observations from these tests were used to provide insights on how to estimate large bending moments that developed at pile head and at depths significantly below a commonly assumed point of fixity that are associated with deep-seated ground deformations. Design recommendations are proposed on how to combine inertial and kinematic demands in a manner that is representative of the global structure.