One thing you should know about me? I truly geek out when I get the chance to visit a real-life filming location from my favorite TV shows or movies. It’s what I like to call pop culture tourism. It’s not just about the famous actors or being part of a fan base; it’s about the sheer excitement of seeing these iconic spots and observing how they compare to what we’ve seen on screen.
So, when the chance came to visit the stunning Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea—made famous in Season One of “The White Lotus”—I jumped at the opportunity. This iconic beachfront hotel wasn’t merely a backdrop for the intricacies of Mike White’s drama; it played a pivotal role in the series.
Related: Next stop, Thailand: Discover how these Four Seasons hotels steal the show in ‘The White Lotus’
Curious about what I discovered about this property while indulging my inner fan? Keep reading!
Room choice isn’t everything
Unlike the characters in the show, I believe your choice of room shouldn’t dictate your overall vacation experience.
Of course, splurging on the luxurious 7,200-square-foot Lokelani Presidential Suite (aka the Pineapple Suite from the series) is a magical one-time opportunity, complete with three bedrooms, a private garden, and ocean views. And I must say, returning to my lovely garden-view room, with fresh white linens, an elegant marble bathroom, and my own Nespresso machine, felt delightful.
However, this is a resort that invites you to explore rather than stay cooped up in your room. The facilities feature numerous activities, restaurants, and lounge areas that beautifully blend traditional Hawaiian culture with elevated experiences, resulting in an unforgettable luxury getaway. You’ll find there’s simply too much beauty and opportunity around you to spend the entire day indoors.
The suites are much more expansive than portrayed
We should highlight the resort’s premium suites since the show only offers a glimpse into their grandeur. One thing that amazed me? Getting actually lost in the Lokelani Presidential Suite. While the series portrays just one bedroom and a bathroom, the reality includes so much more—three bedrooms, three full bathrooms, two half-baths, numerous closets, several lounge spaces, and a huge outdoor area. I found myself wandering in awe, trying to grasp the enormity of this suite, which can truly serve as a home away from home in beautiful Maui—if you’re ready to shell out around $29,000 per night.
Similarly, the suite where the Mossbachers stayed was barely scratched on the show. Forget about someone sleeping in a butler’s closet! In reality, the 4,000-square-foot Maile Presidential Suite comfortably accommodates six adults (or six adults with five children) across three bedrooms, each with a full marble bathroom, a guest powder room, and even a full-size dry sauna in the master bathroom. For this luxury, expect to pay an average of $31,000 per night.
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Lastly, let’s talk about the suite Mr. Patton desperately tried to escape. The oceanfront Elite Suite spans a whopping 2,400 square feet and features two bedrooms, a private lanai, a grand wine bar, a personal assistant, a Peloton bike, and more. Expect to pay an average of $16,500 per night for this stunning accommodation.
Yes, you can learn to scuba dive in the pool
The Mossbacher men spent much of their trip getting scuba certified. Initially, I thought there was no way they could actually do that on-site.
To my surprise, it is indeed a real offering at the resort! I didn’t take the class myself, but I did see several guests don their gear in the pool. The certification experience lasts 2.5 hours and costs around $193, with a few prerequisites to join in.
The resort welcomes all types of travelers
While the show centers on couples and families, it’s important to note that this resort is genuinely welcoming to all types of travelers. As someone traveling solo, I found it to be a very safe environment where I felt at home, both inside my room and around the property. The staff made it a point to ensure I never felt isolated, and I was often engaged in conversations and friendly interactions throughout the various dining experiences.
Regarding activities on the property, I faced no restrictions as a solo guest. I enjoyed both the adults-only and family-friendly pools and found other guests, couples included, eager to connect and socialize with other visitors. I even tried my hand at the outrigger canoe experience, featured in the show, and went snorkeling—both turned out to be intimate and special adventures that allowed me to explore the Maui waters alongside locals.
Exceptional staff made all the difference
It’s important to highlight the remarkable staff at Four Seasons Maui at Wailea; their warmth and dedication surpassed any service experience I’ve ever had in my travels. I was eager to engage in conversations with them to learn more about their lives and how we can all enjoy Maui responsibly and respectfully. (The resort even allowed for a donation add-on to support the recovery efforts in Lahaina after the tragic fire in 2023.)
While my stay was lavish and rejuvenating, I departed the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea with a newfound appreciation for what truly elevates a resort from good to great: the incredible staff that unites every aspect of the experience, reminiscent of the dynamics within “The White Lotus.”
Final thoughts
After my visit to this Four Seasons property, I can confidently say it is far more than just a spot on the “White Lotus” map. While it satisfied every pop culture enthusiast within me, the resort itself provided an unforgettable experience that I’ll always treasure. Experiencing such a luxury hotel does come with a steep price tag, making it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for me, given my budget. But if you’re a fan of the show and have the means to visit, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
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