Pālāʻau State Park sits atop the 1,600-foot sea cliffs of Molokai, offering one of Hawaii’s most dramatic viewpoints overlooking the historic Kalaupapa Peninsula—once the forced exile location for those with Hansen’s disease (leprosy). This 234-acre park provides a window into Hawaii’s complex history and stunning natural beauty.
The park also features the famous Phallic Rock (Kaule o Nānahoa), a natural lava formation sacred to Hawaiians as a fertility symbol.
Park Overview
| Pālāʻau State Park Overview | |
|---|---|
| Location | North-central Molokai |
| Park Size | 234 acres |
| Cliff Height | 1,600 feet above sea level |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Camping | Yes (permit required) |
| Key Features | Kalaupapa Overlook, Phallic Rock, ironwood forest |
Things to See
Kalaupapa Overlook
A short walk from the parking area leads to a viewpoint 1,600 feet above the Kalaupapa Peninsula. The flat, isolated peninsula below was Hawaii’s leprosy settlement from 1866-1969, where patients were forcibly exiled. Today it’s a National Historical Park (tours require advance booking).
Phallic Rock (Kaule o Nānahoa)
A 0.5-mile trail through ironwood forest leads to this 6-foot natural lava formation, sacred in Hawaiian tradition as a fertility symbol. According to legend, women who spend the night near the rock will become pregnant.
Camping
The park has a small campground in a peaceful ironwood forest setting. Permits required through the Hawaii DLNR.
Safety & Tips
| ⚠️ Visitor Information | |
|---|---|
| Cliff Safety | Stay on trails—cliffs are steep and dangerous |
| Weather | Often cooler and mistier than coast—bring layers |
| Respect Sites | Phallic Rock is sacred—treat with reverence |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you hike down to Kalaupapa from Pālāʻau?
No—the trail down to Kalaupapa Peninsula starts at a different trailhead nearby, not within Pālāʻau State Park. Visiting Kalaupapa requires advance permits and a guided tour; access is restricted to protect this National Historical Park.
Is Pālāʻau State Park worth visiting?
Yes—if you’re on Molokai, the Kalaupapa Overlook offers a unique perspective on Hawaii’s history and stunning views of the world’s highest sea cliffs. Combined with the Phallic Rock, it’s a worthwhile 1-2 hour stop.
Experience Molokai’s Dramatic Cliffs
Views of Hawaii’s historic Kalaupapa Peninsula
Explore More Hawaii State Parks
Pālāʻau State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Hawaii. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Hawaii guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Pālā’au SP — 234 acres on Molokai — the “Friendly Isle”. The park overlooks the Kalaupapa Peninsula — the former leprosy (Hansen’s disease) colony where Father Damien ministered to patients from 1873 until his death in 1889 — one of the most poignant stories in Hawaiian history. The park’s native forest supports endemic birds.
Nearby Attractions
Kalaupapa NHP — below the lookout. Kaunakakai — 10 miles south. Molokai — surrounding.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Lava Tree State Monument (within about an hour’s drive) and Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area (within about an hour’s drive).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Hawaii state parks online at camping.ehawaii.gov.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Pālāʻau State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
