Say Aloha to Friendly Molokai

Certainly not the most high-profile Hawaiian island but perhaps the most authentic, Molokai has more wide open spaces than tourist attractions, no tall buildings and an unshakable sense of peace and quiet. Just a quick warning: it’ll be easy to relax and difficult to tear yourself away from this wilder-than-average destination.

Floating somewhere between Maui and Oahu, Molokai has changed very little over the years – good news for nature lovers and those ready for the chance to escape the din of the crowd. The north shore is known for its dramatic sea cliffs, the historic site Kalaupapa has quite an interesting past and the beaches are everything you would hope them to be. Whether by bike or by mule, by foot or by car, you’ll surely want to make an effort to become acquainted with a place that, in spite of its far-flung qualities and untamed landscape, is aptly called “The Friendly Isle.”

Wave to the locals as you cross paths but don’t be surprised if hours go by without revealing another soul. Even though it’s famous for being the longest white sand beach in Hawaii, Papohaku is often delightfully deserted. Kepuhi is a little more likely to be busy, except during the winter when the seas can be rough. At this time of year, choose Sandy Beach or Murphy’s Beach, which are protected by a barrier reef and generally pretty safe.

Molokai is easily accessible by ferry from Maui so it makes a fine side trip, but entertain the possibility of choosing a romantic beach house or condo on this serene isle and making a different kind of vacation for yourself. It’s not the most obvious choice, but Molokai is magnificent.