Four Seasons Resort Lanai Review: Insider Tips & How to Book with VIP Benefits

Four Seasons Resort Lanai is one of the properties we book most often for clients planning a Hawaii trip. It is the only resort on the island that works for families, and it draws couples for the seclusion. Between trips, we are in regular contact with the resort’s Preferred Partner team, so we know what is working, what is changing, and how to set guests up for the kind of stay they came for.

This review pulls from everything our clients have told us about their stays, my own experience with the resort and its team, and what we know from helping clients plan the trip itself: flight coordination, transfers, itineraries, and the small decisions that make a great week here. I also lived in a Four Seasons, so I know what a good stay at these properties is supposed to feel like.

Four Seasons Lanai Reservations with Preferred Partner Benefits

We will add Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits to your stay that include:

• Daily full breakfast for two
• A one-time hotel credit
• Upgrade of one category, subject to availability
• Contact us below for the full details

What I Love About Four Seasons Lanai

• Included Flights: Lanai Air round-trip flights from Honolulu are included with all bookings with arrivals by December 31, 2027.
• Exclusive Seclusion: Lanai’s remote location gives travelers a less busy/touristy Hawaii experience.
• Personalized Service: The attentive staff goes above and beyond, often remembering guest preferences, and they are really easy to work with.
• Oceanfront Luxury: The resort’s design integrates seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty, offering stunning ocean views from many rooms and public spaces.)

Good to Know Before You Book

• Limited Accessibility: Lanai is only accessible via a small plane from within Hawaii, mostly Honolulu, or a ferry from Maui.
• Flight Benefit Limits: They’re determined by acommodation type. Two adults and one child is covered per standard room, for example.
• Not Many Other Options: If you want to stay overnight on Lanai, you need to pick one of the Four Seasons, Hotel Lanai or a find a vacation rental.
• Beach Conditions: Hulopoe Bay is a marine preserve with excellent snorkeling but can have strong currents at times.
• Occupancy: Two double bed rooms have maximum occupancy of two adults and one child (we can help you navigate this). They also have connecting rooms.
• Reserve Activities Early: You should make spa, dining, and activity reservations here early

More Four Seasons in Hawaii

• Four Seasons Oahu Review
• Four Seasons Hualalai Review
• Four Seasons Maui Review

Four Seasons Lanai Location & Getting There

Four Seasons Resort Lanai is on the southern coast of Lānaʻi, near Manele Bay, and just nine miles from Lanai City.

The number one question we receive is how do we get to Lanai. Once I explain that it’s not too difficult, our clients book in. Here’s how they get there.

Getting There by Plane

Lanai Air round-trip flights from Honolulu (HNL) are included in all bookings with arrivals by December 31, 2027 (terms and conditions apply). Once you book, you fill out a form to schedule your specific flights, and reservations must be made at least seven days in advance. Lanai Air services HNL between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, so anyone arriving outside that window needs alternate arrangements. The hotel coordinates flight times around the day’s guest arrivals and departures, and guests check in at least one hour before their flight to allow for TSA processing.

Taking the Ferry From Maui

Ferries from Maui to Lanai are operated by Expeditions Ferry, with three round trips per day and a crossing of about an hour and ten minutes. They currently depart from Mā’alaea Harbor on Maui’s south-central coast (a short drive from Wailea or Kahului airport, longer from Lahaina or Kapalua). You will want to book in advance, and because of the ticket terms and conditions, we cannot purchase tickets on your behalf. Give the resort your arrival details at least 72 hours ahead so they can arrange your transfer from the harbor.

Pay attention to the luggage policy, especially if you are bringing golf clubs. There are porters to help, but you need to bring all your bags onto the ferry in one trip. You cannot enter and leave the ferry to bring on multiple loads.

One tip: if you’re prone to seasickness or you just feel like flying, Mokulele Airlines runs a 31-minute flight from Kahului (OGG) into Lanai’s small airport (LNY) that you can book directly on their website.

See also: The full guide to getting to Lanai on fourseasons.com

Choosing Rooms and Suites at Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Each of the 213 guest rooms and suites at Four Seasons Resort Lanai is meticulously designed with natural Hawaiian-inspired furnishings, teak and zebra wood accents, and state-of-the-art technology.

Rooms feature private lanais, oversized bathrooms, and deep soaking tubs, enhancing the overall feeling of serenity and relaxation. Here’s a list of the common amenities:

• Plush down duvets and thick terry bathrobes
• Exclusive Aina bath amenities with locally sourced kukui nut oil
• Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer and make-up mirror
• In-room safe and private refreshment center with Nespresso station
• Multi-line telephone with voicemail and conference call capability
• Wristband keys for seamless access during island activities
• 75-inch LED TV with Apple TV 4K
• Complimentary premium Wi-Fi
• In-room tablet for convenient access to resort services

Guest Room Types, Sizes, and Occupancy

All rooms offer spacious layouts (663–734 sq. ft.), private lanais, and a choice of one king or two double beds, plus a rollaway or crib if needed. The décor blends natural textures with modern elegance, bringing the island’s serenity indoors.

One note before you compare these to older reviews: Four Seasons restructured the guest room categories in May 2026 to better reflect what each room actually looks at. The former Ocean Front tier was folded into the two tiers above and below it, and Partial Ocean View was renamed Resort View. Layouts and square footage have not changed.

• Prime Ocean Front Rooms sit closest to the water, with unobstructed Pacific views from a private lanai. These are what most guests request when the goal is to fall asleep to the sound of the waves. The category now also includes the top-tier rooms from the former Ocean Front group, which has been absorbed in the new structure.
• Ocean View Rooms face the coastline from a slightly elevated or angled position, with sweeping Pacific views over the resort grounds. Most rooms from the former Ocean Front tier landed here in the rename, so this category is a useful pick if you want water views without paying the Prime Ocean Front rate.
• Resort View Rooms look across the gardens and pools toward partial ocean glimpses. This is the new name for what used to be called Partial Ocean View. It tends to be the value choice for guests who plan to spend most of their time at the beach, the pools, or off property exploring the island.
• Garden View Rooms are tucked into tropical greenery, steps from the beach and resort amenities. These are the most secluded and the entry-level category by nightly rate.

Spectacular Suites

If you are looking for more space, privacy, or more dramatic views, Four Seasons Resort Lanai has quite a few suites to choose from. Most have generous living areas, residential-style layouts, and expansive lanais.

A heads-up if you are comparing to older reviews or older confirmations: the property recently consolidated several suite category names so the booking system is cleaner. The Makai Suite is now grouped with the Manele Suite. The Kapihaʻa Suite is now grouped with the Hulopoʻe Presidential Suite. Ohana Garden View and Ohana Partial Ocean View are now both called Ohana Resort View. The layouts and amenities have not changed, only the names you will see when you book.

• Specialty Suites: The most expansive accommodations on property. The Alii Royal Suite is the flagship at nearly 4,000 square feet, with two king bedrooms and an indoor-outdoor flow at full scale. The Hulopoʻe Presidential Suite, Manele Suite, and Palawai Suite round out the category, each with open-concept living, sweeping ocean views, and a large lanai. These suit VIPs, multigenerational families, or anyone wanting serious room to spread out.
• Penthouse Suites: Top-floor, residential-style suites with private balconies and panoramic ocean views. After the recent category restructure, the Penthouse Prime Oceanfront Suite is the booking name that now covers both former Penthouse tiers. These work well for couples who want elevation and quiet.
• Ohana Suites: As the name suggests (ohana means family in Hawaiian), these one-bedroom suites are built for families. Each has a separate living room with a sofa bed and a large private lanai, totaling roughly 1,280 to 1,465 square feet. Three view tiers are now available: Ohana Prime Ocean Front, Ohana Ocean View, and Ohana Resort View.
• Small Suites: Studio-style suites for couples or solo travelers who want suite-level square footage at a lower price point. The Prime Oceanfront Studio Suite is the standout for ocean lovers. The Ocean View Studio Suite (a recently consolidated category that absorbed the former Ocean Front Studio Suite) and the Garden-View Suite round out the tier at roughly 1,052 to 1,138 square feet.

Dining at Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Four Seasons Resort Lanai hosts an array of exquisite dining experiences suitable for all tastes, from world-famous Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes to delightful farm-to-table offerings.

Here are the restaurants at Four Seasons Resort Lanai that you should try:

Osteria Mozza Lanai

Osteria Mozza Lanai is now the resort’s signature dining venue, led by celebrated chef Nancy Silverton. The restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, with breakfast highlighting a new pastry program inspired by Silverton’s renowned bakeries. Dinner focuses on refined Italian cuisine.

Nobu Lanai

At Nobu Lanai, you can experience the creative prowess of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s famed Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. The restaurant offers a similar menu to other locations, featuring fresh seafood and sushi that pair beautifully with the spectacular ocean views.

There’s also Sensei by Nobu at Sensei Resort, so you have two to choose from!

Malibu Farm

Malibu Farm offers a refreshing farm-to-table experience emphasizing organic, fresh food. Set in a relaxed, poolside environment, it’s perfect for a leisurely meal.

You’ll savor dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farms, ensuring every bite is as fresh as flavorful.

The Break

The Break is where you can unwind with craft cocktails and light bites amid stunning sunsets in a casual lounge atmosphere. It’s a place to gather and share small plates while enjoying local beers and unique wines. No reservations are required here.

VIEWS

VIEWS at Manele Golf Course offers lunch (salads, sandwiches, wraps, appetizers) and drinks with panoramic views of the ocean, and it’s open to resort guests and day visitors alike. No tee time is necessary, though you should make a reservation.

In-Room Dining

Enjoy the convenience of in-room dining, whether savoring a quiet meal, indulging in a romantic dinner, or feeding a hungry family. The extensive menu is available throughout the day.

Resort Amenities and Activities

Four Seasons Lanai Resort is an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation, but you’ll want to take advantage of the myriad of activities on offer that complement your beach vacation.

I think this resort suits active people particularly well because nothing is too far away.

Pools and Beach Access

The resort boasts two stunning pools, including an adults-only retreat with a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Guests can relax in comfortable lounge chairs or reserve cabanas for a more private escape.

The Four Seasons Resort Lana’i offers convenient beach access, with a pristine white sand beach just a short stroll from the property. Whether swimming or sunbathing, the tropical surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a day by the water.

Water Activities

Lanai’s clear waters provide amazing opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and even seasonal whale watching. I recommend trying snorkeling at Hulopoe Bay, where you might catch a glimpse of vibrant marine life.

The Guest Experiences team works with Lanai Ocean Sports should you want to arrange an excursion like a private sunset catamaran sail.

Hawanawana Spa

Relaxation reaches new heights at the Hawanawana Spa. The spa offers island-inspired treatments using locally sourced ingredients. The resort also features wellness classes, private training, and an outdoor movement studio with breathtaking views. They’ve even introduced Sound Therapy treatments, including “Aerial Meditation” in hammocks.

Manele Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts reserve tee times at Manele Golf Course, a signature Jack Nicklaus-designed 18-hole course. The course offers breathtaking coastal views and challenging holes, providing an unforgettable golfing experience. Make sure to book your tee time in advance.

Fitness and Tennis

The resort’s fitness center is equipped with modern machines and free weights. Personal training sessions are available for those who enjoy staying active.

You can also take lessons and participate in various drill classes on two outdoor Plexipave cushion courts or the Har-Tru Green Clay court. They also have junior tennis clinics for ages 5-13. And, of course, there’s pickleball!

Outdoor Adventures

Beyond the beach, the Lanai Adventure Park is a must-visit for active guests. Located near the Sensei retreat (a quick shuttle ride away), this facility features a Zipline course with sweeping ocean views and an Aerial Adventure Tower—a two-story ropes course that is perfect for teens.

For a ground-level thrill, rent E-Bikes to explore the red-dirt trails or book a guided 4×4 Jeep excursion to reach remote sites like Shipwreck Beach.

Cultural Activities

Immerse yourself in the local culture with activities like lei-making and hula lessons offered by the resort. These hands-on experiences provide insight into Hawaiian traditions and are suitable for all ages.

The resort also organizes excursions to explore the island’s rich history and heritage.

Is It Kid-Friendly?

Absolutely. The Kids For All Seasons program offers supervised activities introducing children ages 5–12 to Hawaiian culture and marine life. Reserve at least 24 hours in advance.

Family-friendly amenities, including cribs, babysitting services, and kid-friendly menus, make this an excellent choice for families. Diners at sister property Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort must be over 16 years of age.

Make Four Seasons Resort Lanai Reservations with VIP Amenities

We can attach Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits to your stay that include:

• Daily full breakfast for two people per bedroom
• A hotel credit per stay (varies based on whether booking a room, suite, or residence)
• Upgrade of one category, subject to availability at check-in
• Preferred check-in/out times, subject to availability
• Seasonal exclusive promotions only accessible to Preferred Partner agencies—you will need to ask us below for the full details

REQUEST A PREFERRED PARTNER RATE

Final Thoughts

Four Seasons Resort Lanai is the kind of place where people like to end their Hawaii stays, mostly because you can just take Lanai Air back to Honolulu. But it’s also because our clients feel like this is the pinnacle of Hawaii experiences, and they are glad to save the best for last.

*Photos are courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Lanai.