Tucked away in the central Pacific, far from the crowds of Waikiki and the high-rise hotels of Maui, lies a truly unique and untouched gem: the island of Lanai. Often referred to as “Hawaii’s last unspoiled island,” Lanai is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for those seeking privacy, exclusivity, and unparalleled luxury. With a population of just over 3,000 and no traffic lights, Lanai offers an intoxicating mix of seclusion and sophistication – and it’s captivating the attention of Australia’s high-end travellers.
A Secluded Paradise
Lanai stands apart from the other Hawaiian islands thanks to its remarkable tranquillity. Roughly 225 square kilometres in size, the island has only 30 miles of paved roads and is largely covered in pine forests, dramatic cliffs, and dusty red rock landscapes that resemble the surface of Mars. This rugged terrain is one of the island’s defining characteristics, offering guests an otherworldly escape without sacrificing comfort or class.
It’s this stark beauty and sense of space that have drawn an elite clientele to Lanai, including celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Tom Cruise. The lack of bustling resorts and commercial clutter means that luxury here is defined not by opulence, but by exclusivity and authenticity. For well-heeled travellers, that’s exactly the appeal.
World-Class Luxury Resorts
The island’s transformation into a haven for luxury travel owes much to the presence of two world-renowned Four Seasons resorts – both offering a distinctly different experience of Lanai.
The Four Seasons Resort Lanai, perched above Hulopoe Bay, is a masterpiece of understated elegance. With only 213 guest rooms and suites, the property is designed to reflect the island’s natural beauty. Expansive oceanfront views, lush botanical gardens, and koi-filled ponds offer a serene environment where guests can unwind in absolute peace. The resort boasts a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, Nobu Lanai restaurant, and a wellness spa that uses locally sourced ingredients. It’s barefoot luxury at its finest.
In contrast, Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, caters to the wellness-minded traveller. Set amidst pine-covered hills, this adults-only retreat blends Japanese philosophy with cutting-edge science to create bespoke wellness journeys. Guests can immerse themselves in mindfulness sessions, movement classes, thermal body mapping, and guided hikes. The resort is also leading the charge on sustainability, incorporating rewilding initiatives that restore native flora and create tranquil, biodiverse environments.
Authentic Island Adventures
Despite its luxury credentials, Lanai hasn’t lost touch with its roots. The island offers a range of authentic Hawaiian experiences for those looking to explore. Visitors can hire a white Jeep and set off on an off-road adventure to visit the Garden of the Gods – a dramatic red-rock landscape that looks more like a Martian crater than a tropical island. From there, they might drive to Shipwreck Beach, where the rusted hull of a World War II vessel lies hauntingly offshore.
For those seeking water-based activities, Lanai doesn’t disappoint. Snorkelling in Hulopoe Bay is among the best in Hawaii, with spinner dolphins frequently making an appearance. Sunset yacht cruises and deep-sea fishing excursions are also available for those wanting to enjoy the ocean in style.
Horseback riding, clay shooting, and luxury picnics are just a few of the other experiences curated for guests by the resorts. Everything is designed to be private, bespoke, and deeply immersive – the hallmarks of modern luxury.
Sustainability Meets Sophistication
One of the most compelling aspects of Lanai’s transformation into a luxury destination is its commitment to sustainability. Since tech billionaire Larry Ellison purchased 98% of the island in 2012, Lanai has become something of a sustainability experiment. Renewable energy projects, local agriculture initiatives, and environmentally sensitive tourism practices are all being explored – with the aim of creating a self-sufficient, sustainable island.
This ethos is reflected in the luxury offerings as well. At Sensei Lanai, native plants are being reintroduced into the landscape to promote biodiversity, while wellness programmes encourage guests to reconnect with nature. Even the culinary offerings reflect this sustainable mindset, with menus featuring fresh, local produce and responsibly sourced seafood.
Why Lanai Now?
With Australian luxury travellers increasingly seeking destinations that combine privacy, nature, and bespoke service, Lanai presents an irresistible proposition. It’s remote without being inaccessible – a short flight from Honolulu, but a world away from the bustle of everyday life. In an era where true exclusivity is rare, Lanai offers an authentic, quietly luxurious experience that feels like a well-kept secret.
Whether you’re after a restorative wellness retreat, an adventure through Mars-like landscapes, or simply a secluded beach to watch the sun dip into the Pacific, Lanai delivers – with poise, privacy, and a distinctly Hawaiian soul.
Written By: Sarah Reid
Published: 20th May 2025