About Hawaii: Island Overviews

 

MAUI

For more than a dozen years Maui has been voted “Best Island” by readers of Conde Nast Traveler and there are plenty of reasons why, from its heavenly beaches to its scenic natural wonders.  As you cruise the lovely beaches of Ka’anapali and the seaside streets of Lahaina, discover your own reasons to love Maui. You will feel the mana (power) of Haleakala National Park; discover the arts of Upcountry Maui and the Hawaiian culture in Kahului.  From the scenic road to Hana to the championship golf courses, your vacation on the “Valley Isle” promises to be unforgettable. Thousands of humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters year after year and it is no wonder why so many humans join them.

 

West Maui: Today the sunny northwest coast of Maui is home to amazing resorts, restaurants, A-class shopping and a wealth of activities.  Different from the old west Maui that was once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty and the capitol of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

One can take a whale watching or sunset sail from the Lahaina harbor after walking the streets of historic Lahaina. Watch pro surfers rip it up at the famous Honolua Bay, or enjoy the silhouettes of the sunset cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock on the beautiful Ka’anapali Beach.  No interested, how about a round of golf at the championship level courses of Kapalua? You will quickly see why West Maui was the favorite of Hawaiian royalty.  

East Maui:  The lush, East Maui coast is famous for the winding road to Hana. The Hana Highway runs for 52 miles amongst waterfalls, dramatic vistas and flowering rainforests. Aloha is a way of life in the small town of Hana where Hawaiian traditions are alive and thriving. Beyond Hana is the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park, the site of the beautiful Pools of Oheo. With a day-trip through unforgettable East Maui you will go back in time and not want to return.

South Maui:  On the peaceful southwestern coast you’ll find the sunniest, driest area of Maui. South Maui is a place for lazy days and romantic nights with clear views of the islands of Lanai, Kahoolawe and the Molokini crater and miles of sandy beaches.  In the whale-friendly Maalaea Bay, explore the immersive underwater aquarium at the Maui Ocean Center.  Discover Maui’s warm hospitality on its spectacular southern coast as you shop and dine in some of Maui’s finest restaurants and resorts and golf at world-class courses in Wailea and Makena.

Central Maui: Arriving at Kahului Airport, Central Maui will be most visitors start to their Maui vacations.   Central Maui offers plenty of off-the-beaten-path treasures to uncover and is home to much of the island’s local community.  Browse the small town shops and restaurants of Wailuku.  Visit historic and sacred spots like Iao Valley State Park. Discover Maui’s thriving arts community at galleries and performance venues like the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Experience the Magic Isle like a local in Central Maui.

Upcountry Maui: As cool breezes carry the scent of eucalyptus throughout Upcountry Maui, rolling hills and misty mountains unfold. The fertile slopes of Upcountry are home to ranches, botanical gardens and farms with soaring views and are all located on the high elevations around Haleakala.

From early times, Hawaiians farmed the volcanic soil of the Upcountry fields, growing taro and sweet potato. Today, take a farm tour in Kula and see how Maui produces many fresh farm-to-table ingredients and the famous Maui onion for Hawaii’s finest restaurants. Discover the thriving art scene and the home to the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) in the small town of Makawao.  And don’t forget to drive beyond Upcountry up to Maui’s highest peak to explore the rare flora and fauna of Haleakala National Park.

 

OAHU

On Oahu, Hawaii’s timeless beauty blends with the modern luxuries of today.  Enjoy the dramatic mountain views of the Nuuanu Pali Lookout one moment, and then swim in the warm waters of world-famous Waikiki another. Watch the surfers on the legendary North Shore by day, then dance the night away in vibrant nightlife spots around Honolulu. Get a taste of local flavors in Kapahulu one night, and then dine at a Five Diamond Hawaii Regional Cuisine restaurant the next. Oahu’s “town and country” experiences are unrivaled, from indulging in urban comforts to escaping to natural wonders.  You’re never far away from just what you’re looking for on Oahu, with so much to see and do.  Find the island paradise you’ve been searching for when you visit this heart of Hawaii.

Honolulu: Honolulu is the vibrant epicenter of Hawaii and home to the State Capitol.  Here you’ll find everything from world-class shopping and a flourishing arts and culture scene to historic landmarks and treasured monuments.  The sprawling city of Honolulu spreads throughout the southeastern shores of Oahu, from Pearl Harbor to Makapuu Point, encompassing world famous Waikiki and is home to the majority of Oahu’s population.

Honolulu is the home of some of Hawaii’s most historic places from Iolani Palace, the Kawaiahao Church, the Mission Houses, iconic landmarks like the King Kamehameha I Statue, the Aloha Tower, and the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, to the historic Hawaii Theatre and the treasured artifacts of the Bishop Museum. Honolulu is also Hawaii’s hot spot for arts, culture and entertainment. From art galleries and underground bars in the Chinatown arts district to the nightlife, live music and fine dining of Waikiki. Whether you’re looking for Hawaii’s finest museums, or Hawaii’s finest Hawaii Regional Cuisine chefs, the best resorts, festivals, and events, or just some fun things to do, you’ll find it all in Honolulu.

Windward Coast:  The Windward side offers a scenic alternative to Waikiki, set beneath the towering green slopes of the Koolau Mountains with its dramatic ocean views, quiet beaches and off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Take a short drive from Waikiki and Honolulu over the mountainous Pali Highway. Be sure to stop at the historic Nuuanu Pali Lookout for breathtaking views. You’ll notice immediately how much this side of the island is wetter and greener than the Leeward Coast. The Windward side features a laid-back atmosphere perfect for ocean lovers in the shadow of these 2,000-foot Koolau mountain peaks. Whether you’re body surfing in the waves of Waimanalo Beach or kayaking off of Kailua Beach, the town of Kailua is a place to relax and enjoy the sea.

Other attractions include, the serene Valley of the Temples, home to an amazing Japanese Buddhist Temple, the Kualoa Ranch, for horseback riding and movie tours, as well as the Makapuu Lighthouse and Sea Life Park on Oahu’s eastern tip. To see Oahu like you’ve never seen it before, getaway to the Windward Coast.

Leeward Coast:  At the foot of the 4000 foot Waianae mountain range and less than 30 miles from Waikiki lies the Leeward Coast. Dryer than the lush Windward Coast, this local area is home to one luxurious resort, area rural towns, and off-the-beaten-path beaches.

Most visitors to the Leeward Coast will be coming to visit the beautiful Ko Olina resort area. Home to the J.W. Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa and Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, this 43-acre marina offers stretches of beautiful shoreline, ample opportunities for water sports and championship golf. At the end of the road you can take a hike to Oahu’s western most point at sacred Kaena Point. Other attractions in the area include the Paradise Cove Luau and the Wet n’ Wild Hawaii Water Park. Local beaches include Yokohama Bay and Makaha Beach, one of the first spots where surfers began big wave surfing.

Central Oahu:  The fertile central valley between the Waianae Mountains and Koolau range offers a peek into Oahu’s history. On your way from Honolulu to the North Shore, you’ll pass residential areas as well the Leilehua Plateau in Wahiawa, where you can see sprawling fields that are reminders of Oahu’s sugar cane and pineapple plantation past.

Attractions in Central Oahu include the Hawaii Plantation Village, where you can learn about Oahu’s plantation past, the Dole Plantation, famous for its Guinness Book of World Records worthy shrub maze, and Aloha Stadium, site of University of Hawaii football games and annual site of the NFL Pro Bowl (January).

But the most important landmark in Central Oahu sits to the south in historic Pearl Harbor, the largest natural harbor in Hawaii. This active naval base is home to 5 Pearl Harbor Historic Sites: The Pacific Historic Parks, the USS Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the Pacific Aviation Museum and the USS Oklahoma Memorial. These special monuments commemorate the historic events that changed world history during World War II.

North Shore:  If there is such a thing as a perfect wave, you’ll likely find it on Oahu’s North Shore. The big, glassy winter waves of this legendary surf mecca attract the best surfers in the world, while summer waves are far smaller and gentler – all of which makes the North Shore the perfect surf spot for beginners and veterans alike.

Stretching for more than 7 miles, the beaches of the North Shore host the world’s premier surfing competitions during the peak, winter months, including the Super Bowl of wave riding, the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (November - December). Stroll in the thick sands of Waimea Bay, Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline) and Sunset Beach — just leave the surfing to the pros.

The months between November and February are the best times to watch big wave surfing. These massive waves can sometimes swell up to thirty feet or more and can even be dangerous for experienced surfers so please heed warning signs. From May to September, the waves subside, creating a more tranquil atmosphere for surfing, swimming and sunbathing.

Roughly a one hour drive from Waikiki, the North Shore is also home to various condo rentals, the luxurious Turtle Bay Resort and Haleiwa Town, where you can shop, eat like a local and cool off with rainbow flavored shave ice, the perfect way to end your day on the North Shore.

 

HAWAII ISLAND

Hawaii Island isn’t just big, it’s still growing. The Island of Hawaii is the youngest island in the Hawaiian chain and is also by far the biggest, providing a vast canvas of environments to discover a variety of unrivaled natural wonders. This is the home of one of the world’s most active volcanoes (Kilauea), the tallest sea mountain in the world at more than 33,000 feet (Maunakea), the most massive mountain in the world (Maunaloa) and the largest park in the state (Hawaii Volcanoes National Park). All but two of the world’s climate zones generate everything from lush rain forests to volcanic deserts, snow-capped mountaintops to beautiful black sand beaches. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a journey off the beaten path, you’ll discover it all on Hawaii, the Big Island.

Hilo:  The Hilo region is blessed with fertile rainforests, blooming gardens and dramatic waterfalls; the geographic flipside of the volcanic Kohala Coast. Home to Hilo International Airport, Hilo is also the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park located 45 minutes south.

Hilo evolved into a commercial center for the sugar industry in the 1800’s after being a busy farming and fishing area in early times. Downtown Hilo was built around its crescent-shaped bay and is the seat of county government. In both 1946 and 1960 the town was nearly swallowed by a tsunami. But Hilo’s waterfront was rebuilt and today Hilo is a vibrant town, home to great museums (Imiloa Astronomy Center, Lyman Museum, Pacific Tsunami Museum), art galleries (East Hawaii Cultural Center), perennial favorites like the Hilo Farmers Market  and unique shops (Sig Zane Designs, Big Island Candies, Hilo Hattie, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory). Hilo’s newest world-class attraction, the Imiloa Astronomy Center, is housed beneath three striking titanium cones representing the three largest mountains on Hawaii Island. Interactive exhibits include a “walk” through a koa (native hardwood) forest and an IMAX-style movie presentation that makes viewers feel like they’re flying through space. Hilo offers natural beauty too. Serene Liliuokalani Gardens is right on Banyan Drive near Hilo’s major hotels, the Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort and Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel.

The northeastern coast of Hawaii Island is the wetter side of the island, so you’ll also find many natural wonders here including beautiful parks like Liliuokalani Gardens and Wailoa River State Park (home to the 2nd King Kamehameha Statue on Hawaii Island; the original resides in Kapaau in North Kohala) and Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots in Wailuku River State Park, as well as many botanical gardens and orchid farms. To see a collection of exotic plants and animals, including Namaste, a regal white Bengal tiger, visit the nation's only rainforest zoo, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo.

Roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes from Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) and on the polar opposite side of the island, Hilo is also a convenient place to stay if you’re planning a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. To experience an authentic taste of Hawaii Island, a visit to Hilo is worth the trip.

Kau:  Hawaii Island’s southernmost region, Kau, seems almost untouched by civilization except around the small communities of Naalehu and Pahala, it is vast, rural and remote. In this area you’ll discover things have moved along at a pace all their own.

Home to most of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, this is a place of natural wonders where you can witness the growth of the island right before your eyes. Other sights in Kau include Ka Lae, known as South Point, the southernmost point in the United States. Punaluu Black Sand Beach is one of Hawaii’s most well-known black sand beaches. And in the upcountry Kau Desert within the boundaries of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park you’ll find a result of one of Kilauea’s rare explosive eruptions, footprints of long-ago warriors trapped in volcanic ash. From the mountains to the sea, here taxing trails crisscross the land tempting backpackers and hikers.

In contrast, on the eastern slopes of Kau, there are macadamia nut orchards, coffee farms and cattle. Wood Valley, near Pahala, is a place for meditation and respite from the outside world. No wonder Kau is home to not only Hawaiian families who have been here for generations, but also writers, artists, philosophers and others seeking solitude. Explore beyond Kilauea and get off the beaten path in Kau.

North Kohala:  You’ll notice the dramatic change in your surroundings as you travel north beyond the dazzling resorts, golf courses and lava landscapes of the Kohala Coast to the lush, undeveloped pastoral lands of North Kohala. Besides being a beautiful area featuring the charming town of Hawi and the amazing Pololu Valley Overlook, this is also the home of some of the most historically significant sites on Hawaii Island from Puukohola Heiau to King Kamehameha’s birthplace.

To explore the cool scenic fields of Waimea, turn east up Kawaihae Road, just before Puukohola Heiau. This upcountry area is paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country, full of green pastures and panoramic views, in sharp contrast to the lava landscapes along the coast and having more in common with lush North Kohala. Visit Kahua Ranch to take an ATV drive or a horseback riding tour and explore this lovely landscape while you learn about Hawaii’s ranching past. Take the scenic drive through the northern most tip of Hawaii Island and enjoy an unforgettable journey off the beaten path. Travel back in time and learn about the culture of Hawaii Island in North Kohala.

Kohala Coast:  As you drive 20-minutes north of Kona International Airport, you’ll marvel at the rugged lava fields surrounding you. You may not see it from Queen Kaahumanu Highway, but the Kohala Coast, is where you’ll find some of the island’s finest resorts, also simply known as “South Kohala”.

Nestled amongst the jet-black and rust-red lava rock fields, a result of eruptions from Hualalai volcano centuries ago, are green oasis full of world-class accommodations, fine dining and some of Hawaii’s best golf courses.  Soak in the sun and relax at Hapuna Beach State Park, one of Hawaii Island’s largest white sand beaches, indulge in a taste of Hawaii Regional Cuisine or recharge at some of the island’s best spas, less than nine inches of rainfall annually falls on the eight outstanding resorts here. You’ll discover cultural treasures on the Kohala Coast too, from Anaehoomalu Petroglyphs field in the Waikoloa Resort to those of the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve as well as the remarkable Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, the largest restored heiau in Hawaii. Just below Puukohola Heiau, is another family-friendly beach popular with locals, Spencer Beach Park.

Kona:  The sunny Kona District stretches for about 60 miles from Kona International Airport to beyond Kealakekua Bay on Hawaii Island’s lava-lined western coast. Along this expansive area, you’ll find everything from coffee farms to historic Hawaiian landmarks.

In fact, King Kamehameha actually spent his final years in Kailua-Kona. Today, Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) is a bustling, gathering place in the heart of the district, just a 15-minute drive south of Kona International Airport. Home to shops, restaurants and nightlife, you can conveniently take a walking tour of Kona’s history at places like Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church and the Ahuena Heiau.

South Kona’s calm and clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving and spotting dolphins and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) because it is shielded from the winds by Maunaloa. One of Kona’s most memorable experiences is going on a manta ray boat tour to scuba or snorkel with these gentle, graceful sea creatures. Hosting the International Billfish Tournament every year, Kona is also famous for its deep-sea fishing. And on land, don’t forget to travel to the cooler upland slopes of towns like Holualoa, where you can sample the distinctive flavors of 100% Kona coffee. You’ll find the adventures are as big as the island itself on the versatile Kona coast.

Hamakua Coast:  On the northeastern side of Hawaii Island, lies the Hamakua Coast, just north of Hilo. This area is known for the Hamakua Heritage Corridor drive, with 84 inches of rainfall a year, a road trip along the coastline that passes by lush tropical rainforests, waterfalls and lovely seaside views.

The Hamakua uplands were once a rich source for canoe wood and bird feathers for Native Hawaiians. During most of the 19th and 20th centuries, this area was covered with sugarcane. Today, communities that grew around these plantations can still be found along the coast where small farmers still grow kalo (taro), hearts of palm, vegetables and tropical fruit. Small towns like Honokaa also feature specialty shops and boutiques with their own local flavor.

As you drive along the scenic coast, you’ll see deep water-carved gulches and valleys, thick with tropical foliage. Stop and tour gardens full of exotic plants and orchids like the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and World Botanical Gardens, home to triple-tiered Umauma Falls. One look at the beauty of these waterfalls and you’ll understand why they are called wailele (leaping waters) in Hawaiian. At the northern end of your journey along the Hamakua Coast, the amazing Waipio Valley Lookout provides a panoramic reward.

Puna:  Driving south out of Hilo, spend a day discovering the Puna District. This area on the eastern tip of Hawaii Island stretches from the sea to the 4,000-foot summit of Kilauea volcano. On the coast you’ll find roiling ocean, black-sand beaches and a spring warmed by the volcano’s steam. Towards the volcano you’ll find rainforests, steam vents and the rugged landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

A community that is partially covered by lava is Kalapana, Puna’s most dramatic destination.  Lava from Kilauea engulfed this historic town and the black sand beach at Kaimu in 1990. Today, the focal point is viewing areas where you can watch lava meet the sea. You can also explore the 17-acre Lava Tree State Park where a path winds through the lava rock molds of trees from the 1700’s. Many who live on Hawaii Island say that Puna is Pele’s workshop, where the tempestuous Volcano goddess continuously creates and recreates the very land we live on.

You’ll also find a scenic 12-mile string of beach parks and camp sites along the coast, each offering something worth exploring: Isaac Hale Beach Park, Ahalanui Park (large seaside pond warmed by the volcano), MacKenzie State Park (heiau, ironwood forest), and Waiopae Tidepools Marine Life Conservation District (incredible snorkeling among connecting tide pools). Kehena Beach is a secluded black sand beach hidden from view of the roadway.

Along the easternmost point of Hawaii Island is the Cape Kumukahi area, which offers scenic hiking, and what scientists insist is the world’s freshest air. Visit the Cape Kumukahi Lighthouse, which was spared by Pele from lava flow in 1960.

 

KAUAI

Kauai embraces the senses like no other destination, from the soaring cliffs of the Napali Coast to the vast chasms of Waimea Canyon. Discover 50-miles of heavenly beaches from Hanalei Bay to Poipu Beach. Explore charming and historic small towns like Hanapepe and Koloa where no building is taller than a coconut tree. With so much to experience, “Hawaii’s Island of Discovery,” is begging to be explored.

North Shore:  Full of rugged mountains, lush taro fields, heavenly beaches and spectacular sea cliffs, Kauai's dramatic North Shore is an enchanting setting. You’ll be amazed at how much beauty can be found in just one area of Kauai.

Begin your journey on the island’s northernmost point. Historic Kilauea Lighthouse is a wildlife sanctuary and a scenic spot for whale watching. Visit lovely Hanalei Town, home to stretches of green taro fields alongside colorful shops, galleries and restaurants. You’ll also find some of Kauai’s best beaches here including Lumahai Beach, the setting for the film “South Pacific,” and Kee Beach, ideal for sunbathing.

But the most stunning feature of Kauai's North Shore is the magnificent Napali Coast. This 17-mile stretch of coastline is accented with lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls and sea caves and is lined with cliffs up to 3,000-foot tall. Not accessible by car, you can hike or take an air or boat tour to view this breathtaking natural wonder.  The North Shore is also home to the upscale resort area of Princeville where you can play at some of Kauai’s premier golf courses and indulge in world-class hospitality.

South Shore:  The sunny South Shore of Kauai is home to the resort area of Poipu and the historic Old Koloa Town. Whether you’re exploring the Koloa Heritage Trail to learn more about Kauai’s history or playing on a championship golf course, there’s something for everyone on the South Shore.

A good place to start is spending the day at Poipu Beach Park, which was once named one of America’s best beaches. Nearby Spouting Horn features a blowhole that releases a spout of water up to 20 feet or more into the air. See why Kauai is nicknamed “The Garden Isle” at two National Tropical Botanical Gardens: McBryde Garden, featuring 259-acres of gardens and world’s largest collection of Hawaiian plants, and Allerton Garden, an 80-acre gem with sophisticated garden design and the giant Moreton Figs made famous in the film “Jurassic Park.” You’ll even find the Kauai Coffee farm tour just a few miles west of Poipu. Discover a variety of activities and attractions on Kauai’s South Shore.

Lihue:  Lihue is a cultural and historical area as well as the government and commercial center of the island. This may be the most traveled town on Kauai since its home to Kauai’s main airport (the Lihue Airport) and Nawiliwili Harbor, the island's major commercial shipping center and cruise ship port.

Lihue has a variety of beaches and natural wonders to explore. Kalapaki Beach is the home of the Marriott Kauai's Beach Club and the Kauai Lagoons Golf Club. Bodysurfing, windsurfing and swimming make Kalapaki a popular destination. Ninini Beach is home to an automated lighthouse, operating since 1897.

The Lihue area also has numerous historical spots including Kilohana, a historic plantation estate;  Alekoko (Menehune Fishpond), a roughly 1000-year old aquaculture reservoir; and both the historic Kauai Museum and Grove Farm Homestead Museum.

East Side (Coconut Coast):  Kauai's East Side is sometimes referred to as the Coconut Coast for the groves of coconut palms that grow in its resort areas. The most populated district on the island, about 16,000 of the island's 62,000 residents reside in the Wailua/Kapaa area. Amongst the clusters of coconut trees you’ll find historic places, amazing beaches and memorable attractions.

In Wailua, you’ll find a variety of sightseeing opportunities and outdoor activities. Kayak the Wailua River in Wailua River State Park, take photos at Opaekaa Falls, or take a boat ride to the Fern Grotto. Sacred places like Polihau Heiau, the large lava-rock temple of Kauai’s last king, Kaumualii, can also be found on the East Side. And be sure to visit Kapaa Town to discover fine aloha-print shirts, Hawaiian craft pieces, jewelry and art.

The golden beaches of the Coconut Coast may be the area’s biggest draw. Unwind at Anahola Beach Park, watch the surfers at Kealia Beach or whale watch at Donkey Beach to the north. Two lava rock enclosed ocean pools that are perfect places for families and first-time snorkelers are at Lydgate Beach Park in Wailua. Fun in the sun awaits you on the Coconut Coast.

West Side:  Go west and get off the beaten path on Kauai. The West Side is home to a few of Kauai’s most historic places and scenic wonders, the most famous of which is the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

But there is even more to explore. Head north beyond the gorges and cliffs of Waimea Canyon and visit Kokee State Park where you’ll find yet another amazing view from the Kalalau Lookout. The West Side has two small towns of Waimean and Hanapepe.  In 1778, Captain Cook first landed in the Hawaiian Islands here at Waimea Bay. Today, a statue of Cook stands in Waimea Town commemorating this event. Hanapepe is the art capital of Kauai with galleries, shops and eateries lining small town Hanapepe Road.

 

LANAI’I

Lanai is a destination of untouched tranquility, away from the crowds and hustle of everyday life. This romantic island is a true getaway. Wrap yourself in the elegance and amenities of two exquisite Four Seasons resorts. Unwind at the historic Hotel Lanai in charming Lanai City. Relax and rejuvenate in the peaceful seclusion that has earned Lanai the name, “Hawaii’s Most Enticing Island.” Two high-caliber golf courses make Lanai a mandatory stop for golfers. And for explorers, enthralling sights like the iconic Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock) and the lunar landscapes of Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods are distinctly unique to Lanai. It’s true that Lanai isn’t for everybody, exactly why so many fall for it.

South Lanai’i:  Sunny South Lanai is where you’ll find a mix of luxury and tranquility. Here you’ll find Hulopoe Bay and a beautiful marine life conservation area where spinner dolphins can frequently be spotted soaring from the sea, Manele Bay. Rising between the two bays is the Lanai landmark Sweetheart Rock, or Puu Pehe. And fronting Hulopoe Beach, you can find a full-service spa, fine dining and the Jack Nicklaus designed Challenge at Manele at the exquisite Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay.

You can also get off the beaten path and 4-wheel drive to King Kamehameha’s summer fishing retreat on Lanai’s southern cliffs, Kaunolu. Or to see an incredible Lanai sunset, take a drive to Kaumalapau Harbor. Whether you arrive at Lanai Airport or Manele Harbor, your enticing getaway to South Lanai awaits.

North Lanai’i:  North Lanai  is only 30 miles of road that is paved, leaving 400 miles of dirt road to explore by 4-wheel drive. Off road to Kaiolohia, also known as Shipwreck Beach, to see a derelict ship stuck in the rocky waters of Lanai’s north shore. Just north of Kanepuu Preserve is the Garden of the Gods, or Keahiakawelo, featuring the lunar landscapes incongruous to the sand and surf of Hawaii. Finally continue your bumpy drive to where you may find yourself all alone on a 2-mile stretch of sand, to secluded Polihua Beach.

Central Lanai’i:  Central Lanai’I has wide open plains dotted with Cook pine trees that give a more rustic feel than the other Hawaiian Islands. Similar to Upcountry Maui, the higher elevations of Central Lanai also make for cooler temperatures. If you’re traveling to Central Lanai from Hulopoe Bay you’ll pass through an area once covered with pineapple fields, the Palawai Basin. To the east, the Munro Trail leads to Lanai’s highest peak, Lanaihale.

The geographic and cultural epicenter of the island is in Lanai City.  You’ll discover one of a kind shops, local dining and unique art galleries in Lanai City, centered around Dole Park. You’ll also find the historic Hotel Lanai, which has welcomed guests since 1923. Just up the street is the lavish Lodge at Koele, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. The Lodge is unlike any other resort in Hawaii featuring fine dining, archery, horseback riding, tennis, a clay shooting range and the Greg Norman designed Experience at Koele golf course.