Additional Coverage:
- I flew to the ‘least touristy’ island in Hawaii on a 9-passenger plane. I’d only suggest this trip to certain travelers. (businessinsider.com)
Molokai: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Hawaiian Adventure for the Daring Traveler
Maui Resident Takes Turbulent Commuter Flight to Explore Hawaii’s “Least Touristy” Island
For those seeking an authentic, unplugged Hawaiian experience far from the bustling resorts and crowded beaches, the island of Molokai beckons. Often dubbed Hawaii’s “least touristy” island, Molokai offers a glimpse into a slower, more community-centered way of life, with its agricultural landscapes, cultural preservation efforts, and limited visitor infrastructure. However, as one seasoned Maui resident recently discovered, reaching this secluded paradise is an adventure in itself, accessible only via a small, turbulent commuter plane.
Our intrepid reporter, a lifelong resident of Maui with extensive experience exploring the Hawaiian islands, recently embarked on a journey to Molokai, one of three populated islands within Maui County. Despite years of island hopping, Molokai remained uncharted territory until now.
This hidden gem hosts a mere 30,000 visitors annually, a stark contrast to the millions who flock to other Hawaiian destinations. With a population of just 7,400, Molokai’s charm lies in its dedication to agriculture and the preservation of its rural character.
You won’t find any big-box resorts, vibrant nightlife, or even permanent traffic lights here. The tight-knit community has historically resisted large-scale tourism, prioritizing its unique way of life.
Until 2016, a ferry service from Lahaina provided a more relaxed travel option to Molokai. However, due to declining ridership and increased competition from commuter air travel, the service was discontinued. Today, small commuter planes are the sole aerial gateway to the island.
The reporter secured a round-trip ticket from Maui for $190, a 20-minute flight that quickly revealed why this journey isn’t for everyone. Arriving at the airport a mere 15 minutes before the scheduled departure, the reporter, familiar with Mokulele Airlines’ efficient operations, knew the drill: quick check-in, no security checkpoint, and group boarding directly to the plane.
A key factor in commuter plane travel is weight distribution. All baggage is weighed at check-in, and passengers are asked to step on a scale with their carry-on items to ensure accurate measurements. Seating assignments are then meticulously arranged to maintain the safest weight distribution onboard.
In a charmingly Hawaiian twist, the reporter encountered a childhood friend in the small terminal, heading to Molokai to visit her retired parents. Her friend, a frequent visitor, shared her love for Molokai’s ability to facilitate a complete unplugging, often putting her phone on airplane mode – not that reliable reception is a given on the island anyway.
The originally scheduled 9:50 a.m. flight was delayed to 10:55 a.m., with boarding commencing a little after 11 a.m. The reason for the change remained unclear, potentially due to weather conditions or a consolidation of flights to ensure optimal passenger weight.
The nine-seater plane carried only seven occupants: six humans and, much to the reporter’s delight, a dog. Most passengers appeared to be local Hawaii residents, with one even carrying boxes of Krispy Kreme doughnuts, a popular treat for inter-island visitors since Maui boasts the state’s only location of the famous bakery.
Despite the small size of the aircraft, the reporter, at 5’3″, found the seat surprisingly spacious with ample legroom. The seat-back pocket even managed to accommodate a large water bottle, though it was accidentally left behind.
The plane began to taxi at 11:15 a.m., offering scenic views of palm trees and the West Maui Mountains, a beautiful prelude to the natural splendor awaiting on Molokai. Shortly after takeoff, the stunning coastline of Maui’s North Shore came into view, showcasing expansive beaches like Baldwin Beach.
As the plane looped around West Maui, the reporter initially wondered if the left side of the plane offered superior views. However, as Molokai emerged on the horizon, it became clear that the right side provided the optimal perspective of the destination.
The descent into Molokai was breathtaking, revealing a vibrant gradient of ocean colors and majestic mountains reminiscent of Maui. This shared geological heritage is no coincidence, as Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe once formed a single landmass called Maui Nui before erosion and rising sea levels separated them.
The flight also provided aerial views of Molokai’s extensive reef system, one of the longest fringing reefs in the US, spanning approximately 30 miles. The turquoise reef flats and darker blue channels created a mesmerizing patchwork below. Ancient Hawaiian fishponds, including the nationally recognized Ualapue Fishpond, were also visible along the island’s south shore, showcasing well-preserved traditional engineering.
As the plane drew closer, agricultural lands, water-filled patches, and Maui County’s iconic red dirt dominated the landscape. Agriculture is a cornerstone of Molokai’s economy, with lands primarily dedicated to cattle grazing and cultivating crops like coffee, fruits, and vegetables.
The descent, however, brought a significant increase in turbulence, a common occurrence with smaller aircraft. The reporter cautioned that this journey might be challenging for nervous flyers, as the bumps intensified significantly in the final minutes of the flight.
After 20 minutes in the air, the plane touched down on Molokai at 11:35 a.m. The small terminal and ironwood trees lining the property evoked a familiar sense of home, reminiscent of Kapalua. Baggage claim, a simple elongated bench, underscored the airport’s minimalist charm.
Exploring the entire Molokai Airport, which spans a few hundred acres with only two runways, took about 25 minutes. The reporter discovered local art displays, a self-service activity counter for Molokai Outdoors, Aunty’s Leis & Little Things gift shop, and a wall of informative brochures, including an excellent guide from the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
Ultimately, this unique flight experience is best suited for a specific type of traveler. Those who can tolerate turbulence – children and nervous flyers may find it particularly challenging – and those seeking an off-grid adventure will appreciate the journey. While the planes are ADA accessible, seat assignments based on weight distribution rather than proximity to the door could pose challenges for travelers with mobility concerns.
Molokai’s allure lies in its deliberate resistance to mass tourism, preserving a slower, community-focused way of life. With limited nightlife, resort amenities, and high-end dining, it’s an island meant for those looking to truly unplug, connect with nature, and embrace solitude. The spotty reception further encourages a digital detox, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the island’s tranquility.
“I was excited to explore the island and get a taste of it myself,” the reporter concluded, promising more insights into Molokai’s hidden wonders in future dispatches. For the adventurous soul, Molokai offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the authentic heart of Hawaii, one turbulent flight and breathtaking view at a time.