Car Travel

It's always good to carry a cell phone. Lanai has only 30 miles of paved roads; its main road, Highway 440, refers to both Kaumalapau Highway and Manele Road. Keomuku Highway starts just past the Lodge at Koele and runs northeast to the dirt road that goes to Kaiolohia (aka Shipwreck Beach) and Lopa Beach. Manele Road (Highway 440) runs south down to Manele Bay, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, and Hulopoe Beach. Kaumalapau Highway (also Highway 440) heads west to Kaumalapau Harbor. The rest of your driving takes place on bumpy dusty roads that are unpaved and unmarked. Driving in thick mud is not recommended, and the rental agency will charge a stiff cleaning fee. Watch out for blind curves on narrow roads. Take a map, be sure you have a full tank, and bring a snack and plenty of water.

Renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle is expensive but almost essential if you'd like to explore beyond the resorts and Lanai City. Make reservations far in advance of your trip, because Lanai's fleet of vehicles is limited. Lanai City Service, where you'll find a branch of Dollar Rent A Car, is open daily 7–7. Ask the rental agency or your hotel's concierge about road conditions before you set out.

Stop from time to time to find landmarks and gauge your progress. Never drive or walk to the edge of lava cliffs, as rock can give way under you. Directions on the island are often given as mauka (toward the mountains) and makai (toward the ocean).

If you’re visiting for the day, Rabaca’s Limousine Service will take you wherever you want to go.

Contacts

Lanai City Service. 1036 Lanai Ave., Lanai City, Hawaii, 96763. 808/565–7227; 800/533–7808; www.dollarlanai.com.

Rabaca's Limousine Service. 552 Alapa St., Lanai City, Hawaii, 96763. 808/565–6670.