Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Safe to say Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea doesn’t exactly fly under the radar. With 380 rooms and suites divided among multiple buildings spread across its 15 acres, it’s a substantial resort by any standard. And its spaces, both interior and exterior, are perhaps more familiar to the general public than is typical for a resort of its caliber — this was, after all, the filming location for the first season of The White Lotus.

In person it’s perhaps less dramatic, and altogether more pleasant. Wailea is one of Hawaii’s best beaches, which is saying something; and as fine as the typical Four Seasons is, this one doesn’t disappoint. There’s a pervasive atmosphere of low-key luxury, and the service, always a Four Seasons strength, is up to an exceedingly high standard, especially for laid-back Hawaii.

Rooms and suites are set back a bit from the beach, sacrificing a bit of view for an extra measure of privacy. Inside they’re sophisticated, visibly Hawaiian but without a trace of kitsch. The furnishings are of impeccable quality, as are the oversized marble bathrooms, and the contemporary-classic style is perfectly compatible with subtly high-tech in-room comforts.

A full-service spa, pool and fitness center are present as a matter of course, as are a number of high-quality dining options; above and beyond is the fact that one of those restaurants is a branch of Wolfgang Puck’s famous Spago. It’s Maui the way it ought to be — perhaps less exotic than it once was, but none the less magical for it.