Lanai Island in Hawaii isn’t the most popular Hawaiian island. The majority of people just go to Lanai on a day journey from Maui, however this gorgeous island deserves a lot more than simply an outing. We invested 7 days on Lanai and discovered lots of incredible and special things to do in Lanai that produce an unforgettable getaway in Hawaii
From checking out the rugged landscapes of the Garden of the Gods to delighting in the first-rate features at the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai, visitors can discover a remarkable balance of natural elegance and extravagant convenience. Whether indulging in the sun on remote beaches, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Hulopoe Bay, or starting an awesome UTV trip throughout the island’s varied surface, Lanai guarantees a memorable experience for every single type of tourist.
Finest Things to do in Lanai
There are just 3 hotels on the island, and we remained at them all. Our last night was at the Hotel Lanai in Lanai City. All of the hotels have their appeals, and they are all worth beginning in to break up the nights on Lanai as each place is really various. Nevertheless, the island is little enough that you can remain in one location and go to all the locations of the island.
We will break down the hotels at the end. However if you are wanting to develop a Lanai Schedule we recommend splitting time in between the 2 4 seasons resort with a last night at Hotel Lanai in Lanai City.
Remain At Sensei Lanai, A 4 Seasons Resort, for 2 nights and after that relocate to the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai on the beach for the next half of your journey, with a last night at the Hotel Lanai which was just recently remodelled in 2018.
About Lanai
A 40-minute ferryboat trip from Maui or a 30-minute flight from Oahu gets you to Lanai, Hawaii. Called the Pineapple Island, Lanai was as soon as home to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, producing 75% of the world’s pineapple! Find out more: One Of The Most Incredible Realities About Hawaii
Lanai, pronounced La-nah-ee, is the 3rd tiniest Hawaiian island and the tiniest openly available populated island. When landing at the ferryboat port in Manele Harbour from Maui we took the complimentary shuttle bus take us to the 4 Seasons Resort Lodge at Koele. This was where we remained for the very first number of nights and after that we carried on to the 4 Seasons Manele.
What is special about Lanai amongst the Hawaiian Islands is that it is nearly completely independently owned. This appealing element of Lanai’s history started in the late 19th century. It reached a turning point in 2012 when Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle Corporation, acquired the majority of the island. This ownership has actually caused both advancement and preservation efforts, intending to stabilize modernization with maintaining Lanai’s natural appeal and cultural heritage.
1. Lease a Jeep for a Day
We leased a jeep for our very first day on the island to see a few of Lanai’s leading off-the-beaten-path destinations. Having a jeep is an excellent method to navigate, as a few of the surfaces on Lanai are rugged and interesting. A great deal of our preferred Lanai destinations were finest reached by 4×4. You can compare costs here.
2. UTV Experience
Among the most special things to do in Lanai (and possibly the whole Hawaiian Islands) is to take a UTV Experience. The trip begins on off-road cars going through forests and ridges to see beautiful views of Maui and Molokai.
Start a thrilling UTV (Energy Surface Automobile) experience in Lanai to experience the rugged surface of this small island. These directed trips, provided by knowledgeable operators like Lanai Adventures, take you off the beaten course to check out locations unattainable by routine cars.
Browse through red dirt routes, ascend to breathtaking perspectives, and witness the varied landscapes of Lanai, from rocky hills to rich forested locations. Along the method, guides share insights into the island’s history and ecology, including an academic element to the adventure of the trip.
There are likewise totally free shuttle bus from Manele Bay 4 Seasons and Lanai City too. If you are searching for something various to do in Hawaii, the Lanai UTV trip is a lot enjoyable!
3. Garden of the Gods– Keahiakawelo
Keahiakawelo likewise referred to as the Garden of the Gods lies 45 minutes from Lanai City on the northwest side of Lanai. Its transcendent lunar landscape includes an enormous rock garden filled with rock towers and stones. This wild and windswept location is special to this Hawaiian island sensation as if you are on another world.
Legend has it that t it was developed as an outcome of a contest in between the 2 kahunas (priests of Lanai and Molokai to see who might keep a fire burning longer. If you wish to seem like you are strolling on Mars, this is the location to be.
Arriving: It’s finest to see it by jeep leasing for a day.
4. Polihua Beach
Polihua Beach is a 2-mile stretch of beach that uses beautiful views of the nearby island of Molokai. This rugged excursion in Lanai is a lovely remote beach ideal for beachcombing. We went to Polihua Beach through 4X4 while checking out Lanai’s northern coast.
Found on Lanai’s northwestern side, Polihua Beach is understood for its broad area of soft, white sand. If fortunate, you might spy green sea turtles or a humpback whale from the coast.
Swimming is not suggested at Polihua due to strong currents, however the peaceful environment makes it ideal for sunbathing and relaxation.
The journey to Polihua Beach itself is an experience, taking you through rugged landscapes and using a look into the island’s raw appeal. It has to do with 60 miles from Lanai City and about a half-hour past the Garden of the Gods. This remote beach, lacking centers, is a must-visit for those wanting to experience Lanai’s unblemished appeal.
5. Hulopoe Beach
While Hulopoe Beach is quickly available by a brief walk from the 4 Seasons Resort, there’s likewise a public parking lot for those originating from in other places on the island.
Hulopoe Beach, situated on Lanai’s southern coast, is a prime area for snorkeling and swimming, thanks to its clear, calm waters. This properly maintained beach becomes part of a marine protect, which makes sure plentiful sea life, consisting of exotic fish and sometimes spinner dolphins. Facilities like picnic tables, outdoor grill, and toilets are perfect for day-long gos to.
The beach is likewise popular for its distance to Puu Pehe (Sweetie Rock). We remained at the 4 Seasons Resort and took the treking routes out to Sweetie Rock. You can likewise follow a path from Hulopoe Beach to the Manele Golf Course. We did the walk in closed-toed water shoes which was ideal. simply a brief walking away.
6. Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach)
Kaiolohia, likewise referred to as Shipwreck Beach, is a 6-mile stretch of shoreline that lies on the north coast of Lanai. Big swells and strong trade winds have actually triggered more than one shipwreck off its coast. When going to the beach, you’ll see a 1940s oil tanker that still stays beached on Kaiolohia Bay’s reef. The ghostly rusted hull produces a spooky scene.
From Shipwreck Beach, you will likewise see fantastic views of both Molokai and Maui. While you exist, make certain to have a look at the Poaiwa Petroglyphs. They lie along the path a brief range from the beach.
7. Keomuku Town
Roam through the residues of the past at Keomuku Town, situated on the east coast of Lanai. It was a fishing town till 1899, when plantation owners relocated, turning it into a sugar plantation. Check out the deserted town and the remains of the Ka Lanakila o Ka Malamalama Church that was just recently brought back, along with the location where the sugar plantation was as soon as in operation. It is well worth visiting this lesser-known destination on Lanai.
8. Go To the Lanai Feline Sanctuary
It was over a century ago that the felines pertained to the Hawaiian Islands on whaling ships. They recreated and overpopulated the islands threatening the endemic bird types and ruining the environment. Lots of citizens saw these felines as insects and poisoned and caught them. However today, the Lanai Feline Sanctuary is working to keep the feline population is under control and the birds are returning.
Set on 2 acres of land, the Lanai Feline Sanctuary maintains to 300 felines and has a no-kill policy. If you are going to the Island of Lanai, plans can be made at the 4 Seasons to go to the center. They do not charge a cent and you will be gotten by a volunteer who will bring you to the sanctuary for a family pet and purr session. Or you can assist with some gardening, painting, and grooming.
9. Go Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in Lanai uses a distinct method to check out the island’s varied landscapes, mixing experience with a taste of regional culture. Assisted trips, offered through credible stables, accommodate all ability levels, from newbies to knowledgeable riders.
These trips frequently pass through beautiful routes, using views of rich valleys, rugged hills, and breathtaking ocean vistas. Riders have the chance to find out about Lanai’s history and ecology from well-informed guides, improving the experience beyond a normal path trip. Some trips even consist of sees to historical websites or concealed areas unattainable by lorry. Horseback riding on Lanai not just offers an appealing outside activity however likewise a much deeper connection to the island’s natural appeal and heritage, making it an unforgettable part of any Lanai travel plan.
10. Go Whale Enjoying
From December to Might, the island of Lanai turns into one of the very best locations for whale seeing worldwide. The Auau Channel lies in Lanai, Maui, and Molokai and draws in more than 10,000 humpback whales who move to its warm, shallow waters.
These mild giants move to the warm Hawaiian waters, and Lanai’s special perspective offer exceptional chances for seeing. Numerous regional operators use whale-watching trips, geared up with well-informed guides who share insights about these spectacular animals.
These trips frequently leave from Manele Harbor and offer close-up views of whales and the possibility to see dolphins and other marine life. For those choosing land-based observation, the cliffs along the southern coast, particularly near Hulopoe Bay, use magnificent seeing areas. Whale seeing in Lanai integrates the adventure of marine experience with instructional elements, making it a must-do for nature lovers and households going to the island.
11. Lanai Snorkel
The crystal clear waters of Lanai produce gorgeous snorkeling. The island’s beautiful reefs produce an excellent excursion. When snorkeling in Lanai, you have a great chance to find dolphins or swim with sea turtles, green turtles, and sea cucumbers. If you are fortunate you might see bottle-nose dolphins, spinner dolphins, or whitetip reef sharks.
Sail Maui uses an exceptional sail and snorkel trip on a catamaran that consists of snorkeling followed by mixed drinks and lunch.
12. Diving at Lanai Cathedrals
Experienced scuba divers will take pleasure in checking out the Lanai Cathedrals. Popular dive websites in Lanai are Very First Cathedral and Second Cathedral are 2 spectacular undersea websites, which were formed by enormous undersea lava tubes.
Delight in a peaceful sail aboard among Trilogy’s cutting edge catamarans to a secured cove on the island’s western coast, where you can snorkel and see the undersea life that awaits you. Throughout your cruising journey, you might find moving humpback whales,
13. Manele Golf Course
We aren’t much on playing golf, however going to the Manele Golf Course is a must. Found at the 4 Seasons Manele Bay, the world-renowned Manele Golf Course was created by Jack Nicklaus. This first-rate course, set down atop the cliffs ignoring Hulopoe Bay, uses spectacular ocean views from every hole, improving the playing experience. Understood for its difficult design, the course includes natural landscapes, consisting of gorges and lava outcrops, requiring tactical play.
Even if you are not into golf, we advise having lunch at its dining establishment for beautiful views. PS. Expense Gates has actually played a round here.
14. Watch out for Spinner Dolphins
When remaining at the FS Lanai, expect spinner dolphins in the waters around Hulopoe Bay. Its clear and calm waters are a perfect environment for spinner dolphins. These spirited and acrobatic dolphins are frequently seen spinning in the air and are understood for their friendly and curious nature. The South Coast Marine Preserve assists safeguard the dolphins and other marine life in the location.
In the morning, visitors to Hulopoe Bay, have a great chance of identifying these wonderful animals either from the coast or throughout a snorkeling trip. Some boat trips around Lanai use dolphin-watching chances too, offering a possibility to see spinner dolphins in their natural surroundings.
15. The Medspa at Manele Bay
Remaining At 4 Seasons Manele Bay is a genuine reward and among the most romantic locations in the world. Reserving a health spa here was among our preferred things to do in Lanai. A couples massage on the beach in a cabana is the most decadent thing you can do. Delight in the warm breeze of the Pacific Ocean as you listen to the waves crash versus the coast. And after that invest the afternoon relaxing by the
16. Pu’u Pehe (Sweetie Rock)
Found within strolling range from the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, Sweetie Rock, likewise referred to as Pu ´ u Pehe, is a substantial rock development simply off the coast.
It is the primary thing to see when you go to Lanai, as this renowned landmark is soaked in Hawaiian legend and appeal is famous. This striking rock development, increasing wonderfully from the sea, is available through a brief and beautiful walking from Hulopoe Beach. The path, less than a mile big salami, is well-marked and uses spectacular seaside views, making it appropriate for a lot of physical fitness levels.
When you talk love, I can’t assist however point out Pu ´ u Pehe, much better referred to as Sweetie Rock on the island of Lanai. This is the ideal couple’s trip, total with its own romance.
According to regional tradition, Puu Pehe is called after an awful romance, including a layer of cultural significance to the website. The top of the path offers breathtaking vistas of the rugged shoreline and chances for whale seeing throughout the best season.
17. Check Out the Tide Pools
While at Hulopoe Bay make certain to walk to check out the lava tide swimming pools at low tide. It’s really cool to see what animals you’ll see drifting around inside the swimming pools in between tides. Make sure to use reef shoes, watch on the tides and wave and have a good time!
These natural swimming pools, most especially discovered along the rocky shoreline near Hulopoe Bay, are bristling with marine life, using a close-up view of sea stars, little fish, urchins, and crabs in their natural environment.
Available throughout low tide, these tide swimming pools offer a distinct chance for instructional expedition and mild interaction with marine environments. Visitors are motivated to tread gently and appreciate the fragile balance of these environments. In addition to the marine life, the location around the tide swimming pools likewise boasts excellent geological developments and beautiful ocean views, making it a perfect area for photography and relaxation.
18. Monro Path
If you are searching for a great walking around Lanai, this 12.8-mile path starts in Lanai City. However you can likewise take it from the 4 Seasons Koele Lodge. The path takes you through the rain forest and gorgeous picturesque lookout, where you can see all of the Hawaiian Islands at the same time. The path likewise takes you to Lanai Hale. At 3400 feet, it is Lanai’s greatest peak.
19. Koloiki Ridge Path
Koloiki Ridge was the website of a strong Hawaiian fight in the 18th century. The ridge separates Naio and Maunalei. It was here that we found out everything about the delicate environment of Lanai and how the islanders are working to safeguard the plants and animals. The walking is 4 and a half miles round journey.
The Koloiki Ridge Path is a standout treking experience on Lanai, using a stimulating five-mile round-trip journey that rewards hikers with spectacular views. Starting at the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai, the path winds through rich, native forests and opens to spectacular vistas of surrounding islands, Molokai and Maui.
Along the method, hikers can immerse themselves in Lanai’s special plants and animals, with educational indications offering insights into the regional environment. This reasonably difficult walking, well-marked and kept, appropriates for a lot of physical fitness levels, making it a popular option for both beginner and knowledgeable hikers. The path’s peak, using breathtaking views, is a best area for unforgettable images. For those looking for to check out Lanai’s natural appeal, the Koloiki Ridge Path is a necessary experience.
20. Take a Walk in Lanai City
Lanai was home to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, and an excellent method to check out the history of Lanai is to check out Lanai City. There are some fantastic shops and restaurants to have a look at consisting of Dis N Dat Store, The Mike Carroll Gallery, the Cory Labang Studio, and the Regional Gentry.
Lanai City lies in the heart of Lanai Island. Walk trip beginning at Dole Park, the city’s main center, lined with stores and regional restaurants. It is ideal for experiencing the island’s food and workmanship. Go To the Lanai Culture & & Heritage Center to explore the island’s history, from its pineapple plantation past to its contemporary advancements. Art lovers will take pleasure in the Mike Carroll Gallery, showcasing works influenced by Lanai’s landscapes.
For a taste of regional life, walk through the Lanai City Farmers Market, where you can discover fresh fruit and vegetables and artisanal items. Golf enthusiasts can’t miss out on the Cavendish Golf Course, a totally free public course using an unwinded round with panoramas.
Found at the old Dole Pineapple Administration Structure the Lanai Cultural and Heritage Center takes you through the history of Lanai. We didn’t understand much about Lanai before going to and this was the ideal intro to Lanai and its pineapple history. It is an excellent very first stop on Lanai to assist you comprehend the sights you will be checking out and individuals you will satisfy.
21. Lanai Experience Park
The Lanai Experience Park is a reasonably brand-new addition to Lanai’s variety of destinations that opened its doors in 2021, using an interesting mix of outside activities for any ages.
Nestled in the island’s rich landscapes, this experience park provides a range of experiences, from zip-lining throughout beautiful valleys to off-road UTV experiences that let visitors check out the rugged surface of Lanai. Archery and shooting varieties include a distinct twist to the experience choices offered.
The park’s style incorporates effortlessly with the natural surroundings, guaranteeing an immersive experience in Lanai’s appeal. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or wanting to take pleasure in some outside enjoyable with the household, the Lanai Experience Park is a must-visit location that integrates the adventure and the natural appeal of the island in a sustainable way. Its current opening makes it among the latest hotspots for adventure-seekers going to Lanai.
Where to Remain On Lanai
Sensei Lanai— This high-end resort
4 Seasons Lanai— 4 Seasons Resort Lanai on the south coast of Lanai’s coast is the ideal high-end beach escape with views of ocean cliffs, beaches, and access to diving, snorkeling, and cruising.
Hotel Lanai: for the next half of your journey, with a last night at the Hotel Lanai which was just recently remodelled in 2018.
How to Get to Lanai
Reaching Lanai, Hawaii’s remote island paradise, is a journey that contributes to the location’s appeal. The most typical method to arrive is by a brief, beautiful ferryboat trip from Maui, leaving from Lahaina Harbor, using an attractive island method.
For those who choose flight, everyday flights are offered from Honolulu and Maui, landing at Lanai City Airport. These flights are a fast and practical choice, offering spectacular bird’s-eye views of the Hawaiian island chain.
For a more special experience, personal charters and helicopter transfers are likewise offered, using a glamorous and tailored method to get here on Lanai.
And these are all the important things to do in Lanai. If you are reserving a journey to the Hawaiian Islands and are searching for something various, we recommend having a look at Lanai. It is elegant, daring and you will see far less crowds than on other islands in Hawaii.