Amid Hawaii’s many resorts and tourist traps, Molokai is the closest you can get to old Hawaii. Fishponds dating from the 14th century, several of which are still operational today, line the southern coast, and some residents choose to spend a portion of the year living in true Hawaiian fashion—at beach campsites. Over half the island’s population has Native Hawaiian ancestry, and these residents continue to fight to preserve the island’s traditional state. Within the island, there is a divide between members of the community over issues of development and the expansion of tourism. Cruise ships are not allowed to stop on Molokai, and the recently inaugurated Hawaii Superferry has no plans to stop here either. Development-averse locals may find their wishes granted for the time being.
At one time, Molokai was revered for its many powerful kahuna (priests). Visitors from all over made pilgrimages to the island to seek the priests’ counsel. The island was called Pule Oo (powerful prayer), and was considered a refuge place for kapu- breakers (taboo-breakers). For a time, the island was free from armed conflict because it was considered sacred. Now, however, Molokai retains little of its former influence, and the island struggles economically. Jobs are scarce and unemployment rivals some of the mainland’s most depressed counties. Subsistence fishing and farming are not uncommon.
Nonetheless, Molokai’s laid-back residents maintain a positive outlook on life. The birthplace of both the aloha spirit and hula, Molokai is known as “The Friendly Isle” for a reason, and drivers often smile and wave amiably at passers-by. Molokai’s roads are traffic light-free, although the slow pace of some of the island’s 7000 inhabitants sometimes causes a bit of a backup. Nobody seems to mind, however, since there’s no reason to be in a hurry. A sign that greets visitors at the airport says it all: “Aloha! Slow down: this is Molokai.” With some of the state’s least-developed coastal areas, Molokai’s beaches and the warm personalities of her residents are not to be missed.
Molokai is most easily accessible by short plane flights (about 20min.) from Maui and Oahu, though there is also a ferry service from Maui. Flights to Molokai generally arrive at the Hoolehua Airport (6 ...more
Once on the island, renting a car is a necessity, as there is no public transportation. A single highway stretches 50 mi. from one side of the island to the other, making Molokai Hawaii’s easiest island ...more
Molokai isn’t an easy place to find budget accommodations. There are no hostels and most of the less expensive options are condos or beach houses that are better suited for longer stays. Couples can ...more
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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