8 Day Hawaii Honeymoon Trip-FS Lanai Sensei and FS Maui
Timeline: Lanai July 21-24, Maui 24-28
Background:
We booked using AlexTravels and the experience was fantastic, it was super easy to book and we loved the perks that come with it. Would highly recommend any person to use a TA such as Alex to get some great perks and make booking easy. At each of our stays, we received complementary bottle of champagne and treats in our room upon arrival. We also loved the dining credit and resort credit! We would have already been spending this money so it was a great perk to get included. Also at FS Maui we received a room upgrade to one of their newly renovated suites with partial ocean views which was absolutely gorgeous!
We are the types of travelers that like a mix of relaxing at the resort and adventure. We tend to alternate days of relaxation with days of exploration. We also love eating out, but wouldn’t consider ourselves foodies. As a disclaimer, one thing we do realize/sometimes regret is that we end up eating at the resort more than we would like to because of convenience. Also we have never stayed at a FS resort so this is our first experience. We really wanted to start our honeymoon with quiet and alone time which is why we choose Sensei to start. We initially were thinking of doing Four Seasons Lanai instead of Sensei, but in all transparency, Sensei was a little cheaper which is what we needed at the time. We compromised by making a couple trips to Four Seasons Lanai during our stay at Sensei using the shuttle and the Jeep we rented one day (more on that later). The second half of our honeymoon was then saved for Maui.
As some more background on both of our experiences with Hawaii, we have previously been to Oahu (to visit friends) and Kauai together. On Oahu, stayed with friends and on Kauai stayed at the 1 Hotel and Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu. We absolutely loved the 1 Hotel; we had just gotten engaged though so that might have colored our experience. We realized after all these travel experiences that we really love a beautiful base location. In addition, I had taken a solo trip to Maui for a week a few years back. During that time, I stayed at a hostel, so completely different accommodation experience compared to the Four Seasons.
Travel: My husband I and are based in Phoenix, AZ so for us it’s an easy direct flight to Hawaii. We got into Oahu in the afternoon and took the flight provided by Lanai Air through the Four Seasons to Lanai to get in for the evening. We then had 2 full days on Lanai before making our way to Maui on the ferry in the afternoon. During our stay on Lanai, we did use the shuttle between the two resorts multiple times and this was very easy to use. The ferry has multiple departure times, and we took the afternoon ferry which took just about an hour with a little bit of rough waves, but no seasickness for us. After that we took an uber to FS Maui. We then had 3 full days in Maui bookended by two half days. We have previously been to Oahu (to visit friends) and Kauai together. I had taken a solo trip to Maui for a week a few years back. After this trip, we prefer Kauai, but Maui is a close second. We also do realize we should have spent more time on Maui but just didn’t have the time.
Overall Lanai: Very very quiet! This is exactly what we were looking for for the first part of our honeymoon, but by the end of our stay we were ready for more action. We rented a Jeep one day to explore the island and were easily able to see what we wanted to in a day, we could have explored more but were tired from traveling the day prior. That day we went to Shipwreck Beach, Garden of the Gods (Keahiakawelo) and Polihua Beach. Shipwreck beach was underwhelming but cool to drive across the island, you also get sweeping views of Maui. Garden of the Gods was cool to see, but would only need to see it once. I think being from Arizona we see lots of rock formations.The only way to get to Polihua Beach is with an offroad vehicle. It was a beautiful, wide, golden sand beach but the ocean was rough and we did not go in. We thought about visiting Keōmoku, an abandoned sugar plantation town, but were tired of all the off roading. The staff did recommend the cat sanctuary but we are both allergic to cats so didn’t go there. The shuttle through FS is great to go between the resorts with a stop at the Lanai Grill in Lanai City. In addition to the two FS resorts, there is a hotel connected to the Lanai Grill. We tried snorkeling at FS Lanai, but the waves were too rough that day and they actually had to close the FS part of the beach as the tide was too high. The climate is like Maui with sunny beaches and as you go up in elevation drier, cooler savanna brush landscape to more rainy/foggy tropical landscape but with lots of pines. The people (other travelers and locals) we met were super friendly! By the end of our stay, we were ready to leave for Maui. If we were to go back we would check out FS Lanai instead of Sensei. Sensei was awesome but we didn’t need anymore quiet and relaxation, maybe when we are older we would change our minds.
Overall Maui: We wish we had more time. In our attempt to fit two islands into a week we made the error of not giving one of the islands enough time. While I had been to Maui before my husband had not, so he missed out on seeing the whole island. Although, I’m still happy we did Lanai, so we just both need to go back to Maui. Unfortunately for us, while the sun was fabulous the ocean was still rough. We tried multiple days to snorkel and just had no luck, which is one of the main things we wanted to do. We stayed at the FS again so were based in Wailea. We were able to do Road to Hana (one full day) and explore Wailea and Kiehi (1/2 day) with our more limited time. We missed out on Lahaina, as we didn’t have time. One of our uber drivers did note that they had their 1^(st) farmers market, which we had just missed. We also did not do Haleakalā based on time, however I personally would recommend it based on previous experience and loved the sunset!
Four Seasons Sensei/Four Seasons Lanai (stayed at Sensei with some dining/activities at Lanai)
Overall: One of the most amazing resorts we have stayed at with regards to the grounds, rooms and service. However, we feel like we did not need much time there as we were there to reset from our recent wedding, but we didn’t need want to partake in the wellness aspect. It was perfect for our short time, but think other people might get even more out of it by taking part in the wellness activities that were offered. If we go to Lanai again would probably stay at FS Lanai for the beach aspect but I don’t think anyone can beat the wellness/peacefulness/calming atmosphere of Sensei.
Timeline:
1^(st) day-Arrive to Sensei in late afternoon, dinner at Sensei by Nobu
2^(nd) day-Explore Lanai by Jeep, relax by pool, Teppanyaki dinner experience at FS Lanai Nobu
3^(rd) day- Attempted to snorkel at FS Lanai but swells too big, couples massage at Sensei, happy hour at Lanai Grill in Lanai City, dinner at Osteria Mozza at FS
4^(th) day- Relax, ferry in afternoon to Maui
Lodging/Resort: We stayed in a Koele room. I wish we had gotten pictures to show, but the websites photos are very accurate. It is one of the best rooms we’ve ever stayed in. The room connected to a lanai with garden views and was so calming, and the porch had a small walkway connecting to a pathway to the rest of the resort. I never felt like I didn’t have enough privacy and you can always close the shades. Sensei really blew me away with the grounds and gardens. We took multiple walks around the resort just to look at all the beauty. The sculptures are also super cool! In addition, in the main lodge with the lobby they also have a library room with games and the coolest monopoly board. The place is extremely well thought out. They truly do an amazing job upkeeping the rooms and grounds. 10+/10. Shout out to the pool, while based on Sensei being in higher elevation it was sometimes more foggy/cloudy, the pool was amazing and truly was an oasis. Our one regret is that we did not use the very private hot tub areas in the Onsen Garden which looked so lovely. Honestly, we just forgot that were there, a testament to how private and tucked away they are.
Food: The night we got in we had a reservation at Sensei by Nobu and while the food was great it wasn’t our favorite meal of the trip. However, to be fair I’m writing this months later so can’t give specific details about what we ordered. While it was fresh and tasted great, the price point is steep, but we were expecting that. We also had breakfast at Sensei by Nobu and enjoyed the dining credit through Alex Travels. I do specifically remember loving the mushroom and feta toast (not everyone’s cup of tea though). For lunch we did the pool and some drinks. The food here was what I would say is standard for resort pool food except fresher! Outside of the resort, we did a happy hour at Lanai Grill. We were hoping to do a lunch there but didn’t realize they weren’t open then and already had dinner reservations. We enjoyed our experience there and they were doing a wine dinner experience that we wish we could’ve done. Lastly, we did two dinners at FS Lanai (beach resort). Our second night we did the Teppanyaki dinner experience at Nobu and were blown away. Every dish was fabulous and the one-on-one experience with the chef was super interesting. I would highly recommend this to anyone going to Lanai. There are limited times and days of the week it occurs though! We tried to book it before going but it was full, but happened to get a reservation once we arrived, maybe someone dropped out last minute. Our last night we had a reservation at Osteria Mozza. The atmosphere here was lively and fun, we started at the bar and noted if we had stayed at Lanai instead of Sensei we would’ve been here multiple times. This also probably is because of the ocean views. The food itself was average and probably not worth the price, but we knew we were paying resort prices with an ocean view. We started with some bread which was great and then we also split a Tomahawk steak, some sides and wine. The Tomahawk steak was a last-minute decision and something we probably could’ve skipped, but we were in the honeymoon mindset. Our server was wonderful though at pointing us in the right direction for wine and overall, a lovely experience.
Service: This was our first experience at a FS and we were blown away by the attentiveness of the staff and really felt cared for. We aren’t used to this though so sometimes it felt crazy that people were there to watch for when people needed something. I remember the first night there walking into the lobby area before our dinner reservation and one of the managers saw us and when she found out we just got in offered us a complimentary drink. This same manager remembered us throughout our stay and would check in on us, give us recommendations and gave us a a complimentary farewell drink while waiting for the shuttle to take the ferry. She was awesome! We also had never experienced turndown service, and it was nice coming back to room that was prepped for the evening, although I don’t even know if I used the slippers. We also loved the pool staff; they were super lovely and attentive to setting up our spots.
Activities: This FS offers so many wellness activities and we did not partake. We did rent a Jeep for a day to explore the island which was a great way to see Lanai and would recommend this. We also got a couples massage and private hale time and 100% would want to do this again, although this was pricey. The private hale had its own bathroom, steam shower, bathtub, hot tub, outdoor shower and sauna. After our massage we got to have some fruit, tea, and edamame then enjoy all the amenities. I wish we would’ve paid for more time honestly because it was such a cool experience. We also tried snorkeling at the FS Lanai beach resort, but the surf was too big, and we got about 10 minutes on the beach before they had to close that area of the beach due to high surf. No controlling mother nature especially El Nino! The one activity that I wish we would’ve done was the ridge hike.
Four Seasons Maui
Overall: This is what we were looking for after the calm of Sensi, we wanted more people and action. I think honeymooners looking for seclusion or no kids will be disappointed, but the kids didn’t bother us and while it was busier than Sensei as we had reservations at places, we weren’t bothered by it. We do think based on the size though, the service was less exceptional compared to Sensei. Plus was we got to enjoy the beach more!
Timeline:
1^(st) day -Arrive at FS Maui after traveling via afternoon ferry from Lanai and taking uber to FS. Small wait for room as we did arrive early and enjoy apps/late lunch at Ferraros. Get room upgraded to ocean view suite. Also bottle of complimentary champagne and chocolate bar/snacks. Chill out at adults only pool before getting dinner at Spago bar. We didn’t have reservations or plans for dinner as we didn’t know how we would feel with the travel earlier that day.
2^(nd) day-Rent car from FS Maui to do day trip, Road to Hana. Did room service for breakfast (using dining credit). Reservation at Waianapanapa State Park (black sand beach). Lunch on Road to Hana. Dinner at Monkeypod. We had wanted to go to Mama’s Fish House but weren’t on top of it and there were no reservations. Based on previous visit would highly recommend Tin Roof if in this area-didn’t go there this trip.
3^(rd) day-Relax day, breakfast buffet at Duo (using dining credit). Started off at beach to try and snorkel but too rough. Did consider ubering /taking car rental (we still had for a few hours) to a different part of the island but were too lazy. Ended day at adult pool with lots of drinks and met a lot of great people! Room service for dinner.
4^(th) day-Honestly were a bit hungover due to the pool day prior so took it easy. Tried one last time to snorkel as it was less rough but still couldn’t see much due to the waves. Walked along beach path in front of all the resorts. Went into Kihei for lunch at Paia Fish Market and shaved ice at Da Sweet Spot by Bling Bing in the food truck market. We didn’t feel much like traveling far which is why we choose to go to Da Sweet Spot instead of the famous Ululani’s but we were not disappointed! Enjoyed sunset views, apps and some drinks at Lobby Bar with some great people watching. Ended the honeymoon with a reservation at Spago with a coursed meal which was a prepaid experience.
5^(th) day-Room service (using dining credit), packing and travel to airport via taxi arranged by FS.
Lodging: The upgrade to the partial ocean view suite was amazing! The room was recently updated and while not as nice as Sensei it was very very close. The floors were even heated. Only complaint was the shower was a bit small.
Food: I will say the food was slightly better at FS Maui compared to FS Sensei/Lanai but I think that had to do with more options. The Teppanyaki experience however was our best meal during the whole stay which was at FS Lanai. The convenience of the dining credit and being at the resort had us eat breakfast there but we wish we would’ve gone out on Maui for at least one breakfast, next time. The food was not the highlight of the whole trip, but we expected that by eating at the resort. The food was not bad tasting and overall good but again you pay resort prices.
Service: Still exceptional service but didn’t feel it as much as we did compared to Sensei which I suspect is just due to size and number of people. When we did check- in initially we did have to wait a little for our room, and we were asked about upgrading the room for a charge and declined. When to room was ready, we were surprised to find they upgraded us to the room anyways. Based on previous clients of AlexTravels we were hoping for an upgrade but not completely expecting it. When we did get the upgrade, we were thrilled, but it seemed that based on the initial convo when checking in they were trying to see if we would pay for it rather than just a free upgrade.
Activities: Our main activity at FS was the adult pool, we loved our experience here and never had issues getting a spot. Only downside was the actual pool barstools were closed down for maintenance with the shutter, so while you could still get drinks you couldn't sit down on the pool barstool and drink at the bar. Also, the pool closed down early for private events. We already had evening plans so this wasn't terrible for us. We did not use the main pool as we like the adult pool so much. This was a great place for families but did seem to fill up quickly and the cabanas were quite expensive. The ocean seating was great and never had issues getting loungers with some water there. You get water service but no food/drink service on the beach. We tended to start our morning on the beach then head up to the adult pool when we were ready for food/drink. We also rented snorkel gear from FS rental facility but had no luck due to the ocean. Outside of FS we did do road of Hana independently but did rent the car for the Road to Hana through FS. The car rental experience was easy and stress free. The Road to Hana was amazing and took us about ¾ of the day. We started at 7 am (leaving the resort) and traffic was great. We did skip some of the stops on the route due to rain, such as the hikes in Haleakala National Park. The drive is a lot of fun though, and we were both in the front seat so didn’t get car sick. We also used the Shaka app to do a guided tour which helped us decide where to stop. Ona previous trip to Maui I had also done hiking in Haleakalā National Park on the Road to Hana and volcano side, sunset at Haleakalā, snorkeling at Honolua Bay, shopping in Lahaina, Nakalele Blowhole and Makena Beach and would recommend all of these but we just didn’t have the time or motivation as we wanted more relax time. We love that Maui offers as much or as little as you want.