If traversing places less trodden is your thing, then Molokai Island in the Hawaiian Archipelago should be on your travel bucket list.
Sucheta Pradhan
With pristine beaches, untamed wilderness, and lesser turnover of tourists, Molokai Island is the great refuge for those looking for some “me time”!
Did You Know …
… that Molokai has no shopping malls or skyscrapers, or even traffic lights? Considering this, the island completely redefines the words, “pure and uncorrupted”.
If you‘ve zeroed in on Molokai as your vacation destination this season, here are a few exciting things you can do there!
Explore the Tranquil White Sand Beaches!
A string of calm, isolated beaches can be found on the island, which includes Make Horse beach and Kawakiu Iki beach on the north shore of the island and Hale O Lono beach and Hawela beach on the south shore.
Put Kalaupapa at the Top of Your ‘to do’ List
Once a quarantined leprosy settlement, Kalaupapa is one of the most scenic spots on Molokai with the local population of just over a 100 people. You can either hike your way there or ride on a mule while taking in the picturesque views around!
The Enchanting Halawa Valley Will Leave You Awestruck!
Take a guided cultural hike through this scenic valley to see how the Hawaiian culture has evolved over the ages in apposition with nature.
Snorkel at the Kumimi Beach!
If you are an adventure lover looking for a rush of adrenaline in your system, a top-notch snorkeling experience into the longest continuous fringing reef in the US will certainly do the job.
Keep Your Eyes Open For Monk Seals!
Monk seals, which are now endangered, can often be seen sunbathing on uncrowded beaches of Molokai. Take pictures from a distance; harassing these animals may invite legal actions.
Go Whale Watching!
Book one of the whale-watching tours to see the humpback whales up close. However, if you are lucky, you can also spot them during a ferry ride between Molokai and Maui.
Rent a Kayak!
Go kayaking in summer when the water on the Hawaiian north shore is warm and placid. If you're new to kayaking, you might require a guide. If not, paddle through the ocean and savor the spectacular view around.
Pick Your Wave and Go Surfing!
Surfing is something you cannot miss when in Hawaii. If you are an experienced surfer, the sea is all yours. Beginners can also book a surfing lesson with a trained guide.
Become One With Nature at the Kamakou Preserve!
Situated on the slopes of Molokai’s highest mountain, Kamakou, is by far the best hiking spot on the island, offering majestic views of sea cliffs from the top.
Take a Helicopter Tour!
Nothing even comes close to having a bird’s eye view of amazing coastline, soaring ocean waves, and majestic sea cliffs. Take pictures from the top and make everlasting memories!
Go on a Fishing Trip!
You can either fish on your own or charter a fishing boat. Either way, you get to keep your catch for yourself (if it’s a charter you might have to give some to the Captain), which you can cook or barbecue for dinner. How’s that?
Post a Coconut!
From Molokai, you can send home personalized coconuts by post. These coconuts can be self decorated with hand written messages on them. In fact, the Hoolehua Post Office gives free coconuts. You only need to pay for the postage!