Molokaʻi Hawaiʻi
Aerial view of the verdant Hālawa Valley
Molokaʻi’s famous sea cliffs rise above the North Shore
Postcard views from the Kalaupapa Lookout at Pālā‘au State Park
A rainbow stretches over Pāpōhaku Beach Park
Shops and restaurants in Kaunakakai, Molokaiʻi’s largest town
The village of Maunaloa, located on the island’s quiet West End
Sunset over Aliʻi Fishpond, which can only be accessed by guided tour
Peaceful escapes, scenic wonders and a journey through time in Molokaʻi
Scenic Trails and Lookouts
From lush valleys to striking coastlines, Molokaʻi is packed with unforgettable sights. Hālawa Valley, one of Hawaiʻi’s earliest settlements, reveals the island’s past with its ancient religious sites and native wildlife. A guided tour can help bring history to life through stories that have been passed down for generations. High above the remote Kalaupapa Peninsula, Kalaupapa Lookout in Pālā‘au State Park offers sweeping views from its summit. Photos taken late morning to mid-afternoon capture the space in the best light.
Unwinding the Molokaʻi Way
Whether you’re wandering through a charming town or sinking your toes into soft sand, Molokaʻi offers plenty of ways to slow down. Kaunakakai, the island’s largest town, provides a glimpse into old Hawaiʻi with its local shops, laid-back eateries and historical pier extending over peaceful waters. It’s the perfect place to take in the sunset. If you’re looking for open space and white sand, Pāpōhaku Beach Park is the spot. This expansive shoreline also features campsites, showers, restrooms and picnic areas, making it an ideal choice for a day by the water to relax, swim or sunbathe. Enjoy a picturesque evening stroll as the sun dips below the horizon. There are no lifeguards at Pāpōhaku Beach Park so exercise caution when swimming and be sure to follow ocean safety guidelines to avoid hazards such as rip currents, rocks and shore breaks before you go out.
A Journey to the Summit
Maunaloa, a small, charming plantation village set in the hills above the coast is the only town in West End of the island. The Maunaloa area is near two popular Moloka‘i beaches, Pāpōhaku Beach and Kapukahehu Beach on the western coast, and is also a great place to find rental condominiums and cottages. You’ll also find a unique shop and galleries in Maunaloa, including the famous Big Wind Kite Factory and everything from Hawaiian Chili Pepper windsocks to high-performance stunt kites.
Preserving the Past
Protected and cared for by local stewards, the ancient Aliʻi Fishpond tells a story of Native Hawaiian innovation and sustainability. Built with carefully placed rock walls, it was created to control water flow for trapping, growing and harvesting fish for food. One of the few remaining ponds from Molokaʻi’s past, it is now being restored to its original health so the community can fish and enjoy it once again. A guided tour is required to visit this sensitive destination.
Fun Fact
The sea cliffs along Molokaʻi’s north shore are the largest in the world, standing over a kilometer tall at their highest.
Photo: Maui Convention & Visitors Bureau
Pāpōhaku Beach Park on Molokaʻi’s west shore is one of the largest white-sand beaches in Hawaiʻi.
Photo: Maui Convention & Visitors Bureau
