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.
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