According to Countryaah, Kalawao County is located on the northeastern tip of Molokai, the fifth-largest island in Hawaii. This small, rural county is bordered by Maui County to the east, and Kalawao County itself is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the north and west. Kalawao County is a small, isolated area with a population of only 88 people as of 2020. The county encompasses an area of just over nine square miles and is home to some of Hawaii’s most spectacular scenery.
Kalawao County consists primarily of two valleys: Halawa Valley and Kalaupapa Valley. Both are bordered by steep sea cliffs that reach heights up to 1,000 feet in some places. The valleys are lushly forested with native Hawaiian vegetation including koa trees, hala trees, and other endemic plants. In addition to the two valleys, there are also several small beaches along the coast as well as numerous tidepools that offer great snorkeling opportunities for visitors.
The county is also home to several historic sites including Kalaupapa National Historical Park which was established in 1980 as a refuge for people afflicted with leprosy (now known as Hansen’s disease). It was here that Father Damien de Veuster ministered to those suffering from this terrible disease until his death in 1889. Today visitors can tour the park or take guided mule rides down the sea cliffs into Kalaupapa Valley.
Kalawao County is bordered on all sides by water; it has no land borders with any other counties in Hawaii or surrounding states. To its east lies Maui County which includes Molokai’s sister islands Lanai and Kahoolawe; across Maui Channel lies Oahu; while further south lie Kauai and Niihau islands; Finally, westward lies Pacific Ocean extending out towards Asia and Australia beyond.
Kalawao County offers visitors an opportunity to explore its unique landscape including its stunning coastline, pristine forests, historic sites, and secluded beaches—all within easy reach from Honolulu or other parts of Hawaii’s islands chain. With so much natural beauty just waiting to be explored it’s easy to see why so many visitors flock here year after year.
Demographics of Kalawao County, Hawaii
Kalawao County, Hawaii is a small, isolated area with a population of only 88 people as of 2020. With an area of just over nine square miles, it is the smallest county in the state and one of the least populated counties in the United States. The county is bordered on all sides by water; it has no land borders with any other counties in Hawaii or surrounding states.
The population of Kalawao County is largely Native Hawaiian, with 78.4% identifying as such according to the 2010 Census. The majority of the population (97%) identifies as non-Hispanic or Latino and 2% identify as African American or Black. The median age in the county is 54 years old and there are slightly more male residents than female residents (51% male to 49% female). In terms of education attainment, only 15.3% have a Bachelor’s degree or higher while 45.1% have less than a high school diploma.
In terms of income, the median household income for Kalawao County is $34,844 which is significantly lower than both state and national averages ($75,506 and $57,652 respectively). Similarly, poverty levels are significantly higher than both state and national averages at 50%. This means that half of all households in Kalawao County live below the poverty line which can lead to other issues such as poor health outcomes and lack access to basic necessities like food and shelter.
The unemployment rate for Kalawao County also stands at 50%, which again is much higher than both state (2%) and national (3%) averages. This can be attributed to its small size and isolation from other parts of Hawaii’s islands chain; with few job opportunities available within its borders it can be difficult for residents to find employment elsewhere on the islands.
Kalawao County offers visitors an opportunity to explore its unique landscape including its stunning coastline, pristine forests, historic sites, and secluded beaches—all within easy reach from Honolulu or other parts of Hawaii’s islands chain. With so much natural beauty just waiting to be explored it’s easy to see why so many visitors flock here year after year.
Places of Interest in Kalawao County, Hawaii
Kalawao County, Hawaii is a hidden gem of the islands chain, offering visitors a chance to explore its unique landscape and stunning seascape. Visitors can take in stunning coastal views from Kalaupapa Lookout, an overlook of the peninsula with sweeping views of the ocean and scenery. From here, visitors can hike down to Kalaupapa National Historical Park where they can explore the old leper colony that once operated here. The park also features several hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities.
Another popular attraction in Kalawao County is Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove, a grove of ancient coconut trees that have been growing since 1838. Here visitors can learn about the history of coconut farming in Hawaii and observe some of the oldest coconut trees in the islands chain.
For those looking for a more laid-back experience, Halawa Beach Park is a great spot to relax on its white sand beach or take part in some watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Further along the coast is Waikolu Valley Lookout which offers panoramic views of Waikolu Valley and its surrounding area.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous then head inland to Paliuli Forest Reserve where you can hike through lush rainforest and spot rare endemic plants and birds along the way. Other attractions include Kaunakakai Harbor where visitors can take boat tours out into Molokai Channel or explore nearby beaches such as Papohaku Beach Park which boasts three miles of white sand beachfront perfect for swimming or sunbathing.
No matter what your interests are, Kalawao County has something to offer everyone. With its unique landscape, rich culture, and diverse wildlife there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Notable People of Kalawao County, Hawaii
Kalawao County, Hawaii has been home to many notable people throughout its history. One of the most famous residents of the area was Father Damien, a Catholic priest who dedicated his life to helping those afflicted with leprosy. He is remembered for his selfless work in Kalaupapa National Historical Park and is credited with helping to improve the quality of life for those living in the leper colony.
Another notable figure from Kalawao County is Queen Liliuokalani, who was Hawaii’s last reigning monarch before it became a US territory. She was responsible for introducing numerous reforms to Hawaiian society and culture, such as abolishing slavery and introducing an elected legislature. In addition, she was a prolific songwriter whose works are still performed today.
The area is also home to many other influential figures such as Pukui Kalama, a Hawaiian princess and high chiefess known for her advocacy of Native Hawaiian rights; Robert Wilcox, a revolutionary leader who led an unsuccessful attempt to overthrow the monarchy; and William Hoapili Kaauwai, an early settler who helped establish the town of Kalaupapa.
Today, Kalawao County remains home to many influential figures in modern Hawaiian culture including musician Jack Johnson; author/activist Haunani-Kay Trask; environmentalist Kealoha Pisciotta; and politician Tulsi Gabbard. Each of these individuals has contributed greatly to their respective fields while remaining true to their roots in Kalawao County.
These are just a few examples of people who have made their mark on Kalawao County over the years. Their legacy lives on in this unique corner of Hawaii which continues to provide inspiration and guidance for future generations of Hawaiians.