Once a mere pineapple patch, the red-dirt island of Lanai is an oasis of calm. Reaching the island is difficult – there are no direct flights from the mainland - but once you arrive, you'll find the tropical surroundings are an ideal backdrop for snorkelling and scuba diving, swimming in Hulopoe Bay (a marine reserve), whale-watching, horse-riding, golfing, hiking, four- wheeling and exploring the red spires of the Garden of the Gods. The 1920s-era town is small but quaint, and the locals go out of their way to be friendly.