MOLOKAI

With almost half of its population being of native Hawaiian ancestry, Molokai is an island that has preserved its connection to the past and its love for the outdoors.
Step back to a simpler time in the sleepy town of Kaunakakaki.
View the verdant flora in Halawa Valley.
Learn about the works of Father Damien at Kalaupapa Settlement.

KAUNAKAKAI, MOLOKAI

In the sleepy, central town of Kaunakakai, horse posts and a view of Molokai's plains take you back to a simpler time.

The town's main strip, Ala Malama Avenue, was named after the nearby house used by Kamehameha V in the 1860s. You'll find it easy to peruse the fine gift shops and boutiques of its three-block business district without crowds of tourists. At Kanemitsu's Bakery, be sure to have a piping-hot loaf of their famous onion-and-cheese bread, a Molokai-must.

Stroll a half mile down to the wharf. Even at high noon the road is clear of cars. Another half mile and you're at the end of the state's longest pier, extending well past the reef - just you, the local fisherman and the sound of tour boats slowly jetting out of the harbor.

Back in town, take a ukulele lesson poolside at the Hotel Molokai, a Kaunakakai landmark. Go ahead and stay the night. This inviting small town is big enough for hours of exploration and there's plenty of room for locals and visitors alike.
QUICK FACTS
Name:

Kaunakakai
What is it:

Molokai's central town
What to do:

Stroll, shop, eat, and relax in Molokai's historic small town
What to bring:

Camera
Directions:

From the airport take Maunaloa Highway (HI-460) southeast about 15 minutes to the coast
Admission:

Free

HALAWA VALLEY, MOLOKAI

Hike into this classic Hawaiian "cathedral valley" to discover beautiful vistas, rich flora, and rare Hawaiian plants and animals. It is believed ancient Polynesians settled in lush Halawa Valley as early as 650 AD. With so many hidden heiau (places of worship) it's easy to see why this is one of the island's most sacred areas.

At the end of the trail is the impressive, double-tiered 250-foot Mooula Falls, a perfect place to rest and have lunch. The hike in is fairly difficult, and the only way to explore the area is with a guide, as the trail crosses private property. On Molokai, Halawa Valley's ancient secrets await new generations to discover.


KALAUPAPA NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK, MOLOKAI

It's quiet as you ride on your mule along the 2.9-mile trail to Kalaupapa. Perhaps it's because you're riding along the highest sea cliffs in the world (recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records) as an endless, blue seascape paints the horizon. Riding along Kalaupapa peninsula is enough to make anyone speechless.

Three miles, 26 switchbacks, and 90 minutes of magnificent north central Molokai views later and you're back to sea level in the town of Kalaupapa. It's scenic here, but the story of Kalaupapa National Historic Park, established in 1980, is even more compelling.

This special community was once home to Belgian missionary Father Damien. Beginning in 1873, this selfless priest treated and gave hope to Hansen disease victims who were exiled to this isolated location. Today, you can visit Father Damien's grave here at historic St. Philomena Roman Catholic Church. A statue in Father Damien's honor also stands in front of the State Capitol on Oahu.

This peaceful national park is a place of preservation and education and is only accessible by tour.
QUICK FACTS
Name:

Kalaupapa National Historic Park
What is it:

Scenic ride to the historic Kalaupapa peninsula
What to do:

Memorable mule ride, learn about Molokai history, take panoramic photos
What to bring:

Shoes, jeans for mule ride, jacket or windbreaker, sunscreen, camera, water
Directions:

Can be accessed by mule ride, tour, or airplane. Kalaupapa cannot be reached by car.