The Kalaupapa peninsula was once a prison for those inflicted with Hansen's disease. Approximately 8000 people were forced to live their lives in isolation here.
When Hansen's disease (leprosy) was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands, King Kamehameha V banished all afflicted to the isolated Kalaupapa Peninsula on the north shore of Molokai. Since 1866, more than 8,000 people, mostly Hawaiians, have died at Kalaupapa. Once a prison, Kalaupapa is now a refuge for the few remaining residents who are cured but were forced to live their lives in isolation.
For the first time, Kalaupapa National Historical Park will offer public tours starting July 9, 2026. The tours will be provided twice a week, and reservations can be made beginning June 26.