Lanai Island Hawaii
Frequently Asked Questions
Ships stay at anchor and tender passengers into Manele Bay, about twenty minutes across. Manele feels more like a yacht refuge than a terminal: expect no terminal building and no shops at the landing.
Yes. Five minutes on foot brings you to Hulopoe Beach, a crescent of pale sand backed by shaded lawns. It is the island's most accessible attraction and the natural starting point for the day.
Many passengers split the day in two: the morning in the water at Hulopoe, the afternoon between the Puu Pehe trail and a run up to Lanai City in the highlands. Lanai does not lend itself to minute-by-minute itineraries, and that is its strength.
Yes, straight off Hulopoe Beach when the sea is calm. The bay is part of a protected marine district and reef fish are plentiful. At the rocky end, tide pools carved into the lava hold urchins, juvenile fish and anemones.
Puu Pehe, an isolated lava tower a few dozen metres off the shore, tied to a tragic Hawaiian legend. A short, well-marked trail climbs from the beach to the overlook: the round trip takes under an hour, closed shoes recommended, ideally before the midday heat.
The old plantation town in the cool highlands, left from the era when the whole island grew pineapple for the Dole company. Around its central park of Cook pines stand low, brightly painted houses, family shops and unpretentious restaurants. It is reached by taxi or shuttle from the bay.
Very much so. The Hulopoe tide pools form a natural aquarium that fascinates children, the beach is calm and the shaded lawns give a place to rest. The Puu Pehe trail suits children who walk well; facilities around the bay remain limited.
Spinner dolphins frequent the Manele Bay area. Watching trips leave the small neighbouring harbour early in the morning — so it is an activity to book early if your call allows.
Yes, with more time and a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Keahiakawelo is a desert plateau strewn with ochre and rust-coloured rocks sculpted by the wind. Book early: vehicles and guides are few on an island this size, and seats go to the first passengers ashore.
Water, a hat, sunscreen and a snack: facilities around the bay are limited and this saves needless trips back to the ship. Bring US dollars as well, and closed shoes if you plan to climb to Puu Pehe.
