{"id":123528,"date":"2025-04-06T19:54:59","date_gmt":"2025-04-07T05:54:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hawaii.com\/?p=123528"},"modified":"2025-04-11T14:39:23","modified_gmt":"2025-04-12T00:39:23","slug":"things-to-do-in-molokai-the-friendly-isle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hawaii.com\/things-to-do-in-molokai-the-friendly-isle\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to do in Molokai, the Friendly Isle"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"H\u0101lawa

H\u0101lawa Beach Park Molokai (Shutterstock)<\/p><\/div>\n

With a population of just over 7,000 \u2014 more than 60% of whom are Native Hawaiian \u2014 Moloka\u2018i feels more like a close-knit community than an island. Many residents trace their lineage back to ancient times and carry with them a deep kuleana (responsibility) to protect the land, ocean, and culture that sustains them.<\/p>\n

Because of its smaller population and proximity, Moloka\u2018i is considered part of Maui County. But make no mistake \u2014 Moloka\u2018i has a heartbeat and identity all its own.<\/p>\n

Moloka\u2018i\u2019s deep-rooted sense of stewardship is sometimes mistaken for unfriendliness, but locals see it as a necessary act of protection. From turning away large cruise ships to opposing GMOs to limiting tourism, the community consistently prioritizes what they believe is right \u2014 a reflection of their enduring commitment to aloha \u2018\u0101ina.<\/p>\n

Some will say this is unfriendly. But those who know and love Moloka\u2018i will say that this is protecting a very important family member: The island itself. As one local auntie once told me, \u201cWe don\u2019t turn people away. We just ask them to come with respect.\u201d<\/p>\n

No Crowds on this Island<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Flying into Moloka\u2018i is part of the adventure. The only way to get there is via a small propeller plane from Honolulu or Maui. Within minutes of takeoff, the view from your window will leave you speechless. Lush, green hills roll into deep valleys. Patches of vivid red earth stand starkly against the landscape.<\/p>\n

That red dirt? It\u2019s not just eye-catching. It comes from oxidized volcanic minerals and has a reputation for leaving its mark \u2014 literally. If you\u2019re planning to hike or explore off the beaten path, don\u2019t wear your favorite shoes, or you\u2019ll be taking home a rusty red souvenir.<\/p>\n

The first thing you\u2019ll notice when disembarking is how empty and uncrowded the airport is. Eerie or peaceful? You decide.<\/p>\n

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@IslandWanderer: \u201cMoloka\u2018i changed the way I travel. No crowds, no rush \u2014 just nature, culture, and soul. #RealHawaii #MolokaiMagic\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

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\"Molokai

Molokai Sunset (Shutterstock)<\/p><\/div>\n

You’re on Molokai. Relax.<\/h2>\n

Take a deep breath. If you\u2019re in a rush or looking for nightlife, you\u2019re on the wrong island. But if you\u2019re on Moloka\u2018i<\/a> <\/strong>to connect with nature, culture, and quiet moments, you\u2019re exactly where you need to be. This is the Friendly Isle \u2014 and it lives up to its name in its own, unhurried way.<\/p>\n

Getting around takes a bit of planning. With only a couple of rental car agencies, limited taxi options, and no public transportation, reserving a car ahead of time is essential.<\/p>\n

You won\u2019t find a single traffic light here. The fastest posted speed limit is 45 miles per hour. And yes, it\u2019s enforced. On this sparsely populated Hawaiian Island with little crime, the Moloka\u2018i police have plenty of time to clock the speed of rental cars.<\/p>\n

The main town of Kaunakakai is a charming Hawaiian cowboy<\/a> or paniolo<\/em> town. A throwback to the days of a quieter and simpler Hawai\u2019i with businesses like Friendly Market<\/a>, Pascua General Store<\/a>, and Kanemitsu Bakery<\/a>,<\/strong> famous for its piping hot bread sold out their red back door late at night. Baked fresh from the oven, just follow your nose after sundown and you\u2019ll find it.<\/p>\n

Moloka\u2018i\u2019s history is deeply tied to its paniolo (cowboy) heritage. At one time, Moloka\u2018i Ranch wasn\u2019t just the island\u2019s largest employer \u2014 it controlled nearly a third of the island\u2019s land. Today, the ranch sits quiet. Out of operation for years, it remains on the market, and its future remains uncertain. For many locals, it represents both a proud chapter of the island\u2019s past and a pivotal question for the future.<\/p>\n

My First Visit to Moloka\u2018i<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A few years ago, my husband and I went to Moloka\u2018i for the first time. We didn\u2019t know anyone, but everyone we met was friendly and curious about where we \u201ccame from.\u201d<\/p>\n

We didn’t realize just how quiet the evenings would be \u2014 or how little there is to do at night. So when Saturday night rolled around, we decided to go to the local high school graduation. That\u2019s right, we went to Moloka\u2018i High School\u2019s graduation without knowing a soul.<\/p>\n

We bought flower leis and balloons and immersed ourselves in the small-town celebration. We clapped; we cheered; we prayed that every student would grow up to be a successful adult. Then we looked for the student who had the least amount of leis and balloons, gave him our gifts, and congratulated him.<\/p>\n

That was probably the most meaningful thing we’ve done on a weekend getaway. On an island untouched by mass tourism, those are the kinds of experiences that find you \u2014 if you let them.<\/p>\n

Getting to Moloka\u2018i<\/h2>\n

Moloka\u2018i may feel like a world away, but getting there is surprisingly straightforward. Hawaiian Airlines<\/a> offers multiple flights a day from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu<\/a> or Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui.<\/p>\n

Where to Stay on Moloka\u2018i<\/h2>\n

Hotel Molokai<\/strong><\/a>, in the main town of Kaunakakai, is the island\u2019s only hotel. It provides comfortable rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, and a pool, all set against the backdrop of the island\u2019s natural beauty.<\/p>\n

For those seeking a more personalized experience, vacation rentals are an option. Sites like VRBO<\/a> and Airbnb offer everything from cozy cottages to spacious houses. Popular areas to stay in include Kaunakakai, Wavecrest, and the west side near Kepuhi Beach.<\/p>\n

\"Halawa

Halawa Valley and Hipuapua Falls (Shutterstock)<\/p><\/div>\n

Things to do in Molokai<\/h2>\n

Explore Halawa Valley<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Halawa Valley, located on the eastern end of Moloka\u02bbi, is steeped in history and natural splendor. The lush valley is home to the breathtaking Moa\u02bbula and H\u012bpuapua Falls, accessible via guided hikes that not only lead you through tropical flora but also delve into the valley\u2019s rich cultural significance. Engaging a local guide enhances your adventure by providing insights into the valley\u2019s history, legends, and the traditional Hawaiian<\/a> way of life. \u200b<\/p>\n

Relax on P\u0101p\u014dhaku Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n

On Moloka\u02bbi\u2019s west end lies P\u0101p\u014dhaku Beach<\/strong>, one of Hawai\u02bbi\u2019s largest white-sand beaches that stretches for over three miles. Despite its grandeur, it remains uncrowded, offering the perfect backdrop for solitude and reflection. The expansive shoreline is ideal for picnicking, beachcombing, and catching a stunning sunset<\/a> over the Pacific Ocean. \u200b<\/p>\n

Kalaupapa National Historical Park and Towering Sea Cliffs<\/h3>\n

Kalaupapa<\/a> National Historical Park serves as a poignant reminder of a chapter in Hawai\u02bbi’s history where individuals with Hansen’s disease<\/a> (leprosy) were exiled to the remote peninsula. Today, the park stands as a testament to their resilience and the dedication of caregivers like Saint Damien and Saint Marianne Cope.<\/p>\n

Access is restricted to protect the privacy of the few remaining residents, and permits are required. For those who do get the chance to go, the isolated peninsula is stunningly beautiful with brilliant blue water and sheer cliffs that prevent anyone from escaping.<\/p>\n

Travel Tip:<\/strong> Access to Kalaupapa requires a permit, and with tours currently suspended, their future remains uncertain. The only way to visit is by being sponsored by a resident. Kalaupapa Airport<\/a> serves the residents of Kalaupapa Settlement and visitors wishing to tour Kalaupapa National Historic Park.\u00a0 A permit is required before making air reservations.<\/p>\n

Snorkel at Murphy’s Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Murphy\u2019s Beach \u2014 also known as Kumimi Beach \u2014 is a gem on Moloka\u2018i\u2019s east end, beloved for its crystal-clear, calm waters. It\u2019s one of the island\u2019s best snorkeling spots<\/a>, with colorful coral gardens and vibrant marine life just a short swim from shore. Like most beaches on Moloka\u2018i, it\u2019s wonderfully uncrowded. For the best conditions, visit early in the morning when the water is at its most serene.<\/p>\n

Discover the <\/strong>Kamakou Preserve<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Managed by The Nature Conservancy,<\/a> the Kamakou Preserve encompasses over 2,700 acres of rainforest, and is home to numerous rare and endangered plant and bird species. One of the best ways to see it is on the P\u0113p\u0113\u02bb\u014dpae Bog Trail,<\/strong> a boardwalk trail that traverses the unique ecosystem.<\/p>\n

Kamakou Preserve is one of Moloka\u2018i\u2019s most remote and untouched treasures \u2014 but getting there is not for the faint of heart. The road is rugged, there\u2019s no cell service or facilities, and weather conditions can change in an instant. While the preserve is technically open to the public, access is challenging, and private tours aren\u2019t available.<\/p>\n

The Nature Conservancy occasionally offers guided hikes from March to October, depending on weather and staffing. If you’re considering a visit, reach out first by calling (808) 954-6581 or emailing\u202fhike_molokai@tnc.org<\/a> to see what options are available.<\/p>\n

Send a Coconut from Post-A-Nut<\/h3>\n

Did you know you can mail a coconut without putting it in a box? The nut IS the box. At the Hoolehua Post<\/strong> Office<\/strong>, visitors can partake in the quirky tradition of sending a personalized coconut, known as “Post-A-Nut,” to friends or family anywhere in the world. This unique and free service (excluding postage fees which cost $12-$20 per coconut) allows you to decorate a coconut and mail it as a memorable and novel souvenir.<\/p>\n

Fun Fact:<\/strong> The program sends more than 3,000 coconuts a year, including about 700 to foreign countries. Australia and New Zealand have strict regulations, so unfortunately you can\u2019t send one down under.<\/p>\n

Explore Ancient Fishponds<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Moloka\u2018i\u2019s southern coast is home to a several ancient fishponds<\/a> \u2014 sophisticated aquaculture systems that once sustained entire communities. Built with precision and deep ecological knowledge, these stone-walled enclosures are a powerful reminder of how early Hawaiians lived in harmony with the ocean.<\/p>\n

Keawanui Fishpond, operated by the nonprofit Hui o Kuap\u0101, is the largest fully enclosed and functioning fishpond in the Islands. Their mission goes beyond preservation \u2014 they\u2019re working to restore food security in Hawai\u2018i by reviving traditional aquaculture practices. Guided tours may be available so if you’re looking for a unique cultural experience that also gives back to the land, this is it.<\/p>\n

Hike to \u02bbIli\u02bbili\u02bb\u014dpae Heiau<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\u02bbIli\u02bbili\u02bb\u014dpae Heiau is one of the largest and most significant ancient Hawaiian temples on Moloka\u02bbi. Located inland from the eastern shore, it’s protected by the National Park Service<\/a> and contains a massive stone platform believed to have been used for religious ceremonies. Visiting the heiau provides a deep connection to the island’s spiritual past and offers a serene environment for reflection. \u200b<\/p>\n

Attend a Cultural Festival<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Moloka\u02bbi hosts various cultural events throughout the year that celebrate Hawaiian traditions, music, and dance. The annual Ka Hula Piko<\/strong> festival, for instance, honors the birth of hula, which according to legend, originated on Moloka\u02bbi. \u200bTake a look at their calendar to see what’s coming up.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Visit the <\/strong>Moloka\u02bbi Museum and Cultural Center<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n

Tucked away in Kala\u02bbe, the Moloka\u2018i Museum and Cultural Center offers a fascinating look at the island\u2019s rich history \u2014 from its earliest Native Hawaiian settlers to the plantation era that shaped daily life for generations. The museum is housed in the beautifully restored R.W. Meyer Sugar Mill, where visitors can explore original machinery and artifacts that tell the story of Moloka\u2018i\u2019s agricultural roots.<\/p>\n

Experience Local Cuisine at Kaunakakai Restaurants<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Moloka\u2018i\u2019s food scene may be small, but it\u2019s full of heart \u2014 and flavor. Rooted in the island\u2019s agricultural history and multicultural community, local eateries serve everything from traditional Hawaiian favorites to freshly caught seafood and inventive snacks.<\/p>\n

One unforgettable local treat? Hot bread from Kanemitsu Bakery in Kaunakakai.<\/strong> Tucked in a narrow back alley affectionately known as \u201cHot Bread Lane,\u201d this late-night ritual draws both locals and curious visitors. The warm, fluffy loaves are split open and stuffed with fillings like cinnamon sugar, strawberry jam, and gooey cream cheese. It\u2019s sweet, satisfying, and purely Moloka\u2018i.<\/p>\n

Restaurant Recommendations located in the (only) town of Kaunakakai:<\/strong><\/p>\n