Picture this: towering palm trees, miles of undisturbed sands, and pristine waters as far as the eye can see. It’s the edge of the ocean and things here are as tranquil as you could imagine. Sounds too good to be true? Not for Hawaii’s last secret island. Located on the smallest publicly accessible island in the archipelago, the Four Seasons luxury resort is the only one of its kind in the vicinity, and I got the chance to experience all this first-hand.

Whether you need a place for a romantic retreat or some family R&R, Four Seasons is your best bet. Beyond the hula, what makes it one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world?

Not a typical tropical escape

Don’t expect an abundance of leaf prints and bamboo furniture for a standard “summer” ambiance. What I appreciated with their interiors is its efforts in creating their own version of paradise. Think illustrious pavilion-style buildings, luxurious mahogany everywhere, and the finest antique displays sourced from all over the Pacific region.

Your own private haven

There are thousands of other beautiful beaches around the world, but Four Seasons stands out for its exclusive feel. Its landscape is so meticulously designed to make each area feel secluded in its own right, from the gardens to thete hot tubs. I truly felt like a socialite on vacation, as I never had to compete for a slice of paradise.

Water activities galore

With Maui being one of the best surfing destinations in the world, I knew I couldn’t leave without surfing their waves. Don’t worry if you’re a first-timer — there are skilled surfing instructors that will have you hanging ten in no time. If surfing isn’t quite your cup of tea, they also offer canoe paddling, snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and torch-lit pools.

Where tech and tropical come together

If you’re looking to go on a full-on nature trip, this resort may not be for you. It’s not exactly the cheapest choice, and most of what you’re paying for is in its extreme modernity. Amenities include bidet toilets, bathroom televisions, and 75-inch LED screens in every room. It has touches of technology almost everywhere, so don’t expect to be able to disconnect so easily.

Front-row seat to the stars

Because the island is secluded away from the city, lesser pollution in the area gives you a breathtaking view of the night sky. You can even arrange for a picnic under the stars — complete with Prosecco, binoculars, and fluffy blankets for you to lounge on.

Picturesque views

Hulopo’e Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, and is conveniently right next to the resort. The cove beach looks straight out of a postcard and is home to vibrant flora and fauna. If you’re lucky, you can even catch a glimpse of the spinner dolphins who frequent its waters. Be sure not to miss their north-side hidden beaches, which boast secluded cliffs and verdant forests.

Countless ways to explore

Visitors can choose multiple ways to see the island. Some of the most magnificent views can be seen via boat, but you can also traverse its roads on horseback for a dramatic valley experience. Since I was looking for a more thrilling fix, I rented out a UTV from the resort and explored its trails off-road.

Have you had the chance to experience this piece of paradise, too?