THE BIG ISLAND
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is set on Hawaii Island’s Kona Coast, renowned for its wild beauty. “I was captivated by the black lava rock formations, active volcanoes, rugged coastline fringed with palms and the waves that continuously roll in and out,” says photographer and creative director of CEREAL Magazine, Rich Stapleton. The Resort captures the island’s unique elements, from architectural details including a pool carved from lava rock to cooking classes featuring indigenous ingredients. Visitors will also discover a welcoming staff including local treasure “Uncle” Earl Kamakaonaona Regidor, Manager of the Ka’upulehu Cultural Center. “When we met, he was teaching a little girl to play ‘Itsy Bitsy Spider’ on the ukulele,” Stapleton says.
LANAI
“Lanai has a relaxed charm to it,” says Stapleton. “It also has incredibly diverse scenery despite being one of the smallest Hawaiian islands. There’s the lush greenery around the coast and then, as you move inland, rugged, rocky areas like Keahiakawelo that feel otherworldly.” Four Seasons Resort Lanai sits on the island’s unspoiled southeastern shore, incorporating its natural surroundings into both its design and unique adventure activities: snorkeling in Hulopoe Bay, scuba diving to the Cathedrals – two underwater caves formed by lava flows and teeming with sea life – or exploring the island by UTV, via helicopter or on horseback. “Our guide on the horseback ride led us to a plateau from where we could look out across the entire island. It was awe inspiring.”