Kualapu'u

Molokai Town Guide

Kualapu'u

Kualapu'u is a quiet central Molokai community known for pineapple-era roots, coffee-country scenery, Kualapu'u Reservoir and inland road access.

Coffees of Hawaii
Coffees of Hawaii

Kualapu'u, Molokai

Kualapu'u 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.

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Location, Parking and Directions

Kualapu'u is located inland in central Molokai near Highway 460. From Kaunakakai, drive northwest toward Kualapu'u and Ho'olehua. The marker is placed near the Kualapu'u town area, close to the school and local road network.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kualapu'u on Molokai?

Kualapu'u is an inland community in central Molokai, near Highway 460 and the road toward the Kalaupapa overlook area.

What is Kualapu'u known for?

Kualapu'u is known for its former pineapple cannery village history, central Molokai setting, coffee fields, Kualapu'u Reservoir and quiet rural roads.

Is Coffees of Hawaii in Kualapu'u?

Yes. Coffees of Hawaii is associated with the Kualapu'u area and Molokai-grown coffee. Check current hours and visitor access before planning a stop.

What is Kualapu'u Reservoir?

Kualapu'u Reservoir is a large freshwater reservoir near the community and cinder cone. It has long supported agriculture and water needs in central Molokai.

Is Kualapu'u a beach town?

No. Kualapu'u is inland. Visitors drive from here to reach beaches, Kaunakakai services, west Molokai roads or the Kalaupapa overlook area.