The Hawaiian Islands are home to 750 miles of stunning coastline — putting the Aloha State behind Alaska, Florida, and California when it comes to coastline length. And while among that coastline you will find countless rock formations and sea cliffs, the beaches are what truly matters. And while we love the islands’ most popular beaches as much as the next person, it is the secluded sands that catch our eye the most. So, instead of fighting tourists for the best spot on Waikiki or Poipu beaches on your next beach day, why not head to this gorgeous top secret beach — if you’re on the island of Molokai, that is.
Measuring in at just ten miles wide, Molokai is home to more than 100 miles of shoreline, breathtaking waterfalls, beaches that stretch on for miles, and the world’s tallest sea cliffs. But the most stunning and overlooked natural wonder found on Molokai might just be Kapukahehu Beach.
SixPipes/TripAdvisor
Also known as Dixie Maru Beach, Kapukahehu is a small, sheltered crescent-shaped cove nestled along Molokai’s western shore at the end of Pohakuloa Road.
Hiistory-Buff/TripAdvisor
The protected sandy cove features lava outcroppings on either side and is a nice spot to enjoy the water, whether you’re interested in a relaxing swim or a snorkeling session. Fringed by a reef and usually featuring calm waters, Kapukahehu is often considered to be one of the best swimming beaches on the island, especially during the summer months.
qtjeep12/TripAdvisor
When the surf is high during the winter months, Kapukahehu attracts seasoned surfers and bodyboarders. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find a picture-perfect spot for a relaxing picnic and maybe even sunset views.
JeffreyPedersen/TripAdvisor
The beach received its name from the nameplate of a Japanese fishing boat that wrecked off the shore in the 1920s, named “Dixie Maru.” In Japanese culture, “maru” connotes something that is beloved and is a suffix added by sailors to their ship name. The term itself represents a sense of perfection, which you will undoubtedly find here.
加奈子/TripAdvisor
Backed by thorny kiawe trees and featuring fine sand and crystalline turquoise waters, Kapukahehu is an absolute dream.
Hiistory-Buff/TripAdvisor
If you’re looking to get away from it all, Kapukahehu is the place to go. Because it’s located on Molokai’s remote western shore, you might even have the entire beach to yourself. And unlike many of Hawaii’s most remote beaches, the road that leads here is paved.
SixPipes/TripAdvisor
Kapukahehu Beach is located at Pohakuloa Rd., Maunaloa, HI 96770. Have you ever been to this under-the-radar stretch of sand before? If so, share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
SixPipes/TripAdvisor
Hiistory-Buff/TripAdvisor
qtjeep12/TripAdvisor
JeffreyPedersen/TripAdvisor
加奈子/TripAdvisor
If you’re interested in other beaches on the small island of Molokai, don’t forget about Papohaku Beach. Measuring in at nearly three miles long — and 100 yards wide — Papohaku is not only the largest beach on Molokai but it is easily one of Hawaii’s longest, uninterrupted white sand beaches.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
