Vacation Rentals by Owner

Overview of Molokai Vacation Rentals

Molokai: Hawaii's Secret Paradise

To many people, the attraction of visiting Hawaii is the glitz and glamour of the many stylish hotels. Indeed, they create a great vibe but sometimes it's nice to experience how the islands felt when there were just beaches, palm trees and tracts of tropical forests. The island of Molokai is one of the least developed of the Hawaiian Islands. The residents are proud of the natural and cultural heritage that has been preserved here, and once you've spent a little while on Molokai, you'll soon appreciate why. Molokai vacation rentals are suitable for the traveler who enjoys nature, prefers to get away from the tourist bustle, and does not need modern conveniences to be entertained. It's a great place for that romantic getaway, anniversary celebration or quiet family holiday where you can spend some quality time together exploring the island's many treasures.

A Home Away From Home at Molokai Condos

Staying in a vacation home on Molokai, you can get a true glimpse of Hawaiian lifestyle. There is seldom any traffic on the roads and a great way to explore is to hire bicycles and ride along the coast. You'll soon find yourself sharing the island greeting of "Aloha" with people you pass by. Most of the homes are fully equipped and all you need to bring along is your groceries which you can stock up on at one of the local stores. Compared to some of the more developed islands, accommodations on Molokai are much more affordable which means you can stretch your travel budget and stay a little longer.

Things to see and do on Molokai

If you arrive at Molokai by boat from Maui, you will disembark at the Kaunakakai Warf which is the main harbor and marina on the island. Aside from regular ferries, many charter companies operate from here. You can book a leisurely sunset cruise or a deep sea fishing excursion. You could also go scuba diving or enjoy watching the humpback whales play in the waves in season. If you happen to be at the wharf on a summer weekend, you can watch the locals in their six-person canoe races. There's a great vibe as the crowds cheer on the paddlers and teams fight it out for victory.

Kalaupapa is a special reserve that was once a leper colony. It is spectacularly beautiful and there are amazing views from the cliffs. Access is restricted but you can join an organized tour and experience the history and natural beauty of the area. Most tours include a hike and mule ride as you explore the various historic sites. Father Damien was a priest who dedicated his life to caring for the lepers and the area is a memorial to his faithful service.

There are several other preserves on Molokai where you can go hiking. Some are on private land and access can only be gained if accompanied by a registered guide on an organized tour. Many people view a hike to the Hipuapua and Moa'ula Falls in the Halawa Valley as a highlight of their trips. The falls cascade down through two large rock pools. You can enjoy a swim in the lower pool but only if you abide by a local custom. Legend has it that the pool is home to a large lizard--a "mo'o." You need to first ask permission to swim by floating a ti leaf on the pool. If it floats, you may swim but if it sinks, it means the mo'o does not want you to swim and you should not enter.

The beaches are one of Molokai's greatest attractions. Beautiful, white palm-fringed sands create the perfect setting for that romantic moment. There are many beachfront properties to choose from when browsing for Molokai lodging, like Kaluakoi oceanfront condos. Imagine sitting on the deck and watching the waves gently roll onto the beach as the sun dips below the horizon.

Getting to Molokai

Hawaii's main airport is Honolulu on the island of Oahu. Molokai is located between Oahu and Maui and just a short ferry ride across the bay. Once on the island, you can get around easily by taking a taxi, renting a car or hiring a bicycle.