Lana'i, Hawaii

The Forgotten Island

by Christy Rosen

The Draw

Let’s face it, this time of year can be extremely stressful. Couple the usual end-of-year business with the holidays and top it off with the state of the economy and most people need a getaway where peace and quiet reign supreme. Lana’i, Hawaii offers old Hawaiian charm for those who appreciate privacy and serenity. Lana’i has been referred to as “The Private Island” because of its unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Only thirteen miles wide and eighteen miles long, Lana’i is a pristine escape. No doubt most people who visit Lana’i do so with relaxation as their number one priority. But don’t be fooled, there are plenty of activities available on this little piece of paradise. The Challenge at Manele is a championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Set amongst the dramatic red rock cliffs of the island, this 18-hole, par-72 course is one of the most photographed and challenging courses in the world. And of course, you can partake in a variety of water sports such as diving, surfing, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking and deep sea fishing. However you choose to spend your time, you can rest assured that you will leave Lana’i more relaxed and more peaceful than when you arrived.

Luxury Accomodations - Four Seasons Resorts

It is truly remarkable that such a small, exclusive island can be home to not only one, but two world class hotels. Four Seasons manages both Manele Bay and The Lodge at Koele. These two properties work together to offer guests an “island-hop” experience without ever leaving Lana’i. In fact, both properties were listed on the Conde’ Nast Traveler Gold List of the World’s Best Places to Stay in 2008.

Lana’i at Manele Bay is the larger of the two resorts. Set overlooking Hulopo’s Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Manele Bay houses six different suites including the exclusive Ali’i Suite. With 3,600-5,228 square feet, this lavish suite offers three bedrooms and 1,162 square feet of outdoor space. Additionally, you can choose from five different on-site restaurants that offer a wide range of dishes. Executive Chef Oliver Beckert focuses on using the freshest ingredients available so he can offer a wide range of culinary experiences ranging from classic to daring.

And since relaxation is the theme for a getaway to Lana’i, it seems only appropriate that Manele Bay houses a lavish spa where you can elevate your sense of wellness and surrender to luxurious pampering. Signature treatments include the Ki Pola Ho ‘Olu (Cooling ti-leaf Wrap), the Pohaku Lani Facial and the Lomilomi Massage.

Just a 20-minute shuttle ride from Manele Bay sits The Lodge at Koele. The Lodge has an up country/highland resort feel. Maintaining an opulent, but relaxed atmosphere, The Lodge does have a different feel from its sister property. At The Lodge, the weather is cooler and you are suddenly no longer on just an island vacation. Here you will experience a different side of Hawaii…the highlands. The Lodge offers its own championship golf course designed by Greg Norman and Ted Robinson.

Patrons at one Four Seasons resort have full privileges at the other Four Seasons resort on the island; that means you can experience the best of both worlds in Lana’i.
Whichever property you choose to stay at, you can be sure that the experience will not disappoint.
Call 808-565-2000 for reservations or visit their website at www.fourseasons.com/lanai

The Icing on the Cake

Certainly relaxing by the pool, golf, spa and water sports are the most common reasons to travel to Lana’i, but this little island paradise has some unique opportunities for you to expand your horizons. Visit the Lana’i Pine Sporting Clays & Archery Range for an experience in sporting clay, archery, or air rifle. Even with no previous experience in these sports, novices are welcome to an introductory lesson by a certified instructor so that they can enjoy this expansive highlands center. Or you can discover the timeless landscapes of Lana’i on horseback. The wooded upland trails and hidden valleys are home to axis deer, pheasant, Mouflin sheep, and turkey. The Stables at Koele offer expert staff to guide riders and recommend trail rides to suit your abilities and experience. Finally, you can enjoy the solitude of Lana’i by hiking through the forested hills and valleys of the Koele highlands. When you think of Hawaii, you automatically think of water. Lana’i does not disappoint when it comes to water sports, but there is so much more to experience on this tiny island.