Also known as the enlighten isle, Molokai island is the fifth-largest island in Hawaii.The size of Molokai island is 38 by 10 mi ( 61 by 16 km), with an open area of more than 260 sq mi (673 sq km). It ranks 27th in terms of size among the islands in the United States of America.It is not just large in size but also in terms of culture, history, and landmarks. The island is replete with historical accounts of astern Polynesian colonization and fascinating island legends. This island is untainted by the high skyscrapers or big spotlights, but with the beautiful sea cliffs and the serene ambiance, this island is perfect for those seeking a retreat from nature.Did you know the island color of Molokai is green? With gorgeous greenery enclosing the island’s soaring sea cliffs painted with nature’s brush, the stunning rich nature transforms this island into a slice of green heaven.The Molokai island is located to the east of Oahu and north of Lana, separated by Kalohi Channel. The island has a primarily agrarian economy. The peak of Kamakou at the height of 4,970 ft (1514.8 m), is the highest mountain on the island.Molokai has been given several indigenous names such as ‘Molokai Pule O’o.’ This means land of power payer. Another name given to the island is ‘Molokai Aina Momona.’ This means the land of abundance. Then there is ‘Molokai Nui A Hina.’ This name is taken from Goddess Hina.Molokai is one of the Hawaiian islands that is the least developed. The island does not welcome too many tourists. In 1866 people undergoing leprosy treatment were sent here to quarantine. These quarantine centers were in operation till 1969.Location Of MolokaiMolokai island is located right in the center of the main Hawaiian islands, barely 25 mi (40 km) southeast of Oahu and 8 mi (12.8) from Maui county. Maui can be seen from the south shore of the island. The island is only 10 mi (16 km) wide at its widest point. It is home to the highest sea cliffs in the world. It is considered a part of the South Pacific islands due to its proximity to the south shore of the Pacific. However, it is situated in the North Pacific region.The Hawaiian archipelago covers a very big part of the North Pacific Ocean. The seven islands that form part of the Hawaiian archipelago are Hawai’i, Lana’i, Molokai, O’ahu, Kaho’olawe, Ni’ihau, Maui, and Kaua’i.The island also developed two shield volcanoes are named East Molokai and West Molokai. The West Molokai is the smaller one. The remains of the volcanoes today feature the highest sea cliffs in the world.The main town in Molokai is Kaunakai. There are two very small airports located in Molokai. The Molokai airport is situated in central Molokai. On the northern coast of the island is the Kalaupapa Peninsula which has been formed by a small volcano. Deep valleys intersect the fringing reef on the Northern side of the island.Animal And Plant Species Of MolokaiThe eastern half of the Molokai island is covered with verdant roam native forests. These forests receive 300 in (762 cm) of rain every year. These high elevation forests have extremely diverse endemic flora and fauna. The Nature Conservancy’s Kamakou and Pelekunu valley preserves protect a significant portion of the summit area.There are rare animal species such as horned ghost crab, mourning gecko, spotted boxfish, and more found in Molokai island’s national park. The extremely diverse endemic flora and endemic insects in Molokai is an outcome of the slow colonization of the society’s islands. The area has been in isolation from the world for more than 5 million years.There are more than 250 native Hawaiian plants at the Molokai Forest Reserve. The high elevation forests are also home to rare species of birds. In 1912 Moloka’i Forest Reserve was set up. The prime objective of this reserve is to safeguard and preserve the mountain forests of Molokai. The reserve also ensures the continued availability of water in the area.The north coast has deep steep valleys and the highest sea cliffs, making it highly inaccessible for people to reach. Kumimi Beach Park is a beautiful ecology beach park famous for snorkeling. You will see diverse fish varieties here.The Kalaupapa National Historical Park preserves flora and fauna of Molokai. Several other islands are visible from the shores of Molokaʻi, including Oʻahu from the west shores; Lānaʻi from the south shores, and Maui from the east and south shores.The population of Molokai is more than 7000 people. There are 30 people residing in every sq mi of the island. There are no traffic lights in Molokai as the traffic is very low. The nickname of Molokai is ‘The Friendly Isle,’ ‘Āina Momona.’ In the Hawaiian language, Molokai means spinning ‘water’ or ‘rough water.‘There is a landmark known as ‘Phallic Rock,’ which is believed to help fertility. This is a naturally occurring stone. Legend claims that the God of fertility rests in this rock, and women who visit this place receive the boon of fertility.Age And Owner Details Of MolokaiIn the past, Molokai was primarily inhabited by fishers and taro growers. Approximately 85% of Molokai is under the control of seven owners; just one of them stays on the island. For a very long time till King Kamehameha, Hawaiin armies between Hawai’i, Maui, and O’ahu fought and rendered this big island a waste.It is believed that the indigenous people from the Marquesas Islands were the first settlers in Molokai.Molokai residents do not welcome any economic development and oppose any proposals by the Hawaain government for building condominiums, hotels, golf courses, and more. There has been a bitter feud between activists and the Molokai Ranch, which is the largest landowner on the island, and this led to the closure of the ranch in 2008. This also caused severe loss of jobs and employment.In 2017, Guoco Lesire Ltd, which owns the Molokai Ranch, put 35% of the island for $260 million on the market.Population And Climate Of MolokaiThe population of Molokai is about 7000; thus, it is one of the least populated islands. There are just 30 people per sq mi of the island. Kaunakakai, the largest town on this island, has a population of just 3000 people.The island’s economy is still driven by agriculture, and the primary livelihood on this island is cattle ranching, pineapple production, sugarcane production, and small-scale farming. Molokai has not embraced economic development with open arms. There are vast pockets of underdevelopment seen on the island. Molokai means ‘outer island,’ so it is still a remote place for the world. There was this leper colony set up at the Kalaupapa Peninsula in 1866. It was like a quarantine site for people with poor immunity.The weather of Molokai is wonderful throughout the year. It is balmy, windy, and humid. The best months to visit the famous Papohaku Beach of Molokai are between April to October. The coconut palms on the largest white sand beaches of the island add to the appeal of this beautiful island. People visit the island between December and May for whale watching. The Hawaiian government does not ask for a passport if you are coming from anywhere from the US.The island has the longest fringing reef, towering sea cliffs, and pristine white sand beaches. All this has given a spurt to outdoor adventure activities on the island.
Also known as the enlighten isle, Molokai island is the fifth-largest island in Hawaii.
