Considered the gem of the Four Seasons brand, this 90-acre resort was recently and famously reimagined by owner, Larry Ellison — known for its interior, Ellison brought on Las Vegas-based Todd Avery-Lenahan of TAL Studio, who put a Midas on touch on everything from floors, to furnishings to fixtures. 

After three years and eight months of construction to the tune of millions of dollars, the only thing remaining from the original structure is the foundation, basic layout, the beach and the property’s rescue birds, including Uliuli and Hauoli. The rooms boast the latest in technology and the culinary options match the level of decor in the room, with dim sum flown in daily for the breakfast buffet, an onsite Nobu, and Malibu Farms, poolside. And then there’s the beach. 

The only reason why Hulopoe Bay does not get as much attention as Kauna’oa Beach — fronting the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Big Island — or Kailua Beach on Oʻahu, is population. Situated on the remote island of Lanai it is not as accessible and not as many people have gone. That said, it is a dreamy crescent of white sand lined by a calm crystal clear bay that happens to be a marine preserve. Snorkeling and scuba are popular; the property fronts the largest marine preserve in the state. 

For landlubbers, the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Manele Golf Course is a must-play. Getting here is not easy, we recommend either staying on another island for a couple days, then flying, or go through Honolulu International Airport to take advantage of the Four Seasons Lounge.

Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons Lanai