Molokai

Catch a Glimpse of Majestic Molokaiv

Hawaii’s Molokai is also dubbed as The Friendly Isle. If a traveler is on a search of some serene beauty, minimalism, and unspoiled beaches, Molokai is one ideal island. One will not be able to see lofty buildings, traffic lights, or even night clubs in this peaceful land.

Molokai is a tranquil destination with only a population of roughly 8,000 locals who embody the Hawaiian spirit. The calmness of this island does not mean that tourists would not be able to have fun while they are here. In fact, there are numerous attractions that would fascinate any guest.

Similar to other Hawaiian Islands, beaches are hot tourists spots in Molokai. There are several secluded beaches found here like the Papohaku Beach, which is actually the biggest white sand beach in the whole state. Another private beach in the area is the Kawakiu Beach on the northwestern part of the island. For avid campers, the One Alii Beach Park and Papohaku Beach Park offer tent camping and they also have onsite restrooms as well as shower facilities. For people who favor calm waters and unperturbed swimming, the Sandy Beach and Murphy Beach are perfect for those looking for relaxation.

The Molokai Ranch is another great attraction in the island. This used to be a prosperous cattle business and it operated for over a hundred years. It is so huge that it actually covers around one third of the whole island with its outstanding 53,000 acres. The Hawaiian cowboys called Paniolos still ride the horses here and they work in the manner of their ancestors. Tourists could drop by the Molokai Ranch Zoo found here and it houses a unique group of exotic animals. Guests could also experience the Paniolo Roundup, wherein the cowboys impart their knowledge. More adventurous travelers could even accompany the paniolos on horseback along the Great Molokai Ranch Trail.

Coffee lovers out there would also love this island. This tiny isle houses the Coffees of Hawaii, which is a 500-acre coffee plantation that produces the finest coffee in Hawaii. The Plantation Gift Shop plus the Molokai Coffee Plantation Espresso Bar and Café are major crowd-drawers. The Coffees of Hawaii provides three tours to their guests, which are the Mule-Drawn Wagon Tour, the Morning Espresso Tour, as well as the Afternoon Hiking Adventures.

The Father Damien Church is a famous tourist attraction in Molokai. Saint Joseph’s Church is another name for this site. Father Damien, who is now acknowledged as Blessed Damien de Veuster, is Honolulu’s patron saint. Father Damien was a Catholic missionary who served the locals of Molokai, especially those who were afflicted with leprosy. In the olden times, lepers were ordered by the government to be quarantined on Molokai. Because of Father Damien’s good heart, he helped the people who had the disease and in the process, he was also contracted with the dreaded leprosy. For people who are interested in religion, be sure not to miss this serene place.

Molokai is tailor-made for those tourists who are after a simple, peaceful and breathtaking island to discover. Its deserted, dazzling beaches and relaxing ambience would surely ease any traveler’s mind. The untamed yet beautiful island of Molokai is the most wonderful place to unwind, relive simplicity and absorb the soothing essence of nature.

Moloka‘i Attractions
More Attractions Guides:
O‘ahu | Maui | Hawai‘i (Big Island) | Kaua‘i | Moloka‘i | Lana‘i | Main Attractions Guide

This Hawaiian refuge is abundant with natural and cultural attractions, white-sand beaches and adventure … and has no traffic lights! No matter where you go on the Friendly Isle, you’ll never encounter a crowd.

Most attractions require an entrance fee, but some do not. If you’d like to keep costs down but still have plenty of fun, also see Free Things To Do in Moloka‘i.

• Culture & History • Parks & Nature • Recreation

• Shopping & Food

Culture & History

COFFEES OF HAWAII MULE-DRAWN PLANTATION TOUR
Wagon-ride tours of a working coffee plantation available 6 days a week. Call for reservations and availability.
Where: Kualapu’u
Info: (808) 567-9023

R.W. MEYER SUGAR MILL
This restored sugar mill has historical exhibits and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For guided tours, contact the Moloka‘i Museum & Cultural Center, (808) 567-6436.
Where: Off Kalae Highway, Kalae
Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Friday-Saturday
Cost: Adult, $2.50; children, $1

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Parks & Nature

KALAUPAPA
Designated a National Historical Park, this isolated community is accessible by mule train, foot or air.
Where: On the Kalaupapa Peninsula, north coast
Info: Tours - Moloka‘i Mule Ride, 800-567-7550, or Damien Tours, 808-567-6171

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Recreation

Moloka‘i RANCH
Offering various activities, including horseback riding, cattle drives and rodeo roundup, camping, mountain biking, kayaking, snorkeling and more.
Where: Maunaloa
Hours: Activity desk, 6 a.m.-7 p.m., daily
Cost: Vary according to activity
Info: (808) 552-2741