Papohaku Beach Park
Maunaloa, HI
Papohaku Beach Park runs nearly three miles down Molokai's west side, one of the longest white sand beaches in the state and almost always empty even on a clear day. Strong currents keep most people out of the water, so this is a beach for walking, camping, and watching the sun drop toward Oahu on the horizon rather than swimming.
The sheer length and emptiness of the sand is the whole draw for locals who want solitude, but strong currents mean almost nobody actually swims here.
How we score beachesBring your own shade and water. There's little out here beyond the beach itself, no food trucks or concessions anywhere close by, and cell service can be spotty.
A free lot sits right at the park entrance off Kaluakoi Road, and it almost never fills since Molokai sees a fraction of the visitors other islands do.
A flat, sandy path leads from the lot through grass and ironwood trees to the beach, an easy walk though soft underfoot.
Winter brings stronger swells and currents that make the water even more dangerous than usual, while summer is calmer, though this beach is never a reliable swimming spot regardless of season.
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