Lanai Island in Hawaii isn’t essentially the most well-known Hawaiian island. Most individuals solely go to Lanai on a day journey from Maui, however this stunning island is price a lot greater than only a day journey. We spent seven days on Lanai and located many superb and distinctive issues to do in Lanai that make for a memorable trip in Hawaii.
From exploring the rugged landscapes of the Backyard of the Gods to indulging within the world-class facilities on the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai, guests can discover an distinctive steadiness of pure splendor and opulent consolation. Whether or not basking within the solar on secluded seashores, snorkeling within the crystal-clear waters of Hulopoe Bay, or embarking on an exhilarating UTV journey throughout the island’s various terrain, Lanai guarantees an unforgettable expertise for each type of traveler.
Finest Issues to do in Lanai
There are solely three inns on the island, and we stayed at all of them. Our closing night time was on the Resort Lanai in Lanai Metropolis. The entire inns have their charms, and they’re all price beginning in to separate up the nights on Lanai as every location may be very completely different. Nonetheless, the island is sufficiently small you can keep in a single place and go to all of the areas of the island.
We are going to break down the inns on the finish. However in case you are seeking to create a Lanai Itinerary we recommend splitting time between the 2 4 seasons resort with a closing night time at Resort Lanai in Lanai Metropolis.
Keep at Sensei Lanai, A 4 Seasons Resort, for 2 nights after which transfer to the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai on the seaside for the following half of your journey, with a closing night time on the Resort Lanai which was just lately renovated in 2018.
About Lanai
A 40-minute ferry journey from Maui or a 30-minute flight from Oahu will get you to Lanai, Hawaii. Referred to as the Pineapple Island, Lanai was as soon as dwelling to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, producing 75% of the world’s pineapple! Learn extra: The Most Superb Info 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 4 Seasons Resort Lodge at Koele. This was the place we stayed for the primary couple of nights after which we moved on to the 4 Seasons Manele.
What is exclusive about Lanai among the many Hawaiian Islands is that it’s nearly totally privately owned. This intriguing facet of Lanai’s historical past started within the late nineteenth century. It reached a pivotal second in 2012 when Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle Company, 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. Hire a Jeep for a Day
We rented a jeep for our first day on the island to see a few of Lanai’s high off-the-beaten-path points of interest. Having a jeep is an effective way to get round, as among the terrains on Lanai are rugged and thrilling. Loads of our favourite Lanai points of interest had been finest reached by four-wheel drive. You’ll be able to examine costs right here.
2. UTV Journey
Probably the most distinctive issues to do in Lanai (and maybe the complete Hawaiian Islands) is to take a UTV Journey. The tour begins on off-road autos going by forests and ridges to see beautiful views of Maui and Molokai.
Embark on an exhilarating UTV (Utility Terrain Automobile) journey in Lanai to expertise the rugged terrain of this tiny island. These guided excursions, supplied by skilled operators like Lanai Adventures, take you off the crushed path to discover areas inaccessible by common autos.
Navigate by crimson filth trails, ascend to panoramic viewpoints, and witness the various landscapes of Lanai, from rocky hills to lush forested areas. Alongside the best way, guides share insights into the island’s historical past and ecology, including an academic facet to the fun of the journey.
There are additionally free shuttles from Manele Bay 4 Seasons and Lanai Metropolis as properly. If you’re searching for one thing completely different to do in Hawaii, the Lanai UTV tour is a lot enjoyable!
3. Backyard of the Gods – Keahiakawelo
Keahiakawelo also referred to as the Backyard of the Gods is situated 45 minutes from Lanai Metropolis on the northwest facet of Lanai. Its otherworldly lunar panorama encompasses a huge rock backyard crammed with rock towers and boulders. This wild and windswept space is exclusive to this Hawaiian island feeling as in case you are on one other planet.
Legend has it that t it was created because of a contest between the 2 kahunas (clergymen of Lanai and Molokai to see who may preserve a fireplace burning longer. If you wish 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 Seashore
Polihua Seashore is a 2-mile stretch of seaside that provides beautiful views of the neighboring island of Molokai. This rugged day journey in Lanai is a phenomenal secluded seaside good for beachcombing. We visited Polihua Seashore by way of 4X4 whereas exploring Lanai’s northern coast.
Positioned on Lanai’s northwestern facet, Polihua Seashore is thought for its huge expanse of soppy, white sand. If fortunate, you might spy inexperienced sea turtles or a humpback whale from the shore.
Swimming just isn’t advisable at Polihua as a consequence of robust currents, however the serene surroundings makes it good for sunbathing and leisure.
The journey to Polihua Seashore 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 Metropolis and a couple of half-hour previous the Backyard of the Gods. This secluded seaside, devoid of services, is a must-visit for these seeking to expertise Lanai’s untouched allure.
5. Hulopoe Seashore
Whereas Hulopoe Seashore is definitely accessible by a brief stroll from the 4 Seasons Resort, there’s additionally a public parking space for these coming from elsewhere on the island.
Hulopoe Seashore, situated on Lanai’s southern coast, is a chief spot for snorkeling and swimming, due to its clear, calm waters. This well-maintained seaside is a part of a marine protect, which ensures ample sea life, together with tropical fish and infrequently spinner dolphins. Services like picnic tables, barbecue grills, and restrooms are perfect for day-long visits.
The seaside can be well-known for its proximity to Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock). We stayed on the 4 Seasons Resort and took the climbing trails out to Sweetheart Rock. You too can observe a path from Hulopoe Seashore 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 Seashore)
Kaiolohia, also referred to as Shipwreck Seashore, is a 6-mile stretch of shoreline that’s situated on the north shore of Lanai. Giant swells and powerful commerce winds have precipitated multiple shipwreck off its coast. When visiting the seaside, you’ll see a Nineteen Forties oil tanker that also stays beached on Kaiolohia Bay’s coral reef. The ghostly rusted hull creates an eerie scene.
From Shipwreck Seashore, additionally, you will see nice views of each Molokai and Maui. While you’re there, you’ll want to take a look at the Poaiwa Petroglyphs. They’re situated alongside the path a brief distance from the seaside.
7. Keomuku Village
Wander by the remnants of the previous at Keomuku Village, situated on the east coast of Lanai. It was a fishing village till 1899, when plantation homeowners moved in, turning it right into a sugar plantation. Discover the deserted village and the stays of the Ka Lanakila o Ka Malamalama Church that was just lately restored, in addition to the world the place the sugar plantation was as soon as in operation. It’s properly price visiting this lesser-known attraction on Lanai.
8. Go to 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 chook species and wreaking havoc on the ecosystem. Many residents noticed these cats as pests and poisoned and trapped them. However as we speak, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is working to maintain the cat inhabitants is below management and the birds are coming again.
Set on two acres of land, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary retains as much as 300 cats and has a no-kill coverage. If you’re visiting the Island of Lanai, preparations may be made on the 4 Seasons to go to the middle. They don’t cost a penny and you can be picked up by a volunteer who will carry 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 Using
Horseback driving in Lanai gives a novel technique to discover the island’s various landscapes, mixing journey with a style of native tradition. Guided excursions, out there by respected stables, cater to all ability ranges, from inexperienced persons to skilled riders.
These excursions typically 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 journey. Some excursions even embrace visits to historic websites or hidden spots inaccessible by car. Horseback driving on Lanai not solely offers an interesting 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 Might, the island of Lanai turns into top-of-the-line locations for whale watching on the earth. The Auau Channel is situated 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 wonderful alternatives for viewing. A number of native operators provide whale-watching excursions, outfitted with educated guides who share insights about these magnificent creatures.
These excursions typically 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 commentary, the cliffs alongside the southern coast, particularly close to Hulopoe Bay, provide spectacular viewing spots. Whale watching in Lanai combines the fun of marine journey with instructional points, 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 an incredible day journey. When snorkeling in Lanai, you’ve an excellent likelihood to identify 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 get pleasure from exploring the Lanai Cathedrals. Well-liked dive websites in Lanai are First Cathedral and Second Cathedral are two magnificent underwater websites, which had been shaped by huge underwater lava tubes.
Take pleasure in a soothing sail aboard one among 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. Throughout your crusing journey, you might spot migrating humpback whales,
13. Manele Golf Course
We aren’t a lot on {golfing}, however visiting the Manele Golf Course is a should. Positioned on the 4 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 enjoying expertise. Recognized for its difficult format, the course incorporates pure landscapes, together with ravines and lava outcrops, demanding strategic play.
Even in case you are not into golf, we suggest having lunch at its restaurant for beautiful views. PS. Invoice Gates has performed a spherical right here.
14. Hold an Eye out for Spinner Dolphins
When staying on the FS Lanai, look ahead to spinner dolphins within the waters round Hulopoe Bay. Its clear and calm waters are a perfect habitat for spinner dolphins. These playful and acrobatic dolphins are sometimes seen spinning within the air and are recognized for his or her pleasant and curious nature. The South Shore Marine Protect helps defend the dolphins and different marine life within the space.
Within the early morning, guests to Hulopoe Bay, have an excellent likelihood of recognizing these pleasant creatures both from the shore or throughout a snorkeling tour. Some boat excursions round Lanai provide dolphin-watching alternatives as properly, offering an opportunity to see spinner dolphins of their pure surroundings.
15. The Spa at Manele Bay
Staying at 4 Seasons Manele Bay is an actual deal with and one of the crucial romantic locations on earth. Reserving a spa right here was one among our favorite issues to do in Lanai. A {couples} therapeutic massage on the seaside in a cabana is essentially the most decadent factor you are able to do. Benefit from the heat breeze of the Pacific Ocean as you hearken to the waves crash towards the shore. After which spend the afternoon enjoyable by the
16. Pu’u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock)
Positioned inside strolling distance from the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, Sweetheart Rock, also referred to as Pu´u Pehe, is a large rock formation simply off the coast.
It’s the primary factor to see once you go to Lanai, as this iconic landmark is steeped in Hawaiian legend and sweetness is known. This placing rock formation, rising majestically from the ocean, is accessible by way of a brief and scenic hike from Hulopoe Seashore. The path, lower than a mile spherical journey, is well-marked and gives beautiful coastal views, making it appropriate for many health ranges.
If you speak romance, I can’t assist however point out Pu´u Pehe, higher often known as Sweetheart Rock on the island of Lanai. That is the right couple’s getaway, full with its personal love story.
In accordance with native lore, Puu Pehe is known as after a tragic love story, including a layer of cultural significance to the positioning. The highest of the path offers panoramic vistas of the rugged shoreline and alternatives for whale watching throughout the precise season.
17. Discover the Tide Swimming pools
Whereas at Hulopoe Bay you’ll want 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 sure you put on reef footwear, control 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 of their pure habitat.
Accessible throughout low tide, these tide swimming pools present a novel alternative for instructional exploration and delicate interplay with marine ecosystems. Guests are inspired to tread flippantly and respect the fragile steadiness of those environments. Along with the marine life, the world across the tide swimming pools additionally boasts spectacular geological formations and scenic ocean views, making it a perfect spot for pictures and leisure.
18. Monro Path
If you’re searching for an excellent hike round Lanai, this 12.8-mile path begins in Lanai Metropolis. However you can too take it from the 4 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 Path
Koloiki Ridge was the positioning of a fierce Hawaiian battle within the 18th century. The ridge separates Naio and Maunalei. It was right here that we realized all concerning the fragile ecosystem of Lanai and the way the islanders are working to guard the natural world. The hike is 4 and a half miles spherical journey.
The Koloiki Ridge Path is a standout climbing journey on Lanai, providing an invigorating five-mile round-trip journey that rewards hikers with breathtaking views. Starting on the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai, the path winds by lush, native forests and opens as much as beautiful vistas of neighboring islands, Molokai and Maui.
Alongside the best way, hikers can immerse themselves in Lanai’s distinctive natural world, 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 well-liked alternative for each novice and skilled hikers. The path’s peak, providing panoramic views, is an ideal spot for memorable images. For these in search of to discover Lanai’s pure magnificence, the Koloiki Ridge Path is a vital expertise.
20. Take a Stroll in Lanai Metropolis
Lanai was dwelling to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, and an effective way to discover the historical past of Lanai is to discover Lanai Metropolis. There are some nice boutiques and eateries to take a look at together with Dis N Dat Store, The Mike Carroll Gallery, the Cory Labang Studio, and the Native Gentry.
Lanai Metropolis is situated within the coronary heart of Lanai Island. Take a strolling tour beginning at Dole Park, the town’s central hub, lined with outlets and native eateries. It’s good for experiencing the island’s delicacies and craftsmanship. Go to the Lanai Tradition & Heritage Heart to delve into the island’s historical past, from its pineapple plantation previous to its present-day developments. Artwork 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 Metropolis Farmers Market, the place you’ll find recent produce and artisanal items. Golfers can’t miss the Cavendish Golf Course, a free public course providing a relaxed spherical with scenic views.
Positioned on the previous Dole Pineapple Administration Constructing the Lanai Cultural and Heritage Heart takes you thru the historical past of Lanai. We didn’t know a lot about Lanai earlier than visiting and this was the right introduction to Lanai and its pineapple historical past. It’s a nice first cease on Lanai that will help you perceive the sights you can be exploring and the individuals you’ll meet.
21. Lanai Journey Park
The Lanai Journey Park is a comparatively new addition to Lanai’s array of points of interest that opened its doorways in 2021, providing an thrilling mix of out of doors actions for all ages.
Nestled within the island’s lush landscapes, this journey park presents a wide range of experiences, from zip-lining throughout scenic valleys to off-road UTV adventures that allow guests discover the rugged terrain of Lanai. Archery and capturing ranges add a novel twist to the journey choices out there.
The park’s design integrates seamlessly with the pure surroundings, making certain an immersive expertise in Lanai’s magnificence. Whether or not you’re in search of an adrenaline rush or seeking to get pleasure from some outside enjoyable with the household, the Lanai Journey Park is a must-visit vacation spot that mixes the fun and the pure allure of the island in a sustainable method. Its latest opening makes it one of many latest hotspots for adventure-seekers visiting Lanai.
The place to Keep on Lanai
Sensei Lanai – This luxurious resort gives a personal wellness session, and a personalised itinerary, together with island actions and spa remedies. You too can dine on the world-famous Nobu. Your keep right here additionally contains round-trip airfare from Honolulu.
4 Seasons Lanai – 4 Seasons Resort Lanai on the south shore of Lanai’s coast is the right luxurious seaside escape with views of ocean cliffs, seashores, and entry to scuba diving, snorkeling, and crusing.
Resort Lanai: for the following half of your journey, with a closing night time on the Resort Lanai which was just lately renovated in 2018.
Tips on 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 technique to get there may be by a brief, scenic ferry journey from Maui, departing from Lahaina Harbor, providing a picturesque island strategy.
For many who desire air journey, day by day flights can be found from Honolulu and Maui, touchdown at Lanai Metropolis 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 out there, providing an expensive and personalised technique 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 searching for one thing completely different, we recommend trying out Lanai. It’s luxurious and adventurous and you will note far fewer crowds than on different islands in Hawaii.