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LANA'I, HAWAII

by Madelyn Miller

Lana'i is Hawaii as it should be--wild, breeze-tossed, recklessly beautiful--with beaches visited only the the tides, and with ancient temples hidden in the hills, It is undiscovered, untrammeled, and blissfully secluded, yet all the comforts--the activities, the gourmet food, the linen and napery--are quietly in place.

Lana'i is a place where wild turkeys and axis deer roam freely, where aromatic forests are filled with rare plants and flowers, where tales of Hawaiian gods and kings live on in music of the people, where the pace is relaxed and smiles are always friendly.

In fact, if you choose this paradise as your honeymoon destination, there is no doubt you will be walking around with a smile on your face.

One of the best things about Lanai is that you virtually have the island to yourself. With only two resorts in the midst of 141 square miles, there is more than enough room to roam. Sixth largest of the major Hawaiian Islands, Lana'i lies off the western coast of the island of Maui.  Once known as "the pineapple island", secluded Lana"i has only 2,800 full-time residents and miles of untouched beaches.

Once home to the world's largest pineapple plantation, Lana'i retains the charm of a bygone era. It beckons visitors to explore its diversity--from the town of Lana"i City, with its cottages and village life, to the open spaces of its rugged interior to the deserted beaches along its coast.

Two spectacular resorts have been developed by Dole Food Company, as part of an overall plan for Lana'i geared to diversifying the Island's economic base for the benefit of its residents and the preservation of the Island's unique environment.  Once known for its fields of golden pineapple, the island of Lana'i has been thoughtfully and artfully transformed into a complete visitor destination.

The Manele Bay Hotel is the sensational focal point of this secluded island retreat, the last vestige of old Hawaii.

Surrounded by lavish gardens, the Manele Bay Hotel sits high above the white sand beach of Hulopo'e Bay overlooking the nearby island of Kaho'olawe. Brilliant red lava cliffs and rock formations provide a dramatic contrast to the blue-green waters of the sea below. A grand expression of Hawaiian, Mediterranean and Pacific architectural design, romance and privacy characterize this very special resort.  Outstanding vistas of the sea, a dramatic coastal setting and luxuriant, multilevel gardens with waterfalls offer a colorful diversion.

The Manele Bay Hotel is reminiscent of Hawaiian design of the 1920"s, an elegant kama'aina and Mediterranean blend, with arched loggias and wide, slopping roofs. Luxurious guest rooms and suites with private lanais enjoy sweeping ocean views. A two-level main dining room and a lush courtyard with gentle waterfalls and reflecting pools complete the relaxing atmosphere.

Furnishings throughout the resort range from precious Oriental artifacts to paintings by talented local artists to massive Chinoiserie-inspired murals by the well-known mural artist, John Wullbrandt. Refined, sumptuous rooms are artfully appointed with exquisite accessories collected from around the world, and some suites include butler service in the finest British tradition.

The tranquil grounds of the Manele Bay Hotel are a showcase of landscape design. from the jasmine trees in the Chinese Garden to the mondo grass in the Japanese garden, each setting reflects the many cultural influences that define Hawaii. from the swimming pool, relish panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

If you decide to step outside the Manele bay Hotel , you'll encounter an unparalleled island of adventure. Snorkel amidst Technicolor tropical fish in the clear, warm waters of Hulopo'e Bay. Scuba dive around the most outstanding underwater reefs in Hawaii where rare sea turtles may appear if you are lucky. And you must be lucky to be spending your honeymoon here.

Reel in a prize catch on a deep-sea fishing excursion, or go on a wintertime whale watch expedition. (note: these are real whales, unlike the submarine races dates in high school invited me to watch.) By ferry, cruise across the channel for a lively day in old Lahaina town. Sunbather and read on Hulopo'e beach and watch the spinner dolphins leap and play offshore.

The upland Lodge at Koele, located high amidst the majestic island pines, combines the charm and atmosphere of a traditional English country manor with the special allure and breathtaking beauty of Lana'i. This exclusive resort's focal point is its Great Hall, showcasing high-beamed ceilings, magnificent twin stone fireplaces and a rare Pacific art and artifacts collection. The Great Hall leads to a spectacular porch--the setting for afternoon tea. Architectural details emphasize comfort and turn-of-the-century old world elegance so you have the ambiance of a worldly plantations home.

This gracious upcountry resort has been named the Best Tropical Resort in the World, among a steady stream of awards and approbations.

Ranked number one by Zagat's Restaurant Guide for Hawaii and the Conde' Nast Traveler Reader's Choice Award, the Lodge at Koele's menus showcase the fresh flavors of the Pacific. Creative preparations call for island seafood, poultry and game as well as fruits herbs and vegetables harvested at the peak of perfection.

The Formal Dining Room is warmed by a crackling fireplace, while the more casual setting of the Terrace Restaurant provides views of the exotic gardens. Each day, guests are invited to share in a traditional afternoon tea in the Music Room.

The Lodge at Koele's grounds are a study in serenity. Pathways meander among flowering gardens, sprawling banyans and decorative sculptures. Scores of orchids are specially cultivated in he authentic English conservatory. The tranquil swimming pool and outdoor whirlpool provide the perfect spot to read and relax. At the edge of the manicured lawns, trails lead through pine cathedrals and paperbark forests, inviting guests to commune with nature.

Lana'i delivers dozens of options for outdoor adventures. Drive a jeep to the geological wonder called the Garden of the Gods, or visit the remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. Saddle up at at the stables for an exhilarating ride in the country.

After much thought, I decided not to even tell you about the spectacular golf courses at these properties. Because that is another trip.

Because to all who come to call, the island's residents extend their own irresistible brand of Aloha.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 800-321-4666.

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