Molokai - Place of Refuge Past and Present

 Located near the center of the chain of the main islands, Molokai is thought to be a special place -- a place of great spiritual power or mana. In former times it was a place of refuge and rejuvenation for defeated warriors. It is often referred to as the ´Most Hawaiian Island´ because it has the largest percentage of native Hawaiian residents in the state, excluding the tiny private island of Niihau.

 Comprising a total of 264 square miles, Molokai can be driven end to end in two hours. On north Molokai´s Kalaupapa Peninsula, hemmed in on one side by a 1500 foot cliff and by the Pacific on the other, is the leper colony that was established in 1866.

 Fine beaches and golf are to be found on the leeward side of the island at Kaluakoi Resort. Above the resort is the former plantation town of Maunaloa gazing out into the Pacific. The town offers luxury campsites where you can rough it in relative comfort. East of Kalaupapa is Kahiwa Falls, which at 1750 feet is the highest clilff in the world. 

 The reknown hula festival Ka Hula Piko (birthplace of the hula) is held each May at Papohaku Beach Park on the west end.

 Situated between the green windward side and the dry leeward westen side is Kaunakakai which is the island´s seaport and administrative center. The town only covers 3 blocks and has no traffic lights or fast-food restaurants, but offers you unsurpassed natural beauty and a fasinating history.

 Other natural attractions on Molokai include Hawaii´s longest white sand beach , the only barrier reef north of Australia, black sand beaches, lowland deserts, rain forests, fern forests, grasslands, and ancient temples. In September Molokai Mule Day is held - a parade followed by mule races down Kaunakakai´s main street. In November, there is the 100-mile Ultramarathon.

 Molokai Airport is 7 miles from Kaunakakai and taxis and rental cars are available, but there is no public transportation. The Molokai Visitors Association will advise you concerning special festivals or events and transportation links.

 You can fly to the leper colony at Kakaupapa Peninsula via Paragon Air or Pacific Wings. However, each person must have an invitation from a peninsula resident or have tour arrangements with Damien Tours. The flight from Molokai Airport takes about 10 minutes and costs $60.

 Molokai - where great natural beauty and charm create a rufuge for those seeking an escape from the hectic pace of modern life.