Four Seasons Hotel Lanai at Koele, A Sensei Retreat

The Four Seasons Hotel Lanai at Koele, A Sensei Retreat is all about peaceful and casual elegance; the wrap-around porch leads into the grand lobby, outfitted with large chandeliers, while the rooms are slightly brighter and have balconies.

In Lanai City, about 20 minutes from the beach, the inland resort experiences slightly cooler weather than the coastal areas of the island -- luckily some rooms and common spaces feature fireplaces to aid in chilly seasons. The weather is ideal for golfing and horseback riding, both available on-site, and guests can visit the beach at the hotel's sister property via a free shuttle.

With the quiet atmosphere and the lack of many kid-friendly amenities, the resort attracts mostly couples, many of whom are honeymooners or are celebrating an anniversary. The pristine grounds, complete with pagodas, gazebos, and ponds, are the ideal place for quiet relaxation.

The resort is located in Lanai City, within walking distance of restaurants, and shops. But the beach is more than 20 minutes away (the hotel offers a free shuttle to beachfront sister property Four Seasons at Manele Bay).

Known as Hawaii's "private island," Lanai is the 6th largest of the Hawaiian islands. Most of the island is privately owned, though virtually undeveloped, and traces of former pineapple fields can be seen from the air. The only town on the island, Lanai City offers a few outlets for entertainment, dining, and shopping, which are all worth a trip via the hotel's free shuttle. The town has a local history museum, and several art galleries and quirky eateries as well.

Traveling to the island can be difficult with limited flights available (and the airport services small aircraft only) so many visitors to the island chose to take the ferry from Maui, which is about a 45-minute trip. Driving around the island is difficult as well, as only a portion of the island's roads are paved.

• 14-minute drive to Lanai Airport
• 20-minute drive to the Garden of the Gods with lava boulders
• 23-minute drive to the beach at Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay (hotel provides a free shuttle)
• 35-minute drive to Shipwreck Beach, site of a WWII Navy vessel shipwreck
• 45-minute ferry ride to Maui
• 1-hour drive Kaunolu Village, site of temple ruins

Four Seasons Hotel Lanai at Koele, A Sensei Retreat's main highlight is the Greg Norman-designed golf course. There are also on-site horseback riding facilities, and the hotel offers a lot of other amenities -- but all of a smaller scale than at the sister property. Access to the sister property's facilities are available via a free shuttle.

• Greg Norman and Ted Robinson-designed golf course
• Three tennis courts (no court fees and free use of racquets)
• Small pool and Jacuzzi, with attendants offering guests water, Evian spritzes, frozen fruit, and chilled towels
• Small fitness center
• Spa suite
• Free valet parking and free shuttle to sister property
• Free access to sister property's facilities
• Croquet court and upscale game room
• 24-hour concierge
• Child-size bathrobes and children's menus available
• Welcome lei and warm towel
• Free Wi-Fi access throughout property
• Pet-friendly

The Four Seasons Hotel Lanai at Koele, A Sensei Retreat features two upscale restaurants. Serving dinner Friday through Tuesday, The Dining Room has an optional four-course Prix Fixe menu, as well as a-la-carte options such as lobster and beef tenderloin. The slightly more casual Terrace restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features a children's menu. Room service is also available 24/7.

The resort also has three upscale bars. The Bar serves light dishes and cocktails in a cozy, luxe room with wood-paneled walls and velvety furniture. The Great Hall in the lobby features afternoon tea, as well as nightly live music. And the Trophy Room, or the game room, is a casual spot with a pool table.

The food at the restaurants is top-notch, but the prices are sky-high. Those who prefer cheaper eats, or a more low-key atmosphere, can walk into Lanai City where there are several restaurants. Guests also have access to the Four Seasons at Manele Bay's restaurants as well, though they are equally expensive.