Koele

Koele is a scenic upland area on Lanai once known for its thriving ranch operations in the late 1800s. Originally developed by Walter Murray Gibson, Koele evolved into a hub of sheep and cattle ranching before transitioning to pineapple farming and later tourism. Today, it is home to the luxurious Sensei Lanai resort, surrounded by tranquil gardens, koi ponds, and forested trails, offering a peaceful escape with a deep connection to Lanai's ranching and cultural history.

Koele, Lanai

Walter Murray Gibson, an adventurer from the southern United States, settled at the Palawai Basin on Lanai in 1862. He was a representative from the church of the Latter Day Saints and was tasked to develop a Mormon colony for Native Hawaiians in the area. But, after a few years, he lost interest and used the church's money to buy some land properties to start his interest in ranching.

One of the properties he bought was an area called Koele. Koele got its name from the ancient Hawaiian word, ko'ele, which literally means a small land, cultivated and farmed for the sustenance of a village chief. Figuratively, Koele describes the dark rainy clouds, drawn down across Koele from Kaiholena Valley and the slopes of Lanaihale (Lanai's highest peak) that lie above.

A great ranch complex sprang from Koele and scattered around Lanai, which has a perfect climate for raising livestock. Some 45,000 - 50,000 sheep and lambs, 600 horses, 500 horned cattle, goats and hogs and numerous wild turkeys inhabited the island in 1893. Koele evolved from a small village to a 250-people ranch complex, which had 30 residences, a local store, a one-room school house, offices and outlying buildings. Everything was focused on ranching.

By 1950, the pineapple industry on Lanai flourished. The livelihood in Koele changed from ranching to farming. At present, Koele is a prime tourist destination. One of the most popular places to stay in Koele is the Four Seasons Lodge, which is a luxury hotel that offers guests activities like horseback riding, golf and other outdoor activities.


Key Features of Koele

  • Historic ranch hub: Former home to Lanai’s major sheep and cattle operations in the 1800s
  • Luxury lodging: Now home to Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons wellness resort
  • Tranquil setting: Located in Lanai’s cooler uplands with gardens, waterfalls, and hiking paths
  • Cultural significance: Originally tied to Mormon settler Walter Murray Gibson and Hawaiian land traditions
  • Popular activities: Horseback riding, golfing, nature walks, and meditation
  • Population: Small residential presence, mostly resort-focused
  • Zip code: 96763


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Frequently Asked Questions

🏨What is the Sensei Lanai resort?

Sensei Lanai is a luxury wellness resort operated by Four Seasons, offering spa treatments, yoga, hiking, and personalized wellness programs in the upland setting of Koele.

🐑Was Koele always a tourist area?

No. Koele was originally a ranching district with tens of thousands of sheep and cattle, before transitioning to pineapple farming and eventually resort development.

🌧️What does “Koele” mean?

In Hawaiian, “Koele” refers to cultivated land for village chiefs and can also describe the overcast clouds that commonly settle over the area due to its elevation.

🌿What’s special about the Koele grounds?

The resort and surrounding area feature beautifully landscaped gardens, koi ponds, tropical flora, and hiking trails — ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.