A day on Lāna‘i unearths a lifetime of discoveries.

Rich in history and culture, the island features a landscape abundant in heritage, sweeping vistas and petroglyphs. Spend time swimming in calm bay waters or embark on a memorable day of high elevation golf on this quiet island.

Lāna‘i City

Visiting Lāna‘i City is like going back in time. Devoid of traffic lights or traffic jams, this upcountry town exists like it did almost a century ago. It isn’t a tourist town, but it does welcome visitors to browse charming mom-and-pop shops, art galleries and restaurants around Dole Park. Express your creativity when you sign up for a workshop at the Lāna‘i Art Center. Pop into an afternoon or evening showing at the historic Lāna‘i Theater, Hale Keaka, and download the free Lāna‘i Guide app for a self-guided walking tour of this historic town, complete with augmented reality features.

Explore Responsibly with the Lāna‘i Guide App

Created by the experts at the Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center, this free downloadable app includes more hikes, four-wheel driving tours, history and traditions than anyone could fit into just one trip to Lāna‘i. The best part? The many activities and history told within the app are supported by the community, guaranteeing their authenticity. Head to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to download the Lāna‘i Guide App today.

Hulopo‘e Bay

The natural atmosphere of Lāna‘i is ever-apparent in this quintessential bay. Home to colorful, native fish and sea life, sheltered Hulopo‘e Bay is a good spot for snorkeling, swimming, body boarding and exploring tide pools. Spend a day with the family here—it has picnic tables, barbeque grills, restrooms and showers. As this is a protected site, please leave every stone and shell in its place to preserve the bay. In the winter months, be cautious of rough ocean conditions when playing in the water.

Pu‘upehe

A short coastal hike leads you to the dramatic natural wonder and incomparable beauty of Pu‘upehe, 150 feet offshore. Continue your ascent up the cliff overlooking Pu‘upehe for a spectacular photo op. Yellow tang surgeonfish can be spotted through the clear turquoise waters below; above, otherworldly whitetailed tropical birds can be seen soaring overhead. Tread lightly and peer inquisitively along the trail as endangered ‘ua‘u kani (wedgetail shearwater) make their nests in ground burrows on either side of this stunning scenic trail.

History & Heritage

Lāna‘i was once a sovereign land until King Kamehameha I united the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. The island was eventually purchased after contact with the west, and converted into a cattle ranch. Lāna‘i later hosted the largest pineapple plantation in the world, earning its nickname as the “Pineapple Isle” under the ownership of James Dole. Pineapple production moved overseas and the island’s main industry has been replaced by tourism, with two lavish resorts and one cozy hotel amongst the 30 miles of paved road.

Historical Site on Lāna‘i Kaunolū

Respectfully explore the ruins of this historical fishing village and former royal compound where King Kamehameha I used to fish. Atop a high sea cliff with endless views of ocean and sky, Kaunolū houses the remnants of the Halulu Heiau (religious temple), ancient petroglyphs, and Kahekili’s Leap, where warriors would demonstrate bravery by diving off a 60-foot cliff.

Before You Come

• Plan ahead.

• Consult your travel advisor or hotel concierge to reserve transportation and any activities you might like to try.

• Be sure to plan enough time so you can relax and enjoy Lāna‘i.

WHEN YOU’RE HERE

• Take it slow.

• Take your time and drive with aloha. Unpaved roads require 4 x 4 vehicles.

• Go slow so that others aren’t “dusted out.”

• Be sure to give a friendly “Lāna‘i wave” to passing vehicles.