North Molokai

The Kalaupapa Lookout is located in Pala'au State Park down a short trail that overlooks the dramatic north coast of Molokai. These cliffs are the world's highest sea cliffs reaching 1700 feet. At the foot of the pali is the isolated Kalaupapa Peninsula, a 4 ½ square mile lava flow from the Kauhako Crater.

This peninsula is the site of the infamous Kalaupapa Leper Colony, now the Kalaupapa National Historical Park. Informational plaques located at the overlook tell a brief history of the colony below.

Only official tours, such as the Molokai Mule Ride or Damien Tours, are allowed to bring visitors into the National Park as permits are required by the state. You can hike, ride, or fly down to Kalaupapa.

The 3 mile trail, with 26 switchbacks, was hand-carved in 1907 by Manuel Farinha, a Portuguese immigrant, who hung from ropes draped over the cliff.

Useful Information:

DIRECTIONS:
Take Highway 470 (Kalae Highway) north from Highway 460. Go all the way to the end of the road. Follow the signs down the short path to the overlook.

Be sure to read all the signs at the lookout to learn the interesting history of Kalaupapa.