In 2012 tech billionaire Larry Ellison bought Lanai, an 88,000-acre, 140-square-mile island in Hawaii. And as such became the owner of two Four Seasons properties. After years of improvements and a complete seven-month shut down, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai has re-opened and is a far cry from its previously-outdated self.
Before Ellison poured millions into the hotel, the resort had become a mediocre destination for affluent guests looking to stay on the island. Managing the overhaul was 10-year veteran and GM Tom Reolens who told Bloomberg, “As far as we’re concerned, it’s a completely new resort.” If estimates are correct, Ellison is said to have spent around $450 million on the Lanai project—new would be an understatement.
Showcasing teak walls, mahogany floors, hand-woven area rugs and zebra wood edging, the hotel’s interiors offer a refreshed and sophisticated island vibe. Cutting down the number of rooms from 286 to 217, the hotel’s accommodations have gone through a complete makeover, giving them a more modern look. Large French doors, Toto Washlet-equipped bathrooms, updated fixtures and hundreds of pieces of art now furnish guestrooms. The upgraded tech includes electronic room keys that have been integrated into traveler wristbands.
Among its 51 suites is Hawaii’s most expensive retreat, the three-bedroom, $21,000-a-night Ali’I suite. The 3,984-square-foot estate fits six guests and is located on the second floor of the property. Boasting a warm color scheme, its interiors feature customized artwork, a formal living room with adjoining powder room, six-person dining room, library and a media room. Outdoors, guests can lounge on the oversized daybed or enjoy an al fresco meal on the lanai. The suite can also be transformed into a three bedroom by adding on the Prime Ocean Front Studio next door.
The resort includes a renovated spa and eight food and beverage options including NOBU Lanai featuring the chef’s signature creations. Catering to its more mature visitors, the hotel now offers a free-form, lagoon-style pool as a private sanctuary for adults only. Frosty popsicles, Evian spritzes, sunglass cleanings, chilled towels and complimentary sunscreens are only some of the pool's amenities. Not new to the resort is the Jack Nicklaus-designed course, however, it is now only open to guests. It might just be the only recognizable attribute of the former hotel, but we’re not complaining. Rooms begin at around $975 on weekdays.
