How to Find Hotels in Molokai, Hawaii

Known as "The Friendly Island," Molokai is one of the lesser known and more secluded islands of Hawaii. Sparsely developed, Molokai is proud of its "Old Hawaii" feel and slower pace of life. Visitors travel to Molokai primarily for its natural beauty and remote ambiance.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access

Know Your Destination

1. Learn some local information. Molokai is also known as the "Most Hawaiian Island" because it has the highest percentage of native Hawaiian residents of all of the tourist islands in Hawaii.

2. Don't expect the lap of luxury at every hotel. Much of the charm of Molokai is from its remoteness and laid-back feel. You aren't going to find five-star resorts with personal butlers here.

Find Transportation

3. Fly to Molokai. The most popular way to get to Molokai is by air from Oahu and Maui. Aloha Island Air, Commercial Flyer, Molokai Air Shuttle, Hawaiian Airlines, Pacific Wings and Paragon Airlines all fly regular flights to Hoolehua Molokai Airport.

4. Consider taking the ferry. Ferry service to and from Maui is available twice a day. The ferry only takes about 1 1/2 hours and costs less than $43 for an adult fare.

Explore Hotels and Accommodations

5. To book accommodations, contact Molokai Visitors Association at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

6. Stay in Kaunakakai for affordable accommodations. This is the main town on the island, and it is centrally located and a short drive from Molokai Airport. There are no traffic lights in Kaunakakai and buildings stand no higher than a coconut tree. Rooms here start a $135 per night in the regular season and go up to $190 per night.

7. Rent a condo or vacation home. One way to experience Molokai like a native Hawaiian is by avoiding the resort lifestyle. A one-bedroom condo can be found at about $100 to $150 per night in the high season.

8. Pitch your tent. There are several different camping opportunities on Molokai, but you can score free accommodations if you camp in the Palaau State Park. The park has all of the basic camping staples like picnic tables, fresh water and some grills. Be sure to get a permit, however, by contacting the Department of Parks and Recreation on Maui accessible through the state website (see resources).

9. Choose a luxury hotel for upscale accommodations. Prices start from $245 for a standard room and $290 for a suite.

Tips & Warnings

• A women who spends the night at "Phallic Rock" in Palaau State Park may leave pregnant, according to legend.