Historic Hawaii: The Stories of Moloka‘i and Lana‘i

Not a lot of places in Hawaii remain as untouched and pristine as Moloka‘i and Lana‘i, the sibling islands. Unlike other islands filled with shoulder-to-shoulder beaches, shopping centers, and high-rises, visitors to Moloka’i and Lana‘i will hear instead the interesting tales of the past of these two islands. 

Visiting these two islands is like stepping back into the rich history of Hawaii, whether it is discovering the rich traditions of the cowboy culture of the islands, traveling into a land of exiles, or listening to stories of the great tsunami that forever changed a valley. 

Moloka‘i

Moloka‘i is best known to be untouched, historic, and rural where vacationers can get a glimpse of the old Hawaii. You won’t see any traffic lights here, so you can expect this island to offer you the seclusion you are looking for in an ultimate getaway and viewed best via a mule or horse.

The island also serves as a home to historic settlements, coconut grooves, ancient fishponds, and one of the largest white sand beaches in Hawaii. It is a one-of-a-kind experience in Hawaii with so many things to keep you busy. 

There are just a few hotels here, with each of them offering an authentic experience that you can never find on other islands. Also often called The Most Hawaiian Island, Moloka‘i is the best place to be if you want to immerse yourself in timeless memories and unique culture.

The longest pier in the state is also located on the island with distinct eateries and boutiques surrounding it. With a population of just 8,000, you will soon be familiar not only with other visitors but even with the locals themselves. 

If you want to disconnect yourself from the rest of the world, Moloka‘i will also make it possible because there are no readily available internet services here. 

Lana‘i

Lana‘i was once called The Philippine Island but it wasn’t too long ago when it became more renowned as The Private Island. It is all thanks to its luxury, seclusion, and absolute isolation from the world.

There are only three high-end resorts on the island, the Hotel Lanai, The Lodge at Koele, and the Resort Lanai at Manele Bay. Although Lana‘i may not be recommended for vacationers who are on a budget, this offers plenty of adventures to business groups and newlyweds craving some bonding experiences. 

Activities including world-class golf, hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding are also available to visitors to the island, with most hotels offering these activities to guests. There is also a ferry in Lana‘i operating between Maui seven days a week.

You can experience and enjoy the island’s different sides that feel like two completely different places. At Central Lana’i, you can see the Dole Park and pineapple fields with cooler temperatures. It also serves as the home to Munro Trail popular for its highest scenic point on the entire island and provides miles of backcountry and hiking trails. 

Another location on the island is South Lana‘i where you can expect warmth and sun, mixing serenity with luxury. This is where you can find incredible landmarks and beaches including Hulopoe Bay, Puu Pehe or Sweetheart Rock, and Kaumalapau Harbor with its unbelievably stunning sunsets. 

If you want an authentic Hawaiian experience, Moloka‘i and Lana‘I are the islands that are worth your visit.