This important Hawaiian cultural area is situated on the northwestern coastline of Molokai and includes three separate beach areas known as Kawaaloa, Keonelele, and Moomomi. The region is managed by the Nature Conservancy of Hawaii which offers informational guided tours. The small white-sand beach is on the east corner of the bay. The nearshore waters are a bit rocky and very shallow so this is not the best swimming beach. The water may be calm during summer months, but large surf during the winter months often washes away much of the beach, and the rough ocean conditions preclude swimming.
Great For
Nature hikes, fishing. Swimming only when water is very calm.
Highlights
Northeast tradewinds have, for many centuries, blown the beach sand at Moomomi inland creating large sand dunes hundreds of feet wide and up to one mile long. This fragile area is preserved and should not be walked on. The Moomomi region is a traditional Hawaiian gathering area of opihi, limu seaweed, crabs, and salt, and there are many endangered Hawaiian plant species growing within the Preserve.
Need to Know
Moomomi Beach is part of the Moomomi Preserve which encompasses more than 900 acres and is accessed by a 4-wheel-drive road that is sometimes impassable. Sharp rocks, strong currents, and high surf often make entering the water hazardous. Camping at Moomomi is allowed with a permit for fishermen, and all camping must be below the vegetation line.
Lifeguard
No.
Facilities
Picnic area. No restrooms, drinking water, or showers.
Access
Moomomi Road, Northwest Molokai. Guided hikes to Moomomi are led by the Nature Conservancy of Hawaii (808-553-5236). Unguided hikes are allowed without a permit. The trail begins at the Hawaiian Home Lands beach which is just to the east of the Preserve. Check with the Nature Conservancy for a permit, key, and map.