HUNT HORIZON

​The “Dole hunting lodge” AKA Hotel Lānaʻi

Now that you are familiar with the basics covering the WHEN and the HOW. Let’s get down to the “WHERE” part of things. Specifically, how to find some of the best places to stay.

When planning an axis deer hunting trip to Maui or Lanai, securing appropriate lodging is essential. After a long day in that gorgeous but hot atmosphere it’s nice to know you have a comfortable place to go back to and relax. Planning a budget friendly hunt doesn’t mean you have to resort to subpar it just means you have to look a little harder, be willing to compare pro’s and con’s and also really take into consideration what your “needs” vs “wants” are while lodging. Listed below are contacts for lodging in an array of price ranges. Here are some resources and accommodations tailored for different types of hunters:

Maui:

• Hawaii Hunts: Located approximately 30 to 40 minutes from most hotels, Hawaii Hunts offers guided axis deer hunts. While they don’t provide lodging, their proximity to various accommodations allows flexibility in choosing a place to stay. ​Hawaii Hunts

• Rolling Bones Outfitters: This outfitter provides a comprehensive hunting package on Maui, including meals and lodging. Their hunts span 40,000 acres, allowing hunters to harvest up to seven axis deer over two days.

• JP Guide Service: Operating on a private 40,000-acre ranch near Kihei, JP Guide Service offers various hunting packages. They can arrange food and lodging for an additional fee, ensuring a comfortable stay during your hunting expedition.

• Taiga International Outfitters: While they don’t provide accommodations directly, they note that Maui offers a plethora of hotels, bed & breakfasts, and Airbnbs. Many of these options come with full kitchens, allowing hunters to prepare and store their game meat.

Lanai:

• High Adventure Company: Specializing in Hawaiian big game hunts, they highlight Lanai as a prime destination for axis deer hunting. Notably, professional hunter and television personality Eva Shockey has been featured in a special guided hunt offered by the company. Additionally, the company has collaborated with outdoor industry professionals such as Lee and Drew, who documented their bowhunting experience for axis deer on Lānaʻi. While specific lodging details aren’t provided, Lanai’s accommodations are limited, so early booking is advisable and come at a cost.

• Trident Adventures: Offering a luxurious hunting experience, Trident Adventures arranges stays at the Four Seasons Hotel on the beach. Their package includes personal transportation, firearms, seasoned hunting guides, and post-hunt meat processing. ​This is definitely one of the more adrenaline pumping experiences around

General Recommendations:

Now that I have spend time giving you guys some of the “best of the best” accommodations, lets set foot in some better “budget friendly” options.

• Hotel Lana’i: This historic hotel, originally built in the 1920s for Dole Plantation executives, offers 11 guest rooms. It’s centrally located in Lānaʻi City, providing convenient access to dining and shopping. As of recent data, garden rooms start at approximately $330 per night

• Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: Both Maui and Lanai have various vacation rentals that can be suitable for hunting parties. These options often provide amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities, adding convenience to your stay, and keep you in the budget friendly category.

• Dreams Come True on Lana’i: A bed and breakfast offering individual room rentals as well as whole-house rentals.​ Individual rooms are priced at $200 per night plus taxes, totaling approximately $490.62 for two nights, including a 17.962% tax.

When selecting lodging, consider factors such as proximity to hunting areas, availability of game processing facilities, and the type of experience you desire. Booking accommodation well in advance is recommended, especially during peak hunting seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

Here are some great websites for finding lodging specific to hunting trips in Maui and Lanai:

General Hotel & Vacation Rental Websites:

• Hotels.com – Search for hotels near your hunting area, filter by amenities like kitchens and parking.
• Airbnb – Offers vacation rentals, cabins, and homes that may be better suited for storing gear and meat.
• Vrbo – Similar to Airbnb but often features larger properties for groups.
• Expedia – Allows you to bundle lodging with flights and rental cars.
• Booking.com – Good for a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals, including budget-friendly options.

Hunting & Outdoor-Specific Lodging:

• Basecamp Outdoor – A website dedicated to lodging for outdoor and hunting adventures.
• Outdoorsy – If you’re open to staying in a camper or RV, this site connects you with rental options.
• Hipcamp – Offers unique camping and glamping stays near outdoor recreation areas.

In the last and final blog you can look forward to finding out all you need to know about Gear, Clothing, Hunting Tips and of course Links to some hunting accessories that will help you seal the deal whether in Hawaii or another choice location.

Stay Tuned for part 3.