If you’re searching for a restorative escape—one that blends quiet wellness, open-air luxury, and the uniquely serene rhythm of Lanai—pairing FS Sensei (2 nights) with FS Lanai (5 nights) is an unbeatable combination.
This style of “dual-resort” travel is becoming more popular among travelers who want depth, contrast, and a sense of progression in their trip. We talk a lot about curated, meaningful travel at VentanaTravel.com, and this itinerary fits that philosophy perfectly.
The Verdict
Do it.
FS Sensei is one of the most peaceful, health-focused retreats in the world—adults-only, secluded, and designed to melt your nervous system into a state of total calm. FS Lanai, meanwhile, offers that quintessential Hawaiian coastal setting: warm sun, clear water, and sprawling ocean views.
Together, they form a yin-yang pairing that showcases the diversity of the Four Seasons brand and the singular character of Lanai itself.
And if you’re curious about how airline choices factor into a Hawaii itinerary, check out this related piece: My Current Airline Rankings as of 2024.
About the Island of Lanai
Lanai is unlike any other Hawaiian island. It’s famously 98% owned by Larry Ellison, who has invested heavily in infrastructure, sustainability, and—of course—the island’s two Four Seasons properties.
There are just three hotels on the entire island:
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FS Sensei (inland, cool, misty, Zen)
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FS Lanai (coastal, sunny, beachy)
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Hotel Lanai (the historic downtown boutique option)
With only 30 minutes between the two Four Seasons properties, you can experience two completely different climates and environments in a single stay.
Both resorts underwent major renovations in recent years, making them feel refreshed, thoughtful, and deeply intentional.
FS Sensei: A Wellness Sanctuary in the Hills
We booked a Koele Deluxe Room and were upgraded to a Koele Suite overlooking the peaceful grounds—complete with balcony time, birdsong, and the soft hush of the trees. The vibe is a blend of Hawaiian lodge, Japanese ryokan, and modern spa retreat.
The entire property is meticulously designed:
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Immaculate Zen-style landscaping
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Art installations with meditative themes
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Wellness programming that blends Eastern & Western philosophies
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Stunning private spa “hales”—intimate spa suites with onsen tubs and relaxation gardens
If you stay here, the spa hales are non-negotiable. They are transcendent, emotional, grounding, and worth every minute.
One quirky surprise? At night, hundreds of adorable toads emerge—bring a flashlight!
FS Lanai: Oceanfront Paradise
After Sensei’s tranquility, transitioning to the coast feels like stepping into a vibrant postcard. We booked an Ocean View Room and were upgraded to a Prime Oceanfront Room overlooking Hulopoʻe Bay—complete with dolphins, sunrise colors, and Sweetheart Rock within sight.
The resort feels airy and seamless: natural woods, warm tones, artisan textures, and incredible soundproofing paired with blackout blinds for perfect sleep.
Compared to FS Maui (a property we often recommend in the Ventana Travel community), the contrast is clear:
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FS Maui: Family energy, dining options, wide beach vibe
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FS Lanai: Couples, secluded setting, refined rooms
Both are exceptional—but Lanai feels far more exclusive and nature-immersed.
FS Service
Service at both properties was the usual Four Seasons perfection.
For example: returning from a muddy hike, I handed my shoes to housekeeping at Sensei. Thirty minutes later, they were spotless.
Both resorts also offer free laundry, and many staff members are long-time island residents who feel deeply connected to Lanai.
Getting to Lanai
Lanai is remote, which is part of its charm. Most visitors arrive via Lanai Air, which operates semi-private flights from Hawaiian hubs (often comped by FS). A public ferry from Maui is the alternative.
Once on the island, transportation is simple:
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FS shuttles connect the two properties
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Jeep rentals are available for exploring
Pro tip: If flying Lanai Air, plan flights first—availability fluctuates.
Dining
Lanai is limited in restaurant options, but quality outweighs quantity.
Highlights:
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Nobu at both properties
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Garden Bar at FS Sensei
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Local favorite Lanai City Grill, offering Taco Tuesdays and live music
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Affordable local breakfast/lunch at the island’s only gas station
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Ganotisi’s for hearty local fare
The scene is charming and small—don’t expect a foodie capital, but expect sincerity.
Activities
Lanai is small but packed with things to do, and most excursions are accessible regardless of which FS you’re staying at. Options include:
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Sunset cruises
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Horseback riding
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Adventure park
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Golf
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Jeep trips to Garden of the Gods, Shipwreck Beach, and the famous Cat Sanctuary (home to 800 cats!)
If you split your stay between Sensei and Lanai, keep logistics in mind—activities tend to be closer to Sensei since it sits in the island’s center.
Final Thoughts
If your goal is deep rest followed by sun-soaked luxury—and you like the idea of experiencing two wildly different atmospheres in one week—a Sensei + Lanai split stay is close to perfect.
This itinerary is exactly the type of thoughtful, experience-forward travel we love to plan at VentanaTravel.com. And after visiting, you may just find yourself comparing properties with the same scrutiny as those of us who obsessively maintain airline rankings.
Lanai isn’t just a destination—it’s a reset button. And these two Four Seasons properties showcase it at its absolute best.
