Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
on the water and offers A-frame accommodations in a resort-type setting. It offers a swim-
ming pool and activities desk, free Wi-Fi, live entertainment on select evenings, and all
rooms have a refrigerator and microwave. The rooms have been refurbished numerous
times. Breakfast is complimentary. This is a convenient, comfortable, and relaxing option
for those who are more comfortable in a semi-resort setting. Rates vary depending on room
size and season.
The
Moloka'i Shores
is a condominium complex with a large number of individually
owned units as well as others managed by
Castle Resorts
(808/553-5944). Set on a tiny
sliver of a beach, the three-story complex has a large open courtyard area with barbecue
facilities and a swimming pool. The trade winds here are pronounced in the afternoon, and
the swimming out front is marginal at best, but this is another convenient and comfortable
option for basing yourself toward the center of the island. Rates range from $190-250 for
one- and two-bedroom units.
Camping
Along the shoreline, camping is available at
One Ali'i Beach Park
for a $3/person permit
available from the Parks and Recreation office in Kaunakakai (808/553-3204). The beach
here is too shallow for swimming, however, and I would only camp here if it were an emer-
gency.
A better option for camping is at
Pala'au State Park
in the cool and forested uplands
of Kala'e. From here you can walk to such sights as the Kalaupapa Overlook or the densely
forested Phallic Rock, or even wake up early to make the trek to the Kalaupapa Peninsula
to meet up with a guided tour. Permits are available by either calling the State Parks office
(808/984-8109) or by making a reservation online at
www.camping.ehawaii.gov
. You will
need to create a free account, and rates are $18/night for nonresidents and $12/night for
Hawai'i residents.
If you want to get off the grid and plan on doing some hiking in the Moloka'i
Forest Reserve, the same State Park permits can also be obtained for
Waikolu
camp-
ground. A grassy area with a small pavilion, this is a cool and misty mountain retreat
where you're nearly sure to have the place all to yourself. For reservations, visit
