Just Back From Lanai, Hawaii: A Hidden Gem in a Tropical Paradise
- Jessica White
- Sep 24
- 5 min read
As a travel advisor, I’ve had the privilege to see some of the most beautiful corners of the world. Lanai has been a destination on my list for years, and I’m so grateful to have had the chance recently to visit.
I was privileged to get to visit Lanai with my Brownell top producing advisor colleagues, where we did a deep dive into the island’s offerings, shared new learnings, and discussed trends in the industry.
In this blog post, I’ll share all about my trip and everything you need to know about visiting the island, where to stay, how to get there, and the unforgettable experiences that await you.
The Island of Lanai
While the tiny island of Lanai is just as beautiful as the rest of the islands that make up Hawaii, it is unsurprisingly the least visited. It’s a secluded spot that has been historically difficult to get to and only has a population of just over 3,000 people within its 140 square miles.
Over 98% of the land on Lanai is owned by the current world’s-richest-man, Larry Ellison, who has invested heavily in the island’s commercial development over the past several years.
The two Four Seasons resorts on the island were reopened in 2016 & 2019 after years of major renovations and luxury additions.
As a result, it has become a highly exclusive destination, attracting billionaires, celebrities, and luxury travelers seeking a quieter alternative to the more tourist-heavy Hawaiian islands.
Where to Stay
Lanai is home to two stunning Four Seasons properties, each with their own distinct personalities. And despite only being less than ten miles apart, each has their own distinct climate as well.
Down by the beach, the Four Seasons Lanai Beach Resort enjoys classic coastal weather of hot, sunny days, perfect for lounging in the sand. Sensei on the other hand, is located in the central highlands of the island, and is considerably cooler and wetter.
Of course, both proudly feature the highest levels of luxury and service that Four Seasons is famous for. Splitting my time in Lanai between the two resorts gave me the chance to really experience all that this island has to offer.
Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort
For holistic wellness enthusiasts and luxury travelers who value privacy, Sensei Lanai is a dream destination. This gorgeous property has fewer than 100 rooms, and was actually the Four Seasons' first adults-only wellness resort. Set within immaculate tropical gardens overlooking the ocean below, Sensei is a sanctuary like no other.
I’d Recommend This Resort For: Wellness-seekers, honeymooners, art enthusiasts
Perfect Amount of Time to Stay: 2-3 nights
Resort Highlights:
The Spa - The spa at Sensei was one of the most spectacular resort spas I have been to. Each treatment includes access to a private “hale,” a 1,000 square foot bungalow containing a private sauna, steam room, indoor and outdoor showers, plunge pools, and plenty of space to lounge. It felt like having an entire spa to myself!
The spa at Sensei also utilizes cutting edge, exclusive health technology to take detailed body mapping scans. This gives the treatment providers the ability to completely customize each treatment to an individual’s specific wellness needs.
Onsen Garden - Something else I loved about this resort was the oasis that was the onsen garden. Inspired by Japanese hot springs and made up of meandering paths winding under the shade of tropical palms, this garden is most special for its 10 private hot tubs hidden throughout. And because they are open 24 hours a day, the garden provides the perfect way to unwind under the stars after a day of exploring the resort’s activities.
Art Collection - Sensei Lanai also holds an impressive collection of art from artists ranging from Fernando Botero to Jeff Koons. We all enjoyed exploring the property’s sculpture garden and admiring these works of art in such a serene setting.
Honorable Mention - Complimentary laundry service! This was a lifesaver as I’m training for my upcoming marathon and needed to clean my running clothes after my morning runs.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai
Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers a beachfront resort experience that is completely different but just as luxurious as Sensei. With just under 300 rooms, this resort welcomes families, friends, couples, and anyone craving a secluded tropical getaway. The overall ambience combines relaxation and vibrancy to create the perfect environment for an amazing beach vacation.
I’d Recommend This Resort For: Sun & sand lovers, couples and families, those looking for a private island vibe or a classic Hawaiian vacation without the crowds
Perfect Amount of Time to Stay: 4 - 7 nights
Resort Highlights:
Beach Access - Because of its prime location on a white sandy beach, the resort provides equipment for quintessential beach activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Guests staying at Sensei can take a free Four Seasons shuttle down to the beach for the day, but nothing is better than waking up in the morning steps away from the ocean.
Tennis, Pickleball, Golf & More! - If your idea of a perfect vacation includes a full itinerary of activities, you’ll love the offerings at Four Seasons Lanai. Racquet sports lessons, clinics, and cardio workouts are available for all skill levels. Golfers will love the Jack Nicklaus-designed Manele Golf Course, featuring 18 holes perched on dramatic cliffs above the Pacific Ocean.
Gorgeous Hiking - If you are feeling up to the adventure, try the guided hike to Pu'upehe, nicknamed “Sweetheart Rock.” The trek is only about 30 minutes to the top, where I saw some of the best ocean views of this entire trip. I highly recommend it!
How to Get to Lanai
Making your way to Lanai is another part of what makes visiting the island so special. Lana'i Air, a private air service, offers complimentary transfers from Honolulu for Four Seasons guests.
There is also a one-hour ferry from Maui, that gives travelers a unique and scenic view of the Hawaiian island chain from the water. Charter flights are also an option for those traveling to Lanai from other islands.
Lanai Town
One day during my trip, I visited the quaint and charming town of Lanai City. The town was founded in the early 1900s by pineapple farmers, who at one point were responsible for 75% of the world’s pineapple production.
The town is small and not totally geared toward tourists. Spending one afternoon there was a great way to take in the island’s relaxed vibe. I recommend popping into The Local Gentry to shop for locally made goods and souvenirs, and enjoying a meal at the recently renovated Lanai City Bar and Grill.
Ready to Plan Your Trip to This Hidden Oasis?
My time in Lanai with my fellow Brownell advisors was everything I could ever want from a Hawaiian escape. And visiting both stunning resorts was the best of both worlds. From the serene jungles of Sensei to the lively beachfront at Four Seasons Lanai, the island’s natural beauty offers ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
I’m so grateful to get to experience the island and learn all of the best tips and tricks to make a Lanai vacation the best it can be. I can’t wait to help you plan your own getaway to this tropical paradise. Please reach out if you’d like to learn more about Lanai or the other incredible destinations in Hawaii!
Comments