Molokai Part 6.... Much More than a Leper Colony

Along Highway 460, a few miles out of Kaunakakai, we pass the famous Royal Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove, planted for King Kamehameha V. At one time there were up to 1,000 trees in the grove. It is somewhat smaller at present, but still an awesome sight, seeing hundreds of royal palms waving in the breeze. Although this is a very dry area, the grove is irrigated by natural springs.

We turn right at Highway 470 which, crosses the island. As we drive up this quiet expanse of roadway, we come to the small village of Kaualapuu, formerly a company town, owned by Doyle pineapple. In this town, unlike those of Maunaloa, many residents chose to buy their houses and stay when Doyle left. Coffee has replaced pineapples as the staple crop in this area.

On the corner of 470 and 480 (west) is "Coffees of Hawaii", which includes, an expresso bar, which serves lattes, espressos, cappuccinos and light lunches. They also have complimentary Molokai coffee. There is a grinding, roasting and packing facility next door, where tours are available, an opportunity to see how their special Muleskinner and Multani coffee is produced. There is also an interesting gift shop, with unique crafts made by local artisans. A good place to visit.

The town also boasts a small post office, grocery store and a tiny rustic restaurant, "The Kualapuu Cook House," frequented by locals and visitors alike

Close by in Hoolehua Homestead 1*area, is "Purdy's Natural Macadamia Nut Farm" Nuts and macadamia blossom honey are for sale as well as Molokai crafts. Tours are also available. There is also a post office where you can send a coconut to a loved one at home. " Send a nut to a nut!"

As we continue up 480 to Kalae, we see the authentically restored Meyer Sugar mill, which operated from 1878-1889. It is now a museum, staffed by well informed local residents. Also on the Meyer property is is the Molokai Cultural Centre and Museum, now deemed a Elderhostel campus. Seminars, lectures, exhibits of artifacts and memorabillia, field trips, cultural classes and festivals are held here.

As we near the end of the highway we see a pretty covered picnic area on the left. We are in Palaau Park and as we continue we enter a forest of ironwood, cypress, eucalyptus and paper bark trees. It is near here where the Kalaupapa trail begins, where mules carry supplies, visitors and workers to the settlement below.

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