The Sensei by Four Seasons is a beautiful wellness resort in the mountain rainforest with beautifully curated gardens anchoring unique arts and sculptures throughout the property. I live in Oahu and have traveled to many places including overseas. I used to travel off the islands for my vacation until I realized that we have our own beautiful retreat resort in Lanai, only 30 minutes by plane from my home. I was at Sensei in April and returned in July. I don't feel the need to have to visit far-flung places to "get away". Sensei is amazing and I don't want to be anywhere else. The pine trees, the horseback riding, ziplining, wellness classes, hale spas (nothing else I have seen can compare), and Onsen baths with waterfall outdoors. The Nobu restaurant serves a healthy menu with a wellness theme. The best gem of Sensei is the people who work there. They are always willing to please. I live on Oahu where everyone says Aloha in tourist spots like Waikiki and even the North Shore, but it's special when people actually live it. The people in Lanai, and at Sensei, live aloha is felt. Lanai is the most private, secluded island in Hawaii that I can visit. It is the real Hawaii, at least for me. The Four Seasons at Menele Bay is also beautiful, but it reminds me of any other resort in Hawaii although it is Four Seasons, so you can expect quality service. However, I still experienced a much better and more intimate service at Sensei by Four Seasons, and it is a unique venue that I highly recommend for others to experience.
Lyuds
My husband and I visited Sensei Lanai in July and had the most memorable experience. Excellent all around. Loved activities and staff had all our needs met. This place has a way to enable true relaxation.
KARENT180
Perfection: grounds, public spaces, dining, staff, massages, yoga and fitness classes. Intentional serenity. Surrounded by nature. Lovely pools, waterfalls. Great fitness pavilion. Luxurious bedding!
Ufgrad98
We've been to most of the islands of Hawaii but had not been to Lanai yet. With the kids at camp, we decided to finally take the trip and visit Sensei Lanai. There are two main hotels on the island, both of which are owned by Four Seasons. The one at the beach is a family hotel and the one inland (Sensei) is a wellness resort for adults. You can book your stay directly on the Four Seasons website or you can find a Preferred Partner travel agent to work with. If you go with a Preferred Partner travel agent, you will receive free daily breakfast (up to $48 per person) and a one time resort credit of $100, so it's definitely worth it to book with them just for those perks. Additionally, each stay includes roundtrip airfare with Lanai Airlines from Honolulu on a small private plane. We boarded our plane in Honolulu with one other couple. There were 8 seats on the plane. When we touched down in Lanai, a shuttle greeted us to take us to Sensei Lanai. I guess depending on how many people are getting off the plane, sometimes they have a Tesla waiting to drive you and sometimes it is a shuttle van. It took about 20 minutes to get to Sensei Lanai from the airport. As it is inland and at a higher elevation, the weather is vastly different from that of the resort at the beach. It was a little cooler and a little foggier. After checking in at the Grand Hall, we had lunch at Nobu. The food was delicious. We then sat with the concierge and booked all the classes and activities we intended on doing during our stay. There were many yoga, meditation, and fitness type classes to choose from. All complimentary but you need to reserve it as class size is limited. We chose as many as we could. I especially like the Ranch Walk, where I got to feed the goats and pet the horses, but my husband enjoyed the forest bathing, silent mediation walks and yoga. There are also plenty of paid activities such as clay shooting, archery, horseback riding, a ropes course, a sunset course, etc. We did partake in the clay shooting and had a fun time. There are also about 10 private hot tubs and a main pool. The grounds are absolutely stunning and words cannot describe how peaceful and relaxing it is there. You need to experience it for yourself! The room was extremely large and quite technologically advanced. Additionally, there was a toto washlet in the bathroom and in every public bathroom. I now NEED those in my home! Truly life changing! We did take the shuttle to the beach resort for dinner one evening, but we decided to spend most of our time at the Sensei Lanai since it was so amazing and the food was so good that we didn't feel the need to leave. Oh, and one of my favorite things was that they provided two Yeti water bottles in each room (yours to keep when you leave) and plenty of refillable water stations throughout the resort. Make sure you give Garfield the cat a scratch behind the ears when you see him. He sits on the front porch and checks out every guest. Definitely make sure that you visit this place. You will not regret it!
shieldsdawn
We love Sensei Lanai, Four Seasons. The beauty of the grounds is a tropical oasis. This was our second trip as we visited last December 2022. We returned to celebrate my husband's birthday with more family members. We appreciated the special recognition of his birthday with the birthday treat display and the bed decorated in the room. The staff is excellent, and we had an incredible time. The Lanai Air connection with Honolulu makes the stay extra special. Sensei Lanai Experience Planners were so helpful with our itinerary even before we arrived to organize our activities and when we arrived also. The Manele Golf Course is spectacular and one of a kind. The golf course outside staff was truly exceptional. Szimonetta at the pool was very friendly. We enjoyed our time and manicure/pedicure services at the spa with Molly. Cecilia and Helen were incredible in the dining/bar. Everyone even though we do not remember their names were beyond outstanding and made our stay there truly memorable. We can't wait to come back again!
Stephanie Huntzinger
My drinks & food were excellent. Both bar tenders were friendly & knowledgeable.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
skbaruah
Catching up on some reviews - this is from our March 2023 stay at Four Seasons Lanai Sensei. This was our first time at this property and would certainly return. It is exceptionally unique. Billed as a ‘wellness’ resort, we viewed it as a calmness retreat. Unlike other higher end Hawaiian resorts, this property is NOT on the water - its tucked in the middle of the Island (although guests have access to the Four Seasons beachside resort). There a a multitude of one-on-one ‘experiences’ to be had (many included) - and while I was skeptical, I found many enjoyable. (My wife had a better success ratio.). In addition to ‘calming’ activities, they offered trap shooting and horseback riding - and other activities. So you can blow away some clays after meditation! The grounds are lush and unique. Despite it’s size, we rarely saw other guests. Even the pool felt like it was reserved just for us. We had a mid-level room and it was spectacular. Comfortably elegant. Very Four Seasons. While the hotel offered transportation, we opted to rent a car from the local rent-a-car (a Tesla 3) which was very reasonable and used to explore the main drag (all two blocks), other parts of the Island and used to shuttle ourselves back and forth to the beach side resort for meals or when we wanted a ocean view. If you are looking for the traditional ‘sit on the beach’ Hawaii experience, this is not your place. But this is a spectacular experience.
danrU623FU
While the resort is stunning, the level of service you would expect from a Four Seasons resort was severely lacking. The staff just didn't seem to be engaged. From cold coffee three mornings in a row at breakfast, to housekeeping not ever answering the telephone, to a congeriege that was lazy and uninterested in assisting anyone, to a pool that was too cold to swim in (no one was in the pool the entire week) overall, we were very disappointed in Sensei.
173carlak
We booked a five night visit to Sensei Lanai spontaneously and what an amazing choice it was! The photos on the website do not do it justice. The resort is inland and although there's a shuttle to the Four Seasons Lanai beach resort, the property is so spectacular there's really no need to leave. The gardens, which would qualify as an international botanical garden were it not on private property, are magical in a way I've never experienced. With thoughtfully positioned art throughout the garden, every corner is a new surprise and gently encourages you to be in the moment and just enjoy. We loved hiking up to the ridge and I was so zen by the last day that I actually tried the challenge course - basically a tower of obstacles and ropes that test your balance and strength. In terms of the hotel itself, the rooms are lovely, the food was delicious and I really can't fault a single detail. Most important, the staff was incredibly welcoming. We've been to Hawaii dozens of times but this was the spot where I really came to understand the Aloha spirit. We'll be back!
sanfran58
I cannot believe I haven't reviewed Sensei--we are about to return for our fourth time for a big birthday celebration with our adult children. We literally cannot get enough of this spectacular property, perfect service, amazing food, beautifully appointed rooms, gardens and experiences. This was our first vacation after Covid settled down in 2021, and we returned in 2022 with our kids, and then with friends. Each time, the experience was close to perfection. Of course, the hotel is not inexpensive, but what you receive for the price is honestly an entire experience, from the private plane that flies you in from Honolulu, the Tesla that picks you up, the amazing front desk and management staff, the restaurant staff (many who have worked at the hotel for years!), the yoga, exercise and meditation classes, the putting course, the amazing onsen tubs, pool, spectacular gardens and the gorgeous rooms! Nobu restaurant is delicious and beautiful (we did not get tired of the food!). The shuttle to and from the beach property works well, and it is lovely to spend a day at the beach as well. We rented jeeps, which was fun, the team arranges it for you. The entire experience is almost flawless. The property is a feast for the eyes. All rooms are beautiful. We like the rooms on the bottom floor facing the gardens with large lanais. Our friends prefer the rooms in the front overlooking the ranch where there are beautiful sunsets. Hard to go wrong at any level. FS Sensei cures what ails you!
From arrival through departure the team was genuinely cordial and friendly. The grounds are amazing and feel as though you are in the middle of a forest. The rooms are spacious, clean and contemporary with a cozy feeling. The food was also fabulous. While on-site the opportunity was available for a 90-minute spa treatment. That was like a slice of heaven along with the plunge pools - two salt water jacuzzi's at different temps and a Japanese tub. Staying at Four Seasons is like being at "home away from home." The team, the grounds and the experience is like no other.
The Sensei by Four Seasons is a beautiful wellness resort in the mountain rainforest with beautifully curated gardens anchoring unique arts and sculptures throughout the property. I live in Oahu and have traveled to many places including overseas. I used to travel off the islands for my vacation until I realized that we have our own beautiful retreat resort in Lanai, only 30 minutes by plane from my home. I was at Sensei in April and returned in July. I don't feel the need to have to visit far-flung places to "get away". Sensei is amazing and I don't want to be anywhere else. The pine trees, the horseback riding, ziplining, wellness classes, hale spas (nothing else I have seen can compare), and Onsen baths with waterfall outdoors. The Nobu restaurant serves a healthy menu with a wellness theme. The best gem of Sensei is the people who work there. They are always willing to please. I live on Oahu where everyone says Aloha in tourist spots like Waikiki and even the North Shore, but it's special when people actually live it. The people in Lanai, and at Sensei, live aloha is felt. Lanai is the most private, secluded island in Hawaii that I can visit. It is the real Hawaii, at least for me. The Four Seasons at Menele Bay is also beautiful, but it reminds me of any other resort in Hawaii although it is Four Seasons, so you can expect quality service. However, I still experienced a much better and more intimate service at Sensei by Four Seasons, and it is a unique venue that I highly recommend for others to experience.
My husband and I visited Sensei Lanai in July and had the most memorable experience. Excellent all around. Loved activities and staff had all our needs met. This place has a way to enable true relaxation.
Perfection: grounds, public spaces, dining, staff, massages, yoga and fitness classes. Intentional serenity. Surrounded by nature. Lovely pools, waterfalls. Great fitness pavilion. Luxurious bedding!
We've been to most of the islands of Hawaii but had not been to Lanai yet. With the kids at camp, we decided to finally take the trip and visit Sensei Lanai. There are two main hotels on the island, both of which are owned by Four Seasons. The one at the beach is a family hotel and the one inland (Sensei) is a wellness resort for adults. You can book your stay directly on the Four Seasons website or you can find a Preferred Partner travel agent to work with. If you go with a Preferred Partner travel agent, you will receive free daily breakfast (up to $48 per person) and a one time resort credit of $100, so it's definitely worth it to book with them just for those perks. Additionally, each stay includes roundtrip airfare with Lanai Airlines from Honolulu on a small private plane. We boarded our plane in Honolulu with one other couple. There were 8 seats on the plane. When we touched down in Lanai, a shuttle greeted us to take us to Sensei Lanai. I guess depending on how many people are getting off the plane, sometimes they have a Tesla waiting to drive you and sometimes it is a shuttle van. It took about 20 minutes to get to Sensei Lanai from the airport. As it is inland and at a higher elevation, the weather is vastly different from that of the resort at the beach. It was a little cooler and a little foggier. After checking in at the Grand Hall, we had lunch at Nobu. The food was delicious. We then sat with the concierge and booked all the classes and activities we intended on doing during our stay. There were many yoga, meditation, and fitness type classes to choose from. All complimentary but you need to reserve it as class size is limited. We chose as many as we could. I especially like the Ranch Walk, where I got to feed the goats and pet the horses, but my husband enjoyed the forest bathing, silent mediation walks and yoga. There are also plenty of paid activities such as clay shooting, archery, horseback riding, a ropes course, a sunset course, etc. We did partake in the clay shooting and had a fun time. There are also about 10 private hot tubs and a main pool. The grounds are absolutely stunning and words cannot describe how peaceful and relaxing it is there. You need to experience it for yourself! The room was extremely large and quite technologically advanced. Additionally, there was a toto washlet in the bathroom and in every public bathroom. I now NEED those in my home! Truly life changing! We did take the shuttle to the beach resort for dinner one evening, but we decided to spend most of our time at the Sensei Lanai since it was so amazing and the food was so good that we didn't feel the need to leave. Oh, and one of my favorite things was that they provided two Yeti water bottles in each room (yours to keep when you leave) and plenty of refillable water stations throughout the resort. Make sure you give Garfield the cat a scratch behind the ears when you see him. He sits on the front porch and checks out every guest. Definitely make sure that you visit this place. You will not regret it!
We love Sensei Lanai, Four Seasons. The beauty of the grounds is a tropical oasis. This was our second trip as we visited last December 2022. We returned to celebrate my husband's birthday with more family members. We appreciated the special recognition of his birthday with the birthday treat display and the bed decorated in the room. The staff is excellent, and we had an incredible time. The Lanai Air connection with Honolulu makes the stay extra special. Sensei Lanai Experience Planners were so helpful with our itinerary even before we arrived to organize our activities and when we arrived also. The Manele Golf Course is spectacular and one of a kind. The golf course outside staff was truly exceptional. Szimonetta at the pool was very friendly. We enjoyed our time and manicure/pedicure services at the spa with Molly. Cecilia and Helen were incredible in the dining/bar. Everyone even though we do not remember their names were beyond outstanding and made our stay there truly memorable. We can't wait to come back again!
My drinks & food were excellent. Both bar tenders were friendly & knowledgeable.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Catching up on some reviews - this is from our March 2023 stay at Four Seasons Lanai Sensei. This was our first time at this property and would certainly return. It is exceptionally unique. Billed as a ‘wellness’ resort, we viewed it as a calmness retreat. Unlike other higher end Hawaiian resorts, this property is NOT on the water - its tucked in the middle of the Island (although guests have access to the Four Seasons beachside resort). There a a multitude of one-on-one ‘experiences’ to be had (many included) - and while I was skeptical, I found many enjoyable. (My wife had a better success ratio.). In addition to ‘calming’ activities, they offered trap shooting and horseback riding - and other activities. So you can blow away some clays after meditation! The grounds are lush and unique. Despite it’s size, we rarely saw other guests. Even the pool felt like it was reserved just for us. We had a mid-level room and it was spectacular. Comfortably elegant. Very Four Seasons. While the hotel offered transportation, we opted to rent a car from the local rent-a-car (a Tesla 3) which was very reasonable and used to explore the main drag (all two blocks), other parts of the Island and used to shuttle ourselves back and forth to the beach side resort for meals or when we wanted a ocean view. If you are looking for the traditional ‘sit on the beach’ Hawaii experience, this is not your place. But this is a spectacular experience.
While the resort is stunning, the level of service you would expect from a Four Seasons resort was severely lacking. The staff just didn't seem to be engaged. From cold coffee three mornings in a row at breakfast, to housekeeping not ever answering the telephone, to a congeriege that was lazy and uninterested in assisting anyone, to a pool that was too cold to swim in (no one was in the pool the entire week) overall, we were very disappointed in Sensei.
We booked a five night visit to Sensei Lanai spontaneously and what an amazing choice it was! The photos on the website do not do it justice. The resort is inland and although there's a shuttle to the Four Seasons Lanai beach resort, the property is so spectacular there's really no need to leave. The gardens, which would qualify as an international botanical garden were it not on private property, are magical in a way I've never experienced. With thoughtfully positioned art throughout the garden, every corner is a new surprise and gently encourages you to be in the moment and just enjoy. We loved hiking up to the ridge and I was so zen by the last day that I actually tried the challenge course - basically a tower of obstacles and ropes that test your balance and strength. In terms of the hotel itself, the rooms are lovely, the food was delicious and I really can't fault a single detail. Most important, the staff was incredibly welcoming. We've been to Hawaii dozens of times but this was the spot where I really came to understand the Aloha spirit. We'll be back!
I cannot believe I haven't reviewed Sensei--we are about to return for our fourth time for a big birthday celebration with our adult children. We literally cannot get enough of this spectacular property, perfect service, amazing food, beautifully appointed rooms, gardens and experiences. This was our first vacation after Covid settled down in 2021, and we returned in 2022 with our kids, and then with friends. Each time, the experience was close to perfection. Of course, the hotel is not inexpensive, but what you receive for the price is honestly an entire experience, from the private plane that flies you in from Honolulu, the Tesla that picks you up, the amazing front desk and management staff, the restaurant staff (many who have worked at the hotel for years!), the yoga, exercise and meditation classes, the putting course, the amazing onsen tubs, pool, spectacular gardens and the gorgeous rooms! Nobu restaurant is delicious and beautiful (we did not get tired of the food!). The shuttle to and from the beach property works well, and it is lovely to spend a day at the beach as well. We rented jeeps, which was fun, the team arranges it for you. The entire experience is almost flawless. The property is a feast for the eyes. All rooms are beautiful. We like the rooms on the bottom floor facing the gardens with large lanais. Our friends prefer the rooms in the front overlooking the ranch where there are beautiful sunsets. Hard to go wrong at any level. FS Sensei cures what ails you!
Restaurantji Recommends
From arrival through departure the team was genuinely cordial and friendly. The grounds are amazing and feel as though you are in the middle of a forest. The rooms are spacious, clean and contemporary with a cozy feeling. The food was also fabulous. While on-site the opportunity was available for a 90-minute spa treatment. That was like a slice of heaven along with the plunge pools - two salt water jacuzzi's at different temps and a Japanese tub. Staying at Four Seasons is like being at "home away from home." The team, the grounds and the experience is like no other.