Lanai Island in Hawaii isn’t probably the most well-known Hawaiian island. Most folks solely go to Lanai on a day journey from Maui, however this stunning island is value a lot greater than only a day journey. We spent seven days on Lanai and located many wonderful and distinctive issues to do in Lanai that make for a memorable trip in Hawaii.
From exploring the rugged landscapes of the Garden of the Gods to indulging in the world-class facilities on the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, guests can discover an distinctive steadiness of pure splendor and opulent consolation. Whether basking in the solar on secluded seashores, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Hulopoe Bay, or embarking on an exciting UTV trip throughout the island’s various terrain, Lanai guarantees an unforgettable expertise for each form of traveler.
Best Things to do in Lanai
There are solely three inns on the island, and we stayed at all of them. Our remaining night time was on the Hotel Lanai in Lanai City. All of the inns have their charms, and they’re all value beginning in to cut up up the nights on Lanai as every location may be very completely different. However, the island is sufficiently small which you can keep in one place and go to all of the areas of the island.
We will break down the inns on the finish. But if you’re trying to create a Lanai Itinerary we advise splitting time between the 2 4 seasons resort with a remaining night time at Hotel Lanai in Lanai City.
Stay at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, for 2 nights after which transfer to the Four Seasons Resort Lanai on the seashore for the following half of your journey, with a remaining night time on the Hotel Lanai which was lately renovated in 2018.
About Lanai
A 40-minute ferry trip from Maui or a 30-minute flight from Oahu will get you to Lanai, Hawaii. Known because the Pineapple Island, Lanai was as soon as dwelling to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, producing 75% of the world’s pineapple! Read extra: The Most Amazing Facts About Hawaii
Lanai, pronounced La-nah-ee, is the third smallest Hawaiian island and the smallest publicly accessible inhabited island. When touchdown on the ferry port in Manele Harbour from Maui we took the complimentary shuttle take us to the Four Seasons Resort Lodge at Koele. This was the place we stayed for the primary couple of nights after which we moved on to the Four Seasons Manele.
What is exclusive about Lanai among the many Hawaiian Islands is that it’s nearly completely privately owned. This intriguing side of Lanai’s historical past started in the late nineteenth century. It reached a pivotal second in 2012 when Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle Corporation, bought a lot of the island. This possession has led to each growth and conservation efforts, aiming to steadiness modernization with preserving Lanai’s pure magnificence and cultural heritage.
1. Rent a Jeep for a Day
We rented a jeep for our first day on the island to see a few of Lanai’s prime off-the-beaten-path sights. Having a jeep is an effective way to get round, as a few of the terrains on Lanai are rugged and thrilling. Numerous our favourite Lanai sights have been finest reached by four-wheel drive. You can examine costs right here.
2. UTV Adventure
One of probably the most distinctive issues to do in Lanai (and maybe your entire Hawaiian Islands) is to take a UTV Adventure. The tour begins on off-road automobiles going by forests and ridges to see beautiful views of Maui and Molokai.
Embark on an exhilarating UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle) journey in Lanai to expertise the rugged terrain of this tiny island. These guided excursions, provided by skilled operators like Lanai Adventures, take you off the overwhelmed path to discover areas inaccessible by common automobiles.
Navigate by pink grime trails, ascend to panoramic viewpoints, and witness the varied landscapes of Lanai, from rocky hills to lush forested areas. Along the way in which, guides share insights into the island’s historical past and ecology, including an academic side to the joys of the trip.
There are additionally free shuttles from Manele Bay Four Seasons and Lanai City as nicely. If you’re on the lookout for one thing completely different to do in Hawaii, the Lanai UTV tour is a lot enjoyable!
3. Garden of the Gods – Keahiakawelo
Keahiakawelo often known as the Garden of the Gods is positioned 45 minutes from Lanai City on the northwest facet of Lanai. Its otherworldly lunar panorama encompasses a large rock backyard stuffed with rock towers and boulders. This wild and windswept space is exclusive to this Hawaiian island feeling as if you’re on one other planet.
Legend has it that t it was created on account of a contest between the 2 kahunas (monks of Lanai and Molokai to see who may maintain a fireplace burning longer. If you need to really feel like you’re strolling on Mars, that is the place to be.
Getting there: It’s finest to see it by jeep rental for a day.
4. Polihua Beach
Polihua Beach is a 2-mile stretch of seashore that gives beautiful views of the neighboring island of Molokai. This rugged day journey in Lanai is a gorgeous secluded seashore good for beachcombing. We visited Polihua Beach through 4X4 whereas exploring Lanai’s northern coast.
Located on Lanai’s northwestern facet, Polihua Beach is thought for its large expanse of sentimental, white sand. If fortunate, it’s possible you’ll spy inexperienced sea turtles or a humpback whale from the shore.
Swimming will not be beneficial at Polihua due to robust currents, however the serene setting makes it good for sunbathing and leisure.
The journey to Polihua Beach itself is an journey, taking you thru rugged landscapes and providing a glimpse into the island’s uncooked magnificence. It’s about 60 miles from Lanai City and a few half-hour previous the Garden of the Gods. This secluded seashore, devoid of services, is a must-visit for these trying to expertise Lanai’s untouched appeal.
5. Hulopoe Beach
While Hulopoe Beach is well accessible by a brief stroll from the Four Seasons Resort, there’s additionally a public parking space for these coming from elsewhere on the island.
Hulopoe Beach, positioned on Lanai’s southern coast, is a main spot for snorkeling and swimming, thanks to its clear, calm waters. This well-maintained seashore is a part of a marine protect, which ensures considerable sea life, together with tropical fish and infrequently spinner dolphins. Facilities like picnic tables, barbecue grills, and restrooms are perfect for day-long visits.
The seashore can also be well-known for its proximity to Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock). We stayed on the Four Seasons Resort and took the mountain climbing trails out to Sweetheart Rock. You can even comply with a path from Hulopoe Beach to the Manele Golf Course. We did the stroll in closed-toed water footwear which was good. only a brief hike away.
6. Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach)
Kaiolohia, often known as Shipwreck Beach, is a 6-mile stretch of shoreline that’s positioned on the north shore of Lanai. Large swells and powerful commerce winds have brought on a couple of shipwreck off its coast. When visiting the seashore, you’ll see a Forties oil tanker that also stays beached on Kaiolohia Bay’s coral reef. The ghostly rusted hull creates an eerie scene.
From Shipwreck Beach, additionally, you will see nice views of each Molokai and Maui. While you’re there, be certain to take a look at the Poaiwa Petroglyphs. They are positioned alongside the path a brief distance from the seashore.
7. Keomuku Village
Wander by the remnants of the previous at Keomuku Village, positioned on the east coast of Lanai. It was a fishing village till 1899, when plantation house owners moved in, turning it right into a sugar plantation. Explore the deserted village and the stays of the Ka Lanakila o Ka Malamalama Church that was lately restored, in addition to the world the place the sugar plantation was as soon as in operation. It is nicely value visiting this lesser-known attraction on Lanai.
8. Visit the Lanai Cat Sanctuary
It was over a century in the past that the cats got here to the Hawaiian Islands on whaling ships. They reproduced and overpopulated the islands endangering the endemic fowl species and wreaking havoc on the ecosystem. Many residents noticed these cats as pests and poisoned and trapped them. But at this time, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is working to maintain the cat inhabitants is underneath management and the birds are coming again.
Set on two acres of land, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary retains up to 300 cats and has a no-kill coverage. If you’re visiting the Island of Lanai, preparations could be made on the Four Seasons to go to the middle. They don’t cost a penny and you may be picked up by a volunteer who will deliver you to the sanctuary for a pet and purr session. Or you’ll be able to assist out with some gardening, portray, and grooming.
9. Go Horseback Riding
Horseback using in Lanai gives a singular manner to discover the island’s various landscapes, mixing journey with a style of native tradition. Guided excursions, obtainable by respected stables, cater to all talent ranges, from newcomers to skilled riders.
These excursions usually traverse scenic trails, providing views of lush valleys, rugged hills, and panoramic ocean vistas. Riders have the chance to study Lanai’s historical past and ecology from educated guides, enhancing the expertise past a typical path trip. Some excursions even embrace visits to historic websites or hidden spots inaccessible by automobile. Horseback using on Lanai not solely supplies a fascinating outside exercise but in addition a deeper connection to the island’s pure magnificence and heritage, making it a memorable a part of any Lanai itinerary.
10. Go Whale Watching
From December to May, the island of Lanai turns into top-of-the-line locations for whale watching in the world. The Auau Channel is positioned in Lanai, Maui, and Molokai and attracts greater than 10,000 humpback whales who migrate to its heat, shallow waters.
These mild giants migrate to the nice and cozy Hawaiian waters, and Lanai’s distinctive vantage factors present glorious alternatives for viewing. Several native operators supply whale-watching excursions, geared up with educated guides who share insights about these magnificent creatures.
These excursions usually depart from Manele Harbor and supply close-up views of whales and the prospect to see dolphins and different marine life. For these preferring land-based remark, the cliffs alongside the southern coast, particularly close to Hulopoe Bay, supply spectacular viewing spots. Whale watching in Lanai combines the joys of marine journey with academic features, making it a must-do for nature fans and households visiting the island.
11. Lanai Snorkel
The crystal clear waters of Lanai make for stunning snorkeling. The island’s pristine reefs make for a terrific day journey. When snorkeling in Lanai, you’ve got likelihood to spot dolphins or swim with sea turtles, inexperienced turtles, and sea cucumbers. If you’re fortunate you might even see bottle-nose dolphins, spinner dolphins, or whitetip reef sharks.
Sail Maui gives a wonderful sail and snorkel tour on a catamaran that features snorkeling adopted by cocktails and lunch.
12. Scuba Diving at Lanai Cathedrals
Seasoned scuba divers will take pleasure in exploring the Lanai Cathedrals. Popular dive websites in Lanai are First Cathedral and Second Cathedral are two magnificent underwater websites, which have been shaped by large underwater lava tubes.
Enjoy a soothing sail aboard one in every of Trilogy’s state-of-the-art catamarans to a protected cove on the island’s western shore, the place you’ll be able to snorkel and look at the underwater life that awaits you. During your crusing journey, it’s possible you’ll spot migrating humpback whales,
13. Manele Golf Course
We aren’t a lot on {golfing}, however visiting the Manele Golf Course is a should. Located on the Four Seasons Manele Bay, the world-renowned Manele Golf Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus. This world-class course, perched atop the cliffs overlooking Hulopoe Bay, gives beautiful ocean views from each gap, enhancing the taking part in expertise. Known for its difficult structure, the course incorporates pure landscapes, together with ravines and lava outcrops, demanding strategic play.
Even if you’re not into golf, we suggest having lunch at its restaurant for beautiful views. PS. Bill Gates has performed a spherical right here.
14. Keep an Eye out for Spinner Dolphins
When staying on the FS Lanai, look ahead to spinner dolphins in the waters round Hulopoe Bay. Its clear and calm waters are a really perfect habitat for spinner dolphins. These playful and acrobatic dolphins are sometimes seen spinning in the air and are identified for his or her pleasant and curious nature. The South Shore Marine Preserve helps shield the dolphins and different marine life in the world.
In the early morning, guests to Hulopoe Bay, have likelihood of recognizing these pleasant creatures both from the shore or throughout a snorkeling tour. Some boat excursions round Lanai supply dolphin-watching alternatives as nicely, offering an opportunity to see spinner dolphins in their pure setting.
15. The Spa at Manele Bay
Staying at Four Seasons Manele Bay is an actual deal with and one of the romantic locations on earth. Booking a spa right here was one in every of our favorite issues to do in Lanai. A {couples} therapeutic massage on the seashore in a cabana is probably the most decadent factor you are able to do. Enjoy the nice and cozy breeze of the Pacific Ocean as you pay attention to the waves crash towards the shore. And then spend the afternoon stress-free by the
16. Pu’u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock)
Located inside strolling distance from the Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, Sweetheart Rock, often known as Pu´u Pehe, is a large rock formation simply off the coast.
It is the primary factor to see if you go to Lanai, as this iconic landmark is steeped in Hawaiian legend and sweetness is famous. This hanging rock formation, rising majestically from the ocean, is accessible through a brief and scenic hike from Hulopoe Beach. The path, lower than a mile spherical journey, is well-marked and gives beautiful coastal views, making it appropriate for many health ranges.
When you speak romance, I can’t assist however point out Pu´u Pehe, higher referred to as Sweetheart Rock on the island of Lanai. This is the proper couple’s getaway, full with its personal love story.
According to native lore, Puu Pehe is known as after a tragic love story, including a layer of cultural significance to the positioning. The prime of the path supplies panoramic vistas of the rugged shoreline and alternatives for whale watching throughout the appropriate season.
17. Explore the Tide Pools
While at Hulopoe Bay be certain to take a stroll to discover the lava tide swimming pools at low tide. It’s very cool to see what critters you’ll see floating round contained in the swimming pools between tides. Be positive to put on reef footwear, keep watch over the tides and wave and have enjoyable!
These pure swimming pools, most notably discovered alongside the rocky shoreline close to Hulopoe Bay, are teeming with marine life, providing a close-up view of sea stars, small fish, urchins, and crabs in their pure habitat.
Accessible throughout low tide, these tide swimming pools present a singular alternative for academic exploration and delicate interplay with marine ecosystems. Visitors are inspired to tread evenly and respect the fragile steadiness of those environments. In addition to the marine life, the world across the tide swimming pools additionally boasts spectacular geological formations and scenic ocean views, making it a really perfect spot for images and leisure.
18. Monro Trail
If you’re on the lookout for hike round Lanai, this 12.8-mile path begins in Lanai City. But you may also take it from the Four Seasons Koele Lodge. The path takes you thru the rainforest and exquisite scenic lookout, the place you’ll be able to see all the Hawaiian Islands without delay. The path additionally takes you to Lanai Hale. At 3400 ft, it’s Lanai’s highest peak.
19. Koloiki Ridge Trail
Koloiki Ridge was the positioning of a fierce Hawaiian battle in the 18th century. The ridge separates Naio and Maunalei. It was right here that we realized all in regards to the fragile ecosystem of Lanai and the way the islanders are working to shield the wildlife. The hike is 4 and a half miles spherical journey.
The Koloiki Ridge Trail is a standout mountain climbing journey on Lanai, providing an invigorating five-mile round-trip journey that rewards hikers with breathtaking views. Beginning on the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, the path winds by lush, native forests and opens up to beautiful vistas of neighboring islands, Molokai and Maui.
Along the way in which, hikers can immerse themselves in Lanai’s distinctive wildlife, with informational indicators offering insights into the native ecosystem. This reasonably difficult hike, well-marked and maintained, is appropriate for many health ranges, making it a preferred selection for each novice and skilled hikers. The path’s peak, providing panoramic views, is an ideal spot for memorable photographs. For these looking for to discover Lanai’s pure magnificence, the Koloiki Ridge Trail is an important expertise.
20. Take a Stroll in Lanai City
Lanai was dwelling to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, and an effective way to discover the historical past of Lanai is to discover Lanai City. There are some nice boutiques and eateries to take a look at together with Dis N Dat Shop, The Mike Carroll Gallery, the Cory Labang Studio, and the Local Gentry.
Lanai City is positioned in the center of Lanai Island. Take a strolling tour beginning at Dole Park, the town’s central hub, lined with outlets and native eateries. It is ideal for experiencing the island’s delicacies and craftsmanship. Visit the Lanai Culture & Heritage Center to delve into the island’s historical past, from its pineapple plantation previous to its present-day developments. Art fans will benefit from the Mike Carroll Gallery, showcasing works impressed by Lanai’s landscapes.
For a style of native life, stroll by the Lanai City Farmers Market, the place you could find contemporary produce and artisanal items. Golfers can’t miss the Cavendish Golf Course, a free public course providing a relaxed spherical with scenic views.
Located on the outdated Dole Pineapple Administration Building the Lanai Cultural and Heritage Center takes you thru the historical past of Lanai. We didn’t know a lot about Lanai earlier than visiting and this was the proper introduction to Lanai and its pineapple historical past. It is a superb first cease on Lanai to provide help to perceive the sights you may be exploring and the folks you’ll meet.
21. Lanai Adventure Park
The Lanai Adventure Park is a comparatively new addition to Lanai’s array of sights that opened its doorways in 2021, providing an thrilling mix of outside actions for all ages.
Nestled in the island’s lush landscapes, this journey park presents quite a lot of experiences, from zip-lining throughout scenic valleys to off-road UTV adventures that permit guests discover the rugged terrain of Lanai. Archery and taking pictures ranges add a singular twist to the journey choices obtainable.
The park’s design integrates seamlessly with the pure setting, guaranteeing an immersive expertise in Lanai’s magnificence. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or trying to take pleasure in some outside enjoyable with the household, the Lanai Adventure Park is a must-visit vacation spot that mixes the joys and the pure appeal of the island in a sustainable method. Its latest opening makes it one of many latest hotspots for adventure-seekers visiting Lanai.
Where to Stay on Lanai
Sensei Lanai – This luxurious resort gives a non-public wellness session, and a personalised itinerary, together with island actions and spa therapies. You can even dine on the world-famous Nobu. Your keep right here additionally contains round-trip airfare from Honolulu.
Four Seasons Lanai – Four Seasons Resort Lanai on the south shore of Lanai’s coast is the proper luxurious seashore escape with views of ocean cliffs, seashores, and entry to scuba diving, snorkeling, and crusing.
Hotel Lanai: for the following half of your journey, with a remaining night time on the Hotel Lanai which was lately renovated in 2018.
How to Get to Lanai
Reaching Lanai, Hawaii’s secluded island paradise, is a journey that provides to the vacation spot’s attract. The commonest manner to get there’s by a brief, scenic ferry trip from Maui, departing from Lahaina Harbor, providing a picturesque island strategy.
For those that favor air journey, every day flights can be found from Honolulu and Maui, touchdown at Lanai City Airport. These flights are a fast and handy choice, offering beautiful aerial views of the Hawaiian archipelago.
For a extra unique expertise, personal charters and helicopter transfers are additionally obtainable, providing an opulent and personalised manner to arrive on Lanai.
And these are all of the issues to do in Lanai. If you’re reserving a visit to the Hawaiian Islands and are on the lookout for one thing completely different, we advise testing Lanai. It is opulent and adventurous and you will notice far fewer crowds than on different islands in Hawaii.