Molokai Camping

With its pristine landscapes and uninhabited beaches, the "Most Hawaiian Isle” of Molokai is a treat for adventurers. Its natural environment is the perfect backdrop to pitching a tent and spending the night beneath a blanket of stars.

If you plan to camp on Molokai, no matter if at a state or county site, you will need to obtain a camping permit in advance.

Camping at a Hawaii state park on Molokai

There is just one state park campsite on Molokai, located at Palaau State Park overlooking the Kalaupapa Peninsula, where you can pitch a tent. There are no other shelters or cabins here. Restrooms are available.

Camping is also possible at the Waikolu State Forest Reserve, located near the center of the island. This campsite is only accessible by 4WD vehicle. There is a sheltered pavilion with an outdoor picnic table and toilet facility.

All state camping areas in Hawaii are administered by the Hawaii DLNR, State Parks. They prefer that all reservations are made on their online portal, which is located at: www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/molokai (see the button “Online Reservations” in the top left corner on their website). You can make your reservation up to one year in advance.

Here is an overview of state campsite fees:

Hawaii residents: $12 per campsite per night for up to 6 persons; $2 per night for each additional person*. Maximum fee per site: $20/night.
Non-residents: $18 per campsite per night for up to 6 persons; $3 per night for each additional person*. Maximum fee per site: $30/night.
*Children 2 and under free.

Camping at county campsites on Molokai

There are two county campsites on Molokai – One Alii Beach Park and Papohaku Beach Park. To get a camping permit for one of the county campsites, contact the County of Maui Parks & Recreation. On their website you can download and print a camping permit request form and mail it in. The form is located here: www.co.maui.hi.us/index.aspx?NID=409