Molokai: Creating Your Paradise on the Friendly Isle
Imagine the Hawaii of the past. Unspoiled country settings and untouched beaches. No skyscrapers or stoplights. The chance to truly live as the locals do. That's Molokai today. Molokai is a place where Hawaiian culture thrives. An island where palm trees reaching towards the sky are higher than the tallest buildings, miles and miles of white sand beaches where when I visited a few weeks ago, I was the only person on a three mile piece of coastline that just so happens to be one of the longest beaches in all of Hawai’i. With just under 7000 full time residents and a part of Maui County, Molokai is world of its own.
Molokai is lacking however in many respects. Yes, you cannot find a traffic light, there is no mall, chain restaurants do not exist, and the markets are “super” because of the owner operators and defined by sheer mass or number of aisles.
The communities of Molokai are closely woven and their residents tend to be cautious of any plans for large scale development of the lands. Molokai prides itself on a pace slower than many would be accustomed; daily life is defined by family interaction, sporting such as fishing and hunting, and a clear choice to avoid the stresses that faster moving towns and cities present along with their conveniences.
There is a lot of dialogue written about how Molokai is not nearly as friendly as its moniker portrays, and how the “local” residents are not welcoming to newcomers. From my experiences, I believe that mush of this perception comes from a misalignment of wishes and desires. As noted already, Molokai living is like stepping back in time, you can see and feel the desire to keep it slow. When visitors come and embrace the communities and what the island offers, they are indeed welcomed. When changes are proposed, they are met with pause and resistance.
For a moment, let’s discuss what is being protected.
Kalaupapa, the site of Saint Damien’s mission is in my belief one of the most beautiful places on earth. It is lush, remote, and guarded by the power and forces of nature.
Molokai Ka Hula Piko: Molokai, the Center of Dance
Widely credited with being the birthplace of hula residents celebrate this with a festival each May at Papohaku Beach Park in Kaluakoi on the western tip of the island. Legends tell of the goddess Laka, goddess of hula, who moved from island to island, bringing the gift of dance to all who wished to enjoy it.
Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Hiking, and ohhhh the Whales… In between these adventures, find a palm tree, throw down a blanket, open a book, and ahhhhhhhhh…
Not everyone would be comfortable living on Molokai. Those who do have learned to appreciate true tranquility. They have also accepted the fact that stocking and supplying your home with daily essentials, participating in social activities beyond those noted earlier, and proximity to friend and family living elsewhere; all take a bit more effort; and they wouldn't change it for the world.
Secure your piece of paradise now and create your dream hideaway, holistic retreat, or promote sustainability with a working farm; all on land with pristine views, fresh air, and a cherished connection to Hawaii’s past like no other.
