When the surf is up, however, surfers from all over come to catch some waves. However beautiful, swimming at this beach is not advised, as the bottom is shallow and rocky. Molokais offerings are extremely diverse for a small island, and they are also very intimate and personal thanks to the locals authentic, genuine hospitality. It is a national park for a reason! This disease was new to the people of Hawaii and immunity against it was very rare among them. The people here live off the land, and respect their natural surroundings. The 4.3-mile Pali trail (round trip), which drops 1,700 vertical feet, with 26 switchbacks, is a challenging but rewarding hike, but visitors should check local access permit requirements before planning a hike here. Visiting different islands, or "island-hopping" as we call it, is highly recommended because each Hawaiian Island has its own distinct "personality." Its not far from Kaunakakai, and it offers an overview of Molokai and its history. If your intention is to see the real Hawaii, and to connect with real Hawaiians, Molokai will become your favorite island in short order. Its a great place to find yourself during the sunset (it faces west), and once the sun goes down, youll be able to see the lights of Oahu across the way on a clear night. Below, we provide a breakdown of the island and how to explore it. Attractions - What To See On Molokai - Molokai Hawaii Visitor Guide Halawa valley is a historic Hawaiian valley with towering waterfalls. There's no shortage of coconuts on the island, and for a fun, quirky experience, head to the local post office to say Aloha to loved ones with a decorated coconut through Molokai's Post-a-Nut Program. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Although Kalaupapa is a reminder of a tragic episode in Hawaiian history, it is now a reminder of the endurance of the Hawaiian people during these tough times. Travelers can take a cultural hike through the valley, should they be interested in learning the history and seeing the incredible views of the Halawa Valley. The coconuts and the art supplies are both completely free and the only fee is the delivery fee, which ranges from $13-$20, depending on the destination and the size of the coconut. The people here live off the land, and respect their natural surroundings. However, a 2019 landslide destroyed the trail, eliminating foot and mule access for the time being. The number of things to do on Molokai definitely doesnt stop there, as there are kayak tours of the southern coast and stand up paddling tours. April 1, 2022 Looking for things to do in Molokai? After which, youll fly over Molokai Harbor, where youll have an unreal view of the famous Elephant Rock and the entire North Shore Sea Cliffs! more. Molokai is interested in visitors who want to take part in the islands culture, learn about its way of life, and make a lasting impact and connection with its residents. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. You can also find live hula and Hawaiian music at Hotel Molokai each night. But from 1866 to 1969, it was the location that quarantined patients with Hansen's disease (leprosy). Privacy Policy | Terms of Service, Staying Safe in Paradise: 4 Tips for Enjoying Your Hawaii Vacation. While en route to Kaunakakai to finish your shopping, enjoy the views of the Molokai Plumerias orchard, typically in bloom March to October. From the convenience and cost prospective a day trip is the better options but afraid the day trip will only show a small part of the island and we would be missing out on many of the wonderful sights to be seen on Molokai. The bread makes for a good dessert after a nice meal at one of the local restaurants, and you can even bring the leftovers home for breakfast. Be sure to pack water, snacks and wer GOOD hiking shoes/sandals! All rights reserved. First thought to have been Frangipani, a similar flower found in Europe by settlers, the Plumerias stood out with their pigmented color and strong scent. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 Next is Hawaii is powered by Targeting. ), 7 Days in Maui Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2023 Update! The people of Molokai host annual festivals where they share their culture by giving lectures about the Islands history and also singing Hawaiian songs and dancing the ancient dances. Greg Solatorio works on his taro field in Halawa Valley. Enjoy serene views of Maui and Molokai's sister island of Lanai, and stop to spot the bobbing heads of sea turtles. Here, you will find the islands only gas stations and grocery stores, and if you want something on Molokai, this small town is the only place to find it. Maui: The Valley Isle is just a short flight away, and you'd want to extend your Molokai trip to explore Maui's top attractions and best beaches. And it is interesting that the Hawaiians carved the rock slightly so that rain water would run in a..provocative manner! Address: 1342 Mauna Loa Hwy, Kaunakakai, Hawaii. The reserve is spread across the island and makes up a total of 11,690 acres. In the winter, only for experts. The 17+ BEST Things to Do in Molokai, Hawaii - Treksplorer Swimming might not be advisable, due to currents, we are told, but we saw several people taking a swim or surf while staying reasonably close to the beach. Molokai | Visitor Information | Go Hawaii Your email address will not be published. One of the many waterfalls on the island of Molokai, Moaula Falls definitely stands out from the rest! Its where youll find the three-mile long Papohaku Beach, one of the longest white-sand beaches in all of Hawaii. Then, we went on a hike up the valley to a waterfall, where we were free to swim, relax and rest. There are bathrooms near the trail end and you can park at the end of the state highway. This activity takes about half the day and is a great way to destress in the arms of nature. Top Attractions in Kaunakakai Map See all 1. But, there are other options, such as the Molokai Car Rental, which offer lower rates of $35 a day or $175 a week, although these cars tend to reflect the price, with some dings and sometimes without air conditioning. The boardwalk and surrounding area are wet and the weather can change quickly. The hike is a moderate hike and you not only get to experience the beauty of the the island, but hear of the history along the way. Copyright Hawaii.com. Ditch the crowds and see the real Hawaii by experiencing all the best things to do in Molokai. For coastal camping, our recommendations would be Papohaku Beach or Halawa Valley. At the Waakapaemua Canoe Club, located at Kaunakakai Harbor, you are welcome to join the local team early in the mornings for a canoeing experience along the coast on a 40-foot outrigger canoe for a suggested donation of $25. What better place to renew your vows than the beautiful Molokai? Nicknamed "The Friendly Isle" for its welcoming residents and open-armed invitation to visitors, Molokai is a rural land, nestled quietly among crystal waters and endless skies of blue. The tour ends with the making of origami with palm leaves, a lovely souvenir of your time on Molokai. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. Below, we break down the pros and cons, and provide context of each. Thanks! Take a snack bar and water. Address: 2 Puupeelua Ave, Hoolehua, HI 96729. There are four camping areas on Molokai: Papohaku Beach, Halawa Valley Beach Park, One Alii Beach Park, and Palaau Park. From the beginning, you are immersed in local culture as your guide blows a conch shell to let the family know that we care coming. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Molokai - UPDATED 2023 - Tripadvisor Do you know what it takes to crack their shells? Luckily we had a Jeep Cherokee. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Molokai - Tripadvisor Thank you in advance. Its why they are so often used in lei-making, and if youve been to Hawaii before, youve probably worn them in your hair or around your neck. Best Things to Do in Molokai West Maui and Molokai 45-Minute Helicopter Tour We were given a tour of the farm, and then given a bag and allowed to go around and pick plumeria (after being taught which ones were the best to pick) Then, we were given a hands-on tutorial of lei making, and we all left with a beautiful self-made lei. Even though the Friendly Isle sees a fraction of visitors when compared to the larger islands, there are just as many things to do on Molokai as anywhere else in Hawaii. This has to be one of the least populated large beaches that can easily be reached by car. Other volunteer opportunities can be found by contacting the Molokai Tourism Board. Culturally speaking, it sits at the heart of Old Hawaii. These vacation packages include air, car rental, and hotel stay for six to eight days on one or more of the Hawaiian Islands. If you choose to do this hike without a guide, that works, but there are various tour agencies that provide a guide. Halawa Valley Cultural Hike The lush Halawa Valley and Hipuapua Falls The east end of the island, known as Halawa Valley, is believed to be the oldest Hawaiian settlement. This famous bakery was founded in 1935 by two brothers: Shigeo and Fred Kanemitsu. Theres another tour in the valley that will also take you to that private waterfall, and this one is run by the Halawa Valley Flower Farm. Let us know your travel tips in the comments. For more information, contact the Parks tour vendor, Father Damien Tours, for the latest information and options, as it changes quite frequently. A couple of villas are a good distance behind a dike and out of view: climb the dike to see them. The bar and restaurant at the Hotel Molokai is the only waterfront restaurant on the entire island. Plumerias are arguably the most popular flower in Hawaii, offering a beautiful combination of soft colors and a sweet, unmistakable smell. The ferry from Maui has been out of operation since 2016. Hawaii is packed with things to do, and Molokai is no exception. Finally, theres the Kalaupapa National Historical Park where youll overfly what was once a leper colony, isolated from society and locked in by the tallest sea cliffs in the world! . Other activities one can do on these beaches include fishing and surfing. We have reviews of the best places to see in Molokai. More of a mile of gorgeous sand facing the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, with Oahu in the distance. Palm trees on Molokai Island, Hawaii. Its a great, tropical contrast to Papohaku Beach Park, and we recommend spending a morning or afternoon here to take it all in, perhaps before or after one of the above tours. Molokai Travel Guide | Molokai Resorts | Things To Do in Hawaii During the hike, you will get the opportunity to hear stories from men who were born and raised in Molokai and will also get to see various cultural landmarks and countless rock carving designs from ancient times. Remember to keep track of time because you have to go back down the road and it would be much harder in the dark. It is now a place of healing and a symbol of perseverance and strength. When the stars come out and around 9pm, the back alley of the bakery becomes popular. Molokai is home to vertical sea cliffs that rise 3,800 feet from the sea, and the best way to see them is from the deck of a boat on a trip with Walter Naki. This heartwarming story carries on today and so does Father Damiens legacy as they continue to do good for the community. Locally known as Hot Bread Lane, the take out window is accessed via a dimly lit Kaunakakai alley and features gooey loaves of bread that drip in strawberry or cinnamon. It is managed by the National Park Service, and its possible to visit on a tour to learn more about the community and its history. Some of the agencies prices may be a little on the expensive side, but the proceeds go to the preservation of traditional taro farming in Molokai. Hawaii travel, living in Hawaii, and things to do in Hawaii. Along with benefiting your health, you also open your mind to a new understanding of Hawaiian culture. Here, you could get a hat, dress, blouse, or T-shirt painted with a Hawaiian design of your choice. For one, its ridiculously beautiful, a deep, lush valley with streaming waterfalls, agricultural fields, and a unique, twisting-shaped beach park. If you have a kayak it would be a very good place to launch. Tourists can take a guided mule ride from Kualapuu, which descends 1,700 feet along the island's massive sea cliffs to the village of Kalaupapa. I did not have snorkel gear with me but I would think that it would be a good place to snorkel. Outdoor Activities; Shopping; Cultural & Historical; BOOK A TRIP; SHOP; Things to Do - Molokai . On your visit, stay close to the only town of Kaunakakai, where a string of souvenir shops and tour operators span a few blocks. I am hoping for some input, we are vacationing on Maui for 10 day in April & want to go to Molokai. Make sure to wear long pants and covered shoes with traction. Most of the accommodations on the island are centered around Waikiki, and you will find everything from budget hotels to five-star resorts; use our guide to the Top-Rated Resorts on Oahu to choose the best resort for your stay. Accessible by air, hiking trail, or mule, Kalaupapa is a tropical time warp thats laced with history and tragedy, and as fascinating, inspiring, and scenic a spot as anywhere else on the globe. Kaunakakai, Hawaii 96748. All require permits, obtainable at the office in Kaunakakai, which cost only $3 a night. The best time to visit is in the evening, as the beach faces west for an enchanting sunset. Make Sur eyou take the time to check out this place! If visiting the peninsula is not on the agenda, enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific and the soaring sea cliffs from the top of Palaau State Park, and the neighboring Molokai Museum has exhibits on the saints who took up the worthy cause at Kalaupapa. Hawaii Camping; Kauai Camping; Maui Camping; Molokai Camping; Oahu Camping; 38 reviews #14 of 49 things to do in Molokai Waterfalls Visit website Call Write a review What people are saying " Outstanding " Feb 2022 Excellent talk on Hawaiian traditions by Greg and hike led by Gene. The Halawa Valley Cultural Hike is not like any other regular hike. What are the best outdoor activities in Molokai? All rights reserved. 12 Top-Rated Things to Do on Molokai, Hawaii | PlanetWare In the winter months, you may even spot humpback whales cruising along the coast on their annual migration. A half-hour drive from Kaunakakai is the Big Wind Kite Factory in Maunaloa, where you can purchase colorful handmade kites along with imported goods and gift items. Privacy Policy | Sitemap | Hawai'i Land Acknowledgment, Best things to do in Molokai Ierusalema Hou Church in Halawa Valley. Instead of transactional tourism, Molokai strives to create experiences that connect and bond visitors with the local communities and their initiatives. Once at the falls you spend time swimming and enjoying nature at its most pristine. Molokai itself doesn't see many tourists, and when you visit Papohaku beach, you might not see another soul for miles on the inviting white sands. In the following video you can see and hear why cultural practitioner Greg Solatorio, who lives off the land on the island of Molokai following in the footsteps of his ancestors 1,000 years ago, has chosen to perpetuate his culture by sharing it with visitors: If deciding where to stay usually causes you stress, breathe easy choosing your accommodation is easier on Molokai than any other island thanks, simply, to the extremely limited number of options. The shop can advise you about scenic rides on the island as well. However great though, please remember that during the months of October through March, you shouldnt go to the beach as it could be dangerous. The starting price for the trip would be $277 with free cancelation and a refund within 24 hours of the purchase. The package also includes water, soda, headsets to hear the guide, parking fees, fuel sub-charge, and live commentary on board. You can get to Molokai by air only. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Crack a few of those delicious nuts yourself and talk story with Tuddie and Kammy, the owners. Molokai Plumeria 31 Farms By couplessPS A great tree near Molokai shores and scattered throughout the island. Kalaupapa Peninsula, which was once used to imprison individuals with Hansen's disease (leprosy), is now a refuge for the few cured residents who decided to stay. Oahu is home to a major international city; Maui, Kauai, Big Island, and Lanai all have major tourist centers and/or luxury resorts built upon them. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. As the second smallest inhabited island in the state, Molokai is only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide, and its top attraction is the lack of commercial tourist attractions found on other Hawaiian islands. I would definitely recommend Nature's Discovery to everyone. From the convenience and cost prospective a day trip is the better options but afraid the day trip will only show a small part of the island and we would be missing out on many of the wonderful sights to be seen on Molokai. As the second-smallest inhabited Hawaiian island, Molokai has been affected little by the state's rise to a tourist mecca. This beach is gorgeous , its just the perfect place to relax and take it all in , lovely and sandy and only a couple of other people in sight , I can't stress how beautiful this area is , a must to visit. Thank you in advance. Hawaii.com is proud to offer Hawaii vacation packages, most with rates under $1,000. Explore inside the south shore reef on a guided kayak or standup paddle tour, where easterly trade winds blow at your back and help propel you down a coast thats lined with fishponds and mangroves. At the U.S. Post Office located in Ho'olehua, you'll find a dozen or so coconuts lying around, along with some markers. Today, this has become a piece of Molokais identity in a way. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The Kalaupapa Peninsula (more on that below) also has a volunteer program that provides lodging. Its an island escape in the purest sensebut that doesnt mean its the type of place where there isnt anything to do. As youll see when you visit, none have succeeded, and understanding this dynamic is imperative to a mutually-beneficial visit. Its coffee farm recently closed indefinitely (you should still be able to find Molokai coffee for sale, however), but others remain open for visitation. They have condo communities throughout the island with well-appointed grounds and amenities, such as Wavecrest or Kepuhi, although keep in mind that they dont offer the same in-house services as the Hotel Molokai. The best place for dessert on Molokai isnt at a fancy restaurant but rather a small back alley window behind Kanemitsu Bakery. Great for first-time visitors. 15 Magnificent Things to Do in Molokai (+ Travel Tips!) - Next is Hawaii Find what to do today, this weekend, or in June. Well, in 1991, a fun idea emerged on this island by a woman named Margaret Keahi-Leary to create art on coconuts and send them around the world. Call first for appointment 808.553.3391. Leprosy is no longer contagious, and though many of the Kalaupapa residents have left, only 11 residents remain in a small settlement. Be sure to book your rental car ahead of time to ensure availability! Halawa Valley on the islands east end is believed to be Hawaiis oldest settlement thats been continuously inhabited by man. Any and all input appreciated. Whether you seek romance, family fun, adventure or bucket list items, Molokai has it all. The rewarding swim at Kawakiu beach is worth it. Popular things to do Air, Helicopter & Balloon Tours Top Picks Beaches Outdoor Activities Private & Custom Tours Tours & Sightseeing Private and Luxury Shore Excursions Ways to tour Molokai Book these experiences for a close-up look at Molokai. The top attractions to visit in Molokai are: The best outdoor activities in Molokai according to Tripadvisor travelers are: The most popular things to do in Molokai with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are: Note that forum content are individual perspectives of forum posters and not the opinion of Tripadvisor, Things to Do in Molokai, HI - Molokai Attractions, The drive is amazingly beautiful, but is a one, The overlook parking area is where you also park for the, Great facility there for showering, great swimming and a big, Probably the only place in America where you can post a, A great tree near Molokai shores and scattered throughout the, Children would enjoy the mill and they would learn a little.