Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Kalaupapa National Historical Park, located on the remote island of Molokai, Hawaii, is a place of great historical significance. This park is situated on the Kalaupapa Peninsula, which is surrounded by towering sea cliffs on three sides, creating a breathtaking and secluded environment.

The historical background of Kalaupapa National Historical Park dates back to the mid-19th century when it served as a quarantine settlement for individuals suffering from leprosy, now known as Hansen's disease. From 1866 until 1969, an estimated 8,000 individuals with the disease were sent to live in isolation on the peninsula. The park preserves the memories of these individuals and serves as a reminder of the injustices they faced.

Visitors to Kalaupapa National Historical Park have the opportunity to learn about the lives and struggles of the residents who were banished there. The park features a visitor center where informative exhibits and displays provide insight into the history of the settlement and its residents. Ranger-guided tours are also available, offering a more in-depth exploration of the area.

In addition to the historical aspects, visitors can also enjoy the park's natural beauty. The scenic surroundings, with dramatic cliffs and stunning ocean views, make it a perfect place for hiking and photography. There are several trails of varying difficulty that allow visitors to explore the rugged landscapes and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the area.

While Kalaupapa National Historical Park offers a distinctive experience of isolation and historical significance, visitors can also explore nearby attractions. Molokai itself has many appealing features worth exploring, such as the stunning Halawa Valley and its cascading waterfalls, Papohaku Beach, one of the largest white sand beaches in Hawaii, and the Molokai Plumeria Gardens, where visitors can admire an incredible array of fragrant flowers.

In summary, Kalaupapa National Historical Park in Hawaii is a remarkable destination that combines natural beauty with a poignant historical background. This park offers visitors a chance to learn about the struggles faced by individuals with leprosy and to appreciate the stunning landscapes that surround the remote Kalaupapa Peninsula. With additional attractions nearby, exploring Kalaupapa provides a unique and culturally enriching experience for all.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park is located on the northern coast of the island of Molokai, within the state of Hawaii. Situated in the remote Kalaupapa Peninsula, this park occupies a unique geographic location that is both breathtaking and isolated. Surrounded by lush green cliffs that rise dramatically from the Pacific Ocean, the park sits at the base of some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world. Its geographical position provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the ocean, a tranquil and rustic atmosphere, and an opportunity to connect with nature in a truly awe-inspiring setting.

Address & Contact

7 Puahi Street
Kalaupapa, HI 96742
Driving Directions
Phone: 8085676802
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Kalaupapa National Historical Park is during the months of April and May. During these months, the average maximum temperature ranges from 81 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average minimum temperature ranges from 67 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 0.9 to 1.6 inches. These conditions provide pleasant weather for outdoor activities at the park.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Kalaupapa National Historical Park are: Guided Tours Museum Exhibits Living History

Topics

Learn about these topics at Kalaupapa National Historical Park: Tragic Events Asian American Heritage Science, Technology and Innovation Incarceration Pacific Islander Heritage

Visitor Centers

Plains High School Visitor Center and Museum

Plains High School is the main visitor center for the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. The building has the parks orientation film, visitor services desk, exhibits, bookstore, and passport stamp location.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Plains High School Visitor Center and Museum.

Campsites within or near Kalaupapa National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Napili Kai Beach Resort

With a stay at Napili Kai Beach Resort in Lahaina (Napili), you'll be a 1-minute drive from Napili Bay Beach and 6 minutes from West Maui Mountains. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Montage Kapalua Bay

With a stay at Montage Kapalua Bay in Lahaina, you'll be on the beach, just a 4-minute walk from Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course and 8 minutes by foot from Napili Bay. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk.
Address: One Bay Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Montage Kapalua Bay by KBM Hawaii

With a stay at this condo in Lahaina (Montage Kapalua Bay), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Kapalua Beach and 6 minutes by foot from Napili Bay. Featured amenities include luggage storage and an elevator. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 1 Bay Dr, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Napili Ocean Front House 43 5 Bedroom Home

With a stay at this vacation home in Lahaina (Napili), you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Napili Bay and Napili Bay Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 43 Papaua Place, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Kapalua Bay Villa 15g123 Gold+ Ocean View!

When you stay at this villa in Lahaina, you'll be on the beach, within a 15-minute walk of Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course and Napili Bay. Guests will find features like Internet access.
Address: 500 Bay Dr, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Kapalua Bay Villa 15b2

With a stay at this apartment in Lahaina, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course and Napili Bay.
Address: 500 Bay Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Kapalua Bay Villa 15g5 Ocean View

With a stay at this apartment in Lahaina, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course and Napili Bay. Guests will find features like Internet access.
Address: 500 Bay Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Kapalua Bay Villa 12b3 Gold Ocean View

Located in Lahaina, this apartment is within a 15-minute walk of Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course and Napili Bay. Guests will find features like Internet access.
Address: 500 Bay Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Kapalua Bay Villa 12g5 Ocean View

With a stay at this villa in Lahaina, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course and Napili Bay.
Address: 500 Bay Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link

Kapalua Bay Villa 12b2 Gold Ocean View

Located in Lahaina, this vacation home is within a 15-minute walk of Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course and Napili Bay. Featured amenities include a safe deposit box at the front desk and ATM/banking services.
Address: 500 Bay Dr, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Web: Link