lanai cat sanctuary tour

Day Trip to the Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Did you know that the most popular thing to do on Lanai is to visit the Lanai Cat Sanctuary?  Yes, over diving at the secluded Shipwreck beach or swimming with spinner dolphins at the beautiful Hulopoe Bay, the cat sanctuary on Lanai is the main reason people make the trek and visit this beautiful Hawaiian Island.

Well, since you’re reading this post maybe you did know.  Over 15,000 people visit the Lanai cat sanctuary every year!  Now that’s a lot of cat lovers.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Lanai and to get some kitten cuddles, a visit to the cat sanctuary is a perfect way to experience a side of Hawaii a bit off-the-beaten path.

For full transparency,  I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post which gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. If you find this post useful, you can also treat Jess to a cup coffee by clicking the icon on the bottom of the page. This will allow me to continue to create more content for you to enjoy ☕️. 

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About the Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Lanai realized they had a feral cat problem.  The feral cats usually found near remote bird nesting grounds were destroying some of endemic birds.  This in return was putting some native bird populations at risk.

This was a huge concern as these birds don’t live anywhere else in the world but here! There was a big problem and it needed a sustainable solution.  They needed to save the indigenous bird populations as well as save the cats.  In 2006 the Lanai Cat Sanctuary was born.

The Lanai Cat Sanctuary is truly a community effort.  The kitty litter is made the Norfolk pine needles and the cat houses/huts are made by local volunteers.  The cat sanctuary is 100% donation based which goes towards paying the staff, feeding the cats, veterinarian care and a place for the cats to call home.

It was an unanimous decision by the residents of Lanai, find a a safe haven for feral cats as well as protect the native and endangered ground-nesting sea birds.

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How to Get to the  Cat Sanctuary Lanai

It is possible to fly to Lanai (LNY) from Maui (OGG) and this will be the most expensive option.  There are direct flights leaving from Kahului, Maui’s main airport to take 30 minutes and cost around $60.

The easiest and best way to get to Lanai is by taking the ferry  to Manele Harbor that leaves out of the Lahaina Harbor.   Due to COVID times and frequency is limited.  The ferry to Lanai runs four times a day on Monday’s, Tuesday’s Wednesday’s,  Friday’s and Saturday’s.

6:45 AM 9:45 AM 1:00 PM 4:00 PM  from Lahaina and  8:15 AM 11:15 AM  2:30 PM 5:30 PM  from Lanai.  You must show up an hour before to fill out proper paperwork before boarding the ferry.

It costs $30 one way for a ferry ride (Kama’aina price is $25) and the ferry leaves from the dock in front of Pioneer Inn which is the oldest hotel in Lahaina .

From Manele Harbor it is a 25 minute drive to the cat sanctuary.  You can rent your own car but if you’re not staying the night on Lanai , I recommend you hire a car service.

Rabaca’s Limousine Service and Island Tours is one of the most convenient, reliable and aloha filled car services on the island.  They will take you anywhere on the island including Shipwreck Beach, Lanai City and the cat sanctuary.

It costs $10 per person each way.  Call (808) 559-0230  to reserve a ride today.

When to Visit The Cat Sanctuary on Lanai

The Cat Sanctuary Lanai is open 365 days a year from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.  “We only close for hurricanes” – Joe Adarna.  Therefore anytime is a good time to visit the cat sanctuary on a day trip from Maui.

Lanai or Hawaii in general has the best weather, there is a reason that everybody around the globe flocks to these isolated islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.  Since the Hawaiian Islands sits on the edge of the tropic zone the temperature is warm all year round.

Due to its location, sheltered by Molokai and Maui , Lanai does not receive as much rainfall as the rest of Hawaii.  Which makes exploring Lanai on a day trip a perfect excursion when you are on Maui looking for things to do when it’s raining .

RELATED ARTICLES:   The Best Time to Visit Maui

What to Expect when Visiting The Lanai Cat Sanctuary

The Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a 25,000 square foot open-air purradise .  Image a large playground filled with cats, lots of cats!  Over 660 cats call this sanctuary home.

Before you enter the cat enclosures you’ll be able to store your things and are given a small bag of kitty food.  Once inside you’ll be able to feed and pet the cats.

It felt like playing a games of Where’s Waldo , except instead of 1, there were over 600 Waldo’s.  There were cats lazing around everywhere…in the rafters, in tiny huts and under shady trees.

Grab a seat, open the bag of cat treats and the animals will appear out of no where.  Although the cats don’t like to be picked up, don’t be surprised to end up with several cats on your lap.

There are a few different enclosures that you can explore and play with the cats.  There’s even a ‘senior center ‘ for the older cats at the sanctuary.  I mean how adorable is that.

All the cats have gotten their shots and are spayed and neutered.  Since the island of Lanai has no veterinarian or animal clinic, a veterinary team flies in twice a month to sterilize, treat and ensure the health of every animal.

Plus, there’s no electricity at the sanctuary.  This requires them to use a mobile clinic with x-ray and anesthesia machines, and have surgery tables onsite.

Visiting the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a perfect activity if you are traveling Hawaii with kids.  The kids will love playing and romping around with the cats in the warm sunshine and fresh air.

And the best part is that all the cats are available for adoption if by chance one of the adorable fur balls steal your heart.

What to Pack

If you are traveling to Lanai on a day trip from Maui you will want to pack light.  Make sure you have a sturdy, portable and functional pack.

I love the Nomatic Travel Pack .  It has tons of innovative pockets and can expand and hold up to 30 Liters.  This held a beach towel , a flannel for the ferry ride home, hydro flask , 2 small toiletry bags, camera, Go Pro , wallet and snacks for the day.  It wasn’t too heavy to tote around all day and I had everything I needed with room to spare.

Here are the items to bring with you on a Maui to Lanai day trip.

• Hydro Flask
• Beach Towel
• Joby Tripod
• Flannel 
• Sunglasses 
• Lip Balm 

Other Things to do in Lanai

• Swim with spinner dolphins at Hulopoe Bay.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Lanai – a Hawaiian experience worth the splurge.
• Dive an old shipwreck at secluded Shipwreck Beach.
• Hike the Munroe Trail – one of the best hikes in Lanai.
• Grab a drink at Pele’s Garden in Lanai City.
• Have lunch at the Blue Ginger Cafe.
• Explore Lanai City.
• Camp at the beautiful Hulopoe Beach .

Are you planning on visiting the Lanai Cat Sanctuary?  I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.

Lanai travel guides below ↓.

Where to Stay on Lanai

A Complete Guide to Camping on Lanai

Best Things to do in Lanai

Epic Airbnbs in Hawaii

10 Tips to Know Before you Travel to Maui

I am involving with the feral cat spay neuter program on the big island and very much want to come visit with a friend. 2 women looking for simple accommodations hopefully with a pool??…can you suggest an air BNB and / or cheap car rental?….probably stay 2-3 nights. Sometime in the upcoming months..flexible…

Aloha. I’d recommend staying somewhere in Lahaina and you can take the ferry over to the Lanai Cat Sanctuary. You can check out Lahaina accommodations on this post https://imjesstraveling.com/a-lahaina-maui-travel-guide/ . Turo would prob be your best bet for cheapest options. Good luck.

I will be taking my daughter to the cat sanctuary for her 40th birthday. We will fly from Kona to Maui then take the ferry. It will only be a day trip. I’m trying to figure out how to do this….getting from Maui airport to the ferry the to the sanctuary and then back to the airport in time for our return flight. Can you please give me some suggestions?

Aloha, Yes of course you can rent a car and drive to the harbor, park and take the ferry or you could Uber. Once you get to Lanai you can have a car service waiting for you to take you to the sanctuary and back. This company is great, Rabaca’s Limousine Service and Island Tours(808) 559-0230.

Enjoy your trip!

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The Ultimate Guide to Lana’i Cat Sanctuary

quickwhittravel

What if I told you there are lions in Hawaii? Would you believe me? Would you think I’m lying? Would you think there’s more to the story? The Lanai Cat Sanctuary has been home to over 600 cats since their efforts began in 2004, and these lovable kitties are affectionately called “Lana’i Lions!” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting on your trip to Hawaii’s Pineapple Isle.

Read this first: What to Know Before You Visit Lana’i

Quick facts, location and transportation.

The Sanctuary is located at 1 Kaupili Road , just 11 miles from the Ferry Terminal, 1.5 miles from the Lana’i Airport, and 4.5 miles from Lana’i City. Because the Sanctuary is located on a dirt road, you can drive yourself here only if you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle. If not, contact a car service like Rabaca’s for transportation from anywhere on the island.

Essential info: The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car on Lana’i

The Cat Sanctuary is open 365 days a year (those sweet kitties need to be fed on Christmas Day, you know!), and their hours are 10:00am-3:00pm .

Also helpful: Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

Admission and donations.

Admission is FREE , but donations are always welcome! There are multiple ways to do donate:

• You can make a monetary donation at the Sanctuary or directly on the website .
• Order and donate items from their Amazon Wishlist to be sent directly to the Sanctuary.
• “Adopt a cat in place” to pay for its care on a monthly or yearly basis without actually having to scoop its poop!
• Adopt a cat to bring home with you. Just be aware that sending a cat back requires 120 days’ quarantine upon the cat’s return, and the average cost to return a cat is $1500 . Be very sure if you choose to adopt a Lana’i Lion!

More here: The Most Helpful Hawaii Posts You Will Ever Find

What is the lana’i cat sanctuary.

It’s a home for over 650 cats, and they all have different names! Why do they need a sanctuary? Because cats can quickly overrun an island like Lana’i, and they are predators to the native birds, which are otherwise protected. This place protects the cats and the birds in one fell swoop. All cats are sterilized and given a computer chip to keep track of them when they arrive.

Read on: How to Save BIG on Your Trip to Hawaii

Highlights at the cat sanctuary.

This was such a fun way to spend a morning! When you arrive, you’ll be given a bag of dry food, shown around the enclosures, and have a chance to ask any questions you may have. Then, you’re free to roam and make friends! Here are some of out highlights:

The Kittens

Who doesn’t love a sweet kitten?! There were three in the kitten enclosure when we visited in November 2021. Of course, they all loved Steve. Can you blame them?

More here: Questions about Hawaii You’re Too Embarrassed to Ask

Seeing interesting features on a variety of cats.

There are only a handful of long-haired cats in the Sanctuary, but you’ll find the cats in every color! One cat, Kins, is all black with white spots. Another calico cat had swirly colors on her sides. They have a special enclosure for senior and special needs cats, some of whom were stand-offish, and others were very friendly. Some have big eyes, some have one eye, and this one has the most beautiful blue eyes !

Read next: The Best Things to Love about Hawaii

Finding cats in funny places.

These cats live in the actual lap of luxury. They have tiny houses, beds, food everywhere, people feeding them during visiting hours, and more! You’ll find them everywhere, including up a tree! The nice woman showing us around told us that when we go into the Manele Park enclosure, go to the mango tree and look up. We’re glad we did!

Read on: How to Make the Most of Your Last Day in Hawaii

Seeing my honey with the cats.

All animals love my husband! He’s really a dog person at heart, but he had fun with the cats, and they liked him, too! He’d just be sitting somewhere, and there would be a cat on either side of him getting a petting, plus one or two more at his feet, rubbing his legs!

Do everything: The Ultimate Lana’i Bucket List

Want more about Lana’i and all things Hawaiian? Check out my dedicated Hawaiian Islands Page !

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Lanai Cat Sanctuary

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LANAI CAT SANCTUARY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Sun - Sat 10:00 - 15:00
• (5.52 mi) Four Seasons Resort Lanai
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• (3.83 mi) Hotel Lanai
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• (3.53 mi) Blue Ginger Bed and Breakfast
• (3.71 mi) Blue Ginger Cafe
• (5.20 mi) Views
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Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Lanai Cat Sanctuary - Things You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Day Trip to the Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Are you a cat lover? Then you need to check out a kitty paradise on your next visit to Maui. Located on the Hawaiian island of Lanai, a short ferry ride away from Lahaina, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is the happy home of nearly 600 cats of various colors, shapes and sizes.

Born Out of Need

The Lanai Cat Sanctuary was founded by Lanai resident and cat lover Kathy Carroll.

According to my friendly shuttle driver, who took me from the harbor to the Sanctuary for $10, the cats used to help control the rat population back when Lanai was a leading producer of pineapple. It seems that rats enjoy munching on sweet pineapple stems. The island stopped producing the fruit years ago, the rat population declined, but the cats remained - so the story goes. Also, the island’s Ua’u, native flightless birds, were sitting ducks for these cute little predators.

Enter Kathy. With no vet, animal shelter, or system to take care of the many feral cats that called the island home, Kathy organized a sterilization and housing program. In doing so, she helped take care of her beloved cats and the Ua’u. Thus, the Sanctuary was driven by a desire to protect native species as much as by kitty love.

Because of her efforts, in a little over a decade, Lanai has gone from having no shelter to having a stable home for cats that provides lifelong housing, medical care and much-needed TLC. It’s also become a source of tourist revenue, as visitors will come to visit the Sanctuary and spend the day, and dollars, on the island.

A Happy Place

Spanning over 25,000 square feet, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary provides shelter, food and a playground for the lions of Lanai. Shade trees, kitty condos, obstacle courses, and feline-buffets fill the temperate home of these playful tabbies.

Guests of the sanctuary will enjoy the laid-back style and the ability to interact with these happy felines.

The operators of the facility could not be more friendly and enthusiastic. For them, it’s truly a labor of love. They know most of the kitties by name and understand their unique personalities. Depending on the time of day, they may give you a box of treats to shake and distribute to during your stay – it’s amazing to see them all come charging when they hear the rattle of the kibbles!

For formerly feral cats, they are surprising friendly, the result of having been exposed to so many visitors. On a recent visit to the Sanctuary, we were told one man traveled all the way from Japan just to spend six hours with them. The Lanai Cat Sanctuary has even hosted a wedding...now that's what you call "cat fancy!"

Nonprofit 501c3 Charity

In 2009, the sanctuary became a nonprofit charity and relocated to a new and better plot of land with access to running water. The main goal: protect cats and endangered birds, and provide a haven for cat lovers!

In 2014, executive director, Keoni Vaughn made plans for an expansion which would include a medical system and a high-tech mobile veterinary clinic. Teams were recruited from Oahu and other Hawaiian islands, and over the last few years, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary has expanded to host a cat-family number nearly 600 The goal is to eliminate cat overpopulation on Lanai, and they continue to rescue cats from protected areas where native endangered birds nest.

Featured in Country Living, The Los Angeles Times, and Cosmopolitan Magazine, these "Lanai Lions" are enjoying some fame. Funding for this kitty paradise comes from vacationers who visit the sanctuary and support their mission with a donation, so your visit will make a difference.

The staff at Lanai Cat Sanctuary believe that cats deserve the highest quality of life possible. Those who are not able to cuddle the cats in person can still make tax-deductible donations via their website  http://lanaicatsanctuary.org/ .  You can also purchase a snazzy T-shirt there.

Open 365 days a year from 10 am to 3 pm, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a great little spot for a family outing. No appointment is required and groups any size can stop by for a visit. Bring along a snack and something to drink, and enjoy a fun day full of purring and playing! If you really fall in love, you can even discuss adoption!

Getting to the Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Getting to Lanai is easy from Maui. Regular ferry service runs between Lahaina and Lanai each day. The crossing takes around 50 minutes and during whale season, November to April, you may even get to enjoy the spectacle of breaching whales on the journey. It costs $30 each way. Tickets can be purchased on a walk-up basis, but it's advised to reserve ahead just to be safe:  https://ssl.go-lanai.com/

You arrive at the port in Lanai and the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is located on the plateau in the center of the island. Lanai City, where most of Lanai's 3,500 residents live, is at 1,600 ft. so it can be pleasantly cool. The Sanctuary is located about two miles from town, near the airport. The Lanai shuttle service will charge you $10 per-person, each way, to go from the port to Lanai City or the Sanctuary. 

Lanai City does have a gallery, shops and restaurants, and there is also accommodation for those who want to spend a night or two on the island. The Four Seasons operates a luxurious hotel on the shoreline, near the harbor. 

Visitors are encouraged to leave a tax-deductible donation to help the Sanctuary continue its rescue work and provide life-long care for the cats.

If you like cats, we encourage you to visit Lanai and the Lanai Cat Sanctuary. You’ll be able to play with lots of happy cats and check off a visit to one of the lesser-known Hawaiian islands. Who knows, your next kitty may be waiting for you here at the Sanctuary! 

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Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Lanai Cat Sanctuary - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
• (8.83 km) Four Seasons Resort Lanai
• (6.85 km) Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort
• (6.13 km) Hotel Lanai
• (5.93 km) Dreams Come True B & B
• (5.65 km) Blue Ginger Bed and Breakfast
• (5.93 km) Blue Ginger Cafe
• (8.32 km) Views
• (8.86 km) Nobu Lana'i
• (5.84 km) Pele's Other Garden Deli
• (8.86 km) One Forty

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Lanai Island Guided 4x4 SUV Sightseeing Trekker Tour with Maui to Lanai Ferry

The best of Lanai

Joe and bobbi, lanai guided 4x4 sightseeing suv tour, [email protected], 12.5 hour(s), available weekday, pick-up not available, not accessible, what to expect, ferry-boat information.

Check-in at Maalaea Harbor

Enjoy an open water voyage to Lanai where you will get have incredible views of the islands of Maui County like Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe, and Lanai. During winter months, passengers can often spot humpback whales in the water as the relax or play with their calves in the warm Pacific Ocean.

Upon arriving at Manele Harbor, be greeted by your driver, and the guide will be driving an air-conditioned Suburban SUV to ensure your comfort and safety during your exploration of the island of Lanai. Feel free to ask your guide any questions you may have, and then sit back to enjoy the tour!

After departing from the harbor, destinations may include Garden of the Gods, Shipwreck Beach, and Hulopo’e Bay. Where you guide takes you on your activity date may change depending on the weather and road conditions, but they will do their best to accommodate any requests while exploring Lanai.

Start the tour driving by Hulopoe Bay, a Marine Life Conservation District and one of the most beautiful aquatic areas on Lanai. From there, you will cruise by the famous Lanai Cat Sanctuary, home to hundreds of furry felines, stop by a Hydroponic Farm, and visit the scenic Kaumalapau Harbor.

Walking at the Garden of the Gods is a captivating journey into a rugged, Martian-like landscape. This surreal terrain, sculpted by nature's forces, showcases vivid red and orange hues contrasted against the blue sky. The walk unveils rock formations & geological wonders that spark the imagination.

This pristine stretch of coastline offers a dramatic seascape with the remains of a World War II-era shipwreck in the background. The golden sands are framed by turquoise waters, creating a stunning contrast. While swimming is discouraged, it is an ideal spot for taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Once your tour has completed, you are free to enjoy Lanai at your leisure. You can be dropped off at the harbor to wait, or visit other areas. Please note that transportation around Lanai is not provided once your tour has ended, but taxi and shuttle services are available for an additional fee.

Check-in at Manele Bay Harbor

After a long yet exhilarating day on Lanai, make your way back to Maui and the Maalaea Harbor. Depending on the season, you may even catch a glimpse of the sun as it dips below the horizon, offering beautiful sunset views to ferry passengers.

Arrive at Maalaea Harbor

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

• At the end of the pier (look for a two-story brownbudling)

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• Guests with heart and cardiovascular issues are not permitted to participate in this activity.
• Guests who are pregnant are not permitted to participate in this activity.
• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• If less than 2 participants are booked, the activity may not operate.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• A maximum of two separate groups are allowed on the tour at one time.
• A minimum of two participants and a maximum of five participants are allowed on the tour.

Other requirements

• Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in.
• Minors are required to have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver.
• All passengers first and last names are required including children and non-paying infants.
• Passengers must check in 30 minutes prior to departure time. Ferry departs on schedule and does not wait for late passengers.
• Be sure to bring your VELTRA - HawaiiActivities.com voucher in exchange for your ferry tickets.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a minimum of 2 and maximum of 5.

Required items to bring & attire

• A valid government-issued photo ID
• Child Safety Seat: Hawaii state law requires that all children under age of seven (7) be restrained in a federally approved child safety seat. You must bring your own car seat for any children in your party.
• Depending on what you would like to do during the four hours of free time on Lanai, guests should bring methods of payment (credit card and cash) for shuttle and transportation services, food at restaurants, and purchases at stores.
• Guests who plan to go the beach during the free time on Lanai should bring a swimsuit, change of clothes, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and snorkeling equipment.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• If you are driving on your own, you will be required to pay a parking fee.
• Transportation to Lahaina Harbor on Maui is not included.
• Ferry rides may be cancelled and in the event that the return ferry is cancelled, guest must stay on Lanai overnight at their own expense.
• Pick-up and drop-off at Manele Harbor on Lanai is included. If you request to be dropped off at a different location, there maybe an additional fee, and you will also need to arrange for shuttle or transportation services to the harbor before the ferry return to Maui. Your guide will be able to assist you in the arrangements or you can call Rabaca's Limousine & Shuttle Service at (808) 559-0230.

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Traveler's photos.

Overall rating

The trip was excellent. Parking at the Maalea harbor dock is a pain. In the future tell your clients to get the ParkWhiz app on their phone You can pay for close up parking on this app. The code reader at the dock is cr ... appy. Our Lanai on site guide, Russ was a wealth of information and had as much fun with us and the other couple as we did with him and the tour. A nice day was had by all.

Russ is an excellent guide, knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating.

Wonderful Day in Lanai

A fantastic day trip providing lots of background on the island and an opportunity to view most of it. Russ is a great tour guide and made certain we had a great time. He also provided some recommendations for our aftern ... oon at the beach. I absolutely recommend this tour to anyone looking to get the most out of a day trip to Lanai.

Activity Provider Expeditions

Activity provider, payment / cancellation policy.

• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 15:00 local time, 4 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 4 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy, do the suvs have air-conditioning.

Yes, the vehicles are all equipped with air-conditioning, 4-wheel drive, and are all automatic cars.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?

Yes, you can bring snacks with you, but please do not eat or leave trash in the vehicles. There will be a stop for lunch (Full Day) in Lanai City as well.

Will the ferry be a problem if I am prone to seasickness?

Consider taking an over the counter motion sickness preventative before your cruise if you are worried about sea sickness. The waters in the afternoon tend to be much rockier than in the morning.

How far in advance should I book this activity?

We recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks in advance. If you have very specific schedule requirements and are not flexible, please book sooner. Last-minute bookings are often possible, but availability is limited.

Will we see whales?

Every year Humpback Whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii, and although not guaranteed, they are often seen between the months of December and April.

Is transportation provided on Maui?

Please make your own way to the Lahaina Harbor to catch the Ferry, and once you arrive in Lanai, your guide will pick you up at Manele Harbor upon disembarking the passenger ferry. You can be dropped off back at the Manele Harbor or a location of your choosing.

What kind of vehicle will be used?

The vehicle is a newer model Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) that can be either a Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Suburban, Land Rover, or Ford Expedition.

How long is the ferry ride each way?

The ferry takes approximately 45 minutes each way, but can be up to an hour depending on ocean conditions.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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Maui to lanai day trips other tours and activities, lanai snorkel tour & dolphin watch cruise with lunch - pacwhale eco adventures, discover lanai day trip from maui, hulopoe bay snorkeling & sweetheart rock, expeditions - maui to lanai ferry boat shuttle from maalaea harbor & manele bay, maui to lanai snorkel cruise with optional underwater sea scooter upgrade, maui adventure lanai snorkel & dolphin watch ocean raft tour with lunch, 日本語ガイド＆オムレツ昼食付き, eur 152.00~.

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Discover, plan, and book your trip to Lanai City.

FOR THE COST

Of a cup of.

YOU CAN FEED 10 CATS A MEAL.

Tours & Activities

We have expanded our offerings to include tours & activities across hawai‘i..

Ferry and Round Trip Town Transfer Self-Guided Package

Can I start my Tour from the Airport?

Answer & more information.

We are no longer offering this Itinerary as a Package due to Ohana ceasing air service.  Mokulele currently services LNY with smaller aircraft. Their schedule does allow for a day trip, HOWEVER, they have not been operating reliably to schedule.

Independent Travelers – You can arrange an airport pickup for the Cat Sanctuary directly from Rabaca’s in advance. Cost will be $10 per person cash only each Transfer. Their direct number is:  808-559-0230. If they do not answer, please text them.

There is also one Taxi service that accepts reservations in advance – Alberta ’s Taxi Call 808-649-0808

Question: Can you tell me more about the ferry and transfers on island?

Q. How long is the ferry ride? A: The ferry ride between Maalaea and Lāna‘i typically takes an 1 hour & 15-20 minutes.

Q: How are transfers to the Cat Sanctuary done? Car or Van? A: Transfers for the cat Sanctuary are done via a Shuttle Van.

Q: How long is the ride between the Harbor and the Cat Sanctuary? A: About 20 minutes. 30-40 minutes if the shuttle first has to make a stop in town.

Q: What time are typical pickups from the Cat Sanctuary? A: 1:00 pm for the for transfer to Town or Beach.  Last pick up is at 3:00pm when the Cat Sanctuary closes and for the 5:30pm ferry.

Q: What do I do when I get off of the ferry on Lāna‘i? A: When you disembark on Lāna‘i please head up the gangway. Your transfer driver will be waiting for you with a sign that has “Lanai City Shuttle Service” on it. Just let them know that you are Lost on Lāna’i  Guests Order #### going to the Cat Sanctuary Town and they will direct you to the correct shuttle van.

Question: What is the Ferry Schedule between Maui and Lāna‘i?

Two Daily Roundtrips between Maui and Lāna‘i.

Maalaea Departures:

(Located at 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Rd)

Departs from Maui to Lanai at: 6:30AM & 3:30PM Daily – Note: Boarding Closes 5 min Prior to Departure Time

Lāna‘i Departures:

(public loading dock at Manele Harbor)

Departs from Lanai to Maui at: 8:30AM & 5:30PM Daily

Updated 12/23/23