Easy way to see Lana'i

Posted on: 2023/11/28

The early morning ferry was a smooth ride to the island. We were met by our guide, Russ, for the half day tour and along with another couple made our way into town to pick up a light breakfast at the local coffee spot. We stopped at Garden of the Gods which is like being on a whole different planet. The views were outstanding! The red dirt road out the GoG is rough and we were glad to have someone who was familiar with the area driving. We went on to see Shipwreck Beach. Again the dirt roads out to the beach were rough and even the Jeep tours from the Four Seasons were going at a snails pace while we manuvered our way around then. We parked in an area just shy of Shipwreck Beach where our guide's family had once had land, where some of the buildings still stand and walked the quiet beach strewn with old lava flows and had a good view of the wreck. Russ showed us how to tell if a coconut washed up on the beach was still good or waterlogged and even opened one up for us...it was a little old but still delicious. The drive through town was short and sweet...there's not a lot of town to see...and he dropped us off to explore the area. We, unfortunately didn't make it up to the Cat Sanctuary but we did hire a shuttle (he called and made the arrangements for pick up, $10/person) and went to Hulopoe Beach for the rest of the day. While at the beach I recommend following the beach to the east and checking out the many tidepools then walk just a short distance to see Sweetheart Rock. The walk back to the harbor is only about 10-15 minutes but get there early to get a good seat on the top deck. The ferry ride back was a little rougher compared to the morning. It was a great day and Lana'i, at least to me, is a must do because of the super chill vibe and aloha compared to any of the other islands.