Kualapu'u
Kualapu'u is a quiet inland town on Molokai known for its agricultural roots and stunning central location. Once a pineapple cannery village, it's now home to a freshwater reservoir and the Coffees of Hawaii plantation, offering a glimpse into local industry and rural Hawaiian life.
Kualapu'u, Molokai
Kualapu'u (view panorama) × is located in the northern part of Molokai on the way to the Kalaupapa Peninsula Lookout. In the Hawaiian language, Kualapu'u literally means "hill overturned." However, it is thought to be a corruption of Pu'u'uala, meaning "sweet potato hill." The settlement is a former pineapple cannery village that was once associated with Del Monte Foods.
Kualapu'u is also home to Coffees of Hawaii, a large coffee plantation that produces and distributes 100% Molokai coffee. Also located in Kualapu'u is a 1.4 billion gallon water freshwater reservoir at the foot of a cinder cone called Kualapu'u.
Key Features of Kualapu'u
- Central location: Situated between Kaunakakai and the Kalaupapa Peninsula, offering scenic inland views.
- Coffee production: Home to Coffees of Hawaii, producing 100% Molokai-grown coffee.
- Freshwater reservoir: A large 1.4-billion-gallon reservoir located at the foot of the Kualapu'u cinder cone.
- Historical background: Former pineapple cannery village once associated with Del Monte Foods.
- Population and zip: Population 2,110 (2020 Census), ZIP code 96757.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kualapu'u located on Molokai?
Kualapu'u is located inland in central Molokai, between Kaunakakai and the Kalaupapa Peninsula lookout.
What is Coffees of Hawaii?
It is a local plantation in Kualapu'u that produces 100% Molokai-grown coffee, with a café and visitor center on-site.
What is notable about the Kualapu'u reservoir?
The town features a massive freshwater reservoir that holds 1.4 billion gallons of water - vital for local agriculture.
Was Kualapu'u involved in pineapple production?
Yes, it was once a pineapple cannery village tied to Del Monte Foods, playing a key role in Molokai's agricultural past.
How many people live in Kualapu'u?
According to the 2020 Census, Kualapu'u has a population of approximately 2,110 residents.