Visit Molokai

Guide to vacations in Molokai





Seeking a Hawaii vacation in a peaceful and tranquil 'hideaway'? Head to Molokai, the most Hawaiian of all islands, offering the ultimate for full, perfect relaxation! Those who are bustling and active will probably prefer such islands as Oahu or Kauai where life is more than moving, but those who want to be isolated, they will surely find heaven in Molokai. Long known as the 'Friendly Isle,' Molokai is home to breathtaking natural beauty, lush green rainforests, powerful waterfalls, gigantic sea cliffs, the tallest of the world, rising 3,000 feet above sea level and pristine secluded beaches, one of which is the longest white sand beach of Hawaii. Molokai is an island where no building is taller than a palm tree and where 'aloha' is not just a word but a way of life!

Located in the heart of Hawaiian archipelago, 25 miles southwest of Oahu, Molokai has a land area of 261 square miles, housing more than 8,000 inhabitants. It is the fifth largest of the Hawaiian Islands, the age of which, as measured by a comparison of its structural lava flows, hovers between 1.3 and 1.8 million years. On the eastern end of the island the highest peak of Kamakou sits, at 4,970 feet. The island also boasts 88 miles of coastline surrounded by spectacular beaches and placid coral reef lagoons.

Molokai is separated into 3 regions: Central Molokai, the West End and the East End. Central Molokai highlights include Kaunakaki , Molokai's main town and the chief port, where the tallest point is the church steeple, featuring historic landmarks and unique shopping experiences, Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove, offering Molokai's most remarkable natural landmarks with hundreds of palm trees. Be careful while in Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove as the falling coconuts may hurt you but if you still want to admire this spectacular spot, head to the neighboring Kiowea Beach Park. The West End is home to some of the state's largest and least visited beaches, such as Halawa Beach, featuring the best snorkeling adventures and Kepuhi Beach offering good surfing; the Kaiwi Channel, where the annual Molokai Hoe canoe competition is held and the small plantation village of Maunaloa boasting unique shopping opportunities and nearby accommodations.

What you will find in Molokai's East End are natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Famous highlights include St. Joseph's Church that Saint Damien built in the 19th century, and Kaluaaha Church, the first Christian Church of Molokai. Halawa Valley is another not-to-be-missed highlight blessed with stunning vistas and spectacular towering waterfalls, offering endless adventures in Kumimi Beach, Halawa Beach Park and Halawa Bay. The climate in Molokai is warm throughout the year with little variance between summer and winter. West Molokai is mountainous and dry whi le the eastern part is hilly with cool rainforests. The wettest months are between November and March, thought most rainfalls are simply brief showers.

Though Molokai is a wild, off-the-beaten-path island, it offers a wide selection of land and water adventures, including boating, hiking, mountain biking, sailing and surfing. You can take a mule ride to Kalaupapa or sunbathe in one of the most famous beaches, while spinner dolphins and sea turtles play just offshore.

Discover hidden attractions, indulge in a plethora of activities, embrace the true essence of nature and make friends with the unusual locales that most tourists miss!