[1][2][3][4][5] In 1975, two professional dancers, Richard Koob, and Earnest Morgan[6] purchased the original 19-acre property, which they named Kalani Honua, which translates to "harmony of Heaven on Earth.” Workshops and classes were conducted including Hawaiian culture, yoga, dance, painting, music, and creative writing.

[7][8] Kalani's residential retreats offer workshops on art and human development, holistic health, Hawaiian culture, and include yoga, dance, and bodywork.

[3][4] Kalani's Wellness Department offers land and aquatic bodywork, including traditional Hawaiian lomilomi, Thai massages, and Watsu.

The dining lānai is considered to play a central role in the community, described as a gathering place where one "can experience the daily rhythms of assembly and departure reminiscent of ancient village life."

LJ was eventually fired for illegally placing almost all new board members, gaining majority voting power, that he personally selected, which was against the non-profit organizations by-laws.

Institutional structure comprises a sustainable living educational focus in all departments: Programs, Cultural Heritage, Culinary/Kitchen, Ho'okipa/Housekeeping, Maintenance, New Construction, Permaculture/Horticulture, Information Management, Student/Faculty Services, Wellness/Massage, and Administration.

The road winds along cliffs overlooking the ocean, through tropical rainforest, recent lava flows, and tunnel-like canopies of kamani (Calophyllum inophyllum), milo (Thespesia populnea), and hala (Pandanus tectorius) trees.

Nearby natural areas include Isaac Hale Beach Park, a protected section of coastline popular for swimming, surfing, and boating.

MacKenzie State Recreation Area is a secluded park featuring groves of ironwood trees and lava tubes that open to the ocean.

Recent earthquake activity on Kilauea’s south flank and lava eruptions in the Leilani Estates Subdivision are affecting air quality.

"[29][30] As of July 23, 2019, Kalani has re-launched, with a new board of directors, and local employment in lieu of volunteer staff, and is gradually restoring its operations.