Why go to Molokai and what activities to do? Read in this chapter.

The 10 best hotels on Molokai

Natural beauty and hiking

Molokai hides breathtaking natural scenery of high forested mountains, steep valleys and waterfalls, and sea cliffs that are among the highest in the world.

The fact is, however, that the most beautiful parts of Molokai are very difficult to access, with no trails at all leading to the highest mountains and the northern coast with its highest cliffs.

Even so, there are some beautiful hiking treks on Molokai that should definitely not be missed during a multi-day stay.

• Hālawa Valley and Moa'ula Falls - a moderate 6 km trek through the jungle and valley to the waterfalls on the east of Molokai
• Wailau Trail - a moderate 9 km trek through the semi-agricultural landscape of eastern Molokai taking you up the slopes of the rising forested mountains
• Pepe'opae Bog Trail - an easier 3.5 km trail through the dense jungle in the middle of the island, from which you will admire mainly exotic flora

One of Molokai's biggest draws is, of course, the spectacular cliffs of the northern coast around the Kalaupapa Peninsula, which at over 1,000 metres are the highest sea cliffs in the world in some places.

• Information about the Kalaupapa Reefs

Visit to the Molokai leprosarium

The Kalaupapa site on North Molokai was set aside for many decades as an isolated sanatorium for the then dangerous disease leprosy. Even more than 45 years after the leprosarium's closure, Kalaupapa remains an extremely interesting historical site with a unique identity and still considerable isolation.

Transport yourself to this intriguing world and, in addition to the historic sites, enjoy incredible views of the massive sea cliffs from Kalaupapa.

• How to visit Kalaupapa Leprosarium

Beaches and swimming

There are certainly islands with more beautiful beaches in Hawaii, but you can also enjoy great days at the beach on Molokai by the Pacific Ocean. Head especially to the west coast of Molokai, where there are secluded beaches away from civilization, yet easily accessible by car.

Fine white sand covers the beaches here, perfect for a day of sunbathing and relaxation. The sea on Molokai is not rough, but the main beaches of Papohaku Beach and Kepuhi Beach have a gradual and safe entrance to the ocean.

On the east coast along the main Molokai road, on the other hand, you can spend time on mini-beaches with palm trees and romantic nooks and crannies.

On Molokai, the beaches are natural and without any amenities or facilities.

For peace and Hawaiian tranquility

If you have time to spare while in the Hawaiian Islands and want to slow down from your surely busy schedule on Kauai, the Big Island or Oahu, then stop by Molokai.

Sparsely populated and very little visited, this island will be a balm to the soul and the perfect place to take a break from the tourist crowds. In the small village of Kaunakakai you will find all the facilities, but at the same time the typical Hawaiian comfort, where no one is in a hurry and everyone is very friendly.