There are few U.S. states that generate as much of a buzz and desire as Hawaii. Within Hawaii, alone, there are 137 islands that include uninhabited pieces of land, island 'chains,' and even coves. Therefore, it's a destination that goes far beyond visiting the state's capital and calling it a day. Even more, there's the fact that Hawaii is comprised of six major islands: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the island of Hawaii. One of these, however, is the main focus right now: the island of Molokai.
For those who aren't familiar with it, this rocky, cliff-shaped island is somewhat of an enigma. While many are all too familiar with the crowds that go to Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, Molokai is a bit more rugged, a bit more remote, and certainly the most off-the-beaten-bath (with the exception of Lanai).
Molokai's Unusual History
The island of Molokai didn't always have a bright history which, alone, makes it very unlike the rest of Hawaii's major islands. Whereas Lanai was once a pineapple plantation and was known solely for its agriculture, the island of Molokai was used for a very different purpose. Back in the 19th century, it was home to Kalaupapa, a leper colony. During this time, it's estimated that thousands of people were sent to facilities on the island and were considered untreatable. While their families were permitted to visit, quarantining was in effect and it was, overall, a very sad and downtrodden place. Sadly, those sent to the island were not permitted to leave and often spent their days at Kalaupapa with little to no outside connections. While Kalaupapa was not the only leper colony in the U.S., it was the largest with an estimated 8,000 patients, according to History.com.
By 2015, only six original patients remained despite Molokai having become a tourist destination long before that. Today, the island exists as a beautiful example of authentic Hawaiian culture with an emphasis on living off the lush land that covers it. Visitors can learn about its history, and life on Molokai, very easily during their trip, and it's well worth it.
What Makes Molokai So Unique
As far as its ecological landscape, the island of Molokai is an incredible part of Hawaii's unique nature. It's home to the tallest sea cliffs in the world and, below the surface of the ocean, it's home to the longest continuous fringe reef. This makes it an integral part of the Pacific Ocean but also to the world, in general, and its conservation is something that is highly regarded in Molokai.
The island is also home to much traditional Hawaiian ancestry, with traditions that its residents still hold proudly to this day. Those who are eager to learn more about what life is like on a rural, tropical island such as this will be happy to find it in Molokai. Still not convinced? This island is also home to the largest white-sand beach in Hawaii, Papohaku. And once visitors are done sunbathing on the beach, they can take a guided tour of Kalaupapa National Historic Park for some dizzying views of the island's oceanside cliffs.
Secluded Beaches & Nature Walks
From the air, the island of Molokai looks like something out of Jurassic Park. Its rugged and jagged green cliffs look entirely unusual when compared to the rest of the country - or even, the rest of Hawaii. However, this is also what makes it such an incredible bucket list destination to check off. These jagged cliffs are home to some of the most secluded beaches in Hawaii so if remote beauty is what one is seeking, they'll probably find it on Molokai. As one might imagine, this also lends itself well to those planning a romantic vacation such as a honeymoon!
Molokai's unique ecosystem is also worth exploring. While it's not dramatic and volcanic a scene as one might find at Volcanoes National Park, it is quite breathtaking and green in its elevation. Visitors are a stone's throw from a guided nature tour at any one time, and the truly adventurous tourists might find themselves tracking down a hike or two.
Food On Molokai
As one might imagine, an island that's so heavily devoted to its ancestral roots and agriculture, as well as seafaring for fresh food, has a divine cuisine.
No trip is complete without visiting one of Molokai's many local restaurants, which are undoubtedly sporting the local cuisine in the best and freshest way possible. Depending on what's in season, visitors will likely be in for a truly euphoric foodie experience.