MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Lanai

Things to Do in Lanai

Lanai Hawaii, USA Travel Guide

Active Lanai

Lanai provides a variety of outdoor pursuits for every enthusiast.

Trail Exploration

Munro Trail Difficult

A challenging 12.8-mile trail ascending Lanaihale, the island's highest peak. Expect steep terrain and possibly muddy conditions. A 4x4 is necessary to reach the starting points.

Koloiki Ridge Trail Moderate

Approximately 5 miles round trip, accessible near Sensei Lanai. It winds through pine forests and features views of the island's interior.

Puu Pehe Trail Easy-Moderate

A short 0.5-mile coastal walk from Hulopoe Bay to the distinctive Sweetheart Rock. Terrain can be uneven.

Water Pursuits

  • Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Hulopoe Bay offers clear waters and abundant marine life. Dive trips explore the Cathedrals.
  • Swimming: Hulopoe Bay is the best place, known for calm and protected waters.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) / Kayaking: Available for rent at Hulopoe Bay. A peaceful way to explore the bay.
  • Fishing Charters: Deep-sea fishing for marlin, tuna, and other game fish departs from Manele Harbor.

Off-Road Thrills

  • 4x4 Off-roading: A true Lanai adventure.
  • Rent a Jeep Wrangler.
  • Explore extensive unpaved roads to remote beaches, geological sites, and historical spots.
  • A thrilling way to experience the island's wild side.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Dolphin Watching: Hulopoe Bay is prime for observing spinner dolphins in the mornings.
  • Whale Watching: From December to May, humpback whales are often visible from the coast or boat tours.
  • Axis Deer: Large populations; guided hunting tours available via licensed outfitters.
  • Hawaiian Monk Seals: Occasionally rest on Hulopoe Bay beach; keep a 50-foot distance.

Hunting & Cycling

  • Sporting Clays and Archery: Available at the Lanai Pine Sporting Clays and Archery Range.
  • Outdoor shooting experience in a controlled setting.
  • Cycling: Limited paved roads, but mountain biking is possible on certain dirt roads.
  • Some resorts may offer guided mountain bike tours.

Safety Alerts

Wear water shoes for tide pools at Hulopoe Bay. Do not touch marine life. For 4x4 off-roading, ensure your rental agreement permits it. Swimming at Shipwreck and Polihua beaches is unsafe due to strong currents.

Island Heritage & Local Life

Cultural immersion on Lanai is often a personal journey, interacting with the local community and honoring the island's heritage.

Hands-on Culture

  • Workshops & Classes: Resorts may offer cultural activities for guests like lei making, hula, or ukulele lessons.
  • Lanai Culture & Heritage Center: Occasionally hosts community workshops or demonstrations related to local crafts.
  • Cultural Performances: Resorts may feature hula performances or torch-lighting ceremonies.
  • Language Learning: No formal Hawaiian language classes for visitors; learning basic phrases shows respect.

Community & Arts

Community-Based Tourism

Supporting local businesses, dining at local restaurants, and shopping at markets supports the community. The Lanai Culture & Heritage Center is a direct way to engage with heritage preservation.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Lanai hosts small-scale local events like the annual Pineapple Festival (usually July) and Christmas tree lighting. These provide a chance to connect with the local community.

Local Arts & Crafts

Look for local art galleries or shops that sell handmade crafts and art by island residents for unique, authentic items.

Local Connection

Engage respectfully with residents. Their stories and insights deepen your island experience.

Island Celebrations

Attending local community events often includes traditional music, dance, and ceremonies.

Authentic Crafts

Unique, authentic items made on Lanai support local artisans and preserve cultural skills.

Serene Retreats

Lanai offers a quiet environment for relaxation and wellness, especially at its luxury resorts, providing a perfect escape for rejuvenation.

Spa & Rejuvenation

  • Hawaiian-inspired Spa (Four Seasons Resort Lanai): Offers full range of treatments including Lomi Lomi massage.
  • Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort: A dedicated wellness retreat focusing on personalized programs.
  • It features a state-of-the-art spa, private hale (pavilions) for treatments.
  • Comprehensive approach to holistic well-being, including nutrition, movement, and mindfulness.

Mind & Body

Yoga & Meditation

Sensei Lanai specializes in guided yoga, meditation, and mindfulness as core components of their wellness programs. Its tranquil highland setting is ideal.

Traditional Healing

The Four Seasons spa incorporates Hawaiian healing elements like Lomi Lomi massage, with rhythmic movements and a focus on spirit and body connection.

Natural Therapy

No natural hot springs on Lanai. Wellness offerings focus on curated spa treatments and holistic programs within resort settings.

Waterfront Relaxation

Pool Amenities

The Four Seasons Resort Lanai has luxurious pool areas with cabanas and attentive service, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

Beach Access

Direct access to Hulopoe Bay with beach amenities. These areas offer spaces for relaxation with full service.

Resort Yoga

Four Seasons Resort Lanai may offer yoga classes for guests, often on the beach or in scenic outdoor locations.

Evening on Lanai

Lanai's nightlife is minimal, reflecting its quiet nature. Entertainment options center on relaxed evenings rather than bustling party scenes.

Live Performances

  • Lanai City Bar & Grille (Hotel Lanai): The main local spot for live music, often featuring Hawaiian musicians on weekends.
  • Resort Lounges: Four Seasons Resort Lanai may feature live Hawaiian music during dinner or in the evenings.
  • Lanai Community Theatre: This local venue hosts plays, community performances, and movie screenings.
  • Check local listings or the Lanai Times newspaper for any events during your visit.

Quiet Evenings

Bar Districts

No designated bar districts. Lanai City Bar & Grille is the main local bar. Resort bars provide an upscale lounge experience with craft cocktails.

Nightclubs & Dancing

No nightclubs or dedicated dance venues exist on Lanai. The island's atmosphere is not for late-night clubbing.

Late-Night Options

Limited to quiet drinks at resort bars or the Hotel Lanai bar. The island generally winds down early, aligning with its peaceful ambiance.

Local Art Scene

The Lanai Community Theatre shows local talent and provides entertainment for residents and visitors.

Night-time Ambiance

Expect quiet sophistication at resort lounges, with gentle Hawaiian music.

Relaxed Socializing

The Hotel Lanai bar provides a relaxed setting for conversation with locals and travelers.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Local Finds
  • Richard's Market and Pine Isle Market are the main grocery and general stores.
  • They sell basic necessities, groceries, and some local products.
  • A few small shops in Lanai City sell local art, crafts, and souvenirs.
Unique Purchases
  • Luxury Boutiques: Four Seasons Resort Lanai has high-end boutiques with designer apparel and gifts.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Local art, pineapple-themed items, Hawaiian-made jewelry, or gourmet food (coffee, macadamia nuts, honey).
  • Shipping: Standard U.S. Domestic shipping for items sent to the mainland. International travelers follow U.S. Customs.

Ethical Shopping

Support local Lanai businesses and artists. Avoid buying items from protected marine life (e.g., black coral, sea turtle shell), as it is illegal. Choose sustainably sourced products.

Activity Planning Overview

Outdoor Fun

  • Explore diverse hiking trails, from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain ascents.
  • Enjoy water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking in calm bays.
  • Experience the thrill of 4x4 off-roading to remote parts of the island.
  • Go deep-sea fishing or take a sunset cruise to observe marine life.

Cultural & Relaxing

  • Indulge in spa and wellness treatments at luxury resorts for ultimate relaxation.
  • Engage with local culture through community events, workshops, or by supporting local artisans.
  • Enjoy quiet evenings with live music at Hotel Lanai or sophisticated resort lounges.
  • Explore local shops for unique crafts and souvenirs, supporting the island's community.