When people think of traveling to Hawaii, the islands that we usually choose from are O’ahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. All of the Hawaiian islands are exceptionally beautiful in their own unique ways, but if you are looking for simplicity—Lana’i is the way to go.
Built by the labor of Dole’s pineapple industry, you can still see and feel the plantation life in the small town of Lana’i City. Here, there is only one of everything. One gas station, one supermarket, and one theater. The population of the whole island is about 3,200 people and everyone knows everyone. Besides the small town, the rest of the island is acres and acres of free land for you to roam. It’s a good idea to rent a car because there are only a few paved roads and you must go off-roading in order to explore much of the island. The only exception would be if you stay at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort which offers free shuttle rides to town and to Ko’ele Ranch. They also offer rental Jeeps but only at a steep price.
Another great thing about Lana’i is that it’s in the middle of the Hawaiian islands. Maui is only nine miles away, and Koho’olawe and the Big Island are also close by. On a clear day, you can see the different islands from different viewpoints on Lana’i. You can also catch a ferry to Maui for about sixty bucks. Visiting Lana’i is a great way to relax and get away from all of the “hustle-n’-bustle.” Next time you travel inter-island or to Hawaii in general, consider Lana’i as your next travel destination.
You can read more about Lana’i on my blog here.