Looking for amazing places to go hiking on Lanai? Find out the 5 best Lanai hikes to do on this gorgeous Hawaiian island. Scroll down to see them all!
This top Lanai hikes post was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
The island of Lanai is sometimes referred to as Pineapple Island because it used to be a huge pineapple plantation. Norfolk Island pines are among the unique trees you can find here, adding to the island’s distinct flora.
There are also said to be more cats than people on the island; not sure if this is considered good or bad.
The island has some amazing scenery of the beach and rock formations to explore. Polihua Beach is one such destination that offers a stunning view of the coastline.
It’s the perfect island for a weekend getaway with many great hiking trails to choose from. It’s the perfect island for a weekend getaway, with many great hiking trails to choose from, which provide spectacular views of the island’s diverse landscape.
Take a look at some of these top hiking trails you will find on the island of Lanai.
Lanai FAQs
Whether you are looking for a day trip from Maui or want to spend a few days in this secluded Hawaii paradise, Lanai is totally worth it.
Yes, renting a car is the easiest way to explore Lanai, as there are limited transportation options on the island.
You can take the ferry over from Maui or you can fly to Lanai from Maui or Oahu.
Top 5 Lanai Hikes
1. Koloiki Ridge
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5 mile hike
Hiking the Koloiki Ridge Trail will take you anywhere from 3-4 hours, depending on how much you stop to take in the scenery or catch a breather.
The trail is well-shaded with lush green trees and neat flowers and plants you will come across. This Lanai hiking destination offers such diverse experiences, and this trail is no exception. It’s also a great hike for the whole family, as it’s a pretty safe trail.
Keep an eye out for deer and sheep that graze down on the slopes of Maunalei Gulch.
Once you reach the top, you will have spectacular views of the surrounding island and Koloiki Ridge, making the whole hike worth it.
2. Munro Trail Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 12.8 Mile hike with scenic views
Let’s take a look at Lanai’s most popular hiking trail. The Munro Trail Loop begins just north of Lanai City and will take you to the top of Lanaihale, an elevation of 3,370 feet. It will take a good portion of the day to hike the Munro hiking trail.
If the weather is cooperating, you will be able to see six Hawaiian islands and great scenic views from these heights.This is the only point in Hawaii where you can do so.
It’s a dirt road great for biking or 4-wheel drive vehicles. There are some steep climbs, and they can be difficult at times due to slippery conditions.
3. Polihua Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 9.6 mile hike there and back
The Polihua Trail passes by the Garden of the Gods and finishes on Polihua Beach, one of the most isolated beaches around. It’s also the largest strip of beach on the island.
You are recommended to do this trail by 4-wheel drive, as it has rough terrain. This trail is unique from the contrast in landscapes that you will encounter. From the barren landscape of the Garden of the Gods to the expansive beach, the diversity is remarkable.
4. Koele Keomuku Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.2 mile hike
The Koele Keomuku Trail is a lightly trafficked trail located on the northern part of the island. It offers great views along the way and is also a great trail for running.
The trail begins near the old fishing village of Keomuku. It offers an eagle-eye view of the island and the Pacific Ocean in the distance. You might even see spinner dolphins arrive in the waters nearby.
5. Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock)
Difficulty: Easy
Length: N/A
This is a super easy hike and should only take around 15-20 minutes along rocky cliffs to reach this iconic point. The path includes sections where the trail descends downhill towards the rock.
Make sure you keep children close to you, as there are steep drops the entire way.
On the southern coast of Lanai is Puu Pehe, a huge rock jutting 80 feet out of the ocean bay. This area, known for its pounding surf, offers a dramatic view.
Puu Pehe is best seen during sunset, as it offers a romantic view of the bay. The rocky cliffs put off deep reddish hues against the deep blue waters.
The beautiful rock formation itself is intertwined with Hawaiian folklore and mystery.
Lanai Hiking Wrap-Up
Lanai stands out as a hidden gem among the Hawaiian Islands. It offers an array of breathtaking hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. Each trail, from the lush paths to the historic Kaunolu Trail, tells a story of the island’s rich natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Exploring Lanai means immersing yourself in its diverse landscapes. Imagine walking through the barren landscape or experiencing the tranquility of Lanai waterfalls nestled within Maunalei Gulch.
Lanai’s hiking trails are more than just paths through nature—they are journeys through time, geology, and culture. So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, Lanai promises a memorable adventure that highlights the best of what the other Hawaiian islands have to offer.
Go ahead and pack your hiking boots and set out to discover the hidden treasures of Lanai.