Aloha, Luxury
Sumptuousness-seeking jetsetters have two unique properties to choose from on the private, yet plush, island of Lana`i.
Though it is now a world-class vacation destination, the Hawaiian island of Lana`i didn’t always have a desirable reputation. In the 1500’s, Maui chief Kaka`alaneo condemned his mischievous son, Ka`ululä`au, to the island, which was thought to be inhabited by evil spirits. After Ka`ululä`au banished the dark spirits from the island, residents of nearby islands started to make their way to Lana`i—and it has proven to be a popular getaway for world-wide travelers ever since, with two of the island’s most plush properties being Four Seasons Resort Lana`i at Manele Bay and Four Seasons Resort Lana`i, The Lodge at Koele.
Four Seasons Resort Lana`i at Manele Bay
At the serene beach paradise of Four Seasons Resort Lana`i at Manele Bay, world-class golfing, ocean-front fun and A-plus dining is all at each guest’s beck and call. Filled with East Asian influences and warm, inviting colors, the resort and its 236 deluxe rooms offer plenty of eye candy and extravagance, each with its own private balcony and picture-perfect views.
The most impressive view of all, naturally, is that of the ocean, mere steps from many of the rooms. Manele Bay offers its guests their own stretch of white sand, along with a beach butler to help prepare a luxe lounging setup or gear for snorkeling and other water sports. November through May, beach bunnies might even catch a glimpse of whales and spinner dolphins in the distance. The resort’s pool is another H2O hot spot where guests can wade away the afternoon. While kicking back with some pineapple water and a good book, Dr. Shades and TLC for PDA might just stop by to give guests’ sunglasses and iPhones, respectively, a little attention.
Whether guests are craving Italian fare, fresh-caught fish or a hearty steak, Manele Bay offers several mmm-inducing dining destinations. Fresco dishes up casual poolside seating and a menu of contemporary Italian fare where the guava-braised short ribs reign supreme. Those with a hunger pang for steakhouse cuisine enjoy Hulopo’e Court, where guests can get only the most scrumptious local surf and turf. For breakfast, the restaurant whips up a divine spread of a.m. eats. (Be sure to save room for a warm waffle with coconut syrup or a fruit-topped danish.)
Lunch is best enjoyed at The Challenge at Manele Clubhouse, where the house-made salt-and-pepper chips are a welcome start to the meal, and the Makai salad provides fuel for golfers in the form of fresh seafood, juicy mango and crunchy greens. As good as it is, people don’t come to The Challenge just for the grub. The celebrated course offers 18 holes of primo golfing, from three holes that are located on cliffs to the have-to-see-it-to-believe-it Pacific panoramas. (Bill Gates even tied the knot at The Challenge’s picturesque 12th hole.)
Though the fare and fairways are two of Manele Bay’s biggest attractions, one of the resort’s most unforgettable experiences is an oceanside massage. With crashing waves providing background music, a therapist transports guests to a tropical paradise where the most stressful situation is choosing a flavor of shave ice.
