Lanai features the best two Four Seasons Resorts

| BY FRAN MILLER

One of Hawaii’s smallest islands, Lana'i packs a powerful hospitality punch in the form of two luxurious Four Seasons resorts that honor the legacy of the isle. Exceedingly authentic, Lana’is cultural heritage resonates within both Sensei Lana’i, a Four Seasons Resort, and the beachfront Four Seasons Resort Lana’i, both of which provide a Hawaiian experience that is genuine, restful, and restorative.

SENSEI LANA’I, A FOUR SEASONS RESORT

Located in Lana’i ‘up country’ at 1,600 feet above sea level, where temperatures are routinely a refreshing 10 degrees cooler than those beachfront, Sensei

“The most decadent aspect of a Lana’i Four Seasons stay is the effortless travel”

Lana’i features a boutique-like 96 rooms within its light-filled, two-story, plantation-style structure. A recent and extensive remodel transformed the former The Lodge at Koele into an inspirational wellness enclave, the founders of which envisioned a retreat so captivating and enchanting as to innately initiate positive change in its guests.

At Sensei Lana’i, the sound of birdsong fills the fragrant air. Significant artworks are speckled throughout the lush landscape, such as monumental, mountainside-placed “Talaia” by Spanish sculpture Jaume Plensa. A Zen-like vibe permeates the 24-acre property, within which are walking paths that meander through colorful gardens and groves that ring a central, koi-filled lake. A waterfall cascades beside and between ten private hot tubs hidden amongst the verdant flora.

The resort’s goal for guest wellbeing is demonstrated not only in its inherent beauty and luxe facilities that include a 24-hour fitness room, two movement studios, and a calming yoga pavilion, but also in its ‘Sensei Way’ programming that inspires and kick-starts healthy habits. Based on a three path focus of move, nourish, and rest, the Sensei Way helps guests to familiarize and maintain a healthy relationship with body and mind. Through varied, curated experiences and classes with the resort’s health experts who can collect baseline health markers such as blood pressure, body composition, hydration and a functional-movement screen, guests gather and absorb tips to address particular intentions.

But those who chose the a la carte option will also find themselves transformed by the surroundings, the delicious and healthy food offered at resort restaurant Nobu, and the chance to unplug. The ten Onsen Garden hot tubs, from which the night sky shines most brightly, certainly help, as do the ten Spa Hales in which a variety of pampering treatments are offered. Each is 1,000 square feet of pure indulgence featuring individual gardens, Japanese Ofuro soaking tubs, outdoor rain showers, infrared saunas, hot and cold pools, and steam showers.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT LANA’I

Perched on a hillside overlooking Hulopo‘e Bay, Four Seasons Resort Lana’i is the island’s stellar and sumptuous beachfront resort, where chaise lounges are perfectly positioned to catch the playful splashing of Spinner dolphins. With lush gardens and flowing koi ponds that connect the resort’s staggered buildings, this is a property that begs for exploration. And those who venture beyond the pool and beach will find unexpected seating areas featuring glorious panoramas.

The elegance of the resort’s common spaces are echoed in each of the 213 rooms and suites. For the ultimate in comfort and stunning panorama views, the Ohana Ocean Front Suite features open design, neutral colors and rich hardwoods. A separate living room and bedroom are enhanced by two full bathrooms, including a Japanese wooden soaking tub in the master bath.

The two-bedroom Ali’i Royal Suite presents spectacular panoramas of the Pacific and Hulopo’e Bay and features a formal living room, media room, and separate dining room. But even a garden room astounds with furnishings of rosewood, leather, iron, and linen, and artisan bathrooms with deep soaking bathtubs.

Perfect for a romantic getaway, the resort is equally appealing to families. Two lagoon-style, free-form pools include the adults-only Retreat pool and the Family pool. At each, attendants offer treats such as agave lemonade, frozen pineapple, fruit or coffee smoothies, and water coolers. A choice of restaurants provides options. Nobu Lana’i offers sweeping panoramic views and innovative Japanese cuisine drawn upon Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s classical, sushi chef training. ONE FORTY offers breakfast and dinner with an extensive American steak and Hawaiian seafood menu. The open-air The Break, with its large sports-tuned televisions, pool table, and shuffleboard tables is a lively spot. And Malibu Farm features the freshest local and organic ingredients for delicious lunch offerings and refreshing island cocktails. Views, located at the golf course, is ideal for lunch or afternoon refreshments.

From 10am to 4:30pm daily, cultural advisors man a lobby table inviting guests to partake in lei making or weaving. Yoga, sailing, scuba, deep sea fishing, helicopter tours, tennis, horseback riding and more are readily available. The resort’s beach kiosk at Hulopo‘e Bay offers complimentary snorkeling equipment. High above the crashing surf is the premiere Jack Nicklaus Signature Manele Golf Course. Built on lava outcroppings, the course features three dazzling cliff holes. And a new observatory allows guests to survey the stars, providing celestial views as seen and utilized by ancient explorers and navigators.

Whether a guest at Sensei or the beach resort, it’s worthwhile to book a Holoholo tour for a true understanding of the island. A Love Lana’i cultural practitioner provides a guided, four-wheel drive exploration of remote portions of the island, sharing cultural details along the way.

Finally, one of the most decadent aspects of a Lana’i Four Seasons stay is the effortless travel; Concierge transfers are available from Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport to Lana’i via luxurious charter air service Lana’iAir (a 25 minute flight). Four Seasons staff members greet guests upon arrival in Honolulu and provide escort to the Lana’i Air tarmac via luxury SUV. Upon arrival in Lana’i, a staff driven Tesla awaits for the short drive to either resort. It’s the perfect start to a perfect getaway.