Sensei Lana’i, a Four Seasons Resort
Words Ashley Bowling | Photos Robb Gordon
Though both resorts have a spa onsite, visiting Sensei Lāna’i, A Four Seasons Resort makes for an unmatched spa experience. The senses are heightened at this resort’s self-contained spas called hales (ha-lay). These teak and glass Japanese structures pepper the sacred grounds of the resort’s highlands. Inside our sanctuary, there is an embodiment of serenity. And after an invigorating bodywork, guests are invited to stay a while. The 1,000-square-foot huts are full of elements designed to bring about a state of relaxation, complete with a tray of hot tea and local produce.
Inside, a rare perk beckons with its steamy waters. A deep wooden Japanese tub, called an ofuro, rests between natural wood tones and shoji screens. Its purpose is not to bathe but to cleanse the body and unwind the mind. The ofuro is filled before our arrival, and the large steam shower is set to the perfect sultry temp upon the treatment’s end. Exiting the large sliding glass doors into a private oasis, two onsens are on deck: one a cool plunge pool, a perfect contrast to the heat generated inside from the infrared sauna, steam shower, and ofuro tub, and the other a hot pool for dipping, encapsulated by the leafy refuge. A small path leads to a rainwater shower where being one with nature takes on a whole new meaning.
Replenishing the soul is not the only way Sensei Lāna’i appeals to the body. Japanese dishes are carefully crafted and nutritionally optimized at the resort’s main restaurant, Sensei by Nobu. Every dish is perfectly balanced with fresh produce from the resort’s hydroponic farm, local fish and seafood, and lean meats—including indigenous venison. Famished souls should opt for the omakase menu, while the Açaí Sour cocktail, Yellowtail Jalapeño small bite, and hot pot main course are equally as delicious.
This is where wellness begins but not where it ends. The grounds are full of peaceful moments encompassing a modern-day journey reminiscent of Eden prior to the fall. Exiting the ultra-plush staterooms directly into gardens filled with sleepy Banyon trees dripping with vines feels like waking up in a hazy dream. Melodies of songbirds fill the air in harmony with flowing streams that meander into a large wrap-around lagoon pool that adjoins private garden alcoves and several hot tubs.
Tucked within the 24 acres of immaculate grounds of flora are ten private hot springs, or onsens. Appealing to the senses once again, the sounds of rushing water through the Japanese gardens connect one private onsen to another via a series of waterfalls hidden within thick camouflage. At the same time, secluded pools bound by smooth black rocks entice couples to soak in tranquility day or night.
Captivating enough on its own to evoke a sense of well-being, Sensei Lāna’i is driven by a mission to promote wellness by developing a healthy lifestyle that doesn’t end once guests check out. To add to the sense of well-being, one-on-one consultations with experts are available as well as complimentary small group classes and guided activities such as Yin Yoga and Forest Bathing.
Beyond the surface, these spiritual uplands of Lāna’i are surrounded by undulating mountains with low-slung clouds that set the stage for the resort’s philosophy to nourish. The landscapes of the Kō’ele highlands are dense and mystifying, only accentuated by Sensei’s deep mission to provide a sense of wellness to each guest who steps foot on her fertile soil. From sanctuary-like accommodations and menus crafted by world-renowned chef Nobu, to customized wellness plans and luxurious spa experiences to flawless service, Sensei Lāna’i and Four Seasons Resort Lāna’i offer an untouchable practice in pause, impeccably designed on a personal level to leave guests dreaming of the day they get to return to the “Garden of Eden.”
