A great day trip to a wonderful island paradise

Posted on: 2022/01/08

After years of annual vacations on Maui we finally planned a day-trip to Lanai. Out of respect for the native culture and not wanting to violate any sacred areas we decided to hire a local guide to show/drive us around. That was a great decision and great fun. We went all over the island hearing stories of the olden days and current events. If you are at all curious about how Maui (and other Hawaiian islands) looked and felt decades ago, than a trip to Lanai should be on your next itinerary. Like many other Maui adventures, you have get an early start as the first 45 minute Ferry run to the island leaves Lahaina at 6:30am. Enjoying sunrise on a boat in paradise can't be beat. We were greeted at the harbor by our tour guide, who has lived on the island for 20 years. He knew every inch, nook and cranny of the island. He told us about his growing up on the island, and stories old and new of life there.

After lunch in Lanai City we had time to shop in the few local shops and boutiques. Life is a much slower pace there, with way fewer cars and less people. We continued on our tour with a few more afternoon stops, ending at a beautiful beach a short walk to the harbor. We caught the last ferry back to Maui and enjoyed an evening ocean cruise back to Lahaina.

I would highly recommend a day trip and guided tour of Lanai. It's great fun and you never know who you might bump into on this unpretentious paradise island!