If you’re looking for a laid back island with plenty of off road adventure, check out Lanai. This island sits 8 miles off the coast of Maui, but might as well be an ocean away. You see, Lanai has only a few accommodations and restaurants, but what it lacks in infrastructure, it makes up in spectacular views, wide open beaches, and fantastic off road adventures. Plan a Lanai vacation and see what the Pineapple Island has to offer.
Plan a Lanai Vacation and Golf by the Sea
Choose from two exceptional golf courses on Lanai: Manele Golf Course and Cavendish Public Golf Course. Both offer unique opportunities to breathe in Lanai’s natural beauty while working on your short game.
Manele Golf Course overlooks Hulopoe Bay and offers cliffs and crashing waves as a water hazard within the course. In the winter, golfers may even catch sight of a few whales off the cliff sides. Get in a golf game and connect with the natural environment— all in one day. Plan a Lanai vacation and head to the links for 18 holes in paradise.
Shipwreck Beach
Shipwreck Beach is a fascinating place where over 12 ships have run aground. While some ships were set adrift on purpose, others became unintentionally entangled in the reef. The first known vessel to meet its end here was a British ship sunk in 1824. Visitors can see several World War II ships still offshore of the six mile stretch of beach.
Nautical enthusiasts will enjoy learning about the power of current and reef to destroy ships, and history lovers will enjoy viewing the Kukui Point petroglyphs that are also found at this beach. These petroglyphs consist of images drawn onto the rocks that depict an earlier age on this Polynesian island.
Plan a Lanai Vacation at the Garden of the Gods
Hikers will be entranced by this red, eroded space. Otherwise known as Keahiakawelo, this rock garden is accessible by mountain bike or 4 wheel drive vehicle. Visitors should wear closed toed shoes if hiking in the area, and wear plenty of sunscreen. The rock towers and spires are well worth braving the heat, and the barren landscape looks like a trip to the planet Mars.
Why is Lanai known a the Pineapple Island?
At one time, more than 3/4 of the world’s supply of pineapples grew on Lanai! James Drummand Dole set up a plantation and grew pineapples on the island until 1992, when production ceased.
Despite its proximity to Maui, Lanai is its own island, offering a different and special experience for visitors. But it’s not necessary to stay on the island in order to enjoy it. Day trips are also available for those who want to take the ferry from Maui. However you want to visit, there are many things to enjoy when you plan a Lanai vacation.
