A Snob’s Guide to Lanai — Hawaii Travel Guide
Despite being owned by the second richest individual on the planet, Lanai maintains a humble atmosphere. The island features two luxurious 5-star hotels – an oceanfront Four Seasons and its wellness-focused counterpart, Sensei. Surprisingly, Lanai has managed to evade the trappings of excessive wealth commonly found in other exclusive destinations, with no presence of Starbucks, country clubs, superyachts cluttering the Pacific waters, or Gulfstreams crowding the small airstrip. As Hawaii’s smallest publicly accessible island, Lanai retains its unspoiled charm.
Larry Ellison, the billionaire who acquired 98% of Lanai over a decade ago for $300 million, has played a significant role in keeping the island in harmony with nature. Ellison’s investments of over $500 million have contributed to the beautification, infrastructure enhancement, sustainability programs, and the much-needed restoration of both hotels on Lanai. Apart from the Four Seasons and Sensei hotels, there isn’t much development on the island—there are not even any traffic lights. The island’s ambiance may remind visitors of what Big Island was like ten years ago.
Avi Phookan, the general manager of Four Seasons Resort Lanai, describes Lanai as a destination not suited for those seeking vibrant nightlife and extensive shopping options. With only 3,000 residents and a small plantation town, Lanai portrays Hawaii’s vintage postcard charm—an atmosphere of relaxed pace, absence of crowds, and friendly locals.
Four Seasons offers a plethora of activities to occupy sunny days, including snorkeling (reputed as some of the best in Hawaii), deep-sea fishing, sailing, golf, tennis, mountain biking, hiking, sporting clays, and horseback riding. The on-site observatory provides excellent stargazing opportunities, and nearby adventure parks cater to children. The culinary offerings, including the renowned Nobu restaurant, cater to even the most sophisticated coastal palates.
The Four Seasons and Sensei properties prioritize the island’s conservation and cultural preservation. Avi Phookan emphasizes their commitment to honoring and protecting Lanai’s heritage and ecosystem by incorporating sustainable practices and sharing the island’s traditions, history, and culture. Initiatives like Sensei Farms, which utilizes solar energy for greenhouse operations and supplies produce to resorts and supermarkets in Hawaii, highlight their dedication to conservation. Additionally, partnerships with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation aim to safeguard native species, coral reefs, and endangered wildlife habitats. Cultural activities such as hula, lei making, ukelele classes, lauhala weaving, and gardening workshops are also regular features at the resorts.
Lanai’s Hidden Gems
Exploration beyond the island’s limited 30 miles of paved roads is recommended. Venturing off-road in a 4×4 jeep, grabbing sandwiches from the singular gas station, and visiting Polihua Beach for its serene white sands is a must. Ganosti’s offers excellent lunch options, while Hale Keaka, the beautifully restored historic movie theater, is a noteworthy visit. For a unique golf experience, consider playing a round at Cavendish, a quaint 9-hole course that is both rustic and free to play, a hidden gem on the island.
Immerse yourself in the native flora and blue chip art at Sensei Lanai, a tranquil retreat (pictured: Burning Desire by Marc Quinn).
Sensei Lanai is located just 20 minutes away but presents an entirely different experience. Nestled centrally on the island, this retreat transitions from the beach paradise ambiance of Four Seasons to a blend of Goop and ryokan aesthetics. While wellness is central to Sensei, the approach is gentle, offering services to monitor health metrics, assess diets, and implement bio-hacking and longevity strategies tailored to guests’ needs (Sensei was founded by Ellison and Dr. David Agus of the Institute for Transformative Medicine).
Relax and enjoy your time at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort by practicing yoga, meditating, and unwinding in one of the ten onsen on the property. Indulge in chocolate cake guilt-free, as Nobu provides the delectable treats.
Explore the serene onsen garden tucked away within Sensei’s lush grounds, adorned with rare plants, sculptures from Ellison’s personal collection, and an array of luxurious amenities. The personalized spa treatments are conducted in private hale (meaning home in Hawaiian) equipped with facilities like an infrared sauna, indoor and outdoor showers, a deep soaking tub, and a secluded onsen pool for relaxation.
David Emig, the general manager, emphasizes the resort’s focus on genuine care and creating a sense of belonging for guests, making it a sought-after destination for extended stays and sabbaticals. Visitors have the opportunity to rejuvenate, learn from the expert team, and possibly uncover the secrets to longevity.
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