A Blissful Stay at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

Location

The Four Seasons Sensei (formerly The Lodge at Koele) is unlike any other Hawaiian resort. This adults-only oasis miles above the ocean is set among a plantation-style main building. As you step out of the hotel-provided transportation, the large rocking chair-lined veranda is suggestive of the unwinding that has begun. The staff were welcoming and knowledgeable. They provided a wonderful initial tour of the property and the upgraded room accommodations.

The hotel property is a large, lush tropical garden with nods to a Japanese influence and rimmed by tall pine trees. Our room had its own private veranda, which we enjoyed each morning while the garden wildlife rose for the day. There are two restaurants on the property, as well as in-room dining and poolside dining. The main restaurant is set on a large, gorgeous pond with koi fish and a waterfall. We sat on the deck outside each day. Breakfasts were incredibly delicious and healthy with fresh fruit, pastries and a perfect cup of coffee as well as larger items like eggs benedict and omelets. This is also the main dinner restaurant, Sensei by Nobu. The food was impeccable. We enjoyed steak, sushi and delicious salads. The inside of Sensei by Nobu can be a little too loud at times due to the high ceilings. Most guests are there in groups of two. There is also a more casual garden bar as another option.

We enjoyed yoga each day as well as guided meditations and workouts on our own in the large fitness center. There are so many paid wellness options to choose from that one could definitely use this resort as a wellness retreat in itself. The spa was unique in that there was no general communal space. Each guest (or couple) is assigned to their own personal "hale" to enjoy a massage as well as the outdoor shower, cold plunge and hot tub. Indoors there was a lovely soaking tub, steam shower and infrared sauna. The staff for your private hale was exceptional. Another unique and exquisite amenity is the Onsen garden. Guests put on their robes and meander their way through the garden to 10 private onsen. It was very special lit up in the evenings.

We love the ocean and were worried we would miss being at the beach while on vacation in Hawaii. But here in Lanai, you can have both. We opted to stay at Sensei exclusively, but did take the shuttle that runs between Sensei and Four Seasons Lanai Beach Hotel. We packed a beach tote and were able to swim and snorkel in the ocean and have lunch at the beach before heading back up to our dreamy hilltop luxury. Truly the best of both worlds.

Getting There

Please note that there are no commercial flights into Lanai. Four Seasons offers chartered flights as part of your rate from Honolulu. A black car service meets you at baggage claim and drives you to Lanai Air's hanger to wait for your departure. The flight is about 30 minutes and has a beautiful view of the islands. Once you arrive in Lanai, The Four Seasons staff will meet you on the ground. From there, you will be escorted to their properties in private transportation or in a small shuttle with other guests.

I would recommend this hotel for honeymooners, baby-mooners, anniversary couples, a mother/daughter wellness and spa trip or any other small group looking to rest, savor and explore this quiet luxury.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Hawai'i. In need of further inspiration? Check out Beth Gittins’ guide, Discover Hawai'i's Quietest Island: Lanai.