Roomer

Hotel Lanai

Lāna‘I City, HI, USA
$435-550/ night

Book this if You want the authentic, misty, plantation-era soul of Lāna‘i without the four-figure nightly price tag of the beach resorts.

Why People Love It

  • The only historic accommodation on the island (built 1923)
  • Located right in the heart of walkable Lanai City
  • Lanai City Bar & Grille is the island's social hub

Quick Take: A charming, creaky, and quiet upcountry lodge that feels a world away from the polished perfection of the Four Seasons down the hill.

Reviewed by @travelswithbrandy: I came here to unplug and it was perfect. The air up here is so fresh and cool compared to the beach. Spending my evenings rocking on the private porch with a glass of wine felt like I traveled back in time. A true hidden gem.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Travelers love the 'old Hawaii' nostalgia and the cooler upcountry climate, but often wish for better soundproofing.

Reality check

Guests expecting a resort experience are disappointed by the lack of a pool and the distance from the ocean.

  • You prefer cool, misty mornings over scorching beach heat
  • You want to walk to local cafes and the town square
  • You appreciate historic architecture over modern luxury

Cleanliness & Maintenance

9
  • Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable; rooms are small so they are kept tidy easily.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Renovated bathrooms are modern and clean, with pedestal sinks and tiled showers.
  • Maintenance: Excellent condition post-2018 renovation; fresh paint and well-maintained wood.
  • Linens & towels: Crisp, high-quality white linens that feel upscale for a 3-star property.
  • Odors & scents: Fresh pine air from outside; no lingering mustiness despite the building's age.

Sleepability™

6MODERATE
MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Creaky wooden floorboards from guests above
  • Live music and chatter from Lanai City Bar & Grille (Wed-Sun)
  • Thin walls between adjoining rooms

Before you book

Good to know

  • The hotel is at 1,700ft elevation; it gets chilly at night (bring a sweater)
  • Reception is not 24/7; coordinate late arrivals in advance
  • Rental cars (Jeeps) are highly recommended to explore the island freely

What to pack

  • Light jacket or fleece (temps drop to the 60s at night)
  • Earplugs (essential for the historic walls)
  • Hiking boots (great trails nearby like the Munro Trail)

Room Genie

Best picks

  • The Cottage (separate building, most privacy, king bed)
  • Lanai Rooms (feature small private balconies for morning coffee)

Rooms to avoid

  • Standard rooms near the restaurant if you sleep early (music plays until 8-9pm)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I'm looking for a quiet stay—if available, I'd prefer the Cottage or a room on the top floor away from the restaurant noise.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is there a pool?

No. There is no pool on the property. You must go to the beach or the community pool.

How far is the beach?

Hulopo‘e Beach is about a 20-minute drive downhill. You need a shuttle or car.

Is breakfast included?

Yes, a continental breakfast (pastries, fruit, coffee) is typically served in the lobby.

Do I need a car?

Highly recommended. The island shuttle exists but is limited, and a 4x4 Jeep unlocks the best sites like Shipwreck Beach.

Is there AC?

Yes, rooms were retrofitted with AC during the 2018 renovation, though the cool climate often makes it unnecessary.

Can I use the Four Seasons amenities?

Generally no, unless you book a spa treatment or dining reservation there. You do not get automatic pool access.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    The 'resort' shuttle is often for Four Seasons guests; clarify if your rate includes transfer or if you need the $10 local shuttle.

  • ✨

    Wednesday nights often feature karaoke or live music at the Grille—join in or bring noise-canceling headphones.

  • ✨

    Walk to the nearby 'Blue Ginger Cafe' for a cheaper, local-style breakfast if the continental spread is too light.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The elevation makes it feel like a different climate zone—misty and pine-scented, not tropical coconut.

  • 💡You are sleeping in a piece of history; James Dole built this for his executives in 1923.

  • 💡The bathroom doors are often sliding 'barn style' which offers less acoustic privacy.

  • 💡It's the only hotel in Lanai City (the town), making it the best base for meeting actual locals.

  • 💡The WiFi is surprisingly good for such a remote, historic building.

Local Playbook

Map

See where Hotel Lanai is located and what's nearby.

Key amenities & services