If you are seeking peace, tranquility and an escape from the hustle of everyday life, you will find solace in the serenity of Lanai. Lanai is Hawaii’s smallest island and Lanai offers visitors a great reprieve. Lanai is known for its quiet beauty and luxurious five-star resorts. Enjoy world class resorts, go window shopping in charming boutiques in the island’s central town of Lanai City, or make memories along the Norfolk pine-lined Munro Trail. Make sure to visit Hulopoe Bay, a protected marine reserve with a wealth of sea creatures including Hawaii’s famous spinner dolphins. To find more information on all of Hawaii’s best beaches, visit here. Continue reading our Lanai Hawaii Travel guide:
Lanai Weather – When to Visit
The best time to visit Lanai is between June and November, when you’ll find the warmest and driest months. However, the island’s trade winds help keep temperatures comfortable year-round, with highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-60s. Since the island sees the least amount of rain of all the Hawaiian islands, rain is rarely a threat. Peak whale-watching months are between January and April. Winter is the most popular time to visit Hawaii, so airfare and accommodation rates will be at their highest.
Best Lanai Beaches
Hulopoe Beach Park
Hulopoe Beach Park is a sweeping crescent-shaped beach located on the southern coast in Hulopoe Bay, fronting the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. With fantastic snorkeling in the crystalline water, large tide pools to explore and Puu Pehe just a short hike away, this is the Lanai’s most popular and accessible beach. Restroom and picnic facilities are available.
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Polihua Beach
Take a 4-wheel drive adventure about an hour northwest of Lanai City to find two miles of pristine and blissfully empty coast perfect for sunbathing or beach combing. The strong winds and currents make the ocean too dangerous for swimming, and no restroom facilities are available.
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Shipwreck Beach
This 8-mile-long windswept strand on Lanai’s northeastern shore is a beachcomber’s dream. The strong currents yield all sorts of sea debris, from hand-blown glass fishing floats and paper nautilus shells to lots of junk. Shipwreck isn’t good for swimming, but is a great place to spot whales from December to April, when Hawaiian humpbacks cruise in from Alaska.
Best Tours & Activities Near Lani by Viator
Molokini Crater
Creating a perfect crescent shape in the sea, the sunken Molokini Crater is a snorkeling wonderland just offshore from Maui. Dubbed among the world’s top 10 diving locations, Molokini is prized by underwater enthusiasts for its protected reef, crystal-clear visibility and schools of tropical fish. The crater is also a favorite with birdwatchers, who come here to spot seabirds like petrels and shearwaters. Come here by organized tour for a day of swimming and diving, and terrific views across the water back to Maui. Learn more about Molokini Crater Tours here.
Haleakala Crater
The lunar landscape of Haleakala Crater covers an enormous expanse – so big that Manhattan could squeeze inside. The world’s largest dormant volcano, the crater is protected by the Haleakala National Park. This is the place for stunning views of cinder cones, wild hiking trails, Hawaiian legends and rare endangered species. Learn more about Haleakala Crater Tours here.
Road to Hana (Hana Highway)
Technically called the Hana Highway, the Road to Hana is 52 miles of winding two-lane road connecting Kahului with the tiny town of Hana. You could certainly make the trip in a few hours (it’s slow going with all the twists and turns, and most of the little bridges narrow to a single lane), but why would you? The scenery along the way is some of Maui’s most beautiful, with waterfalls to see, beaches to visit, and short hikes to do en route. Learn more about the Hana Highway Tours here.
Maalaea Harbor
Ma’alaea Harbor is the launching point for many of the Island’s best sunset and dinner cruises, fishing charters, snorkeling adventures to the Molokini Crater—a submerged volcanic crater atoll—and more. Between late November and early April, head to the scenic lookout between mile markers 8 and 9 to the west of the harbor for sweeping vistas of leaping humpback whales, or any time of the year to spot the dolphins that sometimes ride waves alongside harbor-departing cruises. Learn more about Maalaea Harbor Tours here.
Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park
A pleasant stop on the road to Hana, the Pua’a Ka’a Park offers the chance to take a scenic break from the long drive. Stretch your legs on its dirt path to nearby waterfalls and natural pools. The farther you’re willing to walk, the taller the waterfalls become and many people bring a picnic to enjoy as a part of this diversion. Learn more about Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park Tours.
Best Lanai Restaurants
Nobu Lanai $10 – 30
Take a seat at the intimate sushi bar for a hand-selected meal of fresh-caught fish, share a one-of-a-kind dining experience at their private teppan table, or join friends and family on the cliff-side terrace: At any spot, you’ll savor the innovative Japanese cuisine. Telephone: 1-800-819-5053 Web: Nobu Lanai
No Ka Oi Grindz Lanai $10 & Under
A local favorite, this lunchroom-style café has picnic tables in the landscaped front yard where diners can watch the town drive by and five more tables in the no-frills interior. The menu includes local favorites like kimchi fried rice and massive plate lunches, plus daily specials. Telephone: 808-565-9413 Web: No Ka Grindz Lanai
Blue Ginger Cafe $10 & Under
Local paintings and photos line the walls inside, while townspeople parade by the outdoor tables. For breakfast, try the Lanai omelet with Portuguese sausage. Lunch selections range from burgers to local favorites such as saimin noodles. For dinner you can sample generous portions of shrimp tempura or roasted pork. Telephone: 808-565-6363 Web: Blue Ginger Cafe
One Forty $30 & Up
Named after the island’s 140 square miles, prime cuts of beef and the freshest local fish are served in airy comfort on the hotel terrace, which overlooks the wide sweep of Hulopoe Bay; retractable awnings provide shade on sunny days. Comfy rattan chairs, potted palms, and tropical decor create an inviting backdrop for the ocean-view restaurant. Telephone: 808-565-2290 Web: One Forty
Best Lanai Nightlife
Sports Bar & Grill
At the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, the oceanfront Sports Bar & Grill is an open-air lounge serving casual fare such as kiawe-smoked chicken wings, burgers, and kalbi-beef short ribs. This isn’t your average sports bar food though, as an expansive menu tempts with fresh seafood appetizers, lavish salads, and healthy entrées. Pool tables, shuffleboard courts, and a 90-inch TV make for an amusing time out. Telephone: 808-565-2000 Web: Sports Bar & Grill
Hotel Lanai
A visit to this small, lively bar lets you chat with locals and find out more about the island. Enjoy performances by local and visiting musicians in the big green tent two nights a week. Get here early—last call is at 9:30. Telephone: 808-565-7211 Web: Hotel Lanai
Best Lanai Hotels
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Lanai sounds like such a refreshing escape compared to the busier Hawaiian islands. I really love the focus on peace, luxury, and nature, especially spots like Hulopoe Bay and the Munro Trail. The idea of seeing spinner dolphins in a protected marine reserve feels so special and untouched. Do you think Lanai is better suited for couples looking to unwind, or would it also work well for a quiet solo trip?
Lanai actually works beautifully for both, which is part of what makes it so unique. Couples love Lanai for its luxury resorts, secluded beaches, and romantic snorkeling at Hulopoe Bay, while solo travelers appreciate the calm pace, scenic drives, and peaceful hiking trails like the Munro Trail. Because the island is small and uncrowded, it’s easy to slow down, enjoy nature, and truly disconnect from everyday life. Would you be more drawn to Lanai for relaxation at a five-star resort, or for exploring its quiet beaches and natural landscapes on your own schedule?
This Lanai travel guide makes the island sound like such a perfect contrast to busier spots like Maui and Oahu. I really like that you included nearby tours like Molokini Crater, Haleakala, and the Road to Hana, because it helps me picture combining a quiet Lanai stay with a more active Maui itinerary. The weather breakdown is super helpful too, especially knowing Lanai stays drier than the other islands but still has whale-watching season in winter. For a trip that includes both Lanai and Maui, would you recommend visiting Lanai first to unwind, or ending there as a “last stop” to relax after sightseeing? And for families, do you think Lanai works well with kids, or is it better suited to couples looking for a quiet, romantic getaway?
You’re thinking about it exactly the way many travelers do – Maui for variety and sightseeing, Lanai for calm and luxury. If you like to start your vacation in “deep relax mode,” visiting Lanai first can be wonderful, then you head to Maui feeling rested and ready for all the day trips like Molokini Crater, Haleakala Crater, and the Road to Hana. But if you tend to pack a lot into your schedule, I actually recommend ending on Lanai so you can slow down, enjoy Hulopoe Bay, and soak up that quiet pine-scented air before you fly home. Lanai works beautifully for couples, but it can be lovely with kids too, especially if they enjoy tide pools, gentle snorkeling, and simple outdoor time rather than theme-park-style attractions. Are you imagining a romantic escape for two, or a family trip where you balance Lanai’s serenity with Maui’s busier beaches and activities?
I love how peaceful Lanai sounds in your guide – the idea of a small, quiet Hawaiian island with pine-lined trails and a couple of luxe resorts is exactly my kind of escape. Hulopoe Bay and Shipwreck Beach both really caught my eye, especially with the chance to see spinner dolphins and maybe even whales in season. Since some of the beaches aren’t ideal for swimming, it’s super helpful that you point out where the currents are stronger and where it’s better just to walk and take photos. For a first-time visitor using your Lanai Hawaii travel guide, how many days would you suggest staying to really unwind without feeling rushed? And would you say a 4×4 is essential for seeing places like Polihua Beach, or can you still enjoy the island if you stick closer to Lanai City and Hulopoe?
I’m so glad Lanai’s peaceful vibe speaks to you – it really is the “exhale” island of Hawaii. For a first visit, I usually suggest 3–5 days on Lanai so you have time to relax at Hulopoe Beach, explore Lanai City, and still take a slow adventure out to places like Shipwreck Beach or Munro Trail. A 4×4 definitely opens up more of the island, especially Polihua Beach and some of the wilder backroads, but you can absolutely enjoy Lanai with a more low-key approach around Hulopoe Bay, the marine reserve, and the central town. Just keep in mind that Hulopoe is best for swimming and snorkeling, while Polihua and Shipwreck are more for beachcombing, scenery, and photography. Are you leaning toward a full “do nothing but beach and spa” kind of trip, or would you like to mix in a few adventure days with trails and 4×4 exploring too?
Hello there, thank you so much for sharing this. I have been wanting to vacation to Hawaii, and now I am ready! I’m glad I found your guide on Lanai. Lanai sounds really interesting, and you have provided all the information I need to start planning. It will be really helpful and I have bookmarked! Thanks Leahrae!
You are very welcome Charity. I have a trip planned to Hawaii this year, and I am so looking forward to it. You will have a great vacation here. Thanks for visiting my Lanai Hawaii Travel Guide.
Hi there! Such an amazing article! It was an exciting experience going through this guide on beach travel destinations! I must say I never really knew Lanai had such beauty till I saw those beautiful pictures! Thanks for sharing this! Thank goodness I stumbled on this! This is definitely a good place for a vacation with loved ones. Thanks again.
You are very welcome and thanks for your visit to beach travel destinations!
Hi Leahrae, This article is simply spectacular. The beauty of this location in Lanai Hawaii Travels is superb. I really wish that the opportunity to just disappear into Hawaii right now and enjoy the beauty of the location. The beaches in there really made the place up. I have put it to myself that visiting this location with myself and family is a must. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Oviss, I am glad you enjoyed. Thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations.
I heard that Larry Ellison from Oracle owns most of the island and that some of the hotels there are super expensive. Are there more reasonable options for people who don’t make millions of dollars a year? It seems like a great place to visit, but if you can’t find an affordable place to rent a hotel room then it seems like an impossible place to visit.
You know, Hawaii is not going to be super affordable no matter where you go. But Lanai does have a few options. Probably the most affordable is going to be Hotel Lanai. Oahu is going to be the most affordable Hawaiian Island. You can visit our Oahu Travel Guide here to find the best hotels on the island. Please let me know if you need anything else.
Oh Hawaii! I have always wanted to go to hawaii and hopefully will one day!
This post just gets me feeling all excited and I can’t wait to be able to go and travel again!
Thank you so much for listing all the possible places we can visit in Lanai Hawaii 🙂
You are welcome Tina! I hope you get to Lanai Hawaii soon!
Hey there
have been thinking where are the best beach travel destinations and I found my self reading this article which seems to have answer to few of the questions running through my mind, but not withstanding I still have few more questions I would really love to get answers to
1. Which among the beach destination is perfect for two lovers to visit probably for vacation
and thanks for these article
You are welcome 🙂 Glad you enjoyed!
Thanks so much for sharing a good article to read to know more about Lanai Hawaii, we need to stay at home for a few more months, but nothing will stop me to make plans and travel again as soon as it’s allowed, mean while reading your post helps me to know more about interesting places to add to my dreams list, it looks like this small island is a paradise on Earth, your review is good as always and you share a good number and activities to visit and do while visiting this place.
Thank you Alejamdra…I think we are all waiting for the green light to travel without a mask and precautions.
You website is beautifully presented. I got an immediate rush from it having had the opportunity to visit Maui in the past. I never made it to Lanai, but your post makes me want to do that the next time I got to go to Hawaii. My only comment about the post centers on the fact that I think a subheading could be added when you move away from discussing Lanai beaches and then move to Maui. I realize its a 9 mile ride from Lanai to Maui, but if someone doesn’t know that, the mentioning of the Maui sites leads one to think they are on Lanai. I think a header line just before you move off to Maui would be useful.
Also, as you moved through your Lanai intro, I was waiting for more about the resor and the town for window shopping. I think you moved away from Lanai too quickly. All in all I will put Lanai on my to do list.
Thanks for your input Dan and glad you enjoyed your visit to beach travel destinations.
What a beautiful place. I’ve been few times on Hawaii but never heard about Lanai island before. It seems as a perfect place for quiet time close to nature, without crowds and overwhelming commerce. I will definitely include it in my travel plans for 2021, thank you for bringing this magic island to my attention.
You are so welcome. Wow, can’t believe you have been to Hawaii and not heard of Lanai 🙂 You’ll love it! Thanks for visiting my Lanai Hawaii Travel Guide.
I have a travel goal to visit all 50 states, and in every state I always look for the lesser known places to explore. I am saving Hawaii for last (holy cow, it’s expensive), and Lanai was completely off my radar before this article. It is going to be on my must-do list for Hawaii. I really want to check out the crater, Hana Highway, and Polihua Beach. How hard is it to get to Polihua Beach? Thanks for the great read.
Yes I agree, it is a bit expensive but well worth it! To get to Polihua Beach is an adventure! Take a 4-wheel drive adventure about an hour northwest of Lanai City. Or, hire a tour guide to take you to this beautiful two miles of pristine and empty coast.
Haha thanks for the article my guy! Wow, Hawaii?!? Hawaii looks so beautiful.. it’s definitely a place that I aspire to visit some day. I just love traveling to all these beautiful places and having even more beautiful experiences! Whether that’s by myself or with a friend/lover, I can’t wait!
I think you could easily visit Lanai alone and have a great time, as well as going with a friend or lover 🙂 Hawaii is just a great place. Thanks for the visit.
Hello there! Wow, Hawaii is one of those places I wanted to try visiting in my lifetime and this post just makes me that much more excited to visit. I am also a big fan of eating sushi so Nobu Lanai sounds like a great place to stop by when I get the chance to visit Hawaii. Thanks for creating this post with nice pictures.
You are welcome Mike, thank you for visiting my Lanai Hawaii Travel guide.
I can’t wait to visit, after reading your exotic review. I am born in a town famous for Father Damian, who lived and died on Molokai, but my knowledge of Hawai does not reach further than this.
I learned and fell in love with Lanai after reading your review. I love the sea and the oceans and wild nature. Seafood is my passion.
Oh then you will fall in love with Lanai. Sounds like you can learn more about Father Damian too. I am glad you enjoyed my Lanai Hawaii Travel post.
I have seen a lot of beaches and so far his has placed itself in the list of some of the best I have come across in recent times and it’s been a pleasure to see these wonderful natural places. As a lover of nature, I have taken my Tim to visit some very great places and this is one that I must admit caught my eyes. I have a bucket list of places to to visit and I’ll love to add these Hawaii beaches to it.
Great Sean, thanks for stopping by beach travel destinations.