Where is Molokai, Hawaii, USA

Written and fact-checked by | Updated On: February 09, 2026 06:15 AM ET

Molokai is located in the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific Ocean, between Oahu and Maui. It lies near Lanai and is situated at approximately 21.1444° N latitude and 157.0226° W longitude.

Molokai Location Map

Where is Molokai

Google Map of Molokai, Hawaii, United States

About Molokai

Molokai is located in the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific Ocean and is part of the U.S. state of Hawaii. The island lies east of Oahu and west of Maui, positioned between the islands of Oahu, Lanai, and Maui.

Geographically, Molokai is situated at approximately 21.1444° North latitude and 157.0226° West longitude. It is accessible by air from Honolulu and Maui. Nearby locations include Oahu to the west, Maui to the east, and Lanai to the south, placing Molokai near the center of the Hawaiian island chain.

According to recent U.S. Census data, Molokai has a population of around 7,300 residents. The island covers a total land area of about 260 square miles (673 square kilometers).

Molokai is best known for its preserved natural landscapes, traditional Hawaiian culture, and quiet rural lifestyle. Notable attractions include Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Papohaku Beach, Halawa Valley, and the island’s dramatic sea cliffs.

Molokai Island Facts

Island NameMolokai
Native NamesMolokaʻi (Hawaiian)
CountryUnited States of America
ContinentNorth America
StateHawaii
CountyMaui County
LocationPacific Ocean, between Oʻahu and Maui in the Hawaiian Islands
CoordinatesApprox. 21.13° N, 157.02° W
AreaApproximately 260 sq mi (673 Sq Km)
LengthAbout 38 miles (61 km)
WidthAbout 10 miles (16 km)
Highest PointKamakou - 4,961 ft (1,512 m)
PopulationApprox. 7,300 residents
Administrative StatusIsland of the State of Hawaii
OwnershipState of Hawaii, private, and federal lands
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD)
Calling / Area Code808
ZIP Code96748
Time ZoneHawaii-Aleutian Time Zone - UTC -10 (no daylight saving)
ClimateTropical climate with dry leeward and wet windward regions
GeographyVolcanic island with sea cliffs, rainforests, valleys, and coral reefs
Famous LandmarkKalaupapa Peninsula, sea cliffs (world’s tallest)
Flora & FaunaNative Hawaiian plants, seabirds, monk seals
Tourist ActivitiesHiking, cultural tours, beachgoing, wildlife viewing
AccessMolokai Airport, ferry from Maui (limited), small aircraft
Famous ForPreserved Hawaiian culture, Kalaupapa history, dramatic sea cliffs

Attractions in Molokai, Hawaii

  • Kalaupapa National Historical Park - Historic peninsula known for its dramatic sea cliffs and powerful cultural history.
  • Halawa Valley - Lush valley featuring waterfalls, ancient Hawaiian sites, and guided cultural hikes.
  • Papohaku Beach - One of Hawaii’s largest white-sand beaches, stretching miles along Molokai’s west coast.
  • Phallic Rock (Pohaku o Kauai) - Sacred cultural landmark associated with Hawaiian fertility legends.
  • Molokai Sea Cliffs - Among the tallest sea cliffs in the world, offering breathtaking coastal scenery.
  • Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove - Historic royal coconut grove planted in the 1860s and still standing today.
  • Kawela Stone Fishpond - Ancient Hawaiian aquaculture site showcasing traditional fishpond engineering.
  • Moʻomomi Preserve - Protected coastal area with sand dunes, native plants, and strong cultural significance.
  • Kaluaʻaha Church - One of the oldest churches on Molokai, reflecting the island’s missionary-era history.
  • Murphy’s Beach (Make Horse Beach) - Quiet, scenic beach ideal for picnicking, swimming, and sunset views.

Distance from Molokai to Hawaii Cities

  • Kaunakakai, Molokai - 0 km (0 miles)
  • Honolulu, Oahu - 105 km (65 miles)
  • Kapolei, Oahu - 120 km (75 miles)
  • Kaneohe, Oahu - 110 km (68 miles)
  • Pearl City, Oahu - 115 km (71 miles)
  • Kahului, Maui - 90 km (56 miles)
  • Wailuku, Maui - 95 km (59 miles)
  • Lahaina, Maui - 85 km (53 miles)
  • Hilo, Hawaii Island - 260 km (162 miles)
  • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Island - 230 km (143 miles)