Pāpōhaku Beach, Sandy beach in West Molokai, United States.
Pāpōhaku is a beach on Molokai's western shore with an expansive sandy area and clear Pacific waters. The site spans several miles and features picnic tables, barbecue grills, and camping facilities for visitors.
The beach was once part of the Kalaupapa region, established as a settlement in the 1800s for people with Hansen's disease. This history shaped the area and its cultural meaning for the Hawaiian community.
The name Pāpōhaku comes from Hawaiian words meaning "sand pad," showing how native people named places based on what they saw. Families and locals still gather here for traditional gatherings and time together.
The beach is easy to reach and has basic facilities like restrooms and parking for visitors. Swimming requires caution since there are no lifeguards on duty and conditions can be rough.
The beach ranks among the longest stretches of white sand in the Hawaiian islands and remains less crowded than other popular spots. Its remote location keeps it quieter and more peaceful than nearby alternatives.
Location: Maui County
GPS coordinates: 21.16778,-157.26028
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:08
The Hawaiian Islands offer beaches with white, black, and red sand, formed through volcanic activity and coral erosion. Coastal areas display tide pools, sea caves, and lava formations. Inland, hiking trails lead through rainforest valleys to waterfalls and historic Heiau temples, which served as ceremonial sites for the Polynesian inhabitants. The volcanic geology has created lava tubes, craters, and calderas that are now accessible to visitors. Botanical gardens preserve native plant species, while archaeological sites like ancient settlements and petroglyph fields provide insights into pre-European history. The islands also feature limestone caves with marine fossils and reefs suitable for snorkeling.
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