Molokai, Hawaii
Molokai is not like its Hawaiian neighbours. It’s not touristy or overdeveloped. It does not have luxury resorts, five-star restaurants or designer retail stores. Heck, it doesn’t even have traffic lights!
Because of this, first time visitors to The Most Hawaiian Island should understand what to expect when visiting the island. With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of things to do (and not do) when traveling to Molokai.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Traveling to Molokai
Reader’s note – this post was originally written in 2013 and updated in 2023.
DO – Rent a car
Like most of the Hawaiian Islands, convenient public transportation is virtually non existent on Molokai. The island is quite big and most of the popular activities and attractions are spread out, so renting a car is a must.
Alamo is the only car rental company on Molokai but it has a surprisingly large selection of vehicles and the prices are reasonable. It’s located at the airport, making it easy to pick up and drop off the vehicle (unless you arrive via ferry).
DON’T – Expect to find lots of gas stations
There are only a few gas stations on the island, so plan accordingly. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the hours of operation. Don’t be that person who runs out of gas because of poor planning – this isn’t the big city!
DON’T – Worry about heavy traffic or getting lost
There is very little traffic, few roads, no traffic lights and only a handful of stop signs. If you’re worried about renting a car, don’t be. Molokai is one of the easiest places to drive.
DO – Ride the mules to Kalaupapa
Rated by TripAdvisor as the number one adventure on Molokai, the mule tour to Kalaupapa is highly recommended for any visitor to Molokai. It’s an experience hard to replicate and we think it will be a highlight from your trip to the island.
Did we mention that you will descend 1,700 feet down the world’s tallest sea cliffs on a mule?
DON’T – Try to visit Kalaupapa without an organized tour
Unless you are invited by one of the residents of Kalaupapa, you must take a tour. You don’t have to take the mule tour to reach the peninsula, you can catch a short flight or hike the trail, but you must be accompanied by a guide.
DO – Hike the Halawa Valley
Another popular activity is hiking the Halawa Valley to the Moa’ula Waterfalls. Because the hike passes through private property, a tour guide is required.
The hike takes about 2.5 to 3 hours return trip. It’s not a strenuous hike, but you should come prepared with a snack and bottled water (the closest grocery store is about 15 kilometers away).
The trail passes through thick rainforest, so it’s wise to bring proper footwear and a light rain jacket. If the weather permits, you may want to bring a bathing suit to go swimming near the waterfall.
Check out this short video from our hike – Halawa Valley Hike
DO – Get on (or in) the water
Stretching over 30 miles, Molokai’s barrier reef is the longest reef in the Hawaiian Islands. The shallow water along the beaches and shoreline is quite murky and unattractive, but once you get about 25 meters out the water becomes incredibly clear and blue.
The photo above was taken over 200 meters from shore. Even at that distance from the shore we could still see the ocean floor from our kayak.
DO – Use a local tour operator
We went ocean kayaking with Molokai Outdoors and would recommend them as a local tour operator. They are a small, family run company that offers every tour and activity available on the island, including transportation, rentals and accommodations.
On our ocean kayaking trip we saw a sting ray, multiple sea turtles and several humpback whales playing in the channel (see photo above).
DON’T – Go out on the water alone
It’s tempting to go out alone, but always bring a buddy and make sure you talk to experienced locals first. It’s not safe to swim in certain parts of the island because of strong currents and hazardous rocks.
Claire, our ocean kayaking guide with Molokai Outdoors, advised us to always bring a kayak, paddle board or floating device when heading out to snorkel or swim in the reef.
Although it’s rare, sharks do make an appearance inside the reef. It’s best to be prepared.
DO – Slow Down
Philosophically and literally. Molokai has no traffic lights and there are only a few major roads. Nobody is in a hurry, so slow down. The roads are windy and you never know what lies around the corner.
Molokai is the perfect place to sit back and relax. One of our highlights was simply sitting on our balcony watching the sunset with a cold beer in hand, and enjoying a coffee while watching the morning sunrise.
DO – Visit Coffees of Hawaii
We almost missed a visit to Coffees of Hawaii because we were always out and about. That would have been a big mistake. The coffee is fresh and delicious and you can purchase coffee to bring home with you (we bought 2 bags of beans and have already consumed them both!).
The cafe and gift shop are located on the coffee plantation, so you can take a tour if that interests you.
It’s also a fun social spot for locals to get together and play music. Every afternoon, a group of residents bring their musical instruments (mostly ukuleles) and play Hawaiian favorites to guests, both tourists and residents alike.
DON’T – Expect wild partying and nightlife
If you’re looking for wild parties and trendy nightclubs you’re best to visit Oahu or Maui. There are no nightclubs on Molokai. In fact, there are very few restaurants and bars to be found.
Instead, visit the liquor store in Kaunakakai, grab your drink of choice and hang out on your hotel balcony or the beach.
After all, you didn’t travel all the way to Hawaii to do the things you can do at home – did you?
DON’T – Expect to find major chains or big brands
There are no Starbucks coffee shops, no McDonald’s restaurants, no Fairmont Hotels or any other big names on the island. The only recognizable brand we saw was the Chevron gas station.
Grocery stores, restaurants and hotels are all locally owned and operated – and residents of Molokai intend to keep it that way.
There are very few places left in the world that don’t have either a Starbucks or McDonald’s, and we dig that about Molokai.
DON’T – Expect to find shopping malls
There are a few cute local shops in Kaunakakai, but not a lot. Many of them have strange hours of operation. We actually found the best souvenirs at the Blue Monkey Gift Shop at Coffees of Hawaii.
If you’re looking for shopping malls or high-end retail stores, you’ll be looking for a long time because there aren’t any. You don’t come to Molokai for its shopping experience.
DON’T – Expect mass tourism
I know what you’re thinking, “no tourists? That’s fantastic! Where do I sign up?!”
But it’s important to understand what this really means. You will pass the occasional tourist but you’re mostly on your own. You won’t find a lot of choice and you will need to be flexible with your schedule.
You won’t find big luau’s with hula dancing performances (at least not very often). You won’t find glitz and glamor. There are limited places to eat and it’s hard to find convenient transportation.
Residents of Molokai support tourism, but in a responsible way that creates jobs for residents and doesn’t negatively impact the environment.
The people of Molokai don’t want their island to replicate that of Oahu and Maui. They like it the way it is, so you need to respect that and shift your expectations accordingly.
DO – Put Molokai on your travel wish list!
Molokai is unlike any other island we’ve visited. It’s quiet, unassuming and filled with natural beauty. If you enjoy the outdoors and want to escape the tourist trail, we think you’ll have a great time on Molokai.
Read more from our trip to Molokai:
- Unspoiled coastlines. Untamed wilderness. Our upcoming trip to Molokai
- Our First Impressions of Molokai
- VIDEO: Hiking the lush Halawa Valley to giant waterfalls
- VIDEO: The Scenic (and dizzying) Drive to Halawa Valley
- Riding Mules Down the World’s Tallest Sea Cliffs
Have you visited the Hawaiian Island of Molokai?
Share your experience in the comments section below, we’d love to read about it!
Now I wish I would have made a side trip to Molokai last time I was in Maui!
I guess that just means you’ll need to return! 🙂
Hiya…. just back from Molokai and it was absolutely beautiful geographically! Except that the locals DON’T want tourists there. PERIOD! We never felt unsafe, but felt very out of place buying our groceries at the local couple of stores. We were NOT WELCOME on Molokai, except by the few tourist places still operating . The ferry from Maui is finished/ gone and Mauna Loa is a ghost town. Do your research on the locals vs ranch developer dispute and it will explain all. It was interesting that the locals want to keep their natural habitat (understandable to a point) but that their yards were full of car skeletons and many looked like scrap yards. Hope they figure it all out…..
I just put it on our travel list. I want to ride a mule!
It’s a fun tour!
Great post! Sounds like an amazing destination. I love the fact that big businesses and tourism haven’t invaded the island. Let’s hope it stays like this!
Glad you like the post Thomas. It’s certainly a hard thing to accomplish – the balance between money and nature – but the people have done a good job so far.
This sounds wonderful! I would love to explore more of Hawaii
It’s an interesting place Andrea. I think you guys would really enjoy it.
I love finding out about unspoiled places like this. I will definitely have to make a visit and follow your bits of advice in this post!
When you do, make sure you send us a note and let us know how it goes! 🙂
I agree with renting a car. It’s so cheap and so much fun plus you can be absolutely independent and see whatever you want any time you want. Great post!
Thanks Agness! Glad you enjoyed the read
I’m not sure you portrayed the islanders’ views on tourism accurately. Sure, there are some who appreciate it and recognize its importance, but I’d say the majority dislike it, resent it, and this is important…do not want you there.
Don’t get me wrong, my family has a home there, I visit frequently, I’m hyper-sensitive to the local customs and characters, and I love the place. Love it a lot. But if we’re talking honestly, it’s a poor island with rampant drug abuse, racism, and sky-high unemployment with people who do not want to change.
That said, can I add one more cool thing to do? Go to a rodeo. “Paniolos” are Hawaiian cowboys and during the summer they have rodeos in town (at the HS) that are unlike anything you’ve probably ever been to. Definitely check one out.
Hey Eric, thanks for your feedback.
I don’t think this is the forum to get into a socio-economical debate, however, if you are accurate in stating that the island is full of poverty, drug abuse and unemployment, then tourism revenue has a place on the island and those that support change (to the problems you’ve addressed) are in support of improving the lives of its residents.
Granted, the people we spoke with had some involvement with tourism (we were staying at hotels and doing “touristy” activities) so perhaps the information we received was from the more optimistic folks. We only spent a few days on the island, so we really can’t comment on the issues that you have raised because we don’t have sufficient information or experience.
We didn’t get a change to watch a rodeo but it sounds like it would be a lot of fun!
Don’t worry, I’m not interested in a discussion on Hawaiian economics either. 😉
I’m simply fascinated and enchanted with the island while at the same time being hugely disappointed by its refusal to progress even one iota. This is more of a societal statement than any other. Point being, when/if anyone goes there, it’s perilously important that they represent tourists well.
Like you said, a modicum of tourism and eco-travel would help the unemployment and fill the coffers with tourist dollars, but (here’s the key) the islanders would rather live in poverty than change.
All that said, I’m heading over in a month and will spend my time on Popohaku, at the cookhouse (hope they took care of the flies!), running the mule trails, and watching the HS kids compete in kayak races. Can’t wait!
Keep it up. I love your site.
Molokai is like any other place you got to, with social and economical problems… the only difference here is the way you think. People always come here and love it and don’t want it to change. Yet they buy a property and days later signs go up. No trespass, No Camping etc… change yhen they want a Mc d’s. Lol when you move here you change it. As far as economic growth we need 30 permits from the state and epa to move a rock to rebuild our fishponds.Before you talk about economic growth here you better do your research. I am born and raised here, drugs come from America not Hawaii.I am also a veteran, everywhere you go theres good and bad places and people. Just hope you meet the right ones when you are here. For all this talk of poverty and drugs, what’s the crime rate here? Yes there is crime here and drugs but compared to where you from its minor… there hardly are paying jobs here but there is alot of jobs to do. If not for all the BS rules and red tape. Pineapple and Sugar pretty much screwed up our lands with all the poison they sprayed in the ground during farming, some homesteaders who went on to sell to big markets were told yhey couldn’t due to high pesticides in grown fruits and vegetables. Alot of farmers took losses and couldn’t recover. Alot of yhose pesticides are ban from use today… research theres alot you don’t know ERIC… Open your eyes and ears.
Aloha
Thank you JK so well said! I was born and raised on Molokai. We are a small island but a true “Hawaiian Island” with unmeasured Aloha for man kind. We love our Island just the way it is. You said a lot Eric,and maybe our Island is not for you. There is no where you will find a “TRUE ISLAND LIVING” the people of Molokai DON’T want to change the life style of the people of MOLOKAI. You said a lot but you DON’T know the true MOLOKAI. The island is small but full of ALOHA. You Mc Donalds then stay on the mainland……..Again thank you JK…….WE DON’T NEED TO CHANGE FOR THEM. SELL YOUR PROPERTY ON MOLOKAI AND MOVE BACK TO THE MAINLAND.
We were there two years ago for 4 days and loved the life style and the people and we are returning tomorrow for 23 days to relax and enjoy living. I guess we understand the life style since we are from the Deep South and enjoy slow living and don’t believe in change for change sake.
What a fascinating post. I’ve always been wary of over developed islands; yet, I do understand the need for job creation (hotels create jobs,,,they always have). But Molokai sounds like the perfect blend of both. It’s hard to find such raw material these days and sounds like you’ve found a gem. But not sure what I’d do without my luxury B&B…I’ll have to think about this one 🙂 Solid points and well worth a visit.
Molokai is certainly not for everyone, but we think it’s well worth a visit – even if its only an island hop while visiting Maui or Oahu
Sounds wonderful, even without a Starbucks. 🙂
Molokai is the only Hawaiian island we’ve not visited, so it is at the top of our list.
No Starbucks – but Coffees of Hawaii will get you that fix!
I think you guys would love it there. Lots of hikes and lots of raw nature everywhere. Do it!
Wow looks amazing. Reminds me of some of the Pacific Islands closer to home, minus the mules unfortunately
It does feel more like a Pacific Island than some of its popular neighbours
Loved this guide! Now I know what to expect and what not to do when I’m out there. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Awesome – I’m glad you enjoyed the post Walter!
Ya I like to this place. Thanks for your posting this amazing place. next summer plan to visit over there.
Great – I’m glad you enjoyed the article Girish.
It seems to be Good place. I will have to think about my next trip with my friend Groups.
Hi there, I’m new to your blog and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed reading this post. I especially liked riding the mules to Kalaupapa and hiking the Halawa Valley. I will keep your list in mind the next time we visit Molokai. Thank you so much for sharing and happy travels!
Thanks for the feedback Barbara. We’re happy you found our blog!
Thanks a lot for sharing such a valuable piece of information. It is really an informative and precious post.The information is rich and engrossing.Nice post and I liked it.
Thanks Alex, glad you enjoyed it.
Fell in love with Molokai on our first visit 10 years ago. I have visited all of the Hawaiian islands and love Molokai so much I bought a condo. I spend the winter in Molokai to avoid the snow and darkness in Alaska. Don’t change Molokai, let Molokai change you.
Totally agree Donna. It’s a very special place. Can we come to visit 😉
Where is your condo Donna? I’m thinking of buying here as well.
I disagree about the shopping, but partly. There is a little import store in Kaunakakai that had a great selection of brand names and I wish I had more room in my luggage to bring home some of the Roxy wear 🙂
But, the grocery stores don’t have much selection in terms of meat, so if you plan to prepare your own meals, you are better off getting your meat when you first arrive at the island at the Molokai Livestock Cooperative. Also check out nearby Kumu Farms for their selection of homegrown fruits and vegetables.
And you forgot the hidden gem, Molokai Museum! 🙂
We just returned from our first trip to Molokai and will be back. Heaven. Loved flying Mokulele Airlines. Ask the pilot for the north side of the island view if possible 🙂 LOTS of waterfalls. And the mule ride was so cool!!
Thanks for the tips and suggestions Brigette. We didn’t make it to the Museum. Guess we will need to return 🙂
Be sure to rent a bike in town at Molokai Bikes and then head out to Ilio point, or up to the Sand Dunes!! And look around in the forest past Phallic Rock 🙂 Most amazing trip of our life, and can’t wait to go again!
Thanks for the tip Christina. Sounds amazing.
Great post! Your suggestions sound amazing and your images of the island look absolutely gorgeous! I can’t help but think that it must be a phenomenal place to trek, kayak, snorkel, dive and otherwise explore! While I am typically focused on outdoor exploration and adventure, coffee and music with the locals could not sound more tempting! what a wonderful way to start (or end!) a day. Thank you so much for pointing out that the locals focus on responsible sustainable tourism!
You should definitely visit Mary. You will really love it. The island is so different.
We just spent 2 weeks on Molokai and loved it. It’s very quiet and the people easy going. Everyone we met there was so friendly and thoroughly enjoyed talking about their island and their heritage. We would definitely like to go again.
Glad you had a great time Reta. We also met some really nice people.
I was lucky to spend a week on Molokai a few years ago and I loved it. Sure, there are inconveniences and visiting successfully requires flexibility and planning, but overall I much preferred the vibe to that of Oahu. Just think of it like visiting any small, rural town on the mainland–people are mostly nice and glad to see you, as long as you are respectful and kind.
I live on Oahu and am researching Molokai bc I’m going there next week for business. It’s for a Maui County Dept. of Economics event. I’m excited to go and experience somewhere I’ve never been. We are staying at the only hotel there and have a rental car, so will let you know how it goes!
While I was in Molokai, I worked so much I didn’t get to experience all there was to do, but I DID get to do what I consider the VERY BEST part of this island…it’s PEOPLE! They are the kindest, most generous, funniest, and most giving people I’ve ever met! This was such a wonderful experience, and I will never forget their kindness to me!
One last mention, I did stay in the only hotel in town and no a/c. In August, it was HOT. I did get upgraded to a better room with better breezes by the General Manager. In closing, if you want to go to relax and be around wonderful people, this is the place.
We are looking for a place to stay for 2 nights, Nov 23 and 24, 2018. What is your recommendation? Thank you.
I would start with Hotel Molokai. You don’t have a lot of options, so if Hotel Molokai is not available I would then look at AirBnB or VRBO.
We visited Molokai last year in November and loved it. The people at the hotel were wonderful. It’s not a plush hotel but we were treated very well. We liked just talking to the people who live there. Most of them were very willing to share information about their island. Very quiet, peaceful place to visit.
Enjoyed your website and observations. My daughter has been there since Nov. 22, 2013, as an America Corp Worker and I am going to go visit her in Oct of this year before her year is up in Nov. We hope together to enjoy some of the sites that you mention before she leaves this memorable year of her life. Thank you for the info. Are you still exploring the world? It sounds as if you have done so many so far. Good for both of you for following your dreams while you are young and in good health.
Great article for those visiting Molokai. Thanks for the effort. Renting a car is a great suggestion and I want to add that you can check craigs list for local car rentals that don’t cost as much as the big rental companies. You can also find a few rentals that come with a car! I know of a few on the West end of the island.
All of the guidebooks and websites we’ve researched state that it is possible to hike to and from Kalaupapa NHP; but, I can find no one (including the resident from Father Damien Tours) who can tell me how to make the arrangements. Any ideas?
Sorry – we did the mule ride, so I can’t help with that one.
Thank you for sharing your Molokai experience! My husband and I are visiting Maui for 2 weeks and are planning on a day trip or overnight trip to Molokai. Do u recommend staying overnight? Not sure a day trip us enough time? We are definitely interested in escaping the hustle and bustle of Maui for a bit and experiencing a more pristine Hawaii. We love coffee as well. Just looking to have a picnic or two at some quiet beaches. Are the beaches easily accessible?
Hi Crystal – yes, highly recommend you do an overnight (or two!). Stay at the Hotel Molokai. It’s near the town and somewhat close to the ferry terminal. You need a car to get around, so look to sort that out prior to arrival. Beaches are plentiful and mostly deserted – it’s heaven. Definitely give yourself more time than less…
Hello
We are also “traveling Canucks”.
But, after discovering Molokai, 12+ years ago, we now pretty much limit our vacation travel to that gem (and we now own two rental properties on island).
Your summary is REALLY very well done (especially since it appears to be based upon a single, short visit).
The following updates / comments / points of clarification generally track the order in your post and in the comments section (opinions are entirely my own):
• car rental prices have risen sharply in the past couple of years (at Alamo, at least)
• book early to avoid disappointment (and needing to rely up others to drive you around—which we have seen happen more than once)
• there are taxis, but they are not inexpensive
• you only need a guide once you have arrived at Kalaupapa
• you can hike in unescorted but still need a permit from Damien Tours.
See:
http://www.nps.gov/kala/planyourvisit/feesandreservations.htm
and
http://www.fatherdamientours.com/
• you can also make arrangements thru Clare Mawae at Molokai Outdoors.
See:
http://www.molokai-outdoors.com/index.php
• sadly, Buzzy Sproat passed away last year but the Mule Ride is still a hugely popular attraction
• hiking in and flying out might be a good option for anyone that does not want to take the mules, or, hike back topside.
• the corner store en route to Halawa is called “Goodz & Grindz”.
It is just before the “16 mile marker” (that is how directions are often given on Molokai).
There is also a lunch counter there that serves, among other things, delicious French toast, pancakes and the ubiquitous “loco moco” (described on one website as – “the classic Hawaiian soul food consisting of 4 components: hamburger patty, rice, egg, and brown gravy”)
• whale activity is spectacular between January and April
• the weather is about the same year round.
The summers do not feel crazy hot except, perhaps, when the trade winds are replaced by the Kona winds (which is not that often)
• “Coffees” is a great place to stop.
The “Mocha Mama” appears to be quite addictive but you should try at least one
• we bring a couple of pounds of Starbuck’s with us, so that we can have the best of both worlds
• not sure that there is music at Coffees every day, so best to check.
Sundays for sure during the winter and maybe Tuesday or Wednesday a.m., but perhaps not in the summer?
• Kumu Farms (near the airport) sells lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and has become quite popular
• the wine selection at Molokai Wines & Spirits is surprisingly good (and the staff very knowledgeable)
• there are bad people everywhere.
There is a vocal minority on Molokai that would most definitely prefer no tourism.
But the locals are, by in large, quite friendly.
There is a sign at the entrance to the Friendly Market (or, just “Friendly’s”) that says something like “if you are not feeling the aloha today, come back another day”.
At first, you might be intimidated by the guys in the camo pants (hunting is a way of life for many).
But a shaka (the Hawaiian wave) coupled with a “howzit?” will go a long way.
Do not ever honk your car horn at a Hawaiian (on any island), unless it is intended as a greeting and preferably accompanied by a shaka
• Hotel Molokai is a great place to see music on a Friday afternoon (4 pm – 6 pm, but get there early in season).
Although it is central, not sure about it as a place to stay.
There was a fire in the hotel kitchen a couple of years ago and (as of February ’15, anyway) it was still not fully-functional; serving only “pupus” and bags of chips.
There are plenty of other far better / nicer options across the island including Paniolo Hale and Ke Nani Kai on the west end, Molokai Shores near the main town and Wavecrest Resort east of the main town (check VRBO and similar sites)
my wife and I were in Molokai first time in 2014!!
We arrived on a Sunday afternoon, got into the main town and found nothing..nothing open..at first we were a bit stunned..but then we looked at each other and literally LOL!!!
We knew where we were going and accepted it!!
we are NOT party animals, we dont like touristy places, dont like night life..we LOVE TRANQUILLITY!!
We love water/ocean and hikes so we pretty much did it all for the exception of a few hikes…
WE loved it so much we are going back end of June 2016 for 3 weeks..can’t wait!
On our DO list we have the Kamakou Preserve, the only problem is that there is NO guided tour for our period of time, of course we can go by ourself (and we will eventually go) BUT we need a 4WHEELDRIVE to reach the entrance..we are having hard time finding a 4 wheel drive for rent!! any suggestions?
Coffees is NOT happening….Maybe later on…..Hasn’t been since at least last June……The ONLY place to get Mocha Mamas is at the Airport….
Aloha All,
My wife and I have been living on Oahu since 2009 and had visited all the Hawaiian Islands except Molokai until May of this year. We went there for a week and fell in love with it (Molokai is the anti Oahu if you have ever been here). It is so quiet and peaceful it’s hard to believe it is still part of Hawaii. We loved it so much that we bought a condo and named it “Hale Kamaluhia” which means “House of Serenity” in Hawaiian. We go to as often as we can and rent it out (with a vehicle because it is difficult and expensive to rent one)the rest of the time. Molokai is not for everyone, there are no chain stores at all (No Walmart, Home Depot, McDonalds…). It’s all local people with local businesses. There is no traffic (not even 1 traffic light on the entire island), no real nightlife (except amazing views of stars you never knew existed)and empty pristine beaches. The people are very friendly, but very guarded until they find out a little more about you. They like their island the way it is and do not want it to turn in to a Maui or Oahu (and I agree with them). If you want to see Hawaii the way it used to be, then Molokai should be on the top of you list.
Hello, Mike,
Can you direct me to the site where your condo is listed for renting?
Thanks!
Hi 🙂 You write that “You will pass the occasional tourist but you’re mostly on your own”. Does that mean you would not recommend to travel to Molokai on your own? The reason I ask is that I am about to order my first trip on my own and I wish to re-visit Hawaii (been to Kaui and Maui once before with my husband) and I would like more sceneray than city life. I would also like to go kayaking (but not on my own) – do you think it will be difficult to find “group activities”?
Hello Anette.
See my previous post (2 above yours) about certain activities such as those run by Molokai Outdoors and the mule.
My wife and I did a guided kayak tour with Clare a couple of years back [and there is at least one other company that does (or at least did) them].
We know lots of people who visit on their own.
You would just want to take care as you would anywhere else.
What time of year are you planning on visiting?
We just got home from Molokai last week.
It is pretty quiet at this time of year.
Contrary to my comments, above, Hotel Molokai might be a good choice to improve your odds of connecting with others.
Aloha
John
Aloha Anette,
Don’t count on showing up to Molokai and meeting a random group and joining them, there really are very few people. Definitely set it up ahead of time with one of the tour groups. Here are a few links http://molokaifishanddive.com
http://molokai-outdoors.com/rentals.php
Please check out our facebook page for more info on Molokai and feel free to contact us with any questions.
Mahalo,
Mike
Wonderful article, pix and feedback 🙂 I have been a long time in planning my (first) Hawaiian adventure. The #1 thing I want to do is the mule ride, so I knew I had to go to Molokai at least for that. My original plans were to visit Oahu and Maui with a side trip to Molokai. The more I read about Molokai, the more I liked it. I eventually dropped Oahu from my itinerary, I can see surfing and kite surfing on the north shore of Maui. So I will be staying on Molokai for at least three nights and the rest of my time, on Maui. This article and the replies gave me extra insight, from everything else I have read.
Thanks, Love your website and your travels 🙂
As a person who grew up in the less touristy eastern end of PEI, Molokai felt like home. Thank you for the detailed info. We were only able to stay 3 days our last trip, and are looking forward to a chance to go again.
hi going to Malokai in October later this year, Is there a lot of mosquitoes. I know it goes with the territory. right now our room has no AC, wondering if we should request a room with AC do like the idea of the wind passing through our room. we will visit Maui, do you suggest plane or ferry. should we plan on cooking our own food. thanks a bunch.
I’m not sure about the mosuitos in October. When we went in April it was fine.
We took a plane when we island hopped. It’s a quick flight and the airports are small and not stressful at all. The ferry, I’m told, is quite a nice trip too.
There are not a lot of restaurants on the island, so you’ll want to cook some of your meals, especially if you have a kitchen.
Yes, you will need to rent a car for Molokai. I don’t recall seeing a bus on the island.
hi, forgot do we need to book a car from here or when we arrive.
Love the article! I think you mentioned that the water was murky? Are the beaches sandy and is it pleasant to get in the water not too far from shore? Thanks so much!
Not being a small guy…310 lbs….will the mule be able to haul my fat ass?
Never mind…250# max they say.
I lived on Molokai (i am from Holland..now on Oahu.) Molokai is a great place to hike, to walk over beaches where nobody comes,to bike around, to find rest and get calm and away of the big rat race vibe…Visit fishponds, rent a 4 wheel drive and climb the mountain…and go slow…to do nothing and enjoy the stars….eat in local restaurants and let life pass by for a while…
Aloha, we love to hike and expoler unguided, but ran into problems on the Big Island this spring due to FOD!
(Fear of Dengue) which closed beaches and valleys. Do you know if this is a problem on Molokai? And are there very many remote to just explore on our own?
Thanks for your time,
Joe & Joyce
Wow, great write up! Curious to know what you think of our Molokai Itinerary here: https://lookintohawaii.com/hawaii/48176/molokai-itinerary-intro-information-molokai-hi
Hi! May I ask where you stayed on Molokai and if you would recommend it? Thank you!
We stayed at the Molokai hotel and an apartment rental
Don’t wanna burst your bubble but there is one McDonalds on the island in Mauna Loa. You also left out the Kite Factory – in Mauna Loa also. A great place for gifts. They have some cool stuff besides kites! Most locals will be friendly if you are and show respect for their island! It’s all about the aina for them. I spent two years there back in the 70s and it was the best time in my life.
You’re not bursting our bubble Linda, we enjoy the feedback and encourage people to share their info. There was no McDonald’s on the island when we visited in 2013. I’m not sure if they’ve put one up since our visit, but there doesn’t appear to be one on the island.
There IS NO MCDONALDS !!!! That chick is high !!!
there is actually no McDonald’s s. I was raised on Molokai and there has never been one. Maybe you were mistaken?
Sad to hear that Island Kine Auto Rental is no longer open. That man was so nice and interesting to talk to. Also would recommend that everyone has to do a “hot bread run” in the middle of the night. Such great memories! There used to be a KFC, maybe it has closed and The Ranch was excellent food and atmosphere but I think it has also closed. Loved Molokai and have been there twice. Actually the boom, Molokai, is one of my all time favorite historical fiction. Tells about a young girl who develops leprosy and is banished to the island.
Were hoping in the future that Molokai Ranch will reopen again. No definite date or time frame has been made yet.
KFC, the Maunaloa Theatres, Molokai Ranch Lodge & Beach Village at Kaupoa all closed down in early 2008.
The owner and operator of Island Kine Auto Rentals has since passed away as well. Hot bread is still available nightly 8pm to 11pm (1am on Friday and Saturday nights) Closed on Monday nights.
Mahalo (thank you) for visiting!
Moloka’i is definitely a place of tranquil beauty. Being someone who was raised on Moloka’i, I am still able to enjoy what God has created still in its natural state. Many may see us locals as rude, ignorant or even poor but one thing I believe we consistently portray is aloha. There are some who do not agree with the visiting of many tourist, but majority will welcome you with open arms. We are loving, generous and show much aloha if you come with a sense of respect for our island. We do not take kindly to those who abuse our island, people, and waters. But most of us will not judge you immediately, unless your actions show us otherwise. Moloka’i is still in its natural beauty because of our resist to change. Yes we do have many problems, much like many other places. We are not perfect and do not act as if we are. We choose to live a life of sustainability. Money is not everything, and when you visit here you will see the evidence of it. Wealth is measured in many other ways on Molokai. Wealth can be measure in children, in family, in friends, in generosity. In our culture family is most important, and if you come with an attitude of love and respect, you will be treated as family. This is a beautiful place to visit. And I hope anyone who comes sees the majesty of our aina. But one thing I leave is don’t change moloka’i, let moloka’i change you.
A big AMEN, Pualei……
Hi! My husband and I are planning our first vacation together to Molokai and we were curious what is the best time of year ( weather wise) to visit? We were planning August but I am a sun baby and want to make sure it is not a rainy season at that time. Thank you for your blog! Great info!
Hello Allison. Sorry, this is the first time I have checked out this blog in some time. We are currently on island (August 11). The weather has been perfect. Hot but with nice trade winds. The weather is pretty constant here year round (a couple of degrees warmer July – Sept). Very pleasant. Bit more rain in Dec-Feb than other times, but not really enough to ruin a trip (or even a day). Also, one end of Molokai is a desert; the other is lush and tropical. So, if you don’t like the weather where you are, jump in the car and drive to a spot where you do. Aloha
Thanks for the great post! We are headed to Maui in a couple of weeks and want to head to Molokai for 3 days. Can you recommend lodging? This is a last minute trip and I haven’t been able to fully research the island and would love your suggestions based on your experience…..there will be 4 of us (our children are 21 and 24). Thanks!!!
Hi Kristin – there is limited accommodation on the island, so make sure you have something lined up before you visit. We stayed at the Hotel Molokai, which is good. You can also rent an apartment. Search VRBO.com or AirBnB.com for properties.
We are heading to Molokai for our anniversary next year! This post was very helpful, and I can wait to have some similar experiences!