Moving to Manele
Manele, located on the southern coast of Lanai, is one of the most exclusive communities in all of Hawaii. Best known as the home of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai and the breathtaking Hulopoe Bay, Manele is a destination that blends luxury with natural beauty. With fewer than 4,000 residents across the island of Lanai, Manele feels more like a private paradise than a bustling town.
Moving to Manele means stepping into an extraordinary lifestyle where peace, privacy, and exclusivity define daily life. Unlike Honolulu or Maui, Manele doesn’t have urban density or tourist crowds. Instead, residents live in a close-knit community with access to pristine beaches, luxury amenities, and an island lifestyle rooted in simplicity and nature.
At the same time, relocating to Manele comes with challenges — high costs, limited schools and jobs, and geographic isolation. But for retirees, professionals with remote jobs, and those seeking true escape, Manele offers a one-of-a-kind living experience.
Why More People Are Moving from the Mainland to Manele
Manele appeals to a unique type of newcomer. Unlike larger Hawaiian destinations, Manele doesn’t draw people seeking career opportunities in the city. Instead, it attracts those looking for exclusivity, luxury, and privacy.
One reason is lifestyle. Manele offers direct access to Hulopoe Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with snorkeling, swimming, and sunsets that rival any in Hawaii. The Four Seasons Resort Lanai provides world-class dining and spa services, creating a rare combination of natural beauty and modern luxury.
Another reason is tranquility. While Oahu and Maui can feel crowded, Manele offers quiet, uncrowded spaces where neighbors know each other and communities feel secure.
Finally, many retirees and second-home owners choose Manele for its exclusivity. Owning property here means being part of one of Hawaii’s most private, upscale residential areas, far removed from tourist-heavy islands.
Pros of Living in Manele
The biggest advantage is exclusivity. Few places in Hawaii offer the same level of privacy and peace. Residents enjoy pristine beaches, limited tourism, and a community that values seclusion.
Another pro is luxury. With the Four Seasons Resort Lanai nearby, residents have access to world-class dining, golf courses, and spa facilities — amenities that are unmatched for such a small community.
Natural beauty is unparalleled. Hulopoe Bay, Puʻu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock), and Lanai’s rugged cliffs provide stunning views and outdoor adventures.
The sense of safety is strong. With a small population and close-knit community, Manele is one of the safest places to live in Hawaii.
Finally, the lifestyle is relaxed. Daily life revolves around the ocean, wellness, and enjoying the natural beauty of Lanai, making it ideal for retirees and remote professionals.
Ready to get moved? Get a FREE quote now
Cons of Living in Manele
The first drawback is cost. Housing in Manele is among the most expensive in Hawaii, with luxury villas and estates catering to wealthy residents and second-home buyers.
Another issue is isolation. Lanai has no direct international airport. Residents rely on flights from Honolulu or Maui to connect to the mainland. Shopping, medical care, and schools are limited compared to larger islands.
Job opportunities are limited. Outside of tourism and resort services, there are few industries. Most residents either work remotely, own businesses, or are retired.
Healthcare access is limited, with only small clinics on the island. Specialized care requires travel to Oahu or Maui.
Finally, the island’s small size and limited infrastructure may feel restrictive for some who are used to city amenities.
What Life is Like in Manele
Life in Manele is quiet, exclusive, and centered on the ocean. Residents wake up to oceanfront views, spend mornings snorkeling in Hulopoe Bay, and enjoy evenings watching the sunset over Lanai’s cliffs.
Neighborhoods in Manele are primarily luxury estates and villas, many with ocean views and resort-style amenities. Unlike Honolulu or Maui, there are no high-rises or urban sprawl — just elegant homes in a serene setting.
Food culture reflects the island’s mix of exclusivity and local traditions. Residents dine at the Four Seasons restaurants or enjoy local farmers markets and small eateries in Lanai City.
Community events are smaller but meaningful, focusing on Hawaiian traditions, sustainability, and neighborly connection.
For many, Manele offers a life of peace, beauty, and privacy, far removed from the busy pace of mainland living.
Living Costs in Manele
Manele is one of the most expensive places to live in Hawaii.
| Category | Manele | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent per Month) | $3,500+ | $1,570 |
| Utilities | $250 | $180 |
| Groceries | $450 | $330 |
| Transportation | $200 | $140 |
| Healthcare | $480 | $440 |
Housing is the largest expense, with luxury estates dominating the market. Groceries and utilities are also higher due to imports.
Ready to get moved? Get a FREE quote now
Schools and Education in Manele
Manele itself does not have schools. Families rely on schools in Lanai City, about 20 minutes away. Lanai High and Elementary School serves K–12 students in a single campus. While small, it provides a close-knit learning environment.
Private schools are not available on Lanai, so families seeking alternative education often homeschool or send children to schools on Maui or Oahu.
Higher education opportunities are limited. Students often move to Honolulu or the mainland for college.
Education in Manele is therefore limited, but the supportive, community-driven atmosphere makes learning personal and family-centered.
Transportation and Getting Around
Manele is accessible primarily by car, with most residents relying on private vehicles. Roads connect Manele to Lanai City and the rest of the island.
Public transportation is virtually nonexistent. Residents rely on personal cars or resort shuttles.
Air travel requires flights from Lanai Airport to Honolulu or Maui. There are no direct flights to the mainland.
Ferries also connect Lanai to Maui, offering an alternative for inter-island travel.
United Local Movers: Our Services
Relocating to Manele requires movers experienced in Hawaii’s island logistics. United Local Movers provides professional packing, storage, and long-distance relocation services tailored to island living.
Whether moving into a luxury estate in Manele, a second home near Hulopoe Bay, or a long-term rental, our crews understand the complexities of shipping, handling, and delivering belongings safely to Lanai.
With transparent pricing and customized plans, United Local Movers ensures every move to Manele is smooth and stress-free.
Average Cost to Move to Manele
Relocating to Manele is more expensive than most moves due to limited access and shipping logistics.
| Move Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Move (1-2 Bedrooms) | $1,500–$3,000 |
| From Mainland U.S. | $6,000–$12,000 |
| Full Packing Services | + $600–$1,200 |
| Storage Options | $180–$350 per month |
United Local Movers specializes in handling Hawaii moves, ensuring belongings arrive safely despite complex logistics.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
When moving to Manele, choosing the right mover is essential. Always check licensing, insurance, and written estimates.
Look for movers with Hawaii experience, especially those familiar with inter-island shipping and Lanai’s unique challenges.
Customer reviews provide insight into reliability and professionalism. Avoid companies with unrealistic timelines or suspiciously low quotes.
United Local Movers has the expertise and network to make Manele relocations efficient and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Manele is one of Hawaii’s most exclusive and beautiful communities. With luxury estates, breathtaking scenery, and access to world-class amenities, it provides a lifestyle unlike anywhere else in the islands. While high costs, limited jobs, and geographic isolation are challenges, the rewards — peace, privacy, and natural beauty — often outweigh them.
For retirees, second-home buyers, and professionals seeking a slower pace, Manele offers a dream lifestyle. And with United Local Movers, your move to Manele can be professional, smooth, and stress-free.
