2026/27 LĀNA‘I HOLIDAYS AND TOURS

One of Hawai‘i’s smallest islands, measuring at just 18 miles long and 13 miles wide, Lāna‘i is a peaceful paradise compared to its populous neighbours with only around 3,000 permanent residents and a handful of idyllic resorts. Privately owned but open to visitors, tourism is limited and that’s part of the appeal. For those looking for a more secluded Hawaii holiday, Lāna‘i offers a rare sense of tranquillity and escape. Here, you can spend your days relaxing on the beach, exploring the local culture and admiring panoramas of the surrounding ocean and neighbouring islands – almost all of which can be seen on a clear day.

Lāna‘i boasts a variety of unique geographical features, all of which can be seen during a short stay. Start with the Garden of the Gods, or Keahiakawelo in Hawaiian. Located just 45 minutes from the island’s main town, Lāna‘i City, this red-rocked lunar landscape is made up of otherworldly rock towers and spires, formed by centuries of erosion, and can easily be visited in a 4×4.

Next, head to Pu‘upehe (or Sweetheart Rock), a triangular-shaped landmark between both Mānele and Hulopo‘e Bay that offers stunning views of the sunset. The surrounding bays are now a nature conservation site, home to turtles, dolphins and excellent snorkelling, and local legend tells us this is the place where a young warrior leapt into the waves after burying his beloved maiden. Nearby is the 13 miles Munro Trail, where visitors can hike or cycle.

Other beautiful beaches include Polihua, which offers 2 miles of golden sands and scenic views, and Kaiolohia (or Shipwreck Beach), which is home to a WWII shipwreck and ideal for leisurely beachcombing. Nearby Kukui Point is home to a collection of petroglyphs, etched onto red-rock boulders by the ancient Hawaiians.

Lāna‘i is perfectly suited to a tailor-made holiday, especially for those seeking privacy, natural beauty and a slower pace. To delve deeper into local history, head to the Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center in Lāna‘i City or out to Kaunolū Fishing Village. Once a popular fishing spot for Hawai‘i’s royalty, including the unifier, King Kamehameha I, you can explore the largest surviving ruins of a prehistoric Hawaiian village and admire Kahekili’s Leap, a 60ft cliff that warriors would jump off to demonstrate their bravery.