Top Things to do in Molokai
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The 5 Best Things to do Adventurous in Molokai, Hawaii (HI)
Molokai embraces the true Hawaiian spirit but without the typical Hawaiian fanfare. The pace is slower here, the nightlife and megaresorts are practically nonexistent (no buildings taller than a coconut tree are allowed), you won't even find a traffic light on this small island (38 miles long and 10 miles wide). You will find tranquility and nature - waterfalls, beaches, coves, coral reefs and rainforests, all best explored by foot, horse or boat. Molokai is also known for its fabulous mountain biking.
Restaurants in Molokai
1. Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 206 reviews
This historical park was a former leper colony run by Father Damien in the 1930s.
Reviewed By JoeP808 - Estes Park, United States
Kalaupapa - the leper colony - Fr Damien. Kalaupapa National Historical Park is now run by the National Park Service. It occupies a small 3 mile by 3 mile peninsula on the north shore of Molokai. Access today is only by the small planes operated by a couple local airlines. Note: There used to be access by a guided mule trail down the cliffs, but the trail has been closed for some time due to rock slides. Your flight must be coordinated with a tour guide in Kalaupapa who will get the permits necessary to visit. Otherwise you will not be allowed to leave the airport property. The Historical Park preserves the living community where people were banished to live apart from the rest of the world with leprosy, now called Hansen's disease. The cure for Hansen's disease was found in the 1940, but many of the residents elected to continue to live on their peninsula. Six still live there, aged 78 to 96. Touring the area will take you through the town of Kalaupapa, the original settlement area of Kalawao, and past the original churches still standing. The cemetery holds the tomb of Fr Damien, the priest who came to minister to the patients, and ended up dying of the disease. All the while you are there you can look to the south and see the sea cliffs that cut the peninsula off from the rest of the island, called topside. These sea cliffs are the highest in the world. I can see why being made to live there was referred to as the most beautiful prison in the world. What an interesting glimpse into history.
2. Molokai Mule Ride
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 288 reviews
A two hour mule ride down an 1800 foot cliff to Kalaupapa Peninsula.
Reviewed By Ela1255 - Juneau, United States
Our guide was amazing: KAhi , not sure how to spell it. What lovely man. I wish I gave him a big hug on our exit but I was preoccupied, our flight was getting ready to depart . KAhi I hope you see this: consider yourself hugged. He has so much knowledge, he sang to us twice, what a amazing voice. Once in a chapel, once in the bus. Very special. Kalaupapa is a sacred place, beautiful and powerful. Words cannot describe it. Read the novel Molakai before you go. It is the story of its people.
3. Halawa Valley
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 217 reviews
Situated on the eastern side of Molokai.
Reviewed By TrainsRFun - Boise, United States
Road signs threatened a bad road, but it was fine! So glad we ventured to the end of the road and beautiful setting. Stop at all the wide spots and take in the views along the way. Drive to the very end of the road where there is a much bigger parking area (and picnic tables) than the first place you see where there are only a few spots to park. But do take some time in the old townsite of Halawa where there is an old church with trees now growing in it. great photo ops. The prettiest part of the drive is through the Ironwood forest, near the end of the road.
4. Halawa Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
Reviewed By Stacyreb
Our scheduled cultural hike could not take place because of flash flooding in the valley. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because Greg stayed at the park with those who wanted and enthusiastically shared photos and the history of the valley. We were honored to also meet his father, Anakala Pilipo Solatorio. Because we still had several days on Molokai, Greg kindly allowed us to return and join another group to hike to Mo'oula Falls. The hike was easy to moderate, with a fun river crossing. Greg kept a good pace for a group of about 12-14 people of varying ages and conditioning. He shared his knowledge of the rainforest and pointed out various plants used for food and medicine. He also led us to an ancient heiau (temple). What impressed us most was Greg's passion for sharing himself and his culture. It was truly a highlight of our trip, and we would love to return again to learn and experience more!
5. Molokai Fish & Dive Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 reviews
