Molokai is an island in the state of Hawaii, in the United States. It is the fifth-largest of the Hawaiian islands, and it is known for a rural character that has held onto its quiet, with little in the way of tourism development. For a visitor, that is the first thing to understand: this is a place to slow down rather than a place to fill a long list of attractions.
What draws visitors
The island is best known for its towering sea cliffs, which rise sharply from the coast and give the shoreline a dramatic character. Its most significant historic site is Kalaupapa, a settlement on the island's north shore with a long and difficult history that is central to understanding Molokai. Visiting Kalaupapa is an experience to approach with care and interest, and it is worth reading about its history before you go.
What a visit is like
- Expect few crowds and a relaxed pace, in keeping with the island's rural setting.
- Expect limited tourism infrastructure compared with the larger Hawaiian islands, so plan your accommodation, transport and meals in advance.
- Give time to the landscape itself: the cliffs and coastline are the island's main scenery.
- Treat the historic settlement of Kalaupapa as a place of real significance to the people who live there.
Molokai suits travellers who want an unhurried Hawaiian island, an interest in its history, and a stay away from busy resort areas. Those looking for a wide range of nightlife, dining or organised activities may find the island quieter than they expect.
