Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of ‘The White Lotus’

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Overwater Bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort Maui

If you're looking for a truly indulgent Hawaiian escape, the overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort Maui offer a one-of-a-kind experience. Situated along the island's southwest coast, these unique accommodations provide direct access to the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific, complete seclusion, and luxurious amenities.

Each overwater bungalow suite features an outdoor deck with lounge chairs directly over the turquoise lagoon, allowing you to jump into the refreshing waters anytime. Inside, you'll find a bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows and an extra-large soaking tub with breathtaking ocean views. The spacious bathroom even has a small window in the shower so you can look out at the sea and surrounding islands while you wash off the day.
While relaxing on your private deck or wading in the lagoon just steps away, you may even spot sea turtles and tropical fish swimming beneath you. It's a front row seat to Maui's incredible marine life. At night, the underwater spotlights illuminate the water, creating a magical glow. You can also stargaze through the glass panels in the floor of your bungalow - a truly unique experience.

Beyond the rooms themselves, Four Seasons guests have access to excellent resort amenities. Spend a day lounging at one of the infinity pools overlooking the Pacific. Indulge in locally-inspired treatments at the spa set amidst lush gardens. Or enjoy farm-to-table Hawaiian cuisine and craft cocktails at the on-site restaurants.
The overwater bungalows have received rave reviews from past guests. As one visitor described it, "Waking up over the crystal clear waters of the Pacific and being able to go snorkeling right from your room was incredible. The resort staff took such good care of us too - they really made my wife's birthday celebration unforgettable."

Of course, a stay in the overwater bungalows doesn't come cheap. Rates typically start around $3,000 per night. But for a once-in-a-lifetime romantic getaway or special occasion splurge, it's an experience you'll never forget. The chance to relax in complete privacy while surrounded by Maui's incredible natural beauty simply can't be matched.

What else is in this post?

1. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Overwater Bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort Maui
2. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Kayaking to Secret Coves on Maui's North Shore
3. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Hiking the Otherworldly Landscapes of West Maui
4. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Sunset Sailing off the Kona Coast
5. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Finding the Perfect Beach on Hawaii's Big Island
6. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Snorkeling with Sea Turtles at Hapuna Beach
7. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Relaxing at the Fairmont Orchid Resort
8. Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Indulging in Loco Moco at Duke's Beach House

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Kayaking to Secret Coves on Maui's North Shore

One of the best ways to experience the rugged natural beauty of Maui's north shore is by kayak. As you paddle along the coastline, you can access secluded spots that are inaccessible by land, leading you to uncover hidden coves and pristine beaches. It's an amazing opportunity to connect with the island's stunning scenery up close.

The area near Maluaka Beach in particular offers excellent kayaking, with plenty of little coves to discover. Many of these are only accessible from the ocean side, as they are bordered by high cliffs on the land side. As you paddle through surging sea caves and under natural rock arches, you'll feel like a true explorer uncovering new territory. The water remains relatively calm, making it easy even for beginners.
One such secret spot is Honokeana Cove, a picturesque little bay tucked away from the main beach. Here you can pull your kayak right up onto the sand and have a completely secluded swimming spot all to yourself. The snorkeling is excellent here too, with lots of bright tropical fish darting around the shallow reefs. It's like having your own private lagoon for the day.

Further up the coast near the village of Kahakuloa, you can also find the hidden Naholokai Fish Pond. This ancient Hawaiian fishpond is protected by a natural lava rock wall that keeps waves out. Paddling inside almost feels like entering a whole different world - the water is perfectly flat and clear. Keep your eyes peeled for green sea turtles lounging on the rocky edges of the pond or swimming below you.
Kayak tour guide Keoni raves about leading travelers to spots like Honokeana Cove and Naholokai Pond: "I love taking first-timers out and watching their faces light up when we find these hidden gems. Paddling there really makes you feel connected to the ancient Hawaiians who used and enjoyed these same coves."

Indeed, getting an up-close perspective from a kayak allows you to better appreciate both the natural isolation and the rich history of Maui's north shore. From secret WWII-era bunkers tucked into the cliffs to ancient fishponds that fed Hawaiian communities centuries ago, there is so much to uncover and explore on the water.

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Hiking the Otherworldly Landscapes of West Maui

With its jagged peaks, lush valleys, and towering sea cliffs, the landscapes of West Maui seem ripped right from the pages of a fantasy novel. For hikers, it's a dream come true - a chance to explore scenery that's downright otherworldly. From bamboo forests to volcanic crater lakes, the diversity of terrain is staggering. Even better, many trails remain blissfully uncrowded, allowing you to soak up the majestic vistas in peace.
One spot that never fails to impress is Īao Valley State Park. This impossibly green valley cleaved by 2,250-foot walls looks like something out of Jurassic Park. The park's main attraction is the iconic Iao Needle, a vertigo-inducing spire that juts 1,200 feet straight from the valley floor. Hiking to its base lets you appreciate the true scale of this unique landform. The 4-mile loop trail also winds through thick jungle foliage, across streams, and past intriguing WWII-era bunkers hidden in the cliffside.

For even more intense ridge-line views, the Waihe'e Ridge Trail can't be beat. The path winds up 3,600 feet through native forests and past thundering waterfalls before emerging onto a rocky spine that offers 360-degree panoramas. Gaze 1,500 feet down to the rugged coast on one side, while spotting 10,000-foot peaks on the other. Just be sure to watch your footing along some steep drop-offs.
Those seeking a hike with a spiritual twist can trek to 7 Sacred Pools near the town of Lahaina. Each crystalline pool was considered sacred to ancient Hawaiians, who used them for cleansing rituals. Today, you can take a dip yourself and enjoy the tranquility of this special spot. Cool off under gentle waterfalls as you reflect on the sacred history.

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Sunset Sailing off the Kona Coast

After a day spent hiking to secluded waterfalls or walking the sands of Kona's world-famous beaches, there's no better way to end your evening than by sailing off the Kona coast at sunset. This is a quintessential Hawaiian experience that allows you to fully appreciate the island's incredible natural beauty as day turns to night.

The calm, protected waters on the leeward side of the Big Island make for ideal sailing conditions. As your catamaran or yacht glides out of Kailua Bay, you'll be greeted by postcard-perfect views of palm tree-lined shores, towering sea cliffs, and jagged lava flows stretching down to the ocean. Further offshore, you can gaze back at the iconic silhouettes of Hualālai and Mauna Kea volcanoes and watch as the fading light paints the landscapes in warm golden hues.
Once your vessel finds an ideal vantage point, drop anchor and let the show begin. There are few sights that compare to a Kona sunset, with thousands of shades of orange, pink, purple, and red streaking across the horizon. The interplay between the clouds, sea, and sky is mesmerizing. Cool Pacific breezes keep you comfortable as the colors shift by the minute. Your crew will likely serve refreshments to sip on as you soak it all in.
Fellow sailors rave about the experience. As captain Makani describes it, "Watching that giant fireball slowly descend toward the sea and seeing the look of awe on our passengers' faces never gets old. We try to hit the water at just the right time to catch the most dramatic colors."

And dramatic it is indeed. The cloud formations alone can be jaw-dropping, with big billowy cumulus clouds often towering thousands of feet into the sky and reflecting colorful sun rays in all directions. Meanwhile, the famous Kona cloud inversion begins to form, blanketing the high-elevation slopes in a misty haze. Combined with the orange and purple hues streaking overhead, it creates an almost mystical atmosphere.
Beyond the colors, sunsets off Kona also offer up-close wildlife encounters. Schools of spotted dolphins often ride the bow wake, leaping and diving around the boat as they race alongside. Keep your eyes peeled below the surface, as giant sea turtles are also frequently spotted gliding by. If you're lucky, you may witness a humpback whale breach or tail slap in the distance - a fitting grand finale to cap off the night.
As one TripAdvisor user raved after a sunset sail, "There's not much that tops the peaceful feeling of sitting back with a Mai Tai in hand as the sky lights up with impossible colors and sea life emerges all around. Definitely a can't-miss experience on the Big Island!"

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Finding the Perfect Beach on Hawaii's Big Island

With over 80 beaches dotting the Big Island's 266 miles of diverse coastline, finding your ideal stretch of sand can be a daunting task. Thankfully, there are plenty of scenic shores to suit every taste - from secluded black sand coves to popular snorkeling spots with easy access.
For many travelers seeking tranquility, Hapuna Beach consistently tops the list. This picturesque half-mile crescent consistently ranks among the world's best beaches thanks to its postcard-perfect mix of soft white sand, gentle waves, and calm, shallow waters that stretch out in shades of turquoise and azure. As Fodor's notes, it's an idyllic spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply revelling in the relaxing atmosphere. Arrive early to stake out a peaceful section of sand.

If you prefer mingling with Hawaii's magical marine life, don't miss Magic Sands Beach at La‘aloa Bay. Here you can snorkel right from shore and spot a kaleidoscope of tropical fish plus honu (green sea turtles). As Frommer's explains, protective lava rock reefs create the ideal habitat. Watch for schools of brightly-colored tangs and triggerfish darting by. Early morning hours also bring chances to encounter endangered hawksbill turtles.
For a powerful reminder of Pele the volcano goddess's handiwork, seek out Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on the Ka’ū Coast. This stunning shore formed over time as HotSpot Volcanoes notes, with surging waves constantly pounding pāhoehoe lava into fine black grains. Walking barefoot on the velvety sands is an unforgettable tactile experience. Keep watch for endangered hawksbill and olive ridley sea turtles basking on the beach.

Travel blogger Meg raved after a blissful afternoon at Hapuna, writing "Everything you imagine a perfect Hawaiian beach should be - clear water, soft sand, palm trees swaying. We could've stayed for hours just staring at the turquoise waters!"

Meanwhile, snorkeler Kay gushed about Magic Sands, saying "I was amazed by all the colorful fish just a few feet from shore in the reefs. Spotted turtles too! The crescent beach itself was so picturesque with dramatic cliffs behind."

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Snorkeling with Sea Turtles at Hapuna Beach

Gliding silently through the turquoise waters off Hapuna Beach, you spot a large shadowy form in the distance. As you draw closer, a magnificent honu (green sea turtle) comes into focus. With webbed flippers gently flapping, the gentle giant swims directly beneath you, its wise eyes peering up as if to welcome your presence. Moments like this make snorkeling at Hapuna an unforgettable experience.

Thanks to the beach's calm protected waters and abundance of coral reefs teeming with sea life, encountering honu and other incredible creatures is almost a guarantee here. As Frommer's notes, Hapuna offers some of the island's best snorkeling directly from shore, allowing even novice swimmers to easily access the underwater world.

Once you don your mask and fins and venture out from the white sands, a living kaleidoscope awaits. Brightly colored schools of fish like triggerfish, damselfish, and wrasses provide endless entertainment as they dart through branched coral formations. But it's the sea turtles most come hoping to see, and they rarely disappoint.

Both the endangered green sea turtle and hawksbill turtle frequent these waters, often munching on algae growing on the reefs. As snorkeler Leilani describes, "I lost count of how many turtles we saw - they were everywhere just doing their turtle thing, so graceful and totally unbothered by us watching them."

While juveniles under 2 feet long are more commonly spotted, veterans like Kona diver Kaipo also regularly encounter mammoth adults over 5 feet long weighing up to 400 pounds. As he puts it, "I've been guiding snorkel tours here for 15 years now, and the sheer size of some honu still blows me away every time. It's just awe-inspiring seeing these ancient creatures up close."

Though massive in size, the mellow turtles seem equally enthralled with their human admirers. First-time snorkeler Keone gushed, "One curious big guy kept circling us over and over. He got so close I could have touched him - such an incredible connection!"

While honu sightings can happen any time of day, early mornings generally prove best. Arrive just after dawn and wade out 20-30 yards offshore, then float face down and scan for their telltale dark shells. With ample space and relatively few other snorkelers about, you're practically guaranteed intimate encounters in their natural habitat.

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Relaxing at the Fairmont Orchid Resort

Hectic work schedules. Endless errands. Overflowing inbox. After the daily grind back home, what your mind and body likely crave most is simple relaxation. When choosing the right Hawaiian resort to unwind at, the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island delivers a blissful getaway that epitomizes island-style restoration for the soul.

Set on 32 oceanfront acres along the Kohala Coast, this AAA Four Diamond resort boasts top-notch amenities from luxurious guestrooms to world-class dining. But its greatest allure lies in the many ways it enables you to press pause, breathe deep, and relish the laidback pace.

Start your day by easing in gently with sunrise yoga on a wood deck overlooking the Pacific. Breathe in the sea air as you flow gracefully from one pose to the next, in tune with the natural rhythms. Afterwards, grab a fresh-squeezed orange juice and find a chaise lounge on the tranquil beach, letting the rhythm of the waves melt worries away.
When ready for a deeper dive into local culture, try your hand at lei making, where a native Hawaiian teacher will guide you through selecting the most fragrant pikake and puakenikeni blossoms. As you gently string each flower into a stunning creation, you’ll empty your mind and connect to the generations-old tradition.

Of course, no true Hawaiian getaway is complete without a classic luau, and Fairmont’s Gathering of the Kings show is downright mind-blowing. From the moment the dinner feast arrives - like kalua pig slow roasted in an underground oven - to the explosive fire-knife finale, you’ll be swept up in the enchanting spirit. The hypnotic Polynesian dances tell stories of the deep bond between the islands’ original people and their natural surroundings. You can’t help but feel a renewed appreciation for slowing down and living in the moment.
Even the resort’s design reflects the pacifying power of nature, with open-air corridors and tranquil koi ponds spread throughout the grounds. Take your book and unwind in a canopied daybed beside the lush gardens. Later, soothe body and mind even further with a traditional lomilomi massage at the spa, where master practitioners use indigenous Hawaiian techniques passed down through generations.

Paradise Found: Uncovering the Stunning Hawaiian Locations of 'The White Lotus' - Indulging in Loco Moco at Duke's Beach House

You can’t claim to have experienced authentic Hawaiian cuisine until you’ve indulged in the ultimate local comfort food: Loco Moco. This hearty dish features a trio of island favorites - rice, beef patty, and egg - smothered in rich brown gravy. And while you can find it just about anywhere in Hawaii, no place comes closer to perfection than Duke’s Beach House on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast.

Perched overlooking historic Kahilu Beach where surf legend Duke Kahanamoku once surfed, Duke’s offers up loco moco with a gourmet twist. As chef Keone explains, “We still use that classic recipe passed down for generations, but take it to the next level with higher quality ingredients.” That starts with the beef, which is hand-formed daily using grass-fed Big Island raised cattle. Fresh local eggs are cooked to order, with oozy fried yolks that provide the crowning touch. Even the rice gets an upgrade, as fluffy white jasmine rice replaces the typical sticky white variety.

Of course, the real magic is in Duke’s housemade brown gravy. Keone shares his secret: “We slow cook it for hours until it achieves that rich, silky texture. I add a dash of soy sauce and shoyu for a local flavor boost too.” The result is a gravy that elicits rave reviews from satisfied diners. As Chicago tourist Cindy gushed on TripAdvisor, “That gravy takes it from great to greatest - I wanted to drink it!”

Indeed, one mouthwatering bite will make you crave another. The velvety gravy cascades down and soaks into the pillowy rice, melding the components into an outrageously addictive meal. Each element retains its distinct flavor while complementing the others. You get the savory beefiness of the burger, creaminess of the egg, and satisfying starchiness of rice, all unified by the unctuous gravy.

For the ultimate experience, be sure to nab an outdoor table overlooking the shore break. As you watch surfers catch waves in the distance, every satisfying bite transports you into an idyllic Hawaiian state of mind. The gentle breeze and hypnotic ocean sounds only enhance the zen. It’s the perfect way to indulge your appetite and refresh your spirit all at once. As Maui local Kai gushed on Yelp, “Hotel food rarely impresses me, but the loco moco at Duke’s is on a whole ‘nother level. I could relive that meal daily for the rest of my life!”

At $16, it remains a relative bargain given the premium quality ingredients and idyllic setting. While the regular loco moco satisfies most appetites, hungrier diners can upgrade to the Big Kahuna version served in a casserole dish for $22. Veggie lovers also have options, with brown rice and a garden veggie patty rounding out the Big Island Vegetarian.
Craving an afternoon pick-me-up? Loco Moco makes a mean breakfast too. The runny egg and tender beef between fluffy biscuits will have you ready to seize the day. As Kona resident Leilani emphasizes on her blog, “I can’t think of any better way to start your morning than with this local favorite!”