Moloka'i - Hawaii - page 828

From this stretch of coast the hazy outline of Oʻahu is just 26 miles away. Diamond
Head is on the left, Makapuʻu Point on the right. You can, reportedly, see the famous
'green flash' (the green color results from atmospheric refraction of the setting or rising
sun) during sunset here. Another flash of green worth spotting is the green sea turtles that
sometimes pass by.
During summer the West End beaches are easily accessible, magical spots for snorkel-
ing, with clear, flat waters.
To get to the West End beaches, take the turnoff for the Kaluakoi Resort Area at mile
marker 15. Pass the former golf course and follow Pohakuloa Rd south.
Papohaku Beach BEACH
MAP
Straight as a toothpick, the light-hued sands of Papohaku Beach run for an astounding
2.5 miles. The sand is soft and you can often stroll from one end to another without see-
ing another soul.
But just when you think you may have found the ultimate strand, consider a few level-
ing details. That intoxicating surf is also a viper's nest of undertow and unpredict-able
currents. And there's no easy shade. You can bring an umbrella, but the often strong
winds may send it Oʻahu-bound. Those same breezes kick up the fine sand, which can
sting on blustery days. So come here for the solitude, but do so with your eyes figurat-
ively, if not literally, wide open.
There are seven turnoffs from Kaluakoi and Pohakuloa Rds that access the beach and
have parking. The first leads to Papohaku Beach Park MAP , a grassy place with pic-
nic facilities under gnarled ironwood and kiawe trees. Bathroom and shower facilities are
rugged. You can camp here to the left of the restrooms as you face them from the parking
lot, the 'no camping' sign only applies to the area to the right (be sure to read the signs
that explain which areas are soaked by the automatic sprinklers on which days). There
are seldom any other campers here and the view of the stars at night and the sound of
surf is mesmerizing. However, the park can be popular with rowdy folks young and old
and occasionally some try to stay the night. Guards are meant to check permits but you
may be happier here if you are not alone.
NI'IHAU
Nicknamed the 'Forbidden Island,' Niʻihau remains an intriguing mystery due to its
private ownership and unique isolation. Accessible only to its owners, its Native