4-Wheeling Around Lana'i

Updated: Apr 13, 2019

With many roads requiring 4WD, the best way to get around is via ATV.

Campbell cruising over the plastic-filled dirt roads of Lana'i

Any time that we visit an area that doesn't have sophisticated roads, we always, always, always try to rent a 4-wheeler to get around. There's something about having the open air setting without all of the standard rules of the road.

Since Lana'i has limited population, there is consequently limited options when it comes to getting an ATV. Naturally, there are all sorts of companies that try to nickel and dime you, claiming a scratch here or there that requires excessive compensation. Due to this, we always do our due diligence when finding who to rent from.

Nothing around for miles - the open roads of Lana'i

Our research brought us to Jim Price, a gentleman who came to Lana'i via Maui and Cleveland. He was helpful every step of the way, starting with picking up us at the ferry dock.

He drove us into town and explained many of the things we were seeing on the island, from the plastic from the plantations to the large trees that lined the road.

You will get covered in thick red dirt throughout the day - Lana'i

Once we got to the "city," he showed us our rides for the day. He quickly explained how we could not ride on the paved streets and gave us a quick how-to on the ATVs.

After we followed him for about 5 minutes, he set us free and we were on our way. We first cruised down to the old Kaunolu Bay, which had a steep incline on the way down.

After doing some exploring there, we made our way to the Lana'i Cat Sanctuary.

Once we finished at the sanctuary, we made our way back into town, where we were fortunate to spot planes landing and unfortunately encountered a small rain cloud.

The weather was awful (wind, rain), and our time with the 4-wheelers was far too short, but I'm glad we at least got a few hours cruising around the island.

Know Before You Go

You cannot ride the 4-wheelers on paved roads. If you do, you may incur a fine.
You're likely to get really dirty from the red dirt/dust from the roads of Lana'i
The 4-wheelers we rode had manual transmissions. Despite my wife having no experience operating one previously, she was able to pick it up very quickly.
There are thousands of deer on the island - use caution when riding.