By Land and by Sea
Just because Molokai has a laid-back reputation, don't let that fool you into thinking that action and adventure can't be found here. Island tours, ocean activities, and lots of other adventures can be arranged. Actually, a ride on a mule down to visit historic Kalaupapa is the quintessential Molokai adventure.
There are also a few hiking trails on the island. Robert Smith's Hawaii's Best Hiking Trails (Hawaiian Outdoor Adventure, 1999) lists a few, with descriptions of jaunts in Halawa Valley and up by Kamakou. Or you might like to consult with the local adventure companies.
On the Road
Molokai Off-Road Tours and Taxi can take you on a nice tour of the island. 553-3369
Molokai Outdoors offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from cultural tours to scuba diving to bike tours. out doors@aloha.net
Molokai Ranch has become a hot-spot for mountain biking. Molokai Ranch Outfitters Center can fill you in on the trail details, sell you outdoor paraphernalia, and set you up with a variety of activities. They are located in beautiful downtown Maunaloa. 1-888-729-0059.
The Molokai Ranch can also help you arrange horseback riding and cowboy activities. 1-888-729-0059.
Molokai Mule Ride will take you down to Kalaupapa where you will join Damien Tours for a tour of the peninsula. The trail is steep, but the mules are sure-footed and have been doing this stuff for years. The mules are ready for action Monday through Saturday. You must be 16 years or older to visit Kalaupapa, and the mule ride is limited to 18 visitors a day. The trip includes the mule ride, the tour, and a lunch. It will take most of the day. The stables are found near milepost 5 on Highway 470. For further information and reservations, call www.muleride.com.
Molokai Horse and Wagon Rides will take you in a horsedrawn wagon through mango groves and over to the huge 'Ili'ili'opae Heiau (on private land), followed by a lunch and Hawaiian activities. The rides are conducted Monday through Saturday beginning at 10:30 A.M. They are located between mile markers 15 and 16 on Route 450. The cost for adults is $37. Call them at 558-8132.
TRAVEL TIP
If you'd like to see Molokai from above, check with Paragon Airlines. They can take you on a fun tour of the island. Call www.paragonair.com.
Golf Courses
Molokai has two golf courses. They might not be world-class like those found on some of the other islands, but they'll likely satisfy the determined golf addict.
Kaluakoi Golf Course has 18 holes and is located on the island's west end near the Kaluako'i resort development. The course was closed for awhile, but the first 9 holes were reopened in late 2002 and the others may follow. 552-2739
Ironwood Hills Golf Course at Kualapu'u has 9 holes and is very affordable. 567-6000
Water Adventures
Molokai Fish and Dive Activities is practically a one-stop Molokai adventure warehouse. They can set you up for kayaking, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, special adventures for kids, and even archery! fishanddive@mobettah.net
For a good time on the ocean, Fun Hogs offers deep-sea fishing, whale-watching, and cruises. oceanman@mobettah.net
A Day at the Beach
Molokai has a number of pretty beaches, but there aren't any lifeguards. Most are better for walking and sunbathing rather than swimming. Here are a few listings:
Halawa Valley Beach Park: Down in the famous valley off the end of Route 450. It's probably best not to swim in the murky waters here.
Waialua Beach near the mile 19 marker on Hwy. 450. Good swimming and snorkeling when calm.
Papohaku County Park on the west side is said to be Hawaii's longest white-sand beach.
Dixie Maru Beach on the west side has a nice cove and some snorkeling potential.
Kepuhi Beach: Pretty, and near some resort developments, but not safe for swimming.
