Plan & Book
Molokai rewards those who prepare. Since options are limited and prices are higher than on the mainland or larger islands, pack smart to stay comfortable and self-sufficient.
Travel Essentials
• Real ID / Passport + boarding passes
• Travel insurance docs / copies of prescriptions
• Credit card + small cash bills (fruit stands, small shops)
Clothing & Comfort (check weather for your stay)
• Light rain jacket / umbrella (esp. Nov–Mar)
• Comfortable walking shoes & sandals
• Swimsuits & beachwear
• Light sweater for cool evenings
• Sun hat & polarized sunglasses
Health & Personal Care
• Medications (bring enough for your stay)
• Toiletries
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Bug spray / natural repellent
Thoughtful packing equals fewer errands and more time soaking in the magic of Molokai.
Adventure & Outdoor Gear
• Binoculars (whale watching, birding, stargazing)
• Snorkel gear & water shoes
• Lightweight backpack for day trips
• Flashlight or headlamp (Kanemitsu Bakery run, night strolls)
Food & Drinks (check airline limits)
• Dry goods, coffee, packaged foods
• Reusable water bottles & food containers
• Reusable shopping bags
• Spices or condiments you prefer
(Perishables are available locally, or ship with lead time from Amazon / Walmart / Target to
255 Kepuhi Place Unit 8A (or 8B)
Maunaloa, Hawaii 96770
Extras
• Portable phone charger / camera
• Books, cards, or small games (quiet evenings)
• Floats / beach toys for kids
Support local, but plan ahead.
No commercial airline hubs or ferry service. The only access is by air on small inter-island carriers.
Airline:
• Mokulele Airlines — direct flights from Oahu (HNL) and Maui (OGG)
• Arrives at Molokai Airport (MKK)
Pro Tips:
• Book early, especially around holidays and whale season
• Keep checked bags light due to smaller aircraft
• Allow for possible delays due to weather
• When traveling between Hawaiian Islands, you must declare all fruits, plants, shells, and natural items—they may be restricted or require inspection.
• Coral (even dead pieces) is strictly protected and cannot be taken or transported.
🚘 A car is essential for enjoying the island freely.
Primary Option:
Alamo Rent A Car – Molokai Airport
Airport Loop Rd, Hoʻolehua, HI
📞 +1 (808) 567-6381
🌐 alamo.com
Other Options:
• Mobettah Car Rentals (local company)
• Turo (peer-to-peer car sharing)
• Molokai Outdoors (also offers tours)
Important: Gas stations are sparse. Top off before long drives.
🌦️ Seasonal Weather Overview
• Dry Season: April – September (warm, breezy, ideal beach weather in July & August)
• Rainy Season: October – March (lush landscapes, cooler evenings)
• Whale Watching Season: December 15 – April 1 (peaks Jan.—Mar.)
• Best Swimming Conditions: Summertime (beware anytime there is high surf "white water") — Pool open year round
Temperatures:
• Days: 75–85°F
• Nights: 60–70°F
• Ocean: 77–82°F year-round
Island rhythms are gentle and slow. Come ready to match the pace.
• Do not disturb wildlife (monk seals, turtles, deer, birds)
• Stay 50–150 feet from monk seals at all times (especially those with pups)
• Respect kapu (sacred) areas and burial grounds
• Dress modestly in town
• Always ask permission before photographing locals or cultural events
• Quiet hours are 8PM to 10AM
Practice aloha and kuleana (shared responsibility).
📶 Cell coverage can be spotty—download offline maps
🗺️ GPS may be unreliable—stick to known roads
💧 Drink bottled or filtered water when hiking
🍴 Dine early—many restaurants close by 7 or 8 PM
🎁 Bring small gifts if engaging with local hosts or elders
Ready to slow down and reconnect?
Let the island do the rest.
Book Now