The Complete Guide to an Exclusive Honeymoon in Lanai

There are many reasons to consider a Lanai honeymoon. One of the smallest Hawaiian Islands, Lanai boasts only one town and just a few thousand permanent residents. What this island lacks in size, however, it makes up with mega luxury options and gorgeous views at every turn.

For couples who want a Hawaii honeymoon sans the bustling crowds you'll find around Honolulu or Hilo, Lanai is the subdued and refined fit. You get the beautiful beaches and lush vegetation interspersed with volcanic formations you might associate with Hawaii, but on a more intimate level. As a Lanai honeymoon is prized for its exclusivity and privacy, prices often reflect the uber-luxurious experience. If you're intrigued, read on for expert tips and more.

Is Lanai Good for a Honeymoon?

For many couples, a Lanai honeymoon is a dream choice, according to Marilyn Clark, luxury travel advisor at Lighthouse Travel. "Often, when engaged couples start thinking about their honeymoon, they envision a remote, exotic location with beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, ideal weather and a laid-back atmosphere," says Clark.

The Pros of a Lanai Honeymoon

"In addition to offering all those things, Lanai is the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii, and it has two of Hawaii's top resorts," Clark says. "So it offers the privacy and luxury, as well as the serenity, that many couples want for their honeymoon. In thinking about Lanai, romance, relaxation, adventure, luxury and hospitality… always cross my mind."

The Cons of a Lanai Honeymoon

Of course, it's worth noting, if you're looking for an extremely easy getaway with near-endless attractions and tourist-focused amenities, Lanai might not be the best pick. Getting to Lanai requires an extra flight or a ferry trip, which you might not be keen on, especially if you're traveling from anywhere other than the West Coast, necessitating a lengthy journey to reach Hawaii in general.

Ultimately, the extra travel steps aren't that much of a deterrent for seasoned travelers. Though it requires a 44-minute flight to get from Honolulu to Lanai, couples can indulge in a little extra pampering ahead of time by visiting the Four Seasons Lounge at the Daniel K. Inouye (HNL) International Airport. Likewise, if a ferry ride is required between Maui and Lanai, you might get a chance to whale watch during certain seasons. That's quite the welcome for newlyweds.

The Best Times of Year to Go on a Lanai Honeymoon for Good Weather

One of the great things about traveling to any Hawaii island for your honeymoon? Unlike Caribbean islands that are affected by an annual hurricane season, these tropical islands rarely experience storms and experience ideal honeymoon weather. Still, that doesn't mean there aren't ideal and less-than-ideal times to visit Lanai as Mother Nature works her magic. Peak season in Hawaii is whale-watching season from December through March.

Things to Do During a Lanai Honeymoon

Hike the Trails or Go for a Scenic Drive

Lanai's main charm is its natural geographical features. "Words like 'unspoiled landscape' are often used to describe this island and that is absolutely correct," says Tamara Lidbom of Anytime Travel. "The most common way to see most of this beautiful island is by foot or by four-wheel drive. If you are visiting this island, get out and explore. The island offers quiet [and] secluded beaches, incredible hiking, snorkeling and water activities and so much more."

ATV to the Garden of the Gods

Book an ATV excursion to the Garden of the Gods to check out the lunar-like landscape created by centuries of erosion. Lidbom adds, "The wilder northern beaches, such as Shipwreck Beach, are good places for beachcombing and enjoying the views of the other islands. For active honeymooners, we recommend cycling or hiking along the Munro Trail. It begins just north of Lanai City and stretches along the coastline, ending in the Palawai Basin."

Explore the Town of Lanai

While you're taking in the island's many natural wonders, don't overlook the fun to be had in the main (and lone) town. "Don't go home without eating a pesto cheese panini from the one gas station on the island that's been seen on [the] Food Network," says Raquel Rench, experience planner at Four Seasons Resorts Lanai. "What a delight as a grab-and-go while you adventure around the island in your Jeep rental. You will [also] always be welcomed and appreciated by the local residents, who are all about honoring the past and enriching the future."

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

The Best Hotels and Resorts on Lanai for a Honeymoon

Sensei Lānaʻi, A Four Seasons Resort

Sensei Lanai is the wellness resort of the island, and arguably one of the finest in the world. A hotel haven outfitted in neutrals offers a true unplugged honeymoon experience. From Oahu, airfare on Lanai Air is included, as are all meals at this adults-only property. (Mind you, the restaurant partner is Nobu).

Four Seasons Resorts Lanai

Frequently touted as one of the best not only on Lanai, but in all of Hawaii, the five-star Four Seasons Lanai is a secluded, oceanfront property. A perfect honeymoon hotel that offers beautiful accommodations, couples can also enjoy its lagoon-style pools, lush gardens, spa, and an outpost of the acclaimed Nobu restaurant.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Hotel Lanai

For something on the smaller side, with local charm, the Hotel Lanai is one of the more affordable options on the island. The aesthetic is somewhat rustic and vintage, but entirely itself with spacious rooms. The boutique property's rooms offer porches with views of Lanai City and Dole Park.

What to Pack for a Lanai Honeymoon

In addition to packing all your beachwear and gear for your Lanai honeymoon, don't forget to pack hiking boots and apparel. Couples like to stay comfortable as they explore beyond the beaches. Furthermore, Rench notes, "We recommend throwing in a pair of old shoes you don't mind getting dirty, as our beautiful island rests on red sand." For a more complete list of planning, check out our list of what to pack for a honeymoon in Hawaii and read up on our comprehensive list of honeymoon destinations before making that final choice.