Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Overview

Kalaupapa National Historical Park is a significant historical site on the island of Molokai, Hawaii. It preserves the history of a former leprosy settlement and offers stunning landscapes and cultural insights.

It serves as a reminder of the history of leprosy in Hawaii and the resilience of the patients who lived in isolation.

Historical Site Cultural Site Nature Park

Location

Address

Kalaupapa, Molokai, Hawaii

Neighborhood: Kalaupapa Peninsula

Coordinates

21.120300, -156.981400

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$0 (guided tours required)

Children

$0 (guided tours required)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild and pleasant

• spring flowers
• lush greenery

summer

hot and sunny

• extended daylight hours

autumn

cool and comfortable

• fall colors
• clear skies

winter

cool and occasionally rainy

• holiday decorations
• cooler weather

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Reservations required
Bring ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water hiking shoes reservation confirmation

seasonal

light jacket rain gear

not allowed

pets drones large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• steep trails, high cliffs

Medical facilities: first aid available, nearest hospital 30 miles away

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $0 (guided tours required)

guided tour $75

parking $5

food $15

souvenirs $10-$50

Dress Code

comfortable and modest clothing, hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• at least 2 weeks in advance
• official website or authorized tour operators
• 48 hours notice for refund
• guided tours with pre-booking

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Kalaupapa NHP Official App

Size: 60 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Molokai Airport (MKK)

Distance: 15 miles

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

$50 30 min

public_transport

$5 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 10 miles

mule ride

$75 1 hour

sea plane

$150 15 min

sea plane

$175 30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Deep historical significance and natural beauty

Historical Significance: Home to the former leprosy settlement, a poignant chapter in Hawaiian history

Insider Tips

Free entry for early morning guided tours
Best food at the visitor center cafe

Local Recommendations

• Try local Hawaiian food at the visitor center
• Ask for guide John for in-depth history

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Aloha

thank_you Mahalo

where_is Ia 'oe 'ai 'āina?

how_much Pehea ke 'ai?

beautiful Nani

ticket Ho'okomo

Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Japanese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Kalawao Trail

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the dramatic cliffs and ocean views

Result: Breathtaking landscapes

#Kalaupapa #Molokai #Hawaii

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, trails

prohibited areas inside historical buildings, sacred sites

flash photography not allowed inside buildings

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Molokai Plumeria Farm