Molokai Vacations

Overview

Molokai, known as the Friendly Isle, was once a place where shamed warriors and lawbreakers were sent as part of their penance. Today, it is where savvy travel agents send vacationers. Out of all the major Hawaiian Islands, Molokai has best stayed in touch with its past by resisting the development and commercialization that has been embraced by most of Hawaii. Molokai has done this largely by focusing more on eco-tourism, which has had something to do with the large concentration of native Hawaiians living there.

One of the most significant periods in the island's history began when the island became home to Father Damien, a Belgian priest, in the 1860s. He settled in the Kalaupapa peninsula, which at the time was a place where lepers were exiled, and spent 16 years caring for them.

Activities & Attractions

Though the island is only 260 square miles in area, it still manages to contain a number of distinct regions that have their own unique character. The main city, Kaunakakai, has most of the restaurants and shopping on the island. The center of the island and west coast are largely agricultural, consisting mostly of farms and ranches. Sea cliffs, valleys and rainforests are in the eastern area of the island, along with Kahiwa Falls.

The island has a very strong paniolo culture, which is the Hawaiian equivalent of a cowboy. Thus, the island's activities are very outdoor-oriented. Mule rides, horse rides and roundups are among the popular things to do on Molokai. Hiking is also popular, as is spending time relaxing on the island's beautiful beaches. Of course, water sports are available everywhere, including open water kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing.

There is one activity that Molokai is known for above all others, though - Hula dancing. Molokai is where it started and the best dancers still come from the island. In fact, there is a festival that celebrates it every May. To put it simply, Molokai is a place for anyone who is looking for the real Hawaii - the old Hawaii - and all of its natural beauty.

Lodging

Molokai has only one hotel, a couple of condo rentals, and one upscale lodge - the Sheraton Molokai Lodge. If those do not suite your tastes, there are also private beach houses, bungalows and bed and breakfast inns scattered about. For more information, check out the links found below in the resources section.

Transportation

To get to Molokai, you have to first fly into Honolulu. You can then fly cheaply on Pacific Wings or Island Air, two regional airlines that offer flights between islands on smaller aircrafts.

You can also travel by boat from Lahiana and other nearby islands. Being that there is no public transportation on the island, the main modes of travel for tourists are by rental car or taxi. Of course, with the island's beautiful weather you may just prefer to walk!