Manele Bay

Manele Bay is Lanai's main harbor and ferry gateway, with a small beach area, marine preserve waters, boat traffic, nearby Hulopoe Bay and south shore views.

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Manele Bay, Lanai

Manele Bay has Lanai's only public harbor. It’s where you arrive when you take the ferry from Maui to Lanai. The bay is located on Lanai’s south coast, eight miles south of Lanai City.

There is only a small white-sand beach at the east end of the bay. It is one of the easiest beach areas to reach while on Lanai, and calm conditions can support snorkeling and diving.

The ocean bottom is shallow and consists of a mixture of sand and gravel. Manele Bay is a marine preserve, established to protect the area's marine resources and geological features.

The bay has restrooms and showers, and since the reef is shallow, children can enjoy the water when conditions are calm and safe. Manele Bay isn't big, even though it is the main port for boats. For a fuller beach day, nearby Hulopoe Bay is usually the better choice.

Key Features

Lanai's main harbor and ferry gateway
Located on the island's south shore at Manele Harbor Road
Manele Small Boat Harbor sits within the bay
Maui-Lanai ferry passengers arrive in this harbor area
Part of the Manele-Hulopoe Marine Life Conservation District
Small white-sand beach area sits near the east end of the bay
Shallow sandy and gravel bottom appears in parts of the nearshore area
Harbor channels and boat traffic shape how visitors use the water
Hulopoe Bay is nearby for a fuller beach-day setting
Manele Bay connects ferry arrivals with Lanai's south shore beaches and tours

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Manele Bay located?

Manele Bay is located on Lanai's south shore at Manele Harbor Road in Lanai City, HI 96763.

Is Manele Bay where the Lanai ferry arrives?

Yes. Many visitors arriving by ferry from Maui arrive at Manele Small Boat Harbor, which sits within Manele Bay.

Is Manele Bay good for swimming?

Manele Bay has some calm-condition swimming areas, but visitors must stay clear of harbor traffic and boat channels. Nearby Hulopoe Bay is usually better for a beach day.

Is Manele Bay part of a marine preserve?

Yes. Manele Bay is part of the Manele-Hulopoe Marine Life Conservation District, so visitors should not touch coral, disturb marine life or take anything from the bay.

What is near Manele Bay?

Nearby places include Manele Small Boat Harbor, Hulopoe Bay, Pu'u Pehe and the south shore resort area.