Lanai’s Beautiful Hulopoe Beach

One of the top highlights of Lanai is Hulopoe Beach. Why is this beach so special? Let’s start with five great reasons:

1. It’s a protected marine preserve which makes it great for snorkeling.

2. Hawaiian spinner dolphins love to play in this bay. We saw many dolphins during our stay here. I’ve been told that this area is an amazing spot for watching humpback whales in season (December – April).

3. The crescent shape makes the bay very picturesque.

4. A Lanai icon, Sweetheart Rock, Puupehe is just a short hike away. See our photo and video of Puupehe

5. You’ll find fascinating tide pools along the east side of the bay. The tide pools form in the lava rock to make a natural aquarium making it a nice way to see marine life without getting wet.

Hulopoe Beach would have to rank in my top five favorite beaches of Hawaii. If you don’t want to take my word that this beach is great, then consider that Dr. Beach named Hulopoe Beach the best beach in America in 1997.

Tips for Visiting Hulopoe Beach

• If you are staying on Lanai, it’s easy to find this bay on the south coast of the island. It’s situated between the Four Seasons Resort and Manele Bay. (See my review of Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay.)
• A day trip to Hulopoe Beach from Maui is really easy to do. You simply take a 30 to 45 minute ferry ride to Manele Bay from either Lahaina or Maalaea Harbors. Roundtrip tickets are $50 for adults and $40 for children. Trilogy offers packaged day trips that include meals and snorkeling gear. They are the only tour company with permission to bring guests to Hulopoe Bay.
• You’ll find picnic tables, restrooms and shower facilities here.
• Note that the only nearby restaurants are at the Four Seasons. My favorite place for lunch here is the Clubhouse Restaurant at The Challenge.
• You’ll need to bring your own snorkeling gear if you are not a guest of the Lanai Four Seasons.
• This bay Lanai’s only swimmable beach and the water is typically more calm in the summer months.
• If you are in the bay when the Spinner dolphins are visiting, don’t ever chase the dolphins or attempt to touch them.