Beaches, trails and plate lunches in Molokai
Curious about what you'll do when you live in Molokai? If you like the idea of hiking along sea cliffs, getting artsy at local galleries, and snorkeling hidden reefs, Molokai is calling you home! This list of fun things to do will take you from sunrise beaches to sunset trails, giving you a solid taste of Molokai's laid-back island rhythm.
Matt, Our Local Expert Guiding Your Move
Matt was born and raised on Oahu and currently makes the North Shore playground his home. He has lived in four states, half a dozen countries, and more houses across Oahu than he can remember. Each move requires relocating something like 40 surf, foil, and paddle boards and the sobering realization that they all have to fit somewhere. He is an adventure journalist, backcountry snowboarder, rock climber, mountain biker, and relentless swell tracker who loves scouting out obscure waves in far-flung corners of the world. Favorite constants include swell checks, tide charts, and vegan sushi at Tane. At Snappy Scout, Matt edits Hawaii guides with saltwater honesty and local precision.
Read moreWritten with local insight from Snappy Scout relocation experts
What Will You Do in Molokai?
From weekend adventures to iconic road trips, here's how locals spend their time off.
On a Saturday with perfect weather
Papohaku Beach, for three miles of sand and zero crowds.
When the gals come to town for the weekend
Halawa Valley hike, followed by waterfall plunge and trailside gossip session.
Rainy, dreary day
Coffees of Hawaii tour, because wet beans still make for dry humor.
Intellectually stimulating
Kalaupapa Overlook, pondering history from 1,600 feet up.
Outdoorsy
Kamakou Preserve, where native forest meets your innermost naturalist fantasies.
If you're a shopaholic
Temper expectations at the island's three stores.
With your dog
Dixie Maru Beach, where pups outnumber tourists every day of the year.
Family-oriented
Kaunakakai Wharf fishing, with kids learning patience the hard way.
In need of a selfie
Phallic Rock, because maturity is overrated.
You have to see this
Kalaupapa Peninsula, where Father Damien's legacy humbles every visitor.
On a budget
Literally any beach on the island, since Mother Nature charges zero admission fee.
To avoid the crowds
Anywhere on Molokai—did we mention the size of the population?
My Favorite Local Spot in Molokai
Kanemitsu Bakery's Molokai Hot Bread is famous for a reason—it is super ono (delicious) and a must-stop for anyone foodie on the island.
— Matt Rott
Hawaii Local Expert
Ready to See If Molokai Fits You?
Compare cities, check the routes, or head back to the full Molokai guide for the bigger picture.