The fifth largest Hawaiian Island, Molokai lies 25 miles east of Oahu across the Kaiwi Channel, and just north of Lanai, separated by the Kalohi Channel. Measuring in at just ten miles wide, Molokai is home to more than 100 miles of shoreline, breathtaking waterfalls, beaches that stretch on for miles, the former leper colonies, the world’s tallest sea cliffs, and a tiny little town you might not have heard of: Maunaloa.
Located on the western side of Molokai is Maunaloa, population 376, not to be confused with the Big Island volcano. It is the only town on the island’s western coast, and it is downright delightful.
Ben Gantz/Flickr
You won’t find much of anything in this tiny little community nestled in the hills above the coast — not even a single traffic light — but if you’re looking for an off the grid spot to spend a few hours during your Molokai vacation, this is it.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
While this town has always been tiny, the closure of the Molokai Ranch in 2008 made it even smaller. The ranch operated a hotel, the Kaupoa Beach Village, the Kaluakoi Golf Course, the Maunaloa gas station, movie theatre, and cattle ranch.
Kaiscapes/Flickr
Ten years later, the charming little plantation town is home to little more than a post office, a small supermarket, an art gallery, and a gift shop.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
The biggest attraction in town is the Big WInd Kite Factory, where visitors will find a unique selection of hand-made kites.
Kristina D.C. Hoeppner/Flickr Here, you can go on a tour of the factory or take a kite flying lesson.
You can also visit nearby La’au Point, a picturesque spot marking the southwestern tip of Molokai.
jomilo75/Flickr Maunaloa is also close to the popular Papohaku and Kapukahehu beaches.
This sleepy little community is as remote as it gets, and is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life — if only for an afternoon.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
What are you waiting for? This tiny little town is just waiting to be explored.
Ben Gantz/Flickr
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
Kaiscapes/Flickr
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Kristina D.C. Hoeppner/Flickr
Here, you can go on a tour of the factory or take a kite flying lesson.
jomilo75/Flickr
Maunaloa is also close to the popular Papohaku and Kapukahehu beaches.
Looking for a bit bigger town to explore on Molokai? That would be Kaunakakai, a charming country town that will take you back in time.
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