Lanai Cat Sanctuary, Lanai City: Hours, Address, Lanai Cat Sanctuary Reviews: 5/5
Lanai Cat Sanctuary
Lanai Cat Sanctuary
5
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
About
Longing for the cat you left at home? Don't miss Lanai`s open-air sanctuary, a happy haven for spayed and neutered cats. Imagine a large playground in paradise, where over 600 cats romp and play in Hawaii's sunshine, and snooze under shady trees. Purring cats of all shapes and sizes eagerly await your visit. Our caregivers, who joyfully care for the cats, would love to meet you too. If you're interested in adopting a cat, we love matchmaking!
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
Features animals
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0.9 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Piers & Boardwalks

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136
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126
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210
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28
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
533 reviews
Excellent
507
Very good
19
Average
7
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Nicnycandthebigapple
New York City, NY130 contributions
Solo
The sanctuary treats the cats very well. They’re all very friendly and if you are in need of a feline encounter I strongly recommend you see this place. Allcats are available for adoption and one is sweeter than the next. I was covered in cats. Once you sit down...they’ll hop all over you for a pet and a cuddle. They want treats, which are provided by the sanctuary for free and a nice little pet while you visit them. I may just adopt one as one give me a big hug and I wish I could take them with me. They will ship you a cat if you fall in love with one for adoption so long as you pay for transportation costs. The trip to lanai is also nice From Maui as you get to see whale watching for free if you go during the whale watching season. The ferry ride from Maui to Lanai is about 45 minutes. I suggest using “lost on the lanai” as I did, for your traveling from the Lanai harbor to the sanctuary, they’re very good. Otherwise, you could get stuck paying for a taxi upwards of 100 bucks just to get there -it’s a scam don’t fall for it. They wait at the harbor for you when you get off the ship. Don’t get in a taxi. Use a shuttle.
Written February 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
LenandEv
3 contributions
If your dream is to be surrounded top, bottom, and sides with adorable cats, this place is worth the airfare to Hawaii! You won't see all 650+ cats because the more feral ones stay in the background, but the more social ones are all over you like a fur suit.
All of the cats are obviously well cared for and living the good life, lying around in mango trees and hanging in the "catfurteria." You will not feel bad for the cats -- you will wish you were one of them!
We used Lost in Lanai to arrange our "furry" ride to the island and van rides on the island of Lanai. You could do it yourself, but you'll add complication and won't save any money. We spent a couple of hours at the sanctuary and a couple of hours, including lunch, in Lanai City (which is tiny but has an interesting history as a Dole company town).
I was sad to return to "Meowi" after our day with the cats.
All of the cats are obviously well cared for and living the good life, lying around in mango trees and hanging in the "catfurteria." You will not feel bad for the cats -- you will wish you were one of them!
We used Lost in Lanai to arrange our "furry" ride to the island and van rides on the island of Lanai. You could do it yourself, but you'll add complication and won't save any money. We spent a couple of hours at the sanctuary and a couple of hours, including lunch, in Lanai City (which is tiny but has an interesting history as a Dole company town).
I was sad to return to "Meowi" after our day with the cats.
Written September 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alexis0304
San Jose, CA2 contributions
We took about a 1-hour ferry from Lahaina to Lanai and then a shuttle to get to the sanctuary and it was well worth it! The cats came right up to us and were so friendly - amazing that 600+ cats can all get along so well and be so loving. Sat down and immediately had 6 or so cats wanting attention. The cats are so well taken care of its just amazing and the caretakers are very kind and clearly love the animals. What's unbelievable is there is no fee - its all based upon donations so please donate when you visit.
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nancy R
Pittsburgh, PA99 contributions
Solo
While on Maui, I decided to take the ferry ride from Lahaina Harbor to the Island of Lanai to visit the Lanai Cat Sanctuary. I paid $97 that included the round trip ferry ride and the round trip shuttle to the sanctuary. It was about an hour ferry ride beginning at 9:15 a.m. Once on Lanai, I boarded a shuttle van to the Cat Sanctuary. There is no fee to get into the Sanctuary although a donation to it is welcome. The donation supports the feeding and medical needs of the cats. The cat population there is approximately 500 cats! Upon entering the enclosure, I was given a small bag of cat food, As I approached the cats, they began to come toward me. It was an incredible feeling having 20-30 cats rush toward me all at once! I absolutely loved it! I sat on a bench feeding the little ones surrounding me! The setting is rustic. So, wear athletic shoes. My advice, do not wear sandals. There is a Public Rest Room and a small store on the Dock on Lanai. I got back to Lahaina around 4:30. It was one of my favorite adventures to the islands.
Written April 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Derek W
34 contributions
Couples
We heard this place from a couple on our trip. As a cat lover, I just can't end my trip without visiting this place. We took the plane from Maui to Lanai in the early morning and walked to the cat sanctuary (the transportation is very limited). We arrived a bit before they open but the staff there were nice enough to check us in earlier and let us play with the senior cats first. The experience is so amazing, I love how friendly the cats are and my eyes keeps spotting more and more of them everywhere. There is a Mango tree which you absolutely can't miss, probably 20 cats sitting on it, it's so cute. Really appreciate the staff there to keep this place running and provide a home for 600+ cats.
Written April 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Wayfaring4life
Makawao, HI81 contributions
Okay, well maybe not millions but certainly an awful lot of cats. Just like in the well-loved, classic children's book, Millions of Cats, there are cats here, cats there, cats and kittens everywhere. They are hiding in the clumps of cane grass dotted around the manicured lawns. They are in their own cute cat condo or hanging out at the Catfurteria. Some may be seeking the attention of visitors while others are blissfully snoozing up in the mango tree draped over one of its branches. A group of us came from Maui for the day just to check this place out. It exceeded our expectations. The place is efficiently run, is aesthetically pleasing and has a serene feel to it. Best of all, the cats are clearly well cared for. You can catch Rabaca's shuttle from the ferry dock for $10 a person. There is no admission to the sanctuary but donations are greatly appreciated. Be prepared to spend a few hours in the various enclosures.
Written March 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ryan M
Albuquerque, United States5 contributions
The Lana’i Cat Sanctuary is a wonderful place to visit on Lana’i. There are over 600 cats that have been rescued around the island and brought to the sanctuary to live. They spay and neuter the animals to help control the population and the sanctuary keeps the cat safe as well as protects endangered birds on the island. They fly in a veterinarian twice a month so the cats are well cared for and their medical needs are met.
If you are an animal lover and especially enjoy cats, this is the perfect place to spend a few hours. Bring a box of treats with you and find a seat among the many options available and soon you’ll be surrounded.
If you are an animal lover and especially enjoy cats, this is the perfect place to spend a few hours. Bring a box of treats with you and find a seat among the many options available and soon you’ll be surrounded.
Written March 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
apohan
fort lee, nj6 contributions
If you like cats, this is a must-visit. It's wonderful that feral cats have been given such a nice a home, so that they cannot kill the local birds. There are large community spaces with kitty condos and cushions. Humans can sit on Adirondack chairs and feed the cats their kibble (provided by the sanctuary).
There are so many cats, some of them friendly, a few of them clearly traumatized by earlier experiences, it's a delight. The place is very clean too, and there are brushes provided should you want to give a cat a brushing. Some of them love it, and will come right up to you when you pick up a brush. The areas also have nice plantings and trees.
There are so many cats, some of them friendly, a few of them clearly traumatized by earlier experiences, it's a delight. The place is very clean too, and there are brushes provided should you want to give a cat a brushing. Some of them love it, and will come right up to you when you pick up a brush. The areas also have nice plantings and trees.
Written October 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
barbsm1
Orland Park, IL68 contributions
Wonderful place. The cats are safe and very well taken care of. They don't need to hunt for food which helps the bird population. All are spayed or neutered. When we were there in December, they had 620 cats. The majority of the cats occupy a very large beautiful outdoor area with shelters. There are separate areas for kittens, FIV positive cats, cats with feline leukemia and a "retirement home" for senior cats. You can feed them, pet them, or just walk around or sit. They will join you. We were there for 4 hours. It is definitely worth the boat ride from Maui. There is no fee to enter but donations are requested. Please donate to this very worthy endeavor.
The best way to get to the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is through Lost On Lanai web site. They set up your boat tickets and have a van that takes you to the Sanctuary and brings you back to the dock.
The best way to get to the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is through Lost On Lanai web site. They set up your boat tickets and have a van that takes you to the Sanctuary and brings you back to the dock.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bill H
Traverse City, MI910 contributions
Interacting with the cats and learning about the ecological need for sanctuaries like this. Open everyday from 10 am to 3 pm. Take either the ferry from Lahaina or fly from the airport in Kahului. To maximize my time there I took the ferry and then a shuttle bus to the sanctuary. Each visitor is given a baggie of treats to hand out. I went to Costco and got four 1 quart containers of yummies. Some guest spend an hour or so and then visit Lanai City. I choose to spend the entire time at the CS. Unfortunately it rained 1/2 of the visit. There are several hard roof lean-to's to find shelter. The creation of the CS has saved countless island birds from being victims of the feral cats. Once they are trapped they are clipped and examined by a vet before joining the rest of the colony.
When you disembark from the ferry there will be several vans to shuttle you around. Each ride is $10 cash.
When you disembark from the ferry there will be several vans to shuttle you around. Each ride is $10 cash.
Written March 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
fastrada
Chicago, IL51 contributions
We're thinking of doing the Lost on Lanai ferry/shuttle package from Lahaina to get to and from the sanctuary, and are wondering how far in advance we need to book? We will be going in mid-February.
Light Your Sparkle
1 contribution
If I recall, we made our ferry reservations only a few days in advance. We went in October. You can call the ferry to confirm timing, they are very helpful and can tell you busy times. The ferry has several times per day it departs and since the sanctuary closes at 3pm, the ferry departs close to 3pm tends to be the busiest time. You can consider this when you make the reservation.
MarySteff
Fort Worth, TX32 contributions
I was so pleased to see a combination ferry/cat sanctuary fare available via Lost on Lanai. We would like to know if any of the transportation fees from the harbor to the sanctuary is passed along to the sanctuary.
sparklesque
Plymouth, MI261 contributions
I don’t believe the Sanctuary gets any donations from the transportation company as they’re completely separate. They have a donation bucket onsite so you can easily help the kitties that way if you visit. It’s a wonderful place. You can also go the extra step and sign up to be a cat sponsor if your heart desires.
inspire
12 contributions
I will be going to Maui in June 2019 and am planning on visiting the Lanai Cat Sanctuary. How long is the ferry from Maui to Lanai? How long is the shuttle then to the Cat Sanctuary? Any helpful tips for getting there?
Thanks!
Ashley
SunsetPelican
Boston, MA143 contributions
It's about a 45 minute ride from Lahaina to the dock on the island of Lanai. A shuttle bus meets you at the dock and can take you to the sanctuary in about 20 minutes. Plan on spending at least two hours at the sanctuary (and arrange with your driver a pickup time). Each shuttle ride is presently $10 per person.
Go for it!
sjfisher2017
Queenstown, New Zealand2 contributions
Im looking to fly from Honolulu for the day to visit. How much time will I need, taking into account the time to get to the airport ect? Would the 9.23am arrival and 4.20pm departure times be sufficient? :)
Julie R
Philadelphia, PA434 contributions
Hi, yes, you will have more than enough time. The cat sanctuary should take about 20 minutes from the boat harbor or the airport. Even if you allow a few hours at the sanctuary, you still have plenty of free time. Be sure to go to Hulopoe beach which is near the Four Seasons. Gorgeous sand and waves! You can get snack/drinks/sandwiches at the Manele Boat Harbor not far from the beach. Another option is Blue Ginger in Dole park where they make fabulous sandwiches on homemade bread! The Lodge at Koele is still closed, but the drive is not far and quite grand with its cookie pine tree lined streets. You can still go horseback riding at the stables if that is of interest!
Hi..we will be staying at the Mariot Ocean Club on Maui..how far away are you from there?
ColoradoBuffGal
Broomfield, Colorado80 contributions
Hi Tammy!
The cat sanctuary is on another island but is still worth a visit. You can get to the island of Lanai via ferry, which leaves from the Lahaina harbor. This harbor is about 10 minutes south of Kaanapali Beach, which is where you're staying. You will need to rent a car on Lanai to travel to the cat sanctuary and all of the other sights that the island has to offer. There are a few companies that offer daily Jeep rentals and will pick you up at the ferry terminal. This may seem like a lot of preparation, but I highly recommend it. Our day on Lanai was very memorable.
By the way, I know Maui very well and I own a timeshare at the Maui Ocean Club. Feel free to ask me any additional questions you may have regarding your trip.
Aloha!
Kuma K
Honolulu, HI
hi there! Do you think it was worth it to book the ferry and shuttle package with Lost on Lanai?
Instead of taking the ferry yourself and a taxi?
sandcollector1
Escondido, CA7 contributions
We rented a jeep and it was pricey. We thought we would have time to drive the island and see other sights, but he had such a good time at the cat sanctuary, and then hung out at Mikes gallery, we would have been better off with the taxi. Oh well, another trip in the future!
Melanie D
Shawnee, KS43 contributions
How far from the ferry are you located? Do we need to bring our rental car or do you have transportation to/from the ferry terminal?
Mamina54
Bradenton, FL8 contributions
We were in Maui and took the ferry from Lahaina to Lana'i. You cannot bring a car on the ferry, but you can arrange transportation to the sanctuary. Just google the website for further information, which I can't post here.
Melanie D
Shawnee, KS43 contributions
Are these cats of all kind and sizes? You can interact with them as well? How much does enterence to the park cost?
psp910
Glen Burnie, MD11 contributions
There is no fee, donations welcome. There all cats of all sizes , you can interact with as many as you want. They love the attention .
Frequently Asked Questions about Lanai Cat Sanctuary
- Lanai Cat Sanctuary is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Hotels near Lanai Cat Sanctuary:
- (5.52 mi) Four Seasons Resort Lanai
- (3.83 mi) Hotel Lanai
- (4.35 mi) Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort
- (3.71 mi) Dreams Come True B & B
- (3.53 mi) Blue Ginger Bed and Breakfast
- Restaurants near Lanai Cat Sanctuary:
- (3.71 mi) Blue Ginger Cafe
- (5.20 mi) Views
- (5.54 mi) Nobu Lanai
- (3.65 mi) Pele's Other Garden Deli
- (5.55 mi) One Forty