General Information

This BlogSpot was created to be a resource for those considering swimming the Molokai Channel.
The channel, approximately 28 miles, is known for its unforgiving conditions, unpredictable wind, strong current and surf.

1.  The best months to swim are generally March/April and September/October.  Swimmers have swum this channel year round.  See the Molokai Channel Swimmer's List on this website of those who have completed the channel to include times, month and year.

2.  Starting Options:

            1.  Swimmer and support crew go to Molokai in the boat (approximately 3-4 hour trip).  Swimmer swims to the starting beach location and begins.

        2. Swimmer flies to Molokai and taxis to starting beach location.  If support crew also flies with with swimmer, they will have to swim out to the boat.  (Bring dry bag for belongings)

         3. Swimmer can fly to Molokai and stay at a hotel (number 4 below) until time of swim.  Taxi to start location.

3.  Starting Locations:

            1.  Most swimmers start at Kepuhi Beach (Kaluakoi Condos) for ease of logistics and a sandy beach.  It is located at the northern end of the west side of Molokai.  

            2. A second option is Papohaku Beach, midway between the north and south ends of western Molokai.  This location is flat, very sandy and typically affords an easy entry into the water.

3.  Finish Locations:   Sandy's Beach (most ideal)

                                      Allen Davis Beach (just north of Sandy's, very rocky)

                                      Makapuu Beach (more north of Sandys, usually here because of current)

                                      Hanauma Bay (south of Sandy's, difficult to exit)

                                      Portlock (south of Hanauma - China Walls, very difficult to exit)

                                      Diamond Head Beach (add 9 miles to your swim, someone did
                                                      finish here once.  Recommended daylight only)

4.  Molokai Inns:     Hotel Molokai

                               Website:  www.hotelmolokai.com

                                Phone:  (808) 553-5347

                                Taxi:  Helimai Taxi  (808) 336-0967 or (808) 646-9060 (avail 24/7)

                                Flying into Molokai:  You cannot fly directly into Molokai from the

                                mainland or other countries.  From Oahu the following airlines are

                                available:  Mokulele Airlines, Phone 1-866-260-7070 (toll free)

                                           The Molokai Airport code is MKK.

5.  Recommended Boat Pilots:   

                                                      Michael Twigg-Smith

                                                      Phone:  (808)  853-8449

                                                      Email:  mikets808@gmail.com

                                                      Website:  www.molokaiswim.com

                                                      Ivan Shigaki

                                                      Phone:  (808) 864-4572

                                                      Email:  kalei95@hotmail.com

                                        (Cost is negotiable between you and the pilot)

   It is highly recommended to buy your supplies on Oahu and have them on-board the
   boat before going to Molokai.  If there is a particular item you must have for this event
   or special nutritional supplement you are accustomed to, we recommend you bring it
   along with you, as you may not be able to find and purchase here.

6.  Weather Information:

                Wind:  https://www.windy.com/

                Currents:  https://www.pacioos.hawaii.edu/currents/model-oahu/

               Water temperatures range from the low 70s to mid 80s in the summer.

               Food, glow sticks, lubrication and a good support team are a must
                for this challenging swim!

7.  SHARKS!  Well yes, this is the ocean.   Boat captains can provide shark shield 

                          equipment as well as what the swimmer has for themselves.

    

8.  BOX JELLYFISH!  The bad news is yes, we do have them in Hawaii.  The good news is 
     our local experts have figured out when they are here.  Here is a link to the tide and box jellyfish 
     calendar window:  https://www.waikikiaquarium.org/interact/box-jellyfish-calendar/


     See video of channel swimmer Ranie Pearce swimming the Molokai Channel and
     having a Tiger shark encounter.  Fortunately, all ends well!
                                             Link:  https://youtu.be/JyfbFBDnKYM
9.  Tracking your swim.  Here is a link to connect you to a tracking system:  TRACK.RS - Advanced Adventure Tracking

10.  Points of contact:  If you have questions about your swim or with information
                                     on this website contact:

                                      Bill Goding
                                      (808) 221-1671
                                      email:  roscoe@hawaii.rr.com

                                                   GOOD LUCK!