The Four Seasons on Lanai, a 20 minute plane ride from Honolulu, is what you’d expect of any resort within this hospitality company. Luxurious. Architecturally beautiful. Exceptional landscaping. Impeccable service. Relaxing and rejuvenating. More amenities than you can imagine. When I visited in March, I fully enjoyed every one of these Four Seasons staples.
And yet, there were moments when I wish I’d been aware of certain possibilities or understood some of the resort’s realities. I discovered bits of information along the way that ideally I would have know from the start, facts that would have made my stay even more idyllic. The following are tips all individuals should know in order to get the most out of their vacation. After all, if you’re paying Four Seasons prices, you want to ensure it’s the ultimate vacation.
Getting to Lanai
If coming from Maui, you can hop on the local passenger ferry. Taking an hour and costing $30, it is certainly the most affordable option and can double as a whale watching cruise. You’ll be able to appreciate the island’s landscape while soaking up the sun.
In Honolulu, you’re left with two choices, both of which involve an airplane. Hawaiian Air offers multiple flights a day for around $140. There’s a Four Seasons Lanai lounge at the airport, providing you a place to enjoy snacks, beverages and wifi before the flight. Air Lanai, a private charter, can be organized through the hotel itself and costs just over $1,000. With eight seats, it might end up being less per person if you’re bringing a big family. This option also provides a bit more scheduling flexibility as you can take off at times more convenient for you. Either way, expect a small propeller plane and a short flight, about 20-30 minutes.
Tech Savvy Rooms
All of the rooms are spectacular and rely greatly on technology. Don’t be startled if the toilet seat automatically opens when you enter the bathroom or if you hear your favorite movie emanating from the commode. There are TVs programmed into the mirrors!
The Ipad placed next to your bed provides weather, a list of the day’s activities (so that you can plan accordingly), and room service. It also allows you to schedule room cleaning and/or turndown. This is great if you have young kids and a specific bedtime. What’s more, instead of hanging a “Do Not Disturb” sign, you indicate you’d like privacy simply by pressing a button near the front door.
Navigating Breakfast
While there are only two restaurant choices, you actually have three different ways to partake in the most important meal of the day.
At One Forty, you can choose the buffet, an option filled with spectacular food, some of which you’d never have considered eating for breakfast. From tuna poke to chunks of coconut, you’ll certainly go back for seconds. There’s also a menu with additional dishes, such as waffles, pancakes, bacon etc. However, it will cost you $48.
If you’re looking for less, One Forty’s buffet menu can also be ordered a la carte. You’ll still have access to eggs Benedict, pastries, smoothies and any other item you might crave, just one rather than all of them. Your wallet and your waistband might appreciate this option periodically.
You can also visit the Sports Bar and Grille, which, in the morning, functions as a small cafe. Here you can order your favorite coffee drink, choose between an assortment of pastries or grab a fruit and yogurt parfait. It’s quick and light, perfect before a morning excursion.
Your Lunch and Dinner Choices
Far and away, the best (and most expensive) is Nobu, one of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s world renowned restaurants. Whether you sit at the sushi bar, on the terrace or at one of the private teppan tables, you are certain to enjoy mouth wateringly delicious Japanese food. Open for dinner only, a few favorites are: the miso cod, tempura rock shrimp, crispy shiitake mushroom salad, scallops, and the wagyu beef.
One Forty boasts a comprehensive dinner menu that is slightly less pricey and includes one specifically for children. Here, you can order traditional Hawaiian dishes like Opah or venison, the latter a meal for which the island is famous.
The Sports Bar and Grill doesn’t take reservations and is the most casual evening option. With large televisions and both a pool and shuffleboard table, it’s ideal for kids who might need a mid-meal distraction.
Lunch can be eaten in the Sports Bar, at Views, or at Malibu Farm. Views, located at the golf course, offers spectacular vistas and a great selection of salads and sandwiches. Serving food from 11am-3pm, it is a must-try even for non-golfers. Malibu Farm’s food can be enjoyed at the restaurant itself or from your lounge chair. This is a great option if you wish to munch on fish tacos or a grilled panini without ever leaving the pool or beach.
No matter where you eat (with the exception of Nobu), children under 5 are free! At either Nobu or One Forty, be sure to make reservations ahead of time, if possible, or you’re going to be eating at 5:30 every night.
Many Activities are Off Site
Excursions are big part of one’s stay but note that most require leaving the confines of the hotel. Snorkel and scuba sails depart from a nearby harbor. The horses are located near Koele, in the central highlands of the island. Archery, riflery, additional hiking trails, and polaris off-road tours all necessitate a car ride too. Even visiting the golf course requires a short drive. This can be a bit challenging with young kids but still doable if you plan ahead. It also means the resort itself remains relatively calm and quiet, a definite bonus if you’re just looking to relax.
The Free Activities
At a resort that costs a pretty penny, it is always nice to partake in free activities. And thankfully, Lanai boasts quite a variety:
- You can join a guided sunrise hike or explore any of the three resort trails.
- Snorkel gear, including flippers, is available down at the beach. What you’re likely to see can be as good as any guided expedition as eels, fish, sea turtles and dolphins frequent the bay.
- All yoga sessions, other than the areal class, are complimentary and take place either in the Hulopoe Pavillion or on the beach.
- Kids for All Seasons provides supervised activities for children between the ages of 5-12. Those under five can also join in the fun, from sand castle building to lizard hunting, yet must be in the company of an adult.
- Cultural classes teach guests traditional Hawaiian crafts and island history. You can also join a tour of the resort’s art or, if you’re in the lobby at 5:30, witness the evening sunset ceremony, led by Uncle John.
Rent or BYO Paddle Boards
A designated marine reserve, Hulopoe Bay is perfect for paddle boarding and yet none are available through the resort. There are, however, two companies that rent the necessary equipment. Adventure Lana’i Island Club has morning or full day rentals and will drop the boards off at the hotel. They also provide a brief safety tutorial upon delivery to ensure you stay safe throughout your paddle boarding experience. Surf Lanai also offers SUP rental but availability depends on the number of surfing lessons scheduled. They have a $50/hour rate, giving you more flexibility in when and how long you paddle board. Both book up, so reserve well in advance.
Get Ready to Walk
The grounds are spectacular but, depending on your room location, quite expansive. If you have a room at the end of the resort, expect a five minute walk to reach the lobby. It’s also a stroll to access the beach and be prepared to walk uphill toward tennis, yoga, or the kids program.
The Pools and Chairs
The resort has two pools, one for families and one for adults. At either, you’ll want to find your preferred lounge chairs and reserve them each morning. Make a trip pre-breakfast to place some magazines or other items onto the chairs in order to save them. As long as something remains on the chaise, it will be yours all day! Also note, the umbrellas rotate so you can opt for sun, shade, or moments of both. Staff are happy to help maneuver them accordingly.
Hang around the pool long enough and you’re bound to get offered multiple snacks, including two small shots of smoothie. Each morning, expect a frozen cappuccino and, come afternoon, a fruit concoction, both of which can be ordered full size if desired. You’ll also encounter trays of frozen fruit. Be it bananas, pineapples, or grapes, these are the perfect way to keep cool on a hot day.
Go to Town
It is definitely worth your time to venture into Lanai City for a meal or shopping. The main square, Dole Park, is home to a handful of restaurants, stores and government buildings. Walking its perimeter provides a quick and easy way to get a feel for the town and its character. Visit during the day to check out the museum and have lunch at the Blue Ginger Cafe. Head there at night for dinner at Hotel Lanai. It only takes about 20 minutes to reach town and it’s a great way to see Hawaiian life beyond the resort.
Family Friendly
While quieter than most other Hawaiian resorts, The Four Seasons Lanai is still very family friendly. From the shallow pool to the kids program, there is plenty for youngsters to do. What’s more, those running the cultural activities strive to tailor each to fit the age of each participant. Babysitting services are also available if parents wish to have some time to themselves.
However, do note that the beach is a bit of a walk from the resort. Waves also break very close to the shore and there is no lifeguard on duty, making the ocean less accessible for children who aren’t comfortable swimmers.
