Mo'omomi Beach

Mo'omomi Beach is a remote northwest Molokai shoreline with wind-blown dunes, protected native habitat, rough access, pocket beaches and exposed ocean that is unsafe for swimming.

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Mo'omomi Beach

Mo'omomi Beach, Molokai

Located on Molokai's northwestern coast, Mo'omomi Beach and the surrounding area that extends inland feature one of the most impressive sand dune systems in Hawaii. Since this side of the island is exposed to the trade winds during most of the year, the wind carries sand from the Mo'omomi shoreline and surrounding beaches inland, expanding the dunes even further.

These massive sand dunes have been formed over centuries, extending inland for more than 4 miles (6.4 km) in some areas. That's why this deserted, sandy region is also called the Desert Strip, or in the Hawaiian language it is referred to as Keonelele, “the wind-blown sands.”

This stretch of coastline was once a popular fishing area. The surrounding preserve protects native Hawaiian coastal plants, wildlife habitat and fragile dune areas. Guided access may be available at certain times, and visitors should check current preserve access rules before planning a trip.

If you want to go on your own, the trail begins at the Hawaiian Home Lands area, located east of the preserve. However, reaching the beach can be quite a feat in itself, as the path leading to Mo'omomi is a dirt road that is almost impassable unless you drive a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Parking is only allowed in designated areas and since this is a nature preserve, you'll have to stay on the trail. The sand dune area is fragile and protected by the preserve and no one should enter it. Also, all coral, shells, stones, plants and other natural items must be left in place.

For many longtime residents of Molokai, Mo'omomi Beach encompasses the entire 3-mile (4.8 km) stretch of coastline from the Hawaiian Home Lands center to ‘Ilio Point. However, there are three different beaches in this area: Mo'omomi, Keonelele and Kawa'aloa. Mo'omomi Beach is a small pocket of white sand, located at the Hawaiian Home Lands Recreation Center. The bay is shallow and rocky and not a good spot for swimming or other water activities besides fishing. Sharp rocks, strong currents and high surf, especially in the winter months, make swimming dangerous.

Key Features

Remote northwest Molokai shoreline near Hoolehua
Protected coastal dune landscape within the Mo'omomi Preserve area
Keonelele means wind-blown sands
Sand dunes extend inland for miles in some areas
Strong trade winds shape the dunes and dry coastal landscape
Native Hawaiian coastal plants and wildlife habitat are protected here
Endangered green sea turtles use parts of this coast for nesting
Mo'omomi, Keonelele and Kawa'aloa are beach pockets along this shoreline
Access roads can be rough and conditions may change
The shoreline is rocky, current-prone and exposed to winter surf

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Mo'omomi Beach located?

Mo'omomi Beach is on Molokai's northwestern shore near Anahaki Road in the Hoolehua area.

Is Mo'omomi Beach good for swimming?

No. The shoreline is shallow, rocky, current-prone and exposed to high surf, especially in winter.

What is Mo'omomi Preserve?

Mo'omomi Preserve protects fragile coastal dunes, rare native plants, wildlife habitat and important shoreline areas on northwest Molokai.

What does Keonelele mean?

Keonelele means wind-blown sands, a fitting name for the dune landscape shaped by strong trade winds along this coast.

What rules should visitors follow?

Stay on approved routes, park only in designated areas and leave shells, coral, rocks, plants and other natural items in place.