Molokai Beaches, Coastline, Surfing and Water Sports
(Molokai, Hawaii - HI, USA)
The coastline of Molokai stretches for more than 160 km / 100 miles, and whilst much of this is made up of steep cliffs and rocky outcrops, there are plenty of beautiful beaches and expanses of golden sand.
For the biggest selection of beaches, head to the western side of Molokai, although there are still some very appealing sandy spots scattered around the eastern shore, particularly around Halawa Bay, where the snorkelling is quite exceptional.
The beaches of Molokai are known for their natural beauty and seclusion, rarely being busy and often appearing almost deserted.
However, don't expect to ever see any lifeguards when you're swimming in the ocean.
For surfing, the best beaches include those at Kepuhi, Moomomi, Pohakuloa and Waialua.
List showing the top beach parks and resorts
- Halawa Beach - always one of Molokai's most popular beaches for surfing, particularly during the winter months. In the summer season, the waters around Halawa Beach do tend to be calmer and most suitable for swimming. Facilities here are good and include showers, toilets, a car park and a designated area for picnicking
- Kaupoa Beach - residing in Maunaloa, in the Molokai Ranch area and fairly difficult to locate. Due to the presence of large rocks, Kepuhi Beach does not really lend itself to swimming, although the pinkish sand creates a very appealing spot to simply relax and sunbathe. These is a camping site here, should you wish to enjoy the nighttime stars. Many
- Kawakiu Beach - close to Kepuhi Beach and the Kalanianaole Highway, and one of the area's most noteworthy northerly beaches, since its hard-to-reach location generally means that it remains quite deserted, even during the busy holiday season. Nearby are a number of archaeological sites, which may be of interest. The waters are constantly changing depending upon the tide times and also the weather, meaning that it can often be a little rough for swimming. Do hang around for the sunsets, which are famous on Molokai and not to be missed
- Kepuhi Beach - sited at the far end of Kaluakoi Road and lying directly outside of the Kaluakoi Hotel. Kepuhi Beach is quite a rocky area and can features some large waves, meaning that it has become popular with experienced surfers, as well as holiday makers simply looking for a place to top up their tan.
Close by are a selection of oceanfront condominiums, which enjoy some rather spectacular coastal views
- Moomomi Beach - within the Moomomi Preserve and a little difficult to reach. Seasonal sand dunes are a particular highlight, as is the surfing
- One Alii Beach (Onealii) - a lengthy and fairly narrow stretch of fine sand on Molokai's southerly shore. One Alii Beach is sited next to Kaunakakai and is excellent for swimming. Many people come here to picnic, whilst enjoying the coastal views and the shade provided by the coconut palms
- Murphy's Beach Park (Twenty Mile Beach) - close to Waialua Beach and Kaunakakai's Mile Marker 20. Families will find that this is very suitable for children, since the waters tend to be quite calm and sheltered by the barrier reef, and the sand in fine and clean. This park is officially named the George Murphy Beach Park and features mature ironwood trees, three pavilions, picnic tables and barbecue facilities, as well as crystal waters perfect for either snorkelling or scuba diving
- Pohakuloa Beach - a very secluded cove, where you are swim, snorkel and even surf. This spot is regularly frequented by holiday makers and families, and so at times, can become a little busy
- Papohaku Beach - lying on the westerly coast of Molokai, Papohaku Beach can be found in the West End of Kaluakoi and enjoys a very beautiful and natural secluded spot. The white sands stretch for over 5 km / 3 miles, making this amongst the longest beaches on the entire island, and at 90 metres / 300 feet deep, it is also the widest. Therefore, there is plenty of room for everyone without it feeling crowded, whether you want to sunbathe, play games, take a stroll or simply enjoy an afternoon of beachcombing. Facilities include toilets, outdoor showers and a nearby car park
- Pukoo Beach - located in Kaunakakai, close to Mile Marker 16 and on Molokai's south-easterly coastline, overlooking Pukoo Harbor. This actually comprises two adjoining beaches, with nearby coral reefs lending themselves to snorkelling. The eastern beach is the most suitable of the two for those wanting to swim
- Waialua Beach - known for its favourable swimming conditions and small waves suitable for those learning to surf. Waialua Beach is located in the East End area of Kaunakakai, close to the Mile Marker 20 and the Twenty Mile Beach (Murphy's Park)
- Sandy Beach - very popular with families and holiday makers, with fine golden sand, no facilities as such, and calm waters protected by a large reef area. The views of both Lanai and Maui are wonderful on a fine, sunny day