Getting Around Molokai. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Moloka'i Public Transit MPT

Moloka'i operates a system called Moloka'i Public Transit (MPT), managed by Maui County.

This service mainly functions as a demand-response (paratransit) system rather than a fixed-route bus service. This indicates buses do not run on a set schedule or route without prior arrangement.

MPT Operation & Booking

Riders must call at least 24 hours in advance to schedule a pick-up and drop-off time and location.
You cannot simply wait at a bus stop; all rides necessitate prior booking.
A typical ride costs $2; have exact fare in cash as drivers cannot make change.
MPT generally operates Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with very restricted weekend service.

Service Area

Covers populated areas including Kaunakakai, Ho'olehua, and some residential zones.

No Fixed Routes

Due to its demand-response nature, no fixed route maps exist for MPT.

Accessibility

MPT vehicles are typically wheelchair accessible; specify needs when booking your ride.

Effective MPT Use

Booking Strategies

Book your ride well in advance, at least 24 hours ahead of your desired travel time.
Be flexible with your pick-up and drop-off times, as the service accommodates multiple requests.
Confirm your reservation to avoid confusion or missed rides.

Travel Suitability

This service is not suitable for spontaneous travel or covering large distances quickly.
It functions best for local errands or short trips within or between towns.
Not suitable for time-sensitive travel due to scheduling needs.

MPT at a Glance

System Type

Demand-response (paratransit)

Fare

$2 per ride, exact cash

Booking Lead Time

Minimum 24 hours in advance

Operating Days

Monday through Friday

Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Limited Options

Options for taxis and ride-sharing services on Moloka'i are extremely limited, so do not rely on them for transportation.

Taxi Availability

Taxis are scarce on Moloka'i; pre-booking is essential.
You cannot hail taxis on the street; call and book in advance.
Fares are often fixed for specific routes or negotiated directly with the driver.
Expect higher prices due to restricted availability and the distance between locations.

Ride-Sharing Services

Uber and Lyft are generally not available or remain extremely limited on Moloka'i.
Do not plan your transportation relying on ride-sharing services.
When using a taxi, ensure it is a legitimate, licensed service.
Ask your accommodation for trusted taxi contacts to ensure a safe ride.

Emergency & Safety Contacts Updated

Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911.
Moloka'i General Hospital (General Line): (808) 553-5331.
For serious medical emergencies, patients may necessitate airlift to O'ahu or Maui.

Poison Control Center: 1-800-222-1222.
Non-Emergency Police (Maui County Police, Moloka'i Patrol): (808) 244-6400.
U.S. Coast Guard (for marine emergencies): Channel 16 VHF-FM or (808) 842-2600.

General Health & Safety

Water Safety

The ocean can present hazards. Strong currents, powerful waves, and sharp coral can cause injury.

Sun Protection

Hawaii has a high UV index. Use Reef-safe sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Crime Rate

Moloka'i has a very low crime rate. Petty theft, like car break-ins, can occur at isolated trailheads.

Walking and Cycling: Active Exploration

Walking and cycling offer different ways to experience Moloka'i, though infrastructure varies.

Pedestrian Areas

Kaunakakai, the island's main town, is walkable, featuring sidewalks.
Some planned communities or smaller resort areas may have pedestrian paths.
Many hiking trails are pedestrian-only, providing dedicated walking routes.
Self-guided walks in Kaunakakai or along coastal paths are possible.

Cycling Considerations

Moloka'i has very restricted dedicated bike lanes. Cyclists share the roads with vehicles.
Caution is advisable due to narrow roads, a lack of shoulders, and fast-moving traffic in some areas.
Helmets are recommended for all cyclists.
No formal bicycle sharing programs operate on Moloka'i.

Area Specific Notes

Hiking Trails

Formal walking tours remain restricted outside of Kalaupapa National Historical Park, which has highly restricted access.

Consider guided options for historical insights.

No-Go Areas

Unpaved roads or private property should be avoided unless explicitly permitted.

Respect private land and cultural sites.

Remote Risks

Remote areas with no cell service pose risks for solo walking or cycling due to potential emergencies.

Inform someone of your itinerary when venturing out.

Specialized Transportation: Limited

Tour Buses & Water Transport

No hop-on-hop-off bus services operate on Moloka'i.
No public boat taxi services exist; private charters for fishing or scenic cruises are available.
Private cruises typically depart from Kaunakakai Harbor.

Other Options

Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport are not present on Moloka'i.
Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are restricted.
Contact specific attractions or accommodations in advance for accessibility features.

Medical Preparedness

Travel insurance is highly recommended. A comprehensive policy covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Consider World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy.
Ensure routine vaccinations are current for U.S. Travel (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio, Flu shot).
Monitor local news for any advisories regarding tropical storms or tsunamis.
Secure your vehicle and avoid leaving valuables visible inside, notably at isolated trailheads or beaches.

Use reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), wear a wide-brimmed hat, and stay hydrated to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion.
Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn and dusk.
Tap water across Moloka'i is generally safe to drink and meets U.S. EPA standards.
Always observe ocean warning signs and listen to local advice, as strong currents and powerful waves are possible.

Transportation Insight

Moloka'i's local pace extends to its transportation. Plan ahead and embrace the island's unique rhythm.

Renting a car has the greatest freedom for exploration and discovering hidden gems.

Getting Around Molokai