Spirit of Place

When we share our culture, we also protect it. This is our ethos on Lana’i, where a thoughtful movement is underway to collect and document the history of our island and the mixed ancestries of those who have come to call Lana’i home. From the original settlers nearly a thousand years ago to the last of the immigrants during the plantation era, the stories of people and place are woven throughout the tapestry of Lana’i.

It takes all of us living and working with aloha to do good things. As we say here, it’s a kakou (everyone together) thing.

The opportunity to immerse in our profound culture comes with the responsibility to share in its protection, forming a mutually respectful connection with the island in heart and soul.

Lana’i’s living history

Lānaʻi kūpuna (elders) are proud to talk story, bringing the long-forgotten heritage of our island to life. Curated experiences allow you to become honored guests of Lānaʻi locals. Cloud-drenched forests and sunlit fields welcome you to wander among remnants of Lānaʻi’s living history—rare petroglyphs, the rusting hull of a WWII oil tanker, the ancient heiau (temple) of King Kamehameha I’s beloved fishing spot—found within their original, and sacred, resting places.

Wisdom whispered from the earth

The opportunity to immerse in our profound culture comes with the responsibility to share in its protection, forming a mutually respectful connection with the island in heart and soul.

Keepers of the past

Lana’i Culture & Heritage Center (LCHC) is the keeper of Lana’i’s rich cultural heritage and proud future. Begin your journey here in the heart of Lana’i City and learn the narratives of close to a thousand years of residency and resilience from passionate Lana’i keiki o ka ‘aina (children of the land) who share out of their hearts. This is our gift to you for coming to our house.

Share the stories of our journey

Through ancient art, practices and specially curated experiences, we invite you to share the living traditions passed down by Lānaʻi elders. Join our aunties, uncles and future leaders—not just watching, but also experiencing our culture first-hand and learning the historical significance. From surround net and pole fishing to Pu‘upehe hiking and Poi Suppers, this is a unique opportunity to live the old Lānaʻi ways with locals.

There is harmony in ‘ohana

On Lānaʻi, we foster the love of ‘ohana (family), a circle unbroken, through shared experiences that bring us closer. Led by our talented guides, a palette of immersive, adventure-filled outings into Lānaʻi’s rich nature and culture calls you.

Our island sanctuary awaits your arrival.