Long before settlers came, the first hula was danced on Molokai’s shores. The island was also a place of refuge for Hawaiians who broke kapu (taboo). In the late 1800s, it was again a safe haven for island outsiders, this time for those afflicted with Hansen's disease.
While close in proximity to both Oahu and Lanai, the people here have long been set apart from others in the Islands. Because of that, they’ve truly been able to make Molokai their own, working hard by the land to build their own society, one bound by religion and the fight to keep its rural nature.
With an eye on its environmental welfare, Molokai has been able to maintain many cultural sites important to understanding Hawaii’s history. It’s easy to be transported back to a simpler time here. Visiting Molokai, you’ll likely find your own personal refuge or retreat as people have for generations.
HISTORICAL SITES ON MOLOKAI:
Kalaupapa National Historic Park
In 1873, Belgium priest Father Damien began to help those banished to the isolated Kalaupapa Peninsula afflicted with Hansen’s disease, or leprosy. He treated patients, built shelters, hospitals, and churches, and gave hope to this forgotten colony. In 1889, Father Damien himself succumbed to Hansen's disease, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness. Learn more
Molokai’s Fishponds
At one time there were 62 fishponds around Molokai’s coast. Today, there are only a handful, all built around the 13th century. The most accessible is Kalokoeli in east Molokai, only six miles east of Kaunakakai. Learn more
Church Row
Alongside route 460 – about five miles southwest of the airport – is a row of churches, all of different denominations, all with primarily native Hawaiian congregations. Examine their unique missionary style architecture, which dates back to the late 18th century. Learn more
Kamehameha V House
On the western side of the Kaunakakai Wharf are the stone foundations of the Kamehameha V house, called Malama.
