What to Do in Kaunakakai, Molokai
People who want to experience the rawness of the real Hawaii can certainly set their sights to the Friendly Isle of the Hawaiian archipelago – Molokai. Relatively unspoiled by heavy tourism and commercialization, Molokai has retained most of its charm and culture throughout the years. Since it is also home to many Hawaiian natives, the culture and the atmosphere is decidedly authentic ohana. Fortunately, the island and the people are open to sharing the bounties of Molokai with tourists interested in experiencing the real Hawaii. Though there are no high-rise buildings or even traffic lights in sight, there are a handful of activities that visitors will enjoy doing in Molokai.
The center of the island is Kaunakakai. More of a town than a city, this is where most of the modern comforts and needs can be found. Groceries, souvenir ships, restaurants, and other shops line the main boulevards, providing the basic needs of both tourists and locals. There are a number of lodging establishments in town too, but many can also be found spread out throughout the island. Though life is generally peaceful and quiet in Molokai, there are a number of things that tourists and locals can do.
Fishing
Previously only known to fishermen, Molokai waters house bountiful schools of the largest fishes in the archipelago that even fishermen from the neighboring islands of Maui and Lanai often venture towards Molokai to reel in a few big ones. Though all the major islands have had their own fishing ponds off of their coasts since the early days of civilization, the only ones that yielded bountiful catches (and still do produce up to present) are those in Molokai. Mahimahi, marlin, and ahi that weigh in the hundred pounds are often, but not always, caught in Molokai waters.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
The waters are also generous to the eyes and the senses aside from just the stomach and the palate as people can also go on snorkeling and diving trips in the Molokai seas. In Murphy's Beach, just to the east of Kaunakakai, lies the only barrier reef in Hawaii. Here, people snorkel in relative ease and comfort despite the shallow water. Large populations of colorful sealife such as fish, turtles, and corals are a sight to behold in this 20-mile stretch of reef and beach.
Kayaking
Many resorts offer kayaking to people who want to flex their muscles while reveling in the beauty of the Molokai seas. Kayaks can be rented from resorts and companies offering their services. There are many areas perfect for kayaking. However, always be wary of signs and warnings when the water is too rough or unsuitable. Don't forget to wear the necessary safety gear for water sports when kayaking and doing other water recreational activities.
Sailing
There are relatively few charter boats in Molokai as the people really value the quiet and privacy of Molokai. However, there are a few resorts and companies that offer recreational sailing for tourists and locals alike. The Molokai Sailing Chapter, in operation since 1975, offers touring packages to tourists such as a 2-hour sunset trip as well as scuba-diving tours to some of the most beautiful diving spots in Molokai. Seasonal whale-watching tours are also available for people who want to experience the thrill of getting up close and personal with these majestic sea creatures.
Beachcombing
Molokai has miles and miles of pristine white sands on its coasts and just like its town, Kaunakakai, these beaches are not populated at all. One can spend hours just taking a relaxing walk along the shore, barely coming across anyone and letting the waves lap up at your feet. Though you can take a dive or a swim in the cool blue waters, not all beaches are safe for swimming. Check for warning signs and announcements first before diving headfirst into the water. Sharks, sharp stones, shallow and murky waters, and other hazards may just be a few feet from you so it's always good to stop and look or ask around if it's safe to swim in a certain beach.
Mountain biking and hiking
If you want to take a break from enjoying the sea and the beachside, get ready to bust those legs (and your whole body as well) with hikes and trails in the forests and mountains of Molokai. Kaunakakai is conveniently in the middle of two differing sides of an island where on one end is a lush and green valley just waiting to be explored. Kaulapapa, the former leper colony on Molokai, can be accessed via mule ride, hiking or biking. You can also explore the astounding sea cliffs that shield the former leper colony from the rest of the world, which are now recognized as the tallest ones on earth.
Playing golf
Another popular hang-out for people in Hawaii are its greens, not the tropical forest-types, but the cut and manicured lawns of golf courses. There are many golf-courses in Molokai that locals and visitors frequent. Be posh and get the luxurious experience as you tee off in one of the most beautiful islands of the world. Golf courses in Molokai aren't only perfect for those serious about the sport, but also for those who want to just play for the fun of it. Where else on earth can you play golf and have a wonderful view of the tropical paradise of Lanai in the distance but in Molokai golf courses.
Camping
Though there are moderate choices of lodgings in Kaunakakai and the surrounding areas, Molokai can best be experienced by camping out on beaches and other camping sites in the west end. Pitch your tent and be immersed in the wild as you have an unobstructed view of the star-filled skies. Though it costs nearly next to nothing, camping does have its few letdowns such as no private baths and toilets, but can be considered as adventures in its small way. However, if you want to experience the Hawaiian wilderness without being too far from modern comforts, book a stay at the Beach Village in Molokai Ranch. Here, tentalows give guests the full-experience but also give them access to their own private toilets and running water. However, this kind of camping is expensive, and expect to fork over $100 per night.
Sampling the food
A stay in Molokai won't be complete if you don't get a taste of the local fares and specialties. There are no fastfood joints on the island so you'll most likely get your fill of Hawaiian dishes in restaurants and other food places here. Get your fill of the freshest and largest fish made into the traditional poke salad and enjoy locally grown produce prepared the Molokai way. Fruits such as pineapple, lychee, papaya, and mango are also available fresh on the island. There are also food stuffs here that you may have just taken for granted when you were back home, but just taste way lot better in Molokai. The pizza from the Molokai Pizza Cafe just seems to embody that Molokai taste despite the simple ingredients. Ice cream and shaved ice are extra special especially if they come in exotic flavors such as guava, green tea, or lychee.
Entertainment and dining are also intertwined on this island as the night life also sizzles in Molokai. The Kanemitsu bakery at 10pm is one of the venues for night life in Molokai, not for it's dancing and boisterous patrons, but for the hot bread slathered with cheese, butter, or jelly that they sell as the perfect dessert for many customers who chill out at the back of the bakery. Get a swig of draft beer and experience some authentic Hawaiian fun and entertainment when you head off to the Hula Beach restaurant at the Hotel Molokai.
Chilling out
Molokai is said to be the perfect place for people who want to do nothing. If you want to rest and relax and just go with the flow, Molokai's Kaunakakai can just rock you along slowly in its own pace.