Lanai has an ideal climate year-round, hot and sunny at the sea and a few delicious degrees cooler Upcountry. In Lanai City, the nights and mornings can be almost chilly when a mystic fog or harsh trade winds settle in. Winter months are known for slightly rougher weather—periodic rain showers and higher surf.
You can easily explore Lanai City and the island's two resorts without a car; just hop on the hourly shuttle. To access the rest of this untamed island, you'll need to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Take a map, be sure you have a full tank, and bring a snack and plenty of water. Ask the rental agency or your hotel's concierge about road conditions before you set out. If the roads are impassable (as they often are after heavy rains), you may be able to negotiate a refund for your rental car. The main road on Lanai, Route 440, refers to both Kaumalapau Highway and Manele Road.
