Four Islands with Four Seasons

Whenever I travel, I like to see as much as I can and combine as many different destinations as possible, really experiencing what each place has to offer while also getting in some time to recharge my batteries and simply enjoy a nice quiet evening or a walk on the beach. Hawaii is one of those special places where you can really combine active and wellness travel. What better way to experience both sides of Hawaii than going on a four-island island-hopping adventure staying at luxurious Four Seasons properties? Follow me on my journey from Lanai to Maui, from the Big Island to Oahu…

Lanai

Lāna’i: what a special slice of heaven you are! I could have easily spent two weeks at the breathtaking oceanfront Four Seasons Resorts Lanai, and it was the perfect first stop on my four-island tour of Hawaii. Lanai is a zen hideaway and they take luxury to the next level: from private plane arrival on Lanai Air, Tesla house car from the plane to the resort, to beautifully appointed rooms, lush gardens, and superb food and beverage venues. You can be as active and adventurous as you like—I tried my hand at clay shooting, and it was amazing—or just relax on the peaceful semi-private beach, or in the hot tub overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You basically have the island to yourself, as the only town (without traffic lights) only has 3,200 inhabitants, and most work at the resort. Not to miss: a sunset cruise around Pu’u Pehe, or Sweetheart Rock. 

Since I visited Lanai, Four Seasons has opened its second property on the island: the beautiful inland Sensei Lanai wellness retreat resort. The two properties would make for a fantastic combination: several nights finding your happy place at Sensei followed by several nights taking in the surf and sand at Lanai on Hulopo’e Bay. You could also save Lanai for last on a multi-island tour, since you will probably be much busier with activities on the other islands. 

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Maui

Find your adventure on Maui! From an unforgettable sunrise at the peak of Haleakalā, the iconic shield volcano, to driving the winding Road to Hana in a jeep, to surfing lessons: there is something for every adventure traveler at heart. That doesn’t mean you can’t slow down and enjoy the perfect Mai Tai, and experience THE most breathtaking sunsets at a “Secret Beach”. The Four Seasons is much busier than the Lanai property, and is great if you are looking for a more lively atmosphere. It’s great for active couples and families with kids alike. It is very easy to combine Lanai and Maui. You can fly, though I opted for the scenic 45-minute ferry ride.  Not to be missed: a massage in one of the property’s three oceanside open-air “hales” which are thatched treatment huts right by the ocean with beautiful views of Wailea Beach. One of my favorite spa treatment moments of all time!

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Big Island

It’s so hard to pick a favorite between Four Seasons Lanai and the Four Seasons Hualalai on the Big Island. Hualalai can give you the best of both worlds: you can be as relaxed as you like and keep to yourself, enjoy the incredible spa, and explore the island on your own, or you can meet people in the wonderful restaurants and enjoy the atmosphere. I split my time between the two: I went on a helicopter ride over the volcanoes, and drove the island on my own, but also enjoyed mingling with other guests at the bars and restaurants back on property. 

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Oahu

I saved the Oahu property, Ko Olina, for last on my Hawaii tour. Ko Olina is perfect for families who like staying in more of a high-rise resort, but still appreciate luxury. It’s right next door to the Disney property, Aulani, so you can see all the fireworks without having to stay there. Couples can escape the kids at the beautiful adults-only pool overlooking the ocean, which is the perfect spot to sip drinks while watching the sun set right in front of you. Ko Olina is also a great home base if you would like to take day trips to the North Shore and Pearl Harbor. You could always split your time between the busy beaches and fun city life of Honolulu and Waikiki to the east, and Ko Olina on the sunny western coast of the island. 

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As you can see, there is so much to see and do in Hawaii. You can focus on one island, or go island hopping like I did. You can’t go wrong either way. 

Warmest Aloha!

Through the Preferred Partner program, all of my clients receive special VIP treatment at all Four Seasons properties, such as upgrade (upon availability), complimentary breakfast for two and Wi-Fi, a $100 resort credit, and more. I often get access to exclusive offers throughout the year. Right now, there is an exclusive guaranteed upgrade at time of booking for the Four Seasons Lanai for all of 2021 if booked by June 30, 2021. Other Hawaii properties have promotions such as 20% off or 4th Night Free. Set up a consultation call to discuss more details about the promotions, and book your Hawaiian adventure today!

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JST Hotel of the Month: 

Sensei, A Four Seasons Resort (Lanai, Hawaii)

What could be better than to combine the natural beauty of a practically private island in Hawaii with a luxurious, restful accommodation and a highly-personalized, guided wellness experience?

Welcome to the only wellness-focused retreat in Hawaii—a true refuge for all the senses. Sensei is surrounded by beautiful pine-covered mountains on the secluded island of Lanai (or Lāna’i) and is the epitome of a luxury wellness enclave. Sensei focuses on three key paths: movement, nourishment and rest. You will have a personal Sensei guide to help you customize your experience from start to finish. There are unlimited mobility, cardio, fitness and wellness group classes. Private sessions are also available. Sensei also has beautiful spa Hale massage huts with indoor and outdoor showers, private plunge pools and lounging areas. Two of them have Watsu pools for aquatic treatments. 

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You also have access to all the activities the island has to offer: from horseback riding to golf, sporting clays, archery, snorkeling and sunset cruises. You do have signing privileges at the beach resort, so can always head over to Nobu for a delicious al fresco meal overlooking the water of serene Hulopoe Bay one night. 

Solo travelers: this is the perfect place to pamper yourself and receive private sessions and highly-personalized options for creating your own journey. Also, guests must be 16 or older to stay at Sensei, so know that you are going to be surrounded by like-minded adults looking for their own wellness journey. I personally love to get away all by myself and follow my own wellness path, and Sensei is made for this. 

Sensei is also wonderful for a wellness escape with friends or family and itineraries can be designed for your group and coordinated by a dedicated Sensei guide.

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Insider Tip:

Most people think of the beach when they think Hawaii, and Lanai’s is definitely peaceful and beautiful. I would highly recommend at least 2 or 3 nights inland at Sensei to find your zen happy place, and then move over to the beach resort for several nights to decompress even further with the sound of waves crashing on the shore. It’s the perfect combination!

Added Bonus: 

Roundtrip flights from Honolulu on luxurious Lanai Air are included. As a Preferred Partner, I also get you a resort credit and other exclusive perks for booking through me. My partners on Lanai will roll out the red carpet and you will definitely feel their warm aloha spirit and hospitality!

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