If you’re looking for an idyllic spot to enjoy a picnic while being immersed in a little piece of Hawaiian history, Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove is a fabulous place to do it.
The attraction is only about a half-mile from Kaunakakai, which is the main town on the island of Molokai. Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove was planted back in the 1860s by King Kamehameha V. The King had 1,000 coconut trees planted to commemorate the 1,000 warriors in his army. The trees also served to shade the sacred royal bathing pools. The coconut grove was called “Kapuaiwa” after the King’s given name, which means “sacred one protected by supernatural powers.”
Today, you won’t see 1,000 coconut trees, but only 100. Also, walking amongst the trees is not allowed due to the fact that, well, coconuts are falling down all the time. However, even though you won’t be able to risk getting smoked on the noggin with a coconut, the site is still gorgeous and worth a trip. For a truly spectacular moment, plan an evening picnic to nearby Kiowea Beach Park. After taking a stroll, grab a picnic table in time for sunset because the sunset at Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove offers some breathtaking photography opportunities.
Swimming at Kiowea Beach Park isn’t ideal, but it is the perfect spot to indulge in a picnic and enjoy the sun setting over Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove. There is also a military bunker standing at the water’s edge, a remnant of the Second World War.
So, you can enjoy a little history, a little food, and some gorgeous scenery. Not a bad way to end a day on Molokai!
Images created by Forest Starr & Kim Starr are licensed under Creative Commons Attribution.