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.

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.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

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.

Overview of Kalaupapa Peninsula

Black Sand Beach is one of several sandy beaches at Kalaupapa, most known for its sea turtle nesting habitat.

Black Sand Beach

Kalaupapa is also home to one of the most well-preserved archeological complexes in all of Hawaii.

Archeological Sites at Kalaupapa

Patients lived in a combination of group homes and single family residences at Kalaupapa.

Kalaupapa Settlement

Paschoal Hall, also known as the Kalaupapa Social Hall, served as the community's recreational center with movies, entertainers, and dances.

Paschoal Hall

The Kalaupapa Pier, warehouse, and store were the lifeline of the settlement during the 20th century. Historically, shipments of goods and supplies were sent to Kalaupapa weekly.

Kalaupapa Pier

Kalaupapa is the final resting place for approximately 8000 people. Papaloa Cemetery is the largest cemetery located along the west shoreline of the peninsula.

Papaloa Cemetery

Siloama Church was the first church established at Kalawao in 1866.  It is one of two remaining buildings at Kalawao today.

Siloama Church at Kalawao

Saint Damien is one of two Catholic saints at Kalaupapa who came to serve the Hansen's disease patients in the late 19th century.

St. Damien's Grave

Kalaupapa National Historical Park contains some of the world's tallest sea cliffs, which formed a natural barrier to the Hansen's disease settlement.

Pali (Sea cliffs) at Kalaupapa

Kalawao with its rocky shoreline was the landing spot for the first Hansen's disease patients sent to Kalaupapa.

Kalawao at Sunrise

Religion was a prominent part of patients' lives at Kalaupapa. Protestant, Catholic, and Mormon churches were established at both Kalawao and Kalaupapa settlements.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

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Nearby Parks

Kakahai‘a National Wildlife Refuge