The 21 Best Things to Do in Lanai, Hawaii

Lanai Island in Hawaii isn’t probably 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 wonderful and distinctive issues to do in Lanai that make for a memorable vacation 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 stability 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 trip 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 hotels on the island, and we stayed at all of them. Our closing evening was on the Hotel Lanai in Lanai Metropolis. All the lodges have their charms, and they’re all price beginning in to separate up the nights on Lanai as every location may be very totally different. Nevertheless, the island is sufficiently small you could keep in a single place and go to all of the areas of the island.

We are going to break down the lodges on the finish. However in case you are seeking to create a Lanai Itinerary we advise splitting time between the 2 4 seasons resort with a closing evening at Resort Lanai in Lanai Metropolis.

Keep 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 closing evening on the Hotel Lanai which was not too long ago 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. Often called 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 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 virtually solely privately owned. This intriguing side 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 many of the island. This possession has led to each growth and conservation efforts, aiming to stability modernization with preserving Lanai’s pure magnificence and cultural heritage.

1. Lease 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 a few of the terrains on Lanai are rugged and thrilling. A variety of our favourite Lanai points of interest have been greatest reached by four-wheel drive. You can compare prices here.

2. UTV Journey

One of the vital 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 means of forests and ridges to see attractive 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, provided by skilled operators like Lanai Adventures, take you off the crushed path to discover areas inaccessible by common autos.

Navigate by means of pink filth trails, ascend to panoramic viewpoints, and witness the varied landscapes of Lanai, from rocky hills to lush forested areas. Alongside the way in which, guides share insights into the island’s historical past and ecology, including an academic side to the fun of the trip.

There are additionally free shuttles from Manele Bay 4 Seasons and Lanai Metropolis as nicely. In case you are searching for one thing totally different to do in Hawaii, the Lanai UTV tour is a lot enjoyable!

3. Backyard of the Gods – Keahiakawelo

Keahiakawelo also called the Backyard of the Gods is positioned 45 minutes from Lanai Metropolis on the northwest facet of Lanai. Its otherworldly lunar panorama incorporates a huge rock backyard stuffed 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 on account of a contest between the 2 kahunas (monks of Lanai and Molokai to see who may preserve a fireplace burning longer. If you wish to really feel like you might be strolling on Mars, that is the place to be.

Getting there: It’s greatest to see it by jeep rental for a day.

4. Polihua Seashore

Polihua Seashore is a 2-mile stretch of seashore that gives attractive views of the neighboring island of Molokai. This rugged day journey in Lanai is a wonderful secluded seashore excellent for beachcombing. We visited Polihua Seashore by way of 4X4 whereas exploring Lanai’s northern coast.

Situated on Lanai’s northwestern facet, Polihua Seashore is understood for its broad expanse of sentimental, white sand. If fortunate, chances are you’ll spy inexperienced sea turtles or a humpback whale from the shore.

Swimming isn’t beneficial at Polihua on account of robust currents, however the serene surroundings makes it excellent 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 seashore, devoid of services, is a must-visit for these seeking to expertise Lanai’s untouched appeal.

5. Hulopoe Seashore

Whereas Hulopoe Seashore is well 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, positioned on Lanai’s southern coast, is a main spot for snorkeling and swimming, due to its clear, calm waters. This well-maintained seashore is a part of a marine protect, which ensures plentiful sea life, together with tropical fish and infrequently spinner dolphins. Amenities like picnic tables, barbecue grills, and restrooms are perfect for day-long visits.

The seashore 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. It’s also possible to observe a path from Hulopoe Seashore to the Manele Golf Course. We did the stroll in closed-toed water sneakers which was excellent. only a quick hike away.

6. Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Seashore)

Kaiolohia, also called Shipwreck Seashore, is a 6-mile stretch of shoreline that’s positioned on the north shore of Lanai. Giant swells and robust commerce winds have induced a couple of shipwreck off its coast. When visiting the seashore, 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. If you are there, remember to take a look at the Poaiwa Petroglyphs. They’re positioned alongside the path a brief distance from the seashore.

7. Keomuku Village

Wander by means of the remnants of the previous at Keomuku Village, positioned 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 not too long ago restored, in addition to the realm the place the sugar plantation was as soon as in operation. It’s nicely 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 chicken species and wreaking havoc on the ecosystem. Many residents noticed these cats as pests and poisoned and trapped them. However at present, 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 as much as 300 cats and has a no-kill coverage. In case you are visiting the Island of Lanai, preparations could be made on the 4 Seasons to go to the middle. They don’t cost a penny and you’ll be picked up by a volunteer who will convey you to the sanctuary for a pet and purr session. Or you possibly can assist out with some gardening, portray, and grooming.

9. Go Horseback Driving

Horseback driving in Lanai provides a singular method to discover the island’s various landscapes, mixing journey with a style of native tradition. Guided excursions, accessible by means of respected stables, cater to all ability ranges, from rookies 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 find out about Lanai’s historical past and ecology from educated guides, enhancing the expertise past a typical path trip. Some excursions even embody visits to historic websites or hidden spots inaccessible by car. Horseback driving on Lanai not solely supplies an interesting out of doors exercise but additionally 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 the most effective locations for whale watching on the planet. 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. A number of native operators provide whale-watching excursions, geared up 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 remark, 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 academic elements, making it a must-do for nature lovers 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 awesome day journey. When snorkeling in Lanai, you may have a superb probability to identify dolphins or swim with sea turtles, inexperienced turtles, and sea cucumbers. In case you are fortunate you might even see bottle-nose dolphins, spinner dolphins, or whitetip reef sharks.

Sail Maui provides a superb 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. Common dive websites in Lanai are First Cathedral and Second Cathedral are two magnificent underwater websites, which have been shaped by huge underwater lava tubes. 

Get pleasure from a calming sail aboard certainly one of Trilogy’s state-of-the-art catamarans to a protected cove on the island’s western shore, the place you possibly can snorkel and examine the underwater life that awaits you. Throughout your crusing journey, chances are 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. Situated 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, provides gorgeous 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 advocate having lunch at its restaurant for beautiful views. PS. Invoice Gates has performed a spherical right here.

14. Preserve 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 identified for his or her pleasant and curious nature. The South Shore Marine Protect helps shield the dolphins and different marine life within the space.

Within the early morning, guests to Hulopoe Bay, have a superb probability of recognizing these pleasant creatures both from the shore or throughout a snorkeling tour. Some boat excursions round Lanai provide dolphin-watching alternatives as nicely, offering an opportunity to see spinner dolphins of their pure surroundings.

15. The Spa at Manele Bay

Staying at Four Seasons Manele Bay is an actual deal with and one of the vital romantic locations on earth. Reserving a spa right here was certainly one 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. Benefit from the heat breeze of the Pacific Ocean as you hearken to the waves crash in opposition to the shore. After which spend the afternoon enjoyable by the

16. Pu’u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock)

Situated inside strolling distance from the 4 Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, Sweetheart Rock, also called Pu´u Pehe, is a big rock formation simply off the coast.

It’s the primary factor to see while 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 provides gorgeous coastal views, making it appropriate for many health ranges.

If you speak romance, I can’t assist however point out Pu´u Pehe, higher referred to as Sweetheart Rock on the island of Lanai. That is the proper couple’s getaway, full with its personal love story.

In line with native lore, Puu Pehe is known as after a tragic love story, including a layer of cultural significance to the location. The highest of the path supplies 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 remember 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. Make sure to put on reef sneakers, 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 singular alternative for academic exploration and delicate interplay with marine ecosystems. Guests are inspired to tread frivolously and respect the fragile stability of those environments. Along with the marine life, the realm across the tide swimming pools additionally boasts spectacular geological formations and scenic ocean views, making it a perfect spot for images and leisure.

18. Monro Path

In case you are searching for a superb hike round Lanai, this 12.8-mile path begins in Lanai Metropolis. However you may also take it from the 4 Seasons Koele Lodge. The path takes you thru the rainforest and exquisite scenic lookout, the place you possibly can 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 location of a fierce Hawaiian battle within the 18th century. The ridge separates Naio and Maunalei. It was right here that we discovered 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 means of lush, native forests and opens as much as gorgeous vistas of neighboring islands, Molokai and Maui.

Alongside the way in which, 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 preferred alternative for each novice and skilled hikers. The path’s peak, providing panoramic views, is an ideal spot for memorable photographs. 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 positioned within the coronary heart of Lanai Island. Take a strolling tour beginning at Dole Park, town’s central hub, lined with retailers and native eateries. It’s excellent for experiencing the island’s delicacies and craftsmanship. Go to the Lanai Tradition & Heritage Middle to delve into the island’s historical past, from its pineapple plantation previous to its present-day developments. Artwork lovers will benefit from the Mike Carroll Gallery, showcasing works impressed by Lanai’s landscapes.

For a style of native life, stroll by means of the Lanai Metropolis Farmers Market, the place you will discover contemporary produce and artisanal items. Golfers can’t miss the Cavendish Golf Course, a free public course providing a relaxed spherical with scenic views.

Situated on the previous Dole Pineapple Administration Constructing the Lanai Cultural and Heritage Middle 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’s a nice first cease on Lanai that will help you perceive the sights you’ll be exploring and the folks 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 taking pictures ranges add a singular twist to the journey choices accessible.

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 out of doors enjoyable with the household, the Lanai Journey Park is a must-visit vacation spot that mixes the fun 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.

The place to Keep on Lanai

Sensei Lanai – This luxury resort provides a personal wellness session, and a personalised itinerary, together with island actions and spa therapies. It’s also possible to dine on the world-famous Nobu. Your keep right here additionally consists of round-trip airfare from Honolulu.

4 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.

Resort Lanai: for the following half of your journey, with a closing evening on the Hotel Lanai which was not too long ago renovated in 2018.

Easy methods to Get to Lanai

Reaching Lanai, Hawaii’s secluded island paradise, is a journey that provides to the vacation spot’s attract. The most typical method to get there’s by a brief, scenic ferry trip 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 gorgeous aerial views of the Hawaiian archipelago.

For a extra unique expertise, personal charters and helicopter transfers are additionally accessible, providing an expensive and personalised method to arrive on Lanai.

And these are all of the issues to do in Lanai. In case you are reserving a visit to the Hawaiian Islands and are searching for one thing totally different, we advise trying out Lanai. It’s luxurious and adventurous and you will notice far fewer crowds than on different islands in Hawaii.