You saved. You planned. You packed. And now it’s time to jet off on your Hawaiian vacation adventure. Congratulations! You’re officially in for the time of your life. But in the event that you haven’t planned out your entire trip down to the hour just yet (or have limited time to spend on each of our unique islands), we have a few suggestions on how to spend 36 amazing hours on the beautiful island of Molokai.
Molokai
FRIDAY

8:00 a.m.

1) At only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide, Molokai is one of the smaller islands in the center of the Hawaiian island chain. What is the best way to view this island’s beauty in its entirety? Why, by mule, of course! Kalaupapa Mule Tour offers one-of-a-kind tours to Kalaupapa National Historical Park – allowing you to be a “mule skinner” for a day! Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing and close-toed shoes, pack a bottle of water and a handful of snacks and get ready for a full day of natural wonder and beauty. Space is very limited, so reservations are required (book at least two weeks in advance, closed on Sundays). ($199 per person for guided mule tour; $69 per person for hiking tour; 800-567-7550; 808-567-0802; http://muleride.com)

3:00 p.m.

2) One of the best places in the world for whale watching is the island of Molokai. From December to April every year, an estimated 10,000 – 12,000 whales migrate to Hawaii and give birth to their young – and 75% of those whales can be seen off the coast of Molokai. Whale Watch Molokai offers fantastic boat tours to view these spectacular creatures up close. At just $69 for adults, $45 for children (ages 6 – 12; under 6 is free), you can’t pass up the chance to witness these fascinating creatures at play – and the tour team guarantees whale sightings or your next tour is free! (808-553-5926; http://whalewatchmolokai.com)

6:00 p.m.

3) Head to the Aloha Friday Sunset Celebration at Hula Shores inside Aqua Hotel Molokai for the best nightlife on Molokai. Na Kupuna, Hawaiian for “the elders” entertain guests through music, hula and stories passed down through generations. Enjoy Hawaiian regional cuisine while listening to the live music that plays on through the evening. You won’t want to leave! (808-553-5347; http://www.hotelmolokai.com)

SATURDAY

8:00 a.m

4) Visit the Kaunakakai Farmers Market in “downtown” Kaunakakai. Local artisans, farmers and crafters display a plethora of goods. Walk across the street to Kanemitsu Bakery for a light breakfast (and to locate the store so you’re ready for tonight’s late-night visit!).

11:00 a.m.

5) Start your Saturday off with a morning espresso tour at the Coffees of Hawaii Molokai Coffee Plantation (Hawaii is the only U.S. state to grow coffee). A plantation guide will take you and your party on a walking tour of the 500 acre plantation, offering a step-by-step tour of their sorting facility and processing procedures. And don’t forget to revive yourself at their coffee bar – they’ll provide sandwiches and snacks along the way! $20.00 for adults (http://www.coffeesofhawaii.com/plantations/molokai).

4:30 p.m.

6) Your outdoor excursions aren’t done yet! You must visit the 13^th century Hawaiian Fishponds, one of the Hawaiians’ greatest engineering innovations to this date. Most of the fishponds were built 700-800 years ago from lava boulders and coral that would keep fish inside while allowing the seawater to ebb in and out. The best and most beautiful examples of this ingenious fishing system can be found off the south and southeastern shores of Molokai, where more than 60 fishponds were once in use.

8:00 p.m.

7) A must-eat on the island is the Molokai Pizza Café in Kaunakakai. A wonderful gathering place for friends and family, the café – an island staple – is a local favorite. The best-selling pies are the Molokai (pepperoni and cheese), the Big Island (pepperoni, ham, mushroom, Italian sausage, bacon and vegetables) and the Molokini (plain cheese). If pizza isn’t your thing, feel free to dive into the very popular barbecue baby back rib plate, gourmet hamburgers or fresh fish dinners. (808-553-3288; located in Kahua Center on the old Wharf Road)

10:00p.m.

8) Return to Kanemitsu Bakery! This 80 year old bakery is famous for its hot bread served from the back door of the building late on Saturday night. Around 10 p.m. residents and visitors make their way down the dimly lit alleyway for a Molokai tradition: fresh hot loaves of bread filled with jelly, cream cheese, butter, cinnamon or sugar. Talk story with the residents who will tell you tales of their first memories of visiting the back door of the bakery, back when they were 7 years old and the loaves cost $.50. (79 Ala Malama Avenue, Kaunakakai; 808-553-5855)

10:15 p.m.

9) Return to Aqua Hotel Molokai for the best nightlife on Molokai. Torches flickering under palm trees and tiny fairy lights lining the dining room and neighboring pool area set the stage for some of the most pleasing ambiance on the island. Cheers! (808-553-5347; http://www.hotelmolokai.com)

SUNDAY

9:00 a.m.

10) Molokai has some to some of the most beautiful natural wonder the Hawaiian islands has to offer. Visit the tallest sea cliffs in the world – ranging from 3,600 to 3,900 feet – on the northern coast of the island. The rugged coastline is inaccessible by land, but during the summer months and in good weather (calmer waves), you can charter a boat tour to see these unique beauties.

12:00 p.m.

11) Visit the Kalapaupa Lookout for stunning vistas of Kalaupapa peninsula. Take a short 5 minute walk to landmark Phallic Rock (Kaule o Nanahoa). For generations women have come to this site to pray for fertility.  (Take Highway 470 north from Highway 460; follow to the end of the road, then follow signs to overlook)

IF YOU GO

Stay at Aqua Hotel Molokai, a Kaunakakai landmark located on Kamilola Beach, during your stay on Molokai. South Seas-style bungalows just steps to the water will elevate your vacation to that next level. (866-971-2782; http://www.aquaresorts.com)

Great information about dragon's teeth lava. I like this information and i enjoy reading this.