Molokai has some of the tallest cliffs in the world. Kahiwa Falls are the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii towering over 1,720 feet.

The Kalaupapa Lookout is located in Pala'au State Park down a short trail that overlooks the dramatic north coast of Molokai. These cliffs are the world's highest sea cliffs reaching 1700 feet. At the foot of the pali is the isolated Kalaupapa Peninsula, a 4 1/2 square mile lava flow from the Kauhako Crater.

This peninsula is the site of the infamous Kalaupapa Leper Colony, now the Kalaupapa National Historical Park. Informational plaques located at the overlook tell a brief history of the colony below.

Only official tours, such as the Molokai Mule Ride or Damien Tours, are allowed to bring visitors into the National Park as permits are required by the state. You can hike, ride, or fly down to Kalaupapa.

The 3 mile trail, with 26 switchbacks, was hand-carved in 1907 by Manuel Farinha, a Portuguese immigrant, who hung from ropes draped over the cliff.

Located on Kalauapapa Peninsula at the base of the 1600-foot high sea cliffs, this national park was once the site of total isolation for victims of Hansen's Disease (leprosy). The national park service maintains 8,725 acres of land and 2,000 acres of water extending 1/4 mile offshore. The settlements of Kalaupapa and Kalawo, a volcanic crater, rain forest, lava tubes and caves, and the Molokai Lighthouse all lie within the park borders.

The park was established in 1980 and is dedicated to preserving the memories of the past so that we might all learn a valuable lesson about ignorance, fear and the humanity of one man, Father Damien. A small community of residents still live in the settlements there.

Today the park can only be visited by authorized tour groups such as Damien Tours and the Molokai Mule Ride. Control of public access is under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Health. All visitors must be 16 or older and receive a permit to enter.