Lanai

Lanai is one of the smaller and more deserted islands within the Hawaiian archipelago. With only a little over 3,000 people who call the island home, Lanai is certainly not similar to the bustling cities of some of the more populous Hawaiian islands, but does offer three luxurious resorts for visitors. Most of Lanai's attractions, beaches and sites are only accessible by off-road vehicles. Travelers who wish to venture beyond the resorts often rent jeeps or other types of four-wheel-drive vehicles to bounce around the dusty roads in search of some of the island's best beaches, exotic natural wonders and secluded hiking trails. The Munro Trail offers a popular off-roading adventure that passes along the Lanaihale volcanic ridge offering panoramic views of the area. Geographically speaking, Lanai sits just off the coast of Maui by the `Au`au Channel to the east and sits north of Molokai and the Kahohi Channel.

The island was once known as Pineapple Island because it was the leading exporter of pineapples in the world when the president of the Hawaiian Pineapple Company (later renamed the Dole Food Company), James Dole, purchased the entire island to develop what would become the largest pineapple plantation. After many years of successful pineapple production, the Dole Company eventually moved elsewhere and the pineapple fields are no longer in use today. The island's scant population and slow growth are still present on the island even in modern times. There is one town on Lanai, Lanai City, with no stoplights and barely 30 miles of paved roads on the entire island. The island continues to be sparse, beautiful and a great place for an escape.

Quick Facts

Vincent Vacations' Top Island Picks

Kaiolohia – Also known as Shipwreck Beach, as the hull of a wrecked oil tanker from the 1940s can be seen from the shore.

Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock) – An iconic Lanai landmark just a short hike from Hulopoe Bay known for its romantic sunsets.