This western Molokai beach is quite secluded and also relatively well protected from the open ocean. The beach is a mixture of rock and sand and is located next to Hale O Lono Harbor where the annual Molokai to Oahu Outrigger Canoe race begins. Other than the canoe racers, this whole area is somewhat secluded and usually deserted except for fishermen.
Great For
Snorkeling, swimming, fishing, scuba diving, whale watching (during the winter months).
Highlights
From November to May this is a great beach for spotting humpback whales breaching in the channel.
Need to Know
When the waves are large or the ocean is rough, particularly during the winter months, this beach can be very dangerous and swimming is not recommended. Never go in the ocean during times of high surf or rough seas.
Lifeguard
No
Facilities
None
Access
Restricted access to Molokai Ranch makes Sandy Cove the last easily accessible beach along this stretch of West Molokai coastline. Follow Hwy. 460 to the town of Maunaloa where the road curves sharply (you will see a pineapple exhibit on the left). Turn right on Mokio Street which turns into a dirt road that you follow to the south until the end where it branches and you go left and Hale O Lono Harbor is on the right. Just past the harbor is Sandy Cove.