A Golfing Paradise: Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Words: Roxanne Andrews

The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is the definition of destination golfing. This unforgettable experience begins en route as you board the private jet in Honolulu and fly directly to Lanai (a small island just off Maui). Fact: Manele Golf Course is only accessible to hotel guests, meaning it’s never going to be a rushed game, with hordes of players on your tail. 

It’s the complete opposite of a busy city-slicking course and much more of a relaxed (but don’t doubt several holes will test you out) pace of play. The aloha energy is omnipresent, and it’s a special natural Hawaiian environment that commands respect. 

Larry Ellison, the Oracle founder and billionaire owner of Four Seasons Resort Lanai, is deeply committed to preserving the island’s natural environment. Through Pūlama Lānaʻi, the conservation program he spearheaded, numerous initiatives have been implemented to help safeguard native plant species, regulate land use and promote sustainable practices. 

All that aside, the Four Seasons Lanai is the pinnacle of a luxury stay-and-play golfing experience that’s easily curated to your style of travel. Choose activities that suit a laid-back leisure vacation (hello, day spa pampering, long lunches at NOBU Lanai and ample poolside time in the sunshine) or up the adrenaline ante and go hiking, horse riding and/or exploring the island on a guided off-road island Jeep tour. But first, it’s tee time! 

Play 

Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Lanai, Manele Golf Course is a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and championship-level golf. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this 18-hole, par-72 course stretches 7,039 yards from the longest tees, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. The course boasts a slope rating of 132 and a course rating of 73.8, ensuring a strategic test for golfers navigating its undulating fairways and oceanfront greens. 

Beyond its stunning layout, Manele Golf Course provides top-tier facilities, including a driving range with six practice tees, allowing players to fine-tune their swings before taking on the course. The exclusivity of the course adds to its allure - only guests of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai have access to Manele. 

With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean (you can see the sea from all 18 holes here), including sights of Pu'upehe (Sweetheart Rock) and Hulopoe Bay, every round at Manele is as much about the scenery as it is about the sport. 

The par-3 12th hole (Manele’s signature hole) is iconic with its 200-yard carry over crashing waves, which, to be honest, looks a little intimidating. Trust me when I say, the elated feeling you get when you smash the ball over it is a memory-making experience. 

Fun fact: Back in 1994, Bill Gates got married here on the 12th hole and given the resort’s private nature, it’s fair to say that many celebrity guests have visited Manele Golf Course since. Pro surfer Kelly Slater is regularly found on the fairways when he visits Hawaii! The same goes for actress and entrepreneur Jessica Alba, who is a known lover of our sport. Women’s Golf magazine appreciates that this course offers multiple tee box choices, which allow players to select the best for their game based on skill level rather than gender. 

The pro shop offers complimentary club hire to resort guests and is stocked with covetable golf merchandise (apparel and equipment) from key golf brands. Book a private lesson if you’re new to the game and/or are keen to brush up on your golfing skills, which is something we should all consider doing from time to time, right? 

Stylish golf bag tags are engraved with your initials upon request, and they make for a lovely keepsake to take home. 

Lunch at the clubhouse should be mandatory! I enjoyed a standout skirt steak sandwich at the turn and my vegetarian friend had plenty of menu selections to pick from, too. And the view, good gosh, that view! 

Stay 

I know, I know, the White Lotus TV show is seemingly perpetually trending, and the series has always filmed at Four Seasons properties. So, it’s worth mentioning that yes, this hotel is somewhat reminiscent of a high-end escape for an affluent set, but it’s also incredibly welcoming. 

If you have a bucket list wish to experience at least one 5-star luxury golf stay-and-play resort, make it the Four Seasons Lanai! 

There’s a selection of beautifully appointed suites to choose from, all featuring the Four Seasons signature king-size beds (a twin setup is also available) and a curated pillow menu. Elegant bathrooms replete with fluffy robes, a deep-set bathtub and TV screens (handy if you’re keen to watch a flick as you soak) are stocked with divine Āina amenities. 

Fact: Āina products, such as shampoos and body creams, are often made with kukui nut oil, which is known for its moisturising and protective properties against sun, salt, and wind. Ideal for freshening up after playing 18 holes on the Pacific Ocean. 

Entry-level suites are more than adequate (this is a 5-star property, and all suite categories reflect that rating) if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the resort and the island of Lanai. And when only the very best will do, book the residential-style presidential suite. These feature private balconies with sweeping ocean views, separate living and bedroom areas, full marble bathrooms and a few holiday snaps taken here will effectively inspire envy from all of your friends and family. A solid yet sophisticated flex indeed. 

Dining 

Foodies will adore the multitude of dining experiences at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. All onsite eateries expertly blend world-class cuisine with breathtaking island views. From sunup to sundown (pre- or post-round), guests can expect to be fed as if they were royalty. 

The diverse selection of dining venues all showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients and flavours inspired by Hawaii’s rich culinary traditions. Over 75% of ingredients at the restaurants here are sourced from local farmers and fisheries and the fresh produce is grown onsite at Sensei Farms, using solar-powered hydroponic greenhouses. 

At NOBU LANAI, guests can indulge in innovative Japanese cuisine crafted by renowned chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. With sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, this elegant restaurant serves signature NOBU dishes like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño, alongside an extensive selection of international wines, Japanese sake and perfect cocktails. I’d recommend the 15-course teppanyaki private dining experience and expect to be wowed by it. 

For a more relaxed, farm-to-table experience, Malibu Farm offers fresh, organic ingredients in a poolside setting. Guests can enjoy vibrant salads, locally caught seafood, moreish nachos, zesty fish tacos, massive burgers and refreshing tropical drinks, all while overlooking Hulopoe Bay. 

For casual bites and drinks, The Break serves Hawaiian coffee, light breakfast items (handy to grab and go if you have an early tee time), and house-made gelato during the day. At night, this venue transitions into a lively bar with craft cocktails and yummy shared plates. It’s also got a sports bar and a few pool tables. Did I mention the unreal view of Hulopoe Bay!  

Getting There 

Lanai Air offers luxury air service between Honolulu International Airport and Lanai Airport. Flights operate daily with seamless luxury car transfers to the resort.