Everyone Needs an Escape

Words Ashley Bowling | Photos Robb Gordon, Ashley Haguewood, & Eric Morales

In pursuit of hedonism and curiosity, those who value both will find balance in this lineup of dreamy destinations that offer nourishment for the soul through exploration and sun-drenched sea days lounging in the sand. The sensual allure of water awaits, with the promise of fine food and fun under the sun.

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Where Seclusion Meets Luxury

A Private Island

There’s something about the feeling of bare feet sinking into the soft sand and the smell of the salty air wisping through your hair. A veil of tranquility falls with the sound of deep blue waves crashing ashore from the force of the wind that carries them in and out in perfect rhythm. The same Pacific wind cools the body’s temperature to a perfect 98 degrees while the sun singes the skin, making it warm to the touch. There’s something magical at the sight of stumbling upon, not your first, but second beach of the day and being the only one experiencing the beautiful enchantment spent in seclusion.

This is Lāna’i. 

Arriving at this private isle is much easier than one would think, thanks to Four Seasons, who has two properties on the island: one resting in the Kō’ele highlands and another perched beachside. Both properties were acquired with 98% of Lāna’i in 2012 by Oracle master Larry Ellison, lovingly referred to as Mr. Ellison by locals.

Touching down on Lāna’i’s red soil is unlike any other Hawaiian island, not only due to its lack of population but there’s also something even more alluring that doesn’t quite fit into words and must be experienced to fully comprehend. Upon encountering the people who live here, or even those who visit, you sense a familiar theme—gratitude, simplicity, and contentment. The story line is reminiscent of the Garden of Eden. How can one place evoke such a state of serenity, delight, gratitude, and wellness within
the soul?

Getting There: Take a direct flight from Austin to Honolulu on Hawaiian Airlines, then hop on a 25-minute flight from HNL to Lāna’i. Or, make it a two-island visit by stopping over in Maui for a few days. A 45-minute ferry ride from Lahaina lands guests on Lāna’i, where the Four Seasons team greets travelers at the ferry dock (or airport) and transfers guests to their choice resort. 

Four Seasons Resort  Lana’i

Four Seasons Resort Lāna’i is elegantly placed cliffside with panoramic views overlooking the sea and is a short stroll to the most populous beach on Lana’i: Hulopo’e Bay. But don’t be fooled by populous. At this white sand beach, the local surfers, alongside native families building sandcastles, are still few and far between. A short hike up a red dirt trail reveals the most spectacular views of Sweetheart Rock at sunrise and sunset. Visiting early enough in the year lends itself to glimpses of gentle giants frolicking in the shallows where they’ve traveled great distances to birth young humpbacks.

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Did You Know? Lāna’i is the sixth largest Hawaiian island and the least populated in the island chain. Because of its inaccessibility, most neighbors live off the land and operate on the barter system. Very few roads are paved, meaning most stay off-limits during the rainy season. Backcountry hikes and four-wheel drives off the beaten path ensure Lāna’i is one of Hawaiʻi’s least explored isles—far removed from the popular resort areas found on other islands. 

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Sensei Lana’i, a Four Seasons Resort

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. 

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Where Connection to People & Nature Intertwine

A State of Mind

From the moment you step into an outdoor oasis with thatched ceilings and a view that stretches beyond the peaceful blue waters to layers of purple mountains, you realize you’ve just arrived in a far-off land—except it’s a place that naturally feels like home. It’s a place where guests and staff are greeted by name and treated like family, where sunsets display like swirls of tropical sorbets, where water and steam flow from the earth effortlessly, and where rest and wellness coexist. 

This is Guanacaste. 

Costa Rica is known for many things. It’s one of the most biodiverse places on earth and is 98% carbon neutral. Yet, what may be lesser known is the people. Their value for life extends beyond their high value of care for their land and wildlife. (There’s no trash on the beaches or side of the road!) But the value placed on humanity is humbling. If you spend time at either of these two destinations, you will be invited to stay awhile and catch up with strangers, who, by the end of your trip, may seem more like friends. This is a culture where being in the moment and appreciating life lead the way to Pura Vida. 

Did You Know? Flying into Costa Rica, I was surprised by the sheer amount of gorgeous volcano peaks jetting through the clouds. In fact, the country has over 200 volcanic formations. About 100 are said to show signs of activity, but only five are considered active: Rincón de la Vieja, Irazú, Poás, Turrialba, and Arenal.

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Andaz Costa Rica

Picture a resort set on a peaceful sea, where the unpretentious clean lines of immaculate architecture take a backseat to lush tropical forests, a place where infinity-edge pools blend into panoramic views of the bay. It is a place where good conversation and excellent food flow. This is Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. 

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The Spa: Rio Perdido and Andaz Costa Rica have their own onsite spa— unique to their setting, rituals, and traditions. I highly recommend getting the deep tissue massage times two! Both are an utterly relaxing experience but different. Andaz’s spa, ONDA, has the option to book a couples massage, tacking on extra time in your personal spa suite with a steam shower, indoor/outdoor shower, tub, and ocean view balcony. Rio Perdido’s massage therapists are set up in private open-air studios with the lull of pool cascades mimicking Costa Rica’s seductive summer soundtrack: waterfalls. Their therapists will also set up in guest’s private bungalows.

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Rio Perdido

Further inland, you’ll find a place similar in their attention to detail, yet on a more intimate scale. This is a place with excellent locally sourced food, a community-centric spirit, immersion in nature, and also surrounded by water. This is Rio Perdido. 

Getting There: Southwest and American have several flights daily, which land Austinites in the Liberia Airport in about a half day. American Airlines offers the luxury of direct flights from Austin on Tuesday, Thursdays, and Sundays. Andaz Costa Rica has a transportation company that transports guests to and from the airport, in a 30-minute drive. For Rio Perdido, I suggest opting for your own mode of transportation by renting a car and making the hour’s drive. Electing for a 4-wheel drive will allow easy exploration of this beautiful country, given there are many natural wonders and national parks to visit nearby. However, Rio Perdido can also arrange for airport transfers. 

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Where Modern Luxury Meets Local Spirit

An Easy Escape

Imagine a place where ancient civilization collides with sun-drenched beaches covered in white sand and crystal clear waters. Mix in the thrilling option of swimming with whale sharks, whales, or in underwater caves, and it’s nearing perfection. Add in the element of ease that an all-inclusive resort brings. Tack on the fact that it’s only a few hours away by plane, and you’ve just landed in the ideal paradise. 

With the conveniences of direct flights and all-inclusive resorts, this destination becomes simple for families who want to escape Austin in search of a getaway with little planning involved. The next destinations provide five-star luxury experiences and activities, allowing everyone to find something relaxing to do, no matter their vibe.

This is Mexico, more specifically, Mexico’s Peninsulas.

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Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos

Los Cabos is known for many things, but most notably for its striking monochromatic desert mountains colliding with a beautiful blue ocean powerfully crashing ashore. The iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, is also a sight to behold. Adventure seekers can partake in activities such as deep-sea fishing, whale watching, or exploring the rugged vistas on ATVs. This is Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos.

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UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya

Flying two hours east will immerse travelers in a vastly different landscape, yet a similar ease of life with idyllic beaches and welcoming culture await. Under Caribbean blue skies lie emerald seas that convert to aquamarine waves as they crash on white-sand beaches dotted with cream coral. Under those same sun-soaked skies, Mayan ruins rise out of lush green forests amidst colorful architecture, matching its sea life ablaze with a canvas of color. 

This destination, however, caters to the modern and luxe travelers who seek to escape the rowdy scene of Cancun and Los Cabos and lures those seeking seclusion at an elegant adults-only resort. This is UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya.

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Whether it’s a sun-soaked day napping on white sand, a sultry spa day full of relaxing moments, a day spent alongside a cheerful canvas of colorful creatures swimming in clear blue waters, a swirling beachside dance party under a starlit sky, a day spent pool side indulging in local cuisine, time spent conversing with locals learning their story, a day exploring ancient civilizations, or gazing at electric sunsets too peaceful to put into words, escaping the everyday is healing for the soul. Each destination offers a unique perspective on life that one simply cannot gain by staying put. Call it lavish. Call it gratification. Call it curiosity. Our souls were created to connect by exploring everything under the sun.