Since its debut, The White Lotus has captivated audiences with its sharp social satire, compelling drama, and breathtakingly luxurious settings. Each season transports viewers to an opulent resort, where intrigue unfolds against stunning landscapes and world-class hospitality. From the sun-drenched shores of Hawaii to the dramatic cliffs of Sicily, the series has transformed real-life luxury hotels into must-visit destinations for fans eager to experience the glamour firsthand. With its Thailand-set third season, the show continues its tradition of immersive storytelling against a five-star backdrop. We take a look at all of the real-life resorts that give the show its unique character.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea (Season 1)
The OG Season 1 of The White Lotus was filmed at the prestigious Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea in Hawaii. Situated along the southwestern coast of Maui on the stunning Wailea Beach, the resort boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands. Renowned for its opulence, the resort features three exquisite pools, a selection of fine-dining restaurants, a luxurious spa, and access to world-class golf courses. Its open-air architecture, sophisticated decor, and tropical gardens created an idyllic setting for the series’ debut season.
Filming took place in 2020, with the entire cast and crew residing at the resort under strict COVID-19 safety protocols. Numerous scenes were filmed on location, including at the iconic Serenity Pool, the elegant lobby, and various lavish suites, immersing viewers in the authentic ambiance of the resort. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea remains a premier destination, inviting guests to indulge in the same luxury showcased in The White Lotus. Fans of the series can immerse themselves in the experience, exploring the resort’s stunning pools, acclaimed restaurants, and breathtaking beachfront settings seen on screen.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea’s spacious guest rooms and suites feature private lanais with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, lush gardens, or the majestic Haleakalā volcano. For ultimate exclusivity, the resort’s Club Floor offers personalized concierge services and a private lounge with daily refreshments. (Although we should note that before you book, there is no “Pineapple Suite,” thus avoiding any potentially fatal feuds with management.) Guests can unwind in the resort’s three signature pools, including the serene adults-only Serenity Pool, which offers breathtaking infinity-edge views, underwater music, and private cabanas for a luxurious retreat.
For those wishing to channel Jennifer Coolidge’s now iconic Tanya McQuoid, the Spa at Four Seasons Maui provides rejuvenating treatments inspired by Hawaiian traditions, from invigorating lomi lomi massages to nourishing body wraps enriched with local ingredients. For fitness enthusiasts, the resort boasts a fully equipped fitness center, personal training sessions, and complimentary wellness classes, including beachfront yoga and meditation.
Dining at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a culinary journey that showcases the rich flavors of the island. The award-winning Spago, led by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, combines Hawaiian ingredients with California cuisine in a refined yet relaxed setting overlooking the ocean. Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante offers Italian-inspired dishes with an alfresco dining experience perfect for sunset views, while DUO Steak & Seafood specializes in expertly prepared cuts and fresh seafood in an open-air poolside setting. The resort also offers private dining experiences, where guests can enjoy personalized meals under the stars or on their private lanai.
Families will appreciate the resort’s Kids For All Seasons program, which provides fun and educational activities for younger guests. Those seeking outdoor family adventure (like Steve Zahn’s character Mark Mossbacher) take advantage of the resort’s concierge services to arrange unforgettable experiences like snorkeling with sea turtles, exploring the scenic Road to Hana, or embarking on a sunset sail along Maui’s pristine coastline.
San Domenico Palace, Taormina (Season 2)
As for Season 2 of The White Lotus, the audience was transported to the San Domenico Palace in Taormina, an exquisite Four Seasons hotel perched on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy. Situated on a cliff overlooking the sparkling Ionian Sea, the hotel boasts breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina, providing a stunning and cinematic backdrop for the series’ second installment.
Originally a 14th-century Dominican monastery, the San Domenico Palace was transformed into a sprawling hotel that masterfully blends historical architecture with modern luxury. Its charming cloisters, meticulously manicured gardens, and expansive terraces with panoramic vistas exude timeless elegance. The hotel’s blend of classic Italian grandeur and contemporary sophistication created an atmosphere of romance and intrigue that perfectly complemented the season’s pervading theme: sensuality.
The beautifully restored property features ornate cloisters, lush Italian gardens, and panoramic terraces that provide breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Sicilian coastline. Guests can choose from a variety of elegantly designed rooms and suites, many featuring private terraces or plunge pools with sweeping sea views. The resort’s infinity pool, perched high above the bay, offers a tranquil oasis where guests can unwind while soaking in the picturesque scenery. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Botanica Spa offers bespoke treatments inspired by Sicily’s natural ingredients, while the well-equipped fitness center and peaceful yoga terrace provide ample opportunities for wellness and mindfulness.
The cast and crew resided on-site during filming, utilizing the hotel’s magnificent spaces, including the luxurious guest suites, the infinity pool with its mesmerizing sea views, and the divine fine-dining restaurants. Many pivotal scenes were shot in the hotel’s ornate corridors, enchanting gardens, and on the iconic terrace overlooking the Mediterranean, capturing the breathtaking beauty of Sicily. Fans of the show can book their stay at the San Domenico Palace, immersing themselves in the hotel’s limitless amenities, breathtaking views, and historic charm.
Dining at the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace is a captivating culinary experience, showcasing Sicily’s rich gastronomic traditions. Onscreen, F Murray Abraham and Michael Imperioli’s characters enjoyed several meals at Michelin-starred Principe Cerami. The restaurant offers refined Italian cuisine, combining local flavors with innovative techniques, while the casual yet elegant Anciovi (where Coolidge’s Tanya and her less-than-eager assistant Portia dined) provides fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes by the poolside.
The resort’s prime location allows guests to explore Taormina’s charming streets, historic landmarks, and lively cultural scene with ease. For those seeking curated experiences, the concierge team can arrange exclusive excursions such as private yacht charters, guided tours of Mount Etna, and wine tastings at renowned Sicilian vineyards. From relaxing on the sun-soaked terraces or immersing in the island’s vibrant culture, the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace offers a truly unforgettable Sicilian escape — whether you are a fan of the show or not.
Thailand (Season 3)
This latest installment of The White Lotus reinforces the show’s ability to turn elite travel spots into cultural phenomena. While this season was actually filmed across several locations, once again, for the primary locale, the crew opted for an exquisite Four Seasons resort. The Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui boasts pristine beaches, private villas, and breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Thailand, providing a stunning and exotic backdrop for the show’s unfolding drama. This five-star resort is renowned for its serene ambiance, world-class service, and breathtaking hillside villas that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. For those planning a visit, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers an array of luxurious experiences, including private infinity pools overlooking the turquoise sea and gourmet dining celebrating Thai culinary traditions.
Each villa features a private infinity pool, a spacious sundeck, and stunning panoramic views of the ocean or tropical gardens, creating an intimate and tranquil retreat. The resort’s signature Secret Garden Spa offers rejuvenating treatments inspired by Thai wellness traditions, utilizing natural ingredients to provide ultimate relaxation. For those seeking an active experience, the Muay Thai boxing ring offers professional training sessions, while the fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for an energizing workout. The resort’s infinity pool overlooking the ocean provides a serene spot to unwind, while the private beach offers water sports like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking for adventure seekers.
The choice to set the third season in Thailand was inspired by the country’s vibrant culture, spectacular landscapes, and favorable filming conditions. Producer David Bernad emphasized the importance of selecting locations that not only provide visual splendor but also resonate with the season’s thematic elements. While filming in Thailand presented unique challenges, such as managing tourist interactions and local wildlife, these elements ultimately contributed to the authenticity and depth of the storytelling. After the season premiere, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui witnessed a surge in interest and reservations, a phenomenon widely known as “The White Lotus effect.” Fans are eager to immerse themselves in the same posh settings depicted on screen, exploring the iconic locations that frame the series’ intricate narratives.
Dining at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is a memorable experience featuring a variety of culinary delights. KOH Thai Kitchen & Bar (where many of the stars of the current season can be seen dining) showcases authentic Thai cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. At the same time, Pla Pla, the beachfront seafood grill, offers a casual yet refined dining experience with freshly caught seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. For a more personalized touch, the resort’s private dining experiences allow guests to enjoy gourmet meals in the comfort of their villas or on a secluded stretch of beach.
Families will find plenty to enjoy with the Kids For All Seasons program, which offers fun and educational activities designed to engage young travelers. Meanwhile, couples can indulge in romantic experiences such as sunset cruises, candlelit dinners, and spa treatments for two. With its perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers an unforgettable experience that captures the beauty and warmth of Thailand’s island life, and the resort’s commitment to excellence ensures that guests can indulge in the same affluent atmosphere that has captivated audiences worldwide.
To authentically capture the opulent yet complex world of the fictional White Lotus resort for season three, the production team also incorporated scenes from other prestigious Thai destinations. Several dining scenes were shot at the Rosewood Phuket, enhancing the luxe tapestry of locations that contribute to the show’s immersive and visually captivating experience. Guests at the Rosewood Phuket can enjoy private pool villas, exceptional Thai cuisine, and rejuvenating spa experiences while exploring the scenic beauty of Phuket.
Notably, the serene spa sequences were filmed at the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, celebrated for its tranquil ambiance and traditional Thai architecture. Located on the serene northwest coast of Phuket, Thailand, this elegant resort is set along the shores of Mai Khao Beach, surrounded by rich tropical landscapes and peaceful lagoons. Each villa features a private pool, lush gardens, and interiors inspired by local culture, creating an atmosphere of refined sophistication.
As The White Lotus continues to captivate audiences, it transforms its stunning locations into must-visit destinations, blending drama with luxury escapism. From Hawaii to Sicily to Thailand, the series turns elite resorts into cultural landmarks, inspiring wanderlust with every season. With its unique mix of storytelling and breathtaking settings, The White Lotus remains both a gripping drama and a gateway to the world’s most exclusive retreats.