Lanai Cat Sanctuary: Why This Hawaiian Feline Paradise is Worth the Ferry Ride

Words by Dalene Heck / Photography by Pete Heck

If you thought Hawaii was all about beaches and mai tais, think again, because on the quiet island of Lāna’i, there’s a place where cats reign supreme.

Welcome to the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary, home to over 700 rescue cats — also known, affectionately, as “The Fur Seasons.” It’s not just a shelter. It’s a full-on feline paradise where cats roam freely across four acres of outdoor space, sunbathe on volcanic rocks, nap in the shade of kiawe trees, and politely (well, sometimes not-so-politely) demand your attention. This sanctuary is one of the island’s quirkiest and most beloved attractions it’s very worth the ferry ride over just to be surrounded by a sea of purring locals.

Lāna’i, our fourth Hawaiian island visited over many years, startled us for several reasons. For one, the continuous fresh breeze immediately lifted the greasy sweat that we had worn for the entire previous week. The geography itself was so incredibly different from where we had just left, framed by tall Cook pines instead of the expected abundance of palm trees. And then, there are ALL THE KITTIES.

You know that you’ve arrived at one of the most perfect spots on the entire planet when the number one thing to do in Lāna’i for tourists, according to TripAdvisor, is to visit a nearby cat sanctuary. There are only 3,000 people living on Lanai and over 700 cats. That ratio (for this introverted cat lover) is the kind that makes me want to unpack my bags for good.

Not only did the word paradise roll off my tongue regarding many aspects of the island, but it is so clearly a utopia for all of the cats under the care of the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary as well.

We were greeted by the lovely founder, Kathy Carroll, and a benevolent furry contingent who bypassed the food on offer in order to welcome us through the gates. As we cuddled one and then another and another, Kathy, whose generosity of love and spirit is on display with every word spoken, relived the history of the sanctuary (along with several of the cats) with us.

Concerned about a growing number of homeless cats that were impacting native bird populations, Kathy began by herding a small group and building a temporary enclosure in partnership with a major resort on the island. The eventual move to the 50,000 sq ft outdoor enclosure came with the mandate to provide a place where they all can live without distress.

There is no euthanization. Every cat is spayed or neutered and vaccinated. The sanctuary includes a multitude of different areas for cats to play, hide, or sleep. All surfaces are painted a rust red, and as many as possible are made of recycled crates or other such things that are salvaged. Nothing goes to waste.

Two things surprised us most: one being the remarkable peace among the cats (in our three hours there, we saw zero fights). Secondly, with all of these animals roaming free, you would never know it for the not unpleasant smell of the place. Large open boxes using pine mulch as litter tend to that.

The “lions”, as they are affectionately called, live large in health and harmony.

As such, the hardest part of our day was bringing ourselves to leave one in order to pet another. And then to tear ourselves away entirely, of course.

Why Visit the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary?

Think of it as Hawaii’s most relaxing cuddle puddle. Unlike traditional shelters, this is an open-air haven where cats are free to mingle, play, and nap without cages. You can wander among them, pet to your heart’s content, and probably leave with a few furry friends trailing behind you. It’s equal parts heartwarming and hilarious — picture 20 cats all competing to sit in your lap while another casually steals your spot on the bench.

And the best part? By visiting, you’re supporting an organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and cares for Lāna‘i’s feral cat population, keeping both the cats and local bird species safe.

Getting to the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary

From Maui by Ferry

The ferry is the most popular and most scenic option. The Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary is just one ferry ride from Maui — the crossing from Maalaea Harbor takes approximately 45 minutes and lands at Manele Harbor on Lāna’i. Note that the ferry now departs from Maalaea Harbor, not Lahaina, which was devastated by wildfires in August 2023. Book your ferry tickets in advance, particularly in peak season, as it fills up. From Manele Harbor it’s approximately a 25-minute drive to the sanctuary.

After passing the airport, take the second dirt road on the left and look for a highway rock marker that reads “Kaunolu.” Turn left and look for the gate on the right. It sounds wonderfully cryptic, and it genuinely is; go slowly and keep an eye out for the marker.

By Flight

Mokulele Airlines operates short flights from Maui and other Hawaiian islands to Lāna’i Airport. The flight from Maui takes approximately 20 minutes, and the sanctuary is just a short drive from the airport, making this a great option if you’re short on time.

Getting Around on Lāna’i

There is no Uber or Lyft on Lāna’i — this is old-school island travel! Renting a Jeep is the most popular way to explore, and it gives you the flexibility to combine the sanctuary with Hulopo’e Beach, the Garden of the Gods, and other highlights. Taxis are available, and a local shuttle operates in Lāna’i City.

Hours, Admission and Practical Info

The Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary is open daily from 9 am to 3 pm, with free admission and no reservations needed.

Donations are very much encouraged and make a real difference; the sanctuary relies entirely on the generosity of visitors and supporters to keep its doors open and its 700+ residents fed, vaccinated, and cared for. Even a small contribution goes a long way.

There is no food or drinks available for purchase on site, so bring a picnic so you can stay as long as you like! This is not a quick twenty-minute stop; budget at least two to three hours, and don’t be surprised if you end up staying longer.

What to bring:

• Sunscreen and a hat. The sanctuary is fully outdoors and Hawaii is Hawaii!
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes. Cats have no respect for sandals or personal space and will step on your feet with great confidence.
• Water and snacks or a packed lunch.
• A camera. The photo opportunities are relentless!
• A lint roller for the drive home, unless you’d like to spend the rest of your Lāna’i trip looking like you’ve adopted twelve cats simultaneously, which is also a valid choice.

Pro tip: If you’re coming from Maui, take the early morning ferry so you have plenty of time at the sanctuary and can explore the island’s other highlights before heading back.

Adopting a Cat from the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary

The sanctuary has successfully rehomed cats to the mainland and beyond. The process requires some planning — you’ll need to arrange a health check, a travel carrier, and transport off the island — but the sanctuary’s team will guide you through every step. The toughest part will be choosing just one!

You can also sponsor a “Lāna’i Lion” monthly, with your donation covering food, shelter, and medical care. Visit lanaicatsanctuary.org for full adoption and sponsorship details.

Volunteering at the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary

Given how remote the island is and how small the local population is, visitor volunteers make a genuine difference. If you’re spending more than a day on Lāna’i, reaching out in advance to arrange a volunteer session is well worth doing — you can help with feeding, cleaning, and the general care of the cats. Contact the sanctuary at info@lanaicatsanctuary.org or call 808-215-9066.

Photography Tips

The photo opportunities here are truly relentless, and the cats are shameless, natural posers. A few things that will improve your shots:

Don’t use flash. The cats are not fans of sudden bright light, and you’ll get better, more natural images without it. A longer lens gives you more reach without crowding the animals — Pete’s favourite shots from our visit came from giving the cats space and letting them come to us. And they will come to you. Patience produces better portraits than pursuit.

Where to Stay Nearby

It’s a small island with few choices, but honestly, that’s what makes Lāna’i such a charming vacation spot! Here are a couple of options:

• Four Seasons Resort Lanai. Yes, this is a splurge, but why not?! If you’re looking for an island paradise, you’ve found it.
• Hotel Lanai. If you want to save some $ to donate to cats instead, we understand and would likely do the same! Even though it has a drastically lower price point, you will not be disappointed by this stylish stay in a great location.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary

How many cats are at the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary?

The sanctuary is currently home to over 700 rescue cats, all of whom have food, medical care, and a safe, permanent home.

Is the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary free to visit?

Yes, admission is free, and no reservations are needed. Donations are strongly encouraged and go directly toward the care of the cats.

What are the opening hours?

The sanctuary is open daily from 9am to 3pm.

Can you adopt a cat from the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary?

Yes. The sanctuary has successfully placed cats in homes on the mainland and internationally. Visit lanaicatsanctuary.org or email info@lanaicatsanctuary.org to start the process.

How do you get to the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary from Maui?

Take the ferry from Maalaea Harbor to Manele Harbor on Lāna’i (approximately 45 minutes), then drive approximately 25 minutes to the sanctuary. After passing the airport, take the second dirt road on the left, look for the rock marker reading “Kaunolu,” turn left, and look for the gate on the right. Book ferry tickets in advance in peak season.

Can you bring food to the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary?

Yes, and the sanctuary encourages it. There is no food or drinks available for purchase on site, so bringing a picnic is recommended.

Can you volunteer at the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary?

Yes. Contact the sanctuary in advance at info@lanaicatsanctuary.org or 808-215-9066 to arrange a volunteer session.

Is the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary worth visiting even if you’re not a cat person?

I’m surprised you’re even reading this post if you’re NOT a cat person! It depends on how opposed you are to them…it’s over 700 cats roaming freely across four acres of outdoor space, sunbathing on volcanic rock, staging ambushes from climbing frames, demanding attention with varying degrees of politeness. It’s genuinely unlike anything else you’ll encounter on a Hawaii trip, and I can’t imagine ANYONE not enjoying it (and if you wouldn’t, we probably wouldn’t be friends, haha).