Hotel Molokai: Where to Stay in Molokai

If you are looking for an authentic Hawaiian getaway, Molokai is an excellent choice. Forget about skyscrapers and crowded resorts. Molokai is ideal for those who want to enjoy the peaceful beauty of an island holiday.

There are only a few different types of accommodation on Molokai so if you prefer staying in a hotel, then Hotel Molokai will be your preferred choice for your Hawaiian vacation.

Accommodations on Molokai

The island of Molokai is divided up into three main sections, east, west, and central.

Related: The Best Things to do in Molokai

Molokai East

The most populated area of Molokai is the eastern part of the island. This is the area that has the most options for rental and vacation properties. You can choose to stay someplace where you are in the hub of activity or remote and secluded.

Vacation Rentals on Molokai East

Just 1.5 miles east of Kaunakakai is Molokai Shores. These oceanfront condos are peaceful and secluded. The island of Lanai is visible from four beautifully landscaped acres, all of which feature spectacular views of the channel to Lana’i.

Wavecrest Condominiums, which are fully equipped and sit 13 miles east of Kaunakakai town on five tropical acres, include a swimming pool, a poolside cabana, and two tennis courts.

If you are looking for family accommodations with kids or a party, then Dunbar Beachfront Cottages will suit you well. They are located in a quiet area, but you have modern amenities, like tv, internet, a full kitchen, and laundry.

These cottages can sleep four people, and you can enjoy your very own patch of the beach. They are a cash-only facility, and you must book for at least three nights. There will also be a cleaning fee.

Molokai Beach House is also a great place for families or larger parties. Three-night minimum, full amenities like internet and laundry, and a large yard on the ocean. 

Pu‘u O Hoku Ranch is a working ranch with three cottages and a lodge. It’s remote, and that’s the way everyone likes it. There is a beautiful beach and fantastic views, but don’t expect to access the internet, this area is unplugged.

There is a small store, and the cottages are one, two, or four bedrooms. These are not all close together and all come with full kitchens and easy access to the beach.

Molokai West

molokai beach with palm trees

Vacation Rentals on Molokai West

The west portion of Molokai is a bit drier than the east, and it is remote and far from everything. Everything except glorious beaches and the sun. There are a few condos in the area.

Ke Nani Kai is the largest complex in this area. There are suites for rent depending on availability, time-shares, and one or two-bedroom suites, a pool, and an easy walk to the beach.

I have stayed in Ke Nani Kai many times over the last decade as my husband’s family had owned a condo there since the early 90’s. There is a pool and hot tub, tennis court and BBQ for guest use.

It is very important to note that for any families planning on staying at Ke Nani Kai, children must be supervised at all times in the pool and are not allowed to use the hot tub unless they are 16 years of age or older.

There is also the Paniolo Hale, with similar amenities with this complex closer to the beach. Some units require a longer commitment than three days, and all are reasonably priced.

Kaluakoi Villas, also known as Kepuhi Beach Resort offers a perfect escape with fully equipped studios and one-bedroom condos that provide sunset views of the beautiful beach.

The beautiful kaluakoi villas in Molokai Hawaii
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Mike Brake

Central Molokai

Hotel Molokai Kaunakakai

pool and ocean hotel molokai

Located on Kamiloloa beach is Hotel Molokai, made up of Polynesian-style bungalows. More of a village than what you might traditionally think of a hotel, these rooms come with internet,, and some have a kitchenette. 

The Hotel Molokai is over 50 years old, and you can expect the old-world charm and modern conveniences. But people don’t come for the amenities, they come for the beauty of the island. 

After a long day of discovering the island or doing as little as possible, enjoy Hiro’s Ohana Grill, the hotel’s famous restaurant. Ohana means family, and that’s exactly what you get, a glorious meal and the Hiro family’s hospitality.

With ocean views where you can relax with your meal and watch the sun go down. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can also get yours to go. Whatever meal you choose, you can bet it’s inspired by this Hawaiian island.

Common Questions about Hotel Molokai

If you are planning a trip to Molokai or the Hotel Molokai, here are a few common questions to help you navigate your way.

How do we get to Hotel Molokai from the airport?

You can book a shuttle from the airport, rent a car, or hire a taxi.

What time does the bar close at Hotel Molokai?

The Hiro’s Family grill closes at 8:30 pm and on Monday.

How much is a taxi from Molokai airport to Hotel Molokai?

Expect to pay anywhere from $30-$50 for a taxi.

RELATED: The Best Things to do in Molokai

Hotel Molokai Reviews

Here are a few excerpts from people who have stayed in Hotel Molokai.

  • General Manager is a great asset to the hotel, and his genuine attention to guests is exceptional
  • I recommend staying at Hotel Molokai 100% and will return here as my ‘go-to’ place for accommodations on the Friendly Isle.
  • If you want to experience the Aloha spirit from years past, then you will find it here
  • The staff is friendly, warm, and welcoming. Views from the hotel grounds are beautiful

Molokai FAQ

Are tourists allowed on Molokai?

Tourists are allowed and welcome, but it’s not for everyone. Molokai is the fifth-largest island but not meant to be a large tourist attraction. The people who visit want peace and quiet, where they can get away from it all.

How do I get from Maui to Molokai?

There used to be a ferry service which was a very popular day trip. Now, you can only get from Maui to Molokai by plane. Molokai has one airport and direct flights arrive in Molokai Airport from both of the airports on Maui: Kahului Airport and Kapalua Airport. 

Is there cell service on Molokai?

There is cell service but not in all areas. Some hotels, condos or other rental properties will have landline service, The same goes for the internet. Molokai is not a place to go if you want to be glued to your phone.

What happened to the Sheraton Hotel on Molokai?

The Sheraton Hotel was run by the Sheraton chain until it was sold to a Japanese company in the 1990s. They struggled for several years and eventually shut down the hotel and the golf course in 2001. Molokai Ranch bought the property in 2002 and reopened the golf course in 2004. Unfortunately, Molokai Properties, the Molokai Ranch parent company, abruptly ceased all operations and the hotel was closed again. You can read about the Molokai Ranch history here.

Final Thoughts on Hotel Molokai

There are only a few types of accommodations on Molokai and only one hotel. Most people come to Molokai to get away from the hustle and bustle of Maui or Oahu and enjoy the solitude that the island provides.

If you are looking to stay in a hotel on Molokai during your vacation, why not check out the Hotel Molokai for yourself? It’s cozy, comfortable, and not your typical large overflowing hotel scene. Relax, unwind, and enjoy the waves, the sand, and the sun.

This post can also be viewed on Google web stories as Where to Stay in Molokai.

Source: https://savoteur.com/hotel-molokai-where-to-stay-in-molokai/

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