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- There Are Endless Reasons To Come See Beautiful Molokai, Hawaii
Summary
- Molokai offers a unique and authentic Hawaiian experience with fewer crowds, empty beaches, and a close-knit community of locals.
- Explore the rich history and culture of Molokai through attractions like Kalaupapa National Historical Park and St. Joseph's Church.
- Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in Halawa Valley, visiting beautiful beaches, biking along scenic routes, and kayaking around the island.
Every tourist destination has a least visited place. The place that only a few people ever care about, mostly because of the nearby popular places. One thing to know about the least visited place is that it usually has lots of things to offer. In fact, in some cases, it might be the best-kept secret. This is the case of Molokai - the least visited island in the state of Hawaii. Maui may have sea turtles, and Kauai may have hiking trails. Still, Molokai has both and some things the other popular islands do not have - fewer crowds, empty beaches, and a more intimate Hawaiian experience. With fewer families living on the island, the people know each other and work together to ensure travelers enjoy an unforgettable visit. This makes it the best place for those seeking empty beaches, quiet hiking trails, and the original Hawaiian lifestyle with no chaotic resorts or noisy cruise ships.
To begin an exploration of this island, here are some of the most exciting things to do.
Travelers can also explore Hawaii's smallest towns while they search for the least visited Hawaiian island.
UPDATE: 2023/08/21 21:30 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA
There Are Endless Reasons To Come See Beautiful Molokai, Hawaii
Hawaii has 137 islands, and Molokai seems to be the best destination for tourists seeking an authentic experience, as the island is the least affected by the tourism hub. This list was expanded to include more things to do when visiting Molokai.
14 Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai preserves the poignant history of a former leprosy settlement. Visitors can witness the haunting beauty of the isolated peninsula, learn about patients' lives, and explore historical structures.
Highlights include Father Damien's Church, which honors the priest who cared for patients, and the stunning Kalaupapa Overlook. Access to the park is mainly by guided tours due to its remote location. While there's no fee for park entrance, tour fees contribute to maintaining the area and honoring its significant past.
Visitors don't need to pay a fee to enter the park, but getting a permit is mandatory. Permission is often given when booking a guided tour.
13 Joseph's Church
St. Joseph's Church stands as a historical treasure on Molokai. Dating back to 1876, it's one of the oldest Hawaiian churches in continuous use. Located in Kamalo, its charming architecture and serene surroundings offer a glimpse into the island's spiritual heritage.
Visitors can explore this sacred site, admiring its timeless design and learning about its significance in the local community. St. Joseph's Church provides a serene and reflective stop, allowing travelers to connect with Molokai's history and cultural roots.
- Address: Kamehameha V Hwy Kamalo, HI, 5910 Kamehameha V Hwy, Kaunakakai, HI 96748, United States
12 Molokai Plumeria Farm
Hawaii must be famous for its pineapple farms, but flowers are just as impressive. The Molokai Plumeria Farm invites visitors to experience the enchanting beauty of plumeria flowers on the island. This farm showcases vibrant blooms and offers insights into plumeria cultivation.
The best time to visit is during the blooming season, typically from May to October. Travelers can wander through fragrant groves, learn about the flowers' care, and witness various colors and scents. The Molokai Plumeria Farm provides a sensory journey, perfect for flower enthusiasts and those seeking an aromatic Hawaiian escape.
- Address: 1342 Mauna Loa Hwy, Kaunakakai, HI 96748, United States
11 Molokai Museum and Cultural Center
The Molokai Museum and Cultural Center beckons visitors with its rich heritage and insights into the island's past. Exploring this center is a window into Molokai's history, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and stories that span generations.
Visitors can discover the island's cultural evolution, learn about its people, and gain a deeper appreciation for its traditions. The museum offers a captivating journey through time, from ancient Hawaiian artifacts to historical photographs. A visit to the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center is essential for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the island's unique identity.
Address: 1795 Kalae Hwy, Ho'olehua, HI 96729, United States
10 Go Hiking In Halawa Valley
Hiking Halawa Valley is the first thrilling thing travelers can do in Molokai, not just because of the valley’s lushness but because of the history of this area. Halawa Valley is the location of one of the first settlements in Hawaii, as archaeological findings here date back as early as the 7th century. While hiking the trail, one will be met with sights of a beautiful church from the early 1800s, an impressive waterfall, and a pool where one can enjoy a refreshing swim.
- Length: 3.4 miles round trip
9 Visit Halawa Beach Park
Halawa Beach Park is the place to find the most beautiful beaches on the island. The park features two beaches - Kawili Beach and Lama’alaea Beach. During summer, these beaches are great places to swim and enjoy a relaxing seaside moment. Other activities one can do on these beaches include fishing and surfing.
During winter, the beaches can become dangerous for swimming due to the strong waves.
8 Take A Helicopter Tour
Those who have seen the island from the ground might as well see it from the sky. There’s no better way to do this than taking a helicopter tour. This activity offers a bird’s eye view of the unique landscape of this laid-back island. Most Helicopter tours offer opportunities to see West Maui and Molokai in a single helicopter trip, as the two islands are located close to each other.
- Duration: Approx. 55 minutes
- Price: Starts at $369
7 Visit Papohaku Beach Park
At Papohaku Beach Park, visitors will be presented with one of the longest stretches of white sand shoreline in the state of Hawaii. One would think such uniqueness would draw in so much crowd, but that’s not the case here. Papohaku Beach Park is one of the least visited beaches in the country, which means one will have the entire beach to oneself at any time. Those lucky to visit such a secluded paradise should take the time to enjoy the peacefulness, take a barefooted long stroll on the white sand, swim in the water when the tides are low, and suck in the scenery at sunset. The surf here is also amazing.
- Open 24 hours
6 Explore Kamakou Preserve
Kamakou reserve is home to Kamakou - the highest peak in Molokai and also hundreds of rare Hawaiian plants, which are unique to this place as well as some rare species of birds. Hiking the short boardwalk is the best way to see this pristine and lush area, as one will be presented with melodious songs of birds and beautiful views of the surrounding vegetation.
- More than 200 species of trees
- Spanning 2.774 acres
5 Biking
With miles of paved paths lying empty, biking is a must-do activity in Molokai and a unique way to see the island. One of the best biking routes to take on the island is from Kaunakakai to Halawa Valley, where one will enjoy more than 20 miles of empty road and lots of natural beauty. The ride also leads to some of the island’s beautiful beaches, and bikers can stop to relax on these shorelines before hitting the road again.
- Where to rent a bike: Molokai Bicycle, Malokai E-bike Rental
4 Kayaking
There are many guided Kayak tours offered in Molokai for those seeking to explore the island from the sea. This activity can only be done during summer as the waters are usually too turbulent during winter. One can explore the entire island on a kayak by paddling from one valley to the other, camping, and exploring the numerous attractions on the way. Many Kayak tours on the island include snorkeling as well, so one can explore the reef and marine life in the water. Kayaking in Molokai is best left for experienced kayakers as the waves of the sea can be challenging even during the calmest month.
- Where to rent: Bring me a Kayak, Malokai Outdoor, Molokai Outdoor Activities
3 Post A Nut
Imagine being able to post a well-decorated coconut from a remote island such as Molokai to a friend or family. That’s one of the unique things one can do on this island. This service is offered at the island’s local post office, and visitors only have to pay the delivery fees. The coconut and the art tools are completely free. One can paint the coconuts personally or request a more catchy design which may come at an extra cost. Delivery fees can be anywhere between $13 and $20.
2 Visit The Farmers Market
Visiting the Molokai Farmers market is a must-do while on the island. The market usually runs every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., and the majority of the island's population comes to purchase their fresh produce during this time. Visitors who want to explore the island’s local produce and also witness the vibrant nature of the people should not miss out on this weekend market.
- Every Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm
1 Visit Pala'au State Park
Pala'au State Park is an area endowed with a lush forest and one of the best views in the area. The park offers activities such as camping and hiking, and one of its hiking trails even leads to an overlook that presents an impressive view of the beautiful Pacific Ocean and the Kalaupapa Peninsula.
- Entrance Fee: None