Molokai
Since it emerged from the sea millions of years ago, it seems not much has changed on Molokai. There has been some significant erosion on the North side of the island, which created the largest sea cliffs in the world. And around 1300 years ago, seafaring Polynesians settled in its lovely Halewa Valley… but otherwise, not much has happened.
Tip: If you want to take the mule ride down to Kalaupapa, be sure to reserve your space in advance – and take the first ferry – you’ll saddle up just after 8 am.
Obviously this is a bit of an exaggeration, but the truth is that Molokai does feel as if it exists in another time and place – despite the fact it lies a mere 8 miles across the channel from Lahaina. It is a place unique in spirit and rich in character.
As a day trip from Maui, Molokai promises a taste of the simple life. Quiet streets. Friendly smiles. Unspoiled nature. It’s all here – along with the extraordinary Kalaupapa peninsula, home to generations of Hansen’s disease victims, and now a fascinating national park.
