Lanai Has Something For Every Traveler—Here’s What To Do On The Hawaiian Island

Once owned by James Dole, the Hawaiian island of Lanai served as a pineapple plantation for Dole Food Company, which harvested the last of its fruit in 1992. Two decades later, Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison purchased 97% of the land, making investments to improve the destination’s infrastructure and renovating Four Seasons Resort Lanai, the primary luxury accommodation on the isle, which reopened in 2016 with redesigned accommodations, a whole host of new amenities, and a diverse program of activities to keep guests occupied while simultaneously exploring the locale and all that it has to offer. And while Lanai may be Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island, the little sanctuary goes far beyond just serving as a place for rest and relaxation. Whether you’re in search of an adventure or want to dive into Hawaiian culture, here’s what to do while visiting this slice of paradise.

With the remodel of Four Seasons Resort Lanai came the much-needed addition of cultural advisors to the property. With new programs that teach guests about the island’s rich heritage, there’s now a way to dive into the culture more than ever before. Learn about the isle in a guided off-roading excursion as petroglyphs are pointed out throughout the drive and with activities such as visits to historical sites in Keomoku Village and shoreline fishing. There are also plenty of complimentary options back at the property such as talks with Lanai residents, hikes that include discussions about the importance of the land, and hands-on experiences with traditional crafts.

As a mountainous island, Lanai is perfect for hiking. But there are also plenty of other ways to get around the red dirt roads. Mountain bikes, Jeep excursions, and even UTV adventures are offered. There’s also the option to see Lanai and the nearby Hawaiian islands from above on a helicopter ride or during a hands-on, private flying session with Maui Flight Academy. Otherwise, head into the waters and go for a snorkel or scuba dive to explore the reefs.

If there’s one thing you’ve heard about on Lanai, it’s likely the Cat Sanctuary. This non-profit serves as a home to hundreds of feral felines and is open to the public. Stop by to say hello or even spend a few hours volunteering while you’re there. There’s also the Stables at Koele right outside of Lanai City, where you’ll find a number of horses, miniature ponies, goats, and donkeys. Serious riders should inquire about equestrian lessons, but for something more leisurely book a horseback rides that will take you through the scenic hills of the island. And while staying at the resort keep your eyes peeled for dolphins that swim up to Hulopoe Bay or say “aloha” to the rescue parrots by the rooms.

The intimate spa at Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers a range of treatments including a scrub that uses antioxidant-rich pineapples and a wrap of ti leaves, aloe vera, and green tea gel that’s ideal for some post-sun healing. The property also offers daily complimentary yoga and meditation classes as well as guided sunrise hikes to Puupehe, also known as “Sweetheart Rock.” Don’t forget to also book an AntiGravity yoga session at the resort’s studio for a fun activity that’ll stretch out your limbs. And for those looking for a wellness-focused retreat, keep your ears on the ground for the opening of Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Koele, which is currently undergoing renovation and will hopefully arrive soon.

With nine restaurants and bars at Four Seasons alone, your options are plentiful when staying at the resort. But the two that you have to dine at are Malibu Farm and Nobu. The former, a transplant from California, is a poolside eatery focused on healthy fare using fresh and organic ingredients. Most of the fruits and vegetables come from the on-site garden, which offers weekly guided visits, but you can also stop by on your own to take a look at the produce being grown. And even if you’ve been to a Nobu establishment before, you’ll find several dishes using local ingredients at this outpost that you won’t find anywhere else, including several venison items on the menu.

Only available to resort guests, the Jack Nicklaus–designed, par-72 Manele Golf Course boasts spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The 12th hole is easily the most dramatic, where you tee off from a 150-foot-high cliff, as well as the most famous, having served as a wedding location for Bill and Melinda Gates in 1994. You’ll also find three tennis courts at the property and an archery and shooting range with 14 stations offering sporting clays in the hills of the North Shore. But if you want to be out on the open waters, dea-sea fishing is available as well.

Source: Forbes.com

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