For a more complete experience, please view this page from within the Flash publication of Art & Culture on Maui Magazine.For a more complete experience, please view this page from within the Flash publication of Art & Culture on Maui Magazine.
the Hawaiian Island chain as "The Friendly Isle" with yourself on the receiving end of a curious glance, it's most likely that one of the 7,500 residents don't recognize you. Yet it's nearly always followed with a warm "Aloha, welcome to Moloka`i." mile rock, with its solitary traffi c light, a handful of stop signs and locals who encourage the "Slow down, you're on Moloka`i" sentiment. spiritual leaders) as well as the home of hula, exiled law-breakers and those with an incurable affl iction, Moloka`i is now an adventurer's dreamland. From pine forests that butt the tallest sea cliffs in the world, to horse pastures, coconut palmed beaches and grassy knolls, you can fi nd a bit of each on this tiny tropical sanctuary. Loa Highway), is a sleepy cowboy-esque town with a handful of gems. Moloka`i Fish and Dive has every piece of ocean or land equipment you need for an adrenaline rush. Whether it's a SCUBA tank, spear or fi shing rod, snorkel gear, mountain bike or kayak, it's all there. the top adventure guides on island. Mosey up to the counter and tell the owners what you're looking to do on Moloka`i. They're eager to get the ball rolling on what is sure to be an unforgettable Moloka`i experience. Remember, Moloka`i is home to some of the world's best fi shing, diving and snorkeling on the entire island chain. On nearly every excursion you can be assured you won't see another two-footed soul. fi shponds at Kiowea Beach Park are an ideal place to spend the sunrise or sunset hours. The coconut trees at neighboring Kapuaiwa Coconut Beach Park were planted during King Kamehameha in the car, and ask a local how to husk it properly. It's an experience worth its weight in liquid coconut. Kalaupapa and Pala`au State Park. Two miles in, stop at the corner of Rt. 470 and Farrington Hwy/Rt. 480 for a "fueling" at the Coffees of Hawaii Moloka`i Plantation. The outside "café" is buzzing with farmers and business folk in the morning hours, and a meeting ground for artists and in-the-know caffeine-junkies all afternoon. Inside the shop, brave the cream. Connected to the plantation is a wonderful gift shop cum art gallery-- perhaps the best place on Moloka`i to purchase local-made art (sculptures, jewelry, paintings and wood carvings), books, coffee paraphernalia and gifts. manageable trails, and glorious vistas of the sea--hundreds of feet below. After exploring the spruce- and pine-laden trails, consider a hike or mule ride down the cliff-side switchback trail that leads to the village of Kalaupapa. Famously the location where revered minister Father Damien committed his time--and life--to living with the 19th century leper colony, a giant cross commemorates where Damien was laid to rest. the coffee plantation, where just past you will fi nd a hidden culinary gem unmatched in Maui County. Lunch at the Kualapu`u Cookhouse is a tease of what's offered in the evenings at this authentic Hawaiian eatery. Don't let the simple décor fool you: The kitchen here churns out homemade guava BBQ sauce (to slather on baby back ribs) and maple syrup-glazed lamb, in addition to fresh catch prepared a number of ways. Farm, in Ho`olehua. Learn how to "crack a Mac" and take a few boxes for the road. closed Moloka`i Ranch, is Jonathan and a Moloka`i institution. With the purchase of one of Jonathan's custom made kites, he'll take you out to the picturesque lawn fronting the shop, and share some nautical secrets to send you soaring. Inside the eclectic shop, his wife sells a wild assortment of crafts and jewelry made by local artisans. Village accommodations has yet to be determined, rest assured that there are still overnight options on "The Friendly Isle." First, for those looking to "rough it" you can contact the Maui Visitor's Bureau and inquire about camping permits across the island. A multitude of secluded, private beaches, soft, covered forests and open fi elds would make for a glorious camping experience. island. They can be found at the helpful Maui Accommodations Guide, which you can fi nd out more information about and link to at www.BonHawaii.com. This option provides affordable stays with the fl exibility of having your own kitchen, laundry and more. It's the true way to feel like a Molokaian! found in the Maui Accommodations Guide, as well as at www.Molokai- Vacation-Rental.net. For those looking for the ultimate in luxury and seclusion, yet with the amenities of upscale services (like onsite masseuse and chef), this is the option for you. site for those with a need to be "in the know" on Hawai'i's breaking travel, culinary, lifestyle and wellness trends. Publisher (and international travel expert) Brian Berusch shares engaging articles and fun interviews with Hawaii's top players, through a unique style of writing. Visitwww.BonHawaii.com to explore the inside scoop on Hawaii's hottest happenings. the cliff-side switchback trail. |