Lānaʻi is unlike any other Hawaiian island. With no traffic lights, only one small town, and vast stretches of untouched land, it offers a serene, off-the-grid paradise that feels both deeply Hawaiian and beautifully remote.
Whether you're after barefoot luxury at a five-star resort or off-road adventures into rugged landscapes, Lānaʻi offers peace, privacy, and plenty of wow moments.
Voted one of the best beaches in the world
Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and tide-pool exploring
Protected marine reserve often visited by spinner dolphins
Surreal, Mars-like landscape of red rock formations
Best visited at sunset for dramatic shadows and colors
Accessible by 4x4 (no paved roads)
8-mile stretch of wild coastline with a massive WWII-era ship rusting offshore
Great for beachcombing, not for swimming
Views of Molokaʻi on clear days
Lānaʻi is made for off-roading—rent a jeep and discover hidden spots
Drive to secluded Polihua Beach or up to the Lānaʻihale Summit for panoramic views
Quaint plantation town with no big chains
Local cafés, art galleries, and Hawaiian culture
Relaxed, walkable, and community-focused
Blue Ginger Café – Island comfort food, fresh pastries, and plate lunches
Lanai City Bar & Grille – Fine dining with a local twist
Lana’i Ohana Poke Market – A must for fresh poke bowls
Coffees of Hawaii – Locally brewed coffee with views and Hawaiian vibes
Four Seasons Resort Lanai – Ultra-luxury beachfront resort with world-class dining, golf, and spa
Sensei Lānaʻi, A Four Seasons Resort – Wellness-focused retreat in the mountains, adults-only
Hotel Lānaʻi – Cozy and historic boutique hotel in Lānaʻi City
Hulopoʻe Bay cliffs at sunrise
Rock formations in Garden of the Gods
Shipwreck Beach and the rusted tanker
Sunset horseback ride on the highlands
Lānaʻihale Summit for panoramic island views
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but drier and calmer from May to September
Getting There: Fly from Honolulu or take a ferry from Maui (Lahaina)
Transport: Rent a 4x4 Jeep—many roads are rugged and unpaved
Mobile Signal: Limited in many places—enjoy the digital detox
Book Ahead: Accommodations are few, especially during holidays
Lānaʻi offers a rare blend of raw natural beauty, Hawaiian culture, and luxury seclusion. It’s perfect for travelers seeking:
Privacy and tranquility away from crowds
Unique landscapes unlike anywhere else in Hawaii
Authentic cultural experiences in a small island community
Outdoor adventures in a rugged, beautiful setting
Luxury resorts with personalized service and amenities