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Hawaii is one of those picture-perfect destinations that instantly makes most people ooh and ahh. It makes sense; everywhere you look, no matter the island, it’s absolutely gorgeous. But the island of Lanai, and particularly on-site at the Four Seasons Resort located in Manele Bay, the view (and the property) is beyond exceptional.
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Lanai, the smallest and least inhabited of Hawaii's major islands, lies a haven of serenity and luxury. As the only five-star, five-diamond resort on this unspoiled island, it promises an unparalleled opportunity for retreat. From the moment you arrive, you're transported to a world where time seems to stand still. Lanai, once renowned for its pineapple plantations, now captivates with its untouched landscapes.
As you journey through Lanai City, passing by century-old Cook pines and quaint plantation remnants, you'll sense the island's unique charm—a place where modern distractions fade away and tranquility reigns supreme.
The transformation of this paradise began in 2015 when billionaire Larry Ellison acquired 98% of Lanai, including the Four Seasons Resort there. A major overhaul ensued, culminating in the resort's grand reopening in February 2016. The result? A masterpiece of luxury living seamlessly blended with Lanai's untouched beauty.
We like
- Top-notch hospitality and guest service
- Unparalleled views
- Various on-site activities available as add-ons
- Spacious, comfortable rooms
- Education on local culture
We don't like
- Dining options somewhat limited
- Activities can get booked up quickly during high-traffic season
A Setting That Bows to The Natural Landscape
Upon arrival at the resort, guests are warmly greeted by the on-site team, who welcome you into the main lobby, which boasts mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean and Hulopoe Bay—a marine sanctuary teeming with dolphins and whales at certain times of the year.
The resort's architecture and teak interiors mirror the natural surroundings, with low-rise buildings nestled among lush Hawaiian botanical gardens, koi ponds, waterfalls, and various quiet alcoves for reading, resting, and small gatherings. The garden view rooms are incredibly spacious at around 1,000 square feet and include a private lanai, premium bedding, and a full-sized bathtub and standing shower.
Adventures and Activities Abound
Once you’ve settled in, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy both on and off the property. You may decide to relax at the Hawanawana Spa, lounge by the lagoon-style pools, take a sunset catamaran ride, stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, enjoy the beach, or embark on a culinary journey at NOBU Lanai, where Japanese cuisine meets Hawaiian flavors (with a prime view of the sunset over the ocean).
Golf enthusiasts can also tee off at the Manele Golf Course, a championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus himself. For those looking to explore more of the island, 4x4 Jeeps are available for daily rental so visitors can see the island's diverse landscapes, which include rugged uplands and secluded snorkeling sites. For those not looking to drive, the resort offers guided hikes to iconic landmarks. At night, visitors get an unparalleled view of the night sky through the Lanai Observatory’s telescope, where a guide will walk attendees through stories of Hawaiian star navigation at sea along with close-up views of interesting nebulae and planets.
Pack Light: Prime Shopping Awaits
A surprising aspect of the resort is that it boasts two sizable boutiques right off the main lobby. These retail spaces, curated by WHEAT owners Huw Collins and Molly Shaheen, offer a selection of elevated essentials along with kids’ items, athleisure, locally sourced gifts, logo-wear, and sundries.
The larger of the two retail spaces offers a vast collection of clothing items, swimsuits, and luxury brand offerings for both men and women, so visitors can pack light and shop upon arrival. There, one can find a beautiful dress for dinner, a new pair of designer sunglasses, or comfortable travel wear (the Wheat-branded items are incredibly soft!), and find a variety of price points that work for the value-minded traveler all the way up to the luxury buyer.
A Resort You’ll Want To Visit More Than Once
While the attention to detail and the remarkable hospitality of this resort stand out, the true magic of Four Seasons Resort Lanai lies in its seamless integration with the island itself. Every corner of Lanai feels like your own personal paradise.
With just 90,000 acres of pristine beauty, Lanai offers an authentic Hawaiian experience untouched by time, and at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, you get a chance to fully sink in and enjoy that—it will leave you dreaming of when you’ll return again (I know I am!).
