Hawaii is far from being off the beaten path in terms of tourist traffic, despite being the most remote island chain with a significant population in the world. Many of the main Hawaiian islands, including Maui, Oahu and Hawaii, are filled with luxury resorts, shopping centers and numerous tourist activity spots.
But Molokai, one of the bigger islands in the chain, might just be the hidden gem of Hawaii. With no stoplights, no resorts and no buildings taller than a coconut tree, Molokai is the secret remote corner of Hawaii that remains suffused in history and culture.
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With 95 miles of coastline and the only great barrier reef in Hawaii, it might seem surprising that the island doesn't offer more amenities for tourists. But that's not the goal of the islanders, according to the Los Angeles Times. One thing that's more important is keeping the Hawaiian language and music of their ancestors alive, by playing songs for each other rather than for an audience of travelers who have come for a week-long vacation.
Despite not having any resorts and only one movie theater, there are a number of things intrepid travelers can do on a trip to Molokai. The San Jose Mercury News lists beaches, beautiful hikes, a small coffee plantation and a macadamia nut farm as several of the islands offerings. There are also plenty of adventure activities, such as fishing, biking and camping. And travelers can even learn about the country's history and culture through the people of Molokai and in a visit to the sacred Halawa Valley, says the Hawaii Tourism Authority.