Stay Another Day: Fort Lauderdale

Miles of postcard-worthy beaches and a Venice-style network of winding canals and inland waterways make Fort Lauderdale a seafarer’s paradise. And while the South Florida city is one of the world’s top yachting destinations, there’s plenty more on offer than just beautiful weather and an inviting turquoise sea.

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Plan your visit to Fort Lauderdale

If you’re lucky enough to be in Fort Lauderdale, consider staying an extra day to get beneath the surface of the city. You might find things you didn’t even know you were looking for – a speakeasy with live music, a local farmers market, a café tucked away in a garden. We asked the team at Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale – including celebrated chef Brandon Salomon from the Hotel’s own buzzy hotspot, Evelyn’s – for their favourite things to do with an extra hour, afternoon or entire day.

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Alexander Charif
Front Desk Manager

Morning: I love to start my mornings off at Magnolia Caffee, a quaint coffee shop surrounded by a white picket fence in the middle of Fort Lauderdale. When you walk through the charming blue window-paned door, you’re immediately greeted by the smells of java and fresh pastries. They serve one of my favourite iterations of avocado toast.

Afternoon: After a brisk walk up and down the 2-mile stretch of Fort Lauderdale Beach, I head over to Las Olas Boulevard for a stroll and to window-shop. Ya Mas! Taverna is a cute new Greek spot. I love the libations there, and they make an amazing Greek salad.

Evening: No Man’s Land is a small hidden gem that feels like a speakeasy. When you pull into the Winn-Dixie parking lot, you wouldn’t suspect the most unassuming little building houses such an incredible bar. Their Monday live jazz nights are phenomenal.

 

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Brandon Salomon
Chef at Evelyn’s Fort Lauderdale

Morning: After an outdoor workout at Hardy Park, I reward myself with an Iced Oat Mylk-iato from Circle House Coffee. It’s made with maple syrup–infused oat milk, sugar-free vanilla and a double shot of their Signature Fifty-Five espresso blend, then topped with cinnamon.

Afternoon: Being a chef, I am always exploring local farmers markets. The Yellow Green Farmers Market in Hollywood has great tropical fruit from vendors. Passion fruit is a must-buy when in season.

Evening: Coconuts is a casual restaurant on the Intracoastal Waterway where I like to dine. You could dock your boat right outside the restaurant and enjoy a great meal with friends or family. For an after-dinner cocktail, I like to visit Mama Hank’s, a hidden speakeasy, and Rhythm & Vine, a funky bar with an outdoor beer garden.

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Shannon Schwier
Hotel Manager

Morning: Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale – also known as the Las Olas Riverwalk – is a beautiful outdoor entertainment area with a park that runs alongside the water. I enjoy spending mornings strolling through the area and seeing all the boaters getting ready for the day.

Afternoon:  Coffee and lunch at The Alchemist in Wilton Manors, a gated artist community, is such an indulgence. They use as many fresh, local ingredients as possible, and roast their own coffee on site.

Evening:  I particularly love the FATVillage Arts District in Flagler Village. You can meet local artists here and purchase their creations and try some amazing dishes from local food trucks. Dinner is either at Heritage for authentic Italian, Christina Wan’s for amazing Chinese dumplings, or Sistrunk Marketplace & Brewery, a hip food hall.

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Shaw Coté
Director of Spa and Wellness

Morning: If it’s a sunny morning, I can’t resist a yacht-gazing scenic river walk to Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar on Las Olas Boulevard for a curbside breakfast of quiche and espresso. Since I used to be a florist, I never leave without fresh blooms to refresh my vases at home.

Afternoon: Starting at Daniel Popper’s Thrive sculpture of a gigantic figure whose chest is an ivy-lined archway, I gallery-hop along Las Olas Boulevard. I live in the Arts and Entertainment District downtown, so I often take in a matinee at the IMAX Theater in the Museum of Discovery and Science or an early show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

Evening: I typically end up at my favourite intimate-dining gem, LBC Las Olas, an American-French bistro with the best outdoor seats and people-watching.

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Mazen Saleh
General Manager

Morning: On the weekends, I enjoy riding my bike along the Riverwalk and heading to O-B House for their one-of-a-kind, oven-baked pancakes that are made from scratch. The blueberry-and-corn pancake is my favourite.

Afternoon: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is an urban oasis known as “Fort Lauderdale’s Central Park” that sits between the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. I go here to hike, then reward myself with a relaxing picnic at the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.

Evening: A great night for me is a show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts followed by a nightcap at No Man’s Land. Their No Man’s Old Fashioned with toasted coconut syrup and banana liqueur, and the off-menu Espresso Martini, are my usual go-tos.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

How will you spend your time in Fort Lauderdale?

Aerial image of the outdoor pool at Four Seasons Hotel and Residence Fort Lauderdale

Romantic Destinations for Expecting Couples

Whether you’re gearing up for the arrival of your first bundle of joy or expanding the existing brood, take a cue from veteran parents and sneak away for a relaxing and romantic babymoon before the little one arrives.

Wondering when to break away? Aim for the second trimester, when first trimester morning sickness has subsided and before the third trimester, when your OB declares you a flight risk. Here, we list our top 8 babymoon escapes, along with pregnancy-approved activities, to ensure a vacation to remember.

Vail

Nestled in the White River National Forest, Vail is a cosy mountain town that offers year-round charm for visitors. Though some of the area’s snow sports aren’t recommended for expecting mothers, the amenities and services available through Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail are ideal for pregnant guests looking to unwind. Here, partners can get a carefree adrenaline-high while moms-to-be are pampered.

Spend time together in Vail

Florence

Before the baby arrives, take that romantic trip to Italy you’ve always said you would. The picturesque capital of Italy’s Tuscany region is known for its culture, architecture and fascinating history. Elevate your trip with a stay at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, a five-star urban resort minutes from the Uffizi and the Duomo.

Plan a romantic trip to Florence

Maui

Nature lovers will be right at home in Maui, the second-largest of the Hawaiian islands. Minutes from Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, couples can embrace the great outdoors, exploring volcanoes, waterfalls and natural pools.

Get outdoors in Maui

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Not that you intend to give birth in the South of France, but if you do, you’re in good hands. After all, Angelina delivered twins, Knox and Vivienne, in nearby Nice, where she enjoyed Mediterranean views from her hospital room. Enjoy the red-carpet treatment yourself at Four Seasons Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat. Since 1908, the legendary Cote d’Azur property has tempted guests with seaside views, award-winning cuisine and a sophisticated spa.

Plan a glamorous getaway in Cap-Ferrat

Jackson Hole

Nestled between Wyoming’s Teton mountains and the Gros Venture range, Jackson Hole is ideal for babymooners seeking a vacation that mixes spa and outdoor activities. For a premium alpine lodge experience, book a room at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole, where luxury rooms and mountain views will make staying in bed appealing too.

Get cozy in Jackson Hole

Hampshire

Couples looking to forgo the urban frenzy of London will be well served in Hampshire, where the tranquil countryside makes a welcome retreat for a babymoon. Embrace the history of the area with a stay at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. Set on a 500-acre estate on England’s southern coast, the restored Georgian manor has been the home of the Dukes of Wellington since 1817.

Explore serene settings in Hampshire

Scottsdale

With more spas per capita than any other U.S. city, Scottsdale is a logical destination for pregnant guests seeking R&R. Between massages, pedicures and pampering, visitors can kick back at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, taking time to explore the golf course and area’s culinary scene.

Enjoy your time together in Scottsdale

Denver

Though the slopes are just a short drive from the Mile High City, Denver’s abundance of sports teams, museums and cosmopolitan offerings are the real draw for babymooners seeking a mix of city nightlife and relaxation. Between activities, rest up at Downtown’s Four Seasons Hotel Denver, where guests enjoy striking Rocky Mountain views from the property’s urban-chic suites.

Celebrate your growing family in Denver

Please note: Before you consider taking a trip internationally, it is important to talk with your health care provider to discuss safety factors for you and your baby.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Start planning your romantic getaway.

Cap Ferrat Hotel

Stay Another Day: Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a city of delightful juxtaposition: a compact, fast-paced, skyscraper-filled urban hub buzzing with energy, surrounded by lush peaks and green open spaces laced with hiking trails. Escape into nature with a range of activities, from a leisurely walk along the Harbourfront Promenade to a strenuous hike up Victoria Peak, or explore the city’s burgeoning contemporary arts scene: A gallery crawl should include visits to Lehmann Maupin; Tang Contemporary Art, which specializes in Chinese and Southeast Asian modern artists; and photography-focused Blindspot Gallery.

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There’s plenty of motivation to work up an appetite as you explore the city: Hong Kong is one of the most exciting and diverse restaurant capitals in the world, offering everything from street food – like dim sum in the Sheung Wan district – to more than 60 Michelin-starred restaurants, many led by internationally renowned chefs. Eight of those stars can be found at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong at Chinese restaurant Lung King Heen, French restaurant Caprice and Edomae-style Sushi Saito – the most stars under one roof in the world. And Hong Kong’s wine scene is one of the most dynamic in Asia, with small, intimate wine bars that seek to educate as well as pour.

Plan your visit to Hong Kong

If you’re lucky enough to be in Hong Kong, consider staying an extra day to discover the city, beyond the must-sees and must-dos. You might find things you didn’t even know you were looking for – a surfing session at Big Wave Bay, a local market, a serene spot for meditation. Ask the team at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong for their recommendations on what to do with an extra hour, afternoon or entire day. They’ll suggest on- or off-property experiences and pair you with an expert and an activity based on how much time you have.

Read on for some itinerary ideas from people who call Hong Kong home.

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Bill Taylor
Regional Vice President and General Manager

Morning: On my days off, I like to walk up Victoria Peak and have a run around Lugard Road. The steps up to High West offer incredible views across to Lamma Island and looking back over the Kowloon side.

Afternoon: I enjoy exploring Old Town Central and checking out the latest cafés. I often have an egg tart at Tai Cheong Bakery. And I’ll browse the shops and stalls that line Cat Street to look for antiques.

Evening: The Sheung Wan and Wan Chai dining scenes are so diverse, and the menus are perfect for adventure seekers.

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Ringo Chan
Executive Pastry Chef

Morning: I like to get some fresh air with my wife and 11-year-old son. We try to go hiking in different country parks in New Territories where we can take in the sea and the countryside. Sai Kung and Ma On Shan parks are favourites.

Afternoon: After a few hours of hiking, we love to go a local dim sum restaurant, Duen Kee Tea House in Chuen Lung Village, or we’ll go to a restaurant in Tsuen Wan if we’re craving traditional Hong Kong foods. It makes me happy to see hot steam come out from the dim sum baskets. Har gau (prawn dumplings), siu mai (steamed pork and shrimp dumplings) and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns) are some of the must-have dim sum dishes on my table.

Evening: I love to discover new restaurants. You can find the best Thai food in Hong Kong in Kowloon City. Many small Thai stalls or restaurants serve spicy home-style cooking and are family-run.

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Cissie Chan
Assistant Chef Concierge

Morning: I head to Central and Sheung Wan districts to indulge in brunch with classic comfort foods like baked sago custard pudding and lotus seed paste buns at Lin Heung Tea House – the dim sum is served on trolleys, and don’t be shy about serving yourself. Sang Kee Congee Shop has been serving the most authentic congee in Hong Kong for four decades – I like the fried fish cake and fish belly and pork liver congee.

Afternoon: I love to stroll along the Central Harbourfront Promenade to burn off the calories from my breakfast. Some days I might relax afterwards and laze around in the sun on the large grass lawn at the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park, overlooking Victoria Harbour. Other days, I might walk all the way to Fung Mat Road Waterfront Open Space, where local street performers sometimes entertain patrons.

Evening: I usually hang out on the promenade until sunset, then I will hitch a ride on the Ding Ding – a double-decker tram – to my dinner destination. If I’m craving Japanese food, I’ll go to Michelin-starred modern Japanese izakaya Yardbird in Sheung Wan, serving yakitori dishes of skewered grilled chicken over traditional Japanese binchotan charcoal. If I’m in the mood for some hearty Italian homemade pasta, Pici Pasta Bar, with locations in Wanchai or Central, has always been the top of my list. As winter hits, heartwarming claypot rice at Sheung Hei in Kennedy Town is undoubtedly my favourite spot – the claypot rice is cooked to order over a charcoal stove, which gives the rice and meat a unique smoked flavour and aroma and also creates a thin layer of crispy rice crust at the bottom. Other classics such as white eel and spareribs rice and preserved goose liver, pork sausage and chicken never disappoint.

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Tania Bardhan
Senior Spa Director

Morning: I love to start the day by hiking Twin Peaks and Violet Hill. This hike is as challenging as it is scenic, offering some incredible views of the diversity Hong Kong is known for – skyscrapers, mountains, beaches, green country parks, reservoirs and a seaside village. It ends at Stanley, a laid-back village where I like to relax at a seaside restaurant with some food and drinks and watch the waves.

Afternoon: I like to take a ferry to Lamma Island. The Family Walk Trail is an easy path that starts in the small fishing village of Sok Kwu Wan and ends at Yung Shue Wan, the largest village on the island, which has restaurants serving food from all over the world. I always change up what I eat. Some days I have a Mexican lunch. Other days I eat Indian food or fresh Chinese seafood.

Evening: One of my favourite spots is Boticario Bar & Grill on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. I like to enjoy a drink on the terrace and enjoy the lovely breeze and the view of evening’s lights on Hong Kong Island.

From Safari to the Sea

Whether you’re longing for a relaxing escape to pristine beaches or for a thrilling adventure in a wild savannah, the unforgettable landscapes of Africa offer these experiences and more. The Four Seasons Safari and Islands Collection puts this captivating region within easy reach.

Choose to fly commercially, or make every second count with the speed and ease of a private jet – a collaboration between the Four Seasons Safari and Islands Collection and ExecuJet provides the ultimate combination of speed, convenience, flexibility and safety. You can visit two destinations, you can map out an itinerary that takes you to all five: Customize your own journey of discovery and let Four Seasons take care of all the details.


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    Splash in turquoise waters, soak up the sun on two secluded beaches and explore under the waves during a snorkelling excursion. For the ultimate beach experience, head to the Resort’s private stretch of shoreline on the nearby island of Ile aux Cerfs. After basking on the sand, raise a glass to your time together as you and your guests feast on fresh seafood at La Plaz Beach Grill.

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    This hillside oasis is the perfect home base when you explore the city’s museums and browse chic boutiques. Connect with your destination with an Africa-inspired treatment at the Hotel spa. Our favourite? The Red Nomads Revitalizing Experience: local rooibos, baobab, Kalahari melon and coconut oils help even skin tone and revive the senses.

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    Take time to relax and recharge at this tropical island paradise, where waves lapping the shores of Petite Anse bay and views of lush green jungle will inspire a sense of tranquillity. Dive beneath the water’s surface to discover an underwater world – WiseOceans experts are on hand to lead you on a snorkel tour of the reef.

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    Escape to this captivating coral island in the middle of the Indian Ocean – the ideal spot for adventure on both land and sea. Get an up-close look at the Aldabra giant tortoises at the Island Conservation Society’s Tortoise Sanctuary – more than 150 of the endangered creatures call the island home.

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    Make yourself at home in one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. Get a feel for the Serengeti landscape on a walk with a Maasai guide and a park ranger, and help the Lodge’s Resident Naturalist install a digital “camera trap” to document lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo and other animals of the savannah.

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Hillside hideaway in Johannesburg

4.5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 4 HOURS TO MAURITIUS / 5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND / 5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES

The discovery of gold in the 19th century rapidly attracted people to Johannesburg. Today, the City of Gold is South Africa’s largest city, offering open-air markets, art districts, trendy restaurants and cultural attractions like the Museum of African Design. Tucked away in the rocky hills that run through the city is Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg – a chic hillside oasis. The best way to explore the city? With a local guide from Past Experiences, who can customize your tour based on your interests, from archaeology and photography to shopping or food. Afterwards, return to the Hotel and find serenity in the spa with a treatment inspired by the city’s golden history: The Gold of Mapungubwe experience detoxifies and moisturizes the skin using a baobab seed cake mixed with salt from a pan used by the Mapungubwe people a millennium ago.

Explore Johannesburg

Indian Ocean playground in Mauritius

4 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 2.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND / 2.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES

The mangroves and coral reefs surrounding Mauritius hide an underwater world teeming with marine life – parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, moray eels, urchins and more. Learn about these creatures and the Reef Restoration Project with a WiseOceans marine educator at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, then head out on a guided snorkel to see them for yourself. More experienced divers can go deeper, discovering shipwrecks and caves outside the coral reef. On land, spend an afternoon lounging in the sun alongside your villa’s private plunge pool, or climb into a 1960s-style cabrio buggy-type vintage vehicle for a drive along the coast. End your day with a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach.

Plan a trip to Mauritius

Private paradise on Desroches Island

5 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 3.5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 2.5 HOURS TO MAURITIUS / 35 MINUTES TO SEYCHELLES

You’ll feel like a castaway who has struck gold when you arrive on Desroches Island. All you’ll hear is the gentle crash of waves, the sweet song of local birds and tropical leaves rustling in the soft ocean breeze. The ideal spot for adventure on – or under – the water, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island offers easy access to some of the world’s best diving and fishing sites. Explore the crystal blue waters on a kayaking, stand-up paddleboard or surfing excursion, or go beneath the Indian Ocean waves to discover a dramatic underwater maze of caves and reef walls, inhabited by a colourful collection of marine life. End your day with a nightcap under a blanket of stars – after dark, the Resort’s private runway transforms into an awe-inspiring viewing area, just for you.

Visit Desroches Island

Savannah sanctuary in Serengeti

4.5 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 3.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND / 3.5 HOURS TO SEYCHELLES / 5 HOURS TO MAURITIUS

“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up that I was not happy,” author Ernest Hemingway once wrote. The legendary writer found inspiration for several of his works, including Green Hills of Africa, during a visit to Serengeti in 1933. Discover the magic of the savannah for yourself at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti: Lift off aboard a hot-air balloon to watch the plains come to life as the sun crests the horizon. Join a Maasai guide on a short nature hike to the Lodge’s kopje, where captivating views help clear your mind for a meditation session with the Lodge’s yogi. Spend a quiet day lounging by the infinity-edge pool, watching elephants gather at the nearby watering hole. Or help Discovery Centre researchers better understand the region’s wildlife. Did you know that every cheetah has its own distinctive pattern of spots? If you capture a photo of any of these big cats in the wild, the Lodge will help you send it to the Serengeti Cheetah Project. This national program uses guests’ images to identify individual cheetahs and record their movements around the Serengeti.

Explore Serengeti

Island adventure in Seychelles

5 HOURS TO JOHANNESBURG / 3.5 HOURS TO SERENGETI / 2.5 HOURS TO MAURITIUS / 35 MINUTES TO SEYCHELLES AT DESROCHES ISLAND

You’re on island time when you arrive at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, where gentle breezes and sun-kissed beaches remind you to take it slow. Splash in the waters of Petite Anse bay, or catch a wave with an expert Tropicsurf instructor. To truly unwind, start the day with one of the Resort’s resident yogis for a private yoga and meditation class, followed by a serene breakfast in the secluded Foumba – meaning “old house” in Creole, the intimate open-air venue is tucked into the ruins of an ancient Seychellois house, hidden by lush tropical greenery. And you can arrange to leave a little piece of your heart behind when you go – help prepare a heart-shaped metal frame to support the growth of rescued coral fragments in an underwater nursery.

Unwind in Seychelles

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

What will your Africa itinerary include?

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7 Spots to Catch the Best Winter Waves

When the weather turns chilly, many adventure-seekers head for the mountains. But the season offers plenty of chances to catch big waves – if you know where to look. Winter brings some of the best – and biggest – surf conditions to destinations like Hawaii, Morocco and Portugal, while in tropical locales the water is warm enough for bikinis or board shorts. Here are some of our favourite spots to hang ten this summer – all within easy distance of Four Seasons.

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FAMOUS WAVES

You might recognize two of Costa Rica’s best surfing spots from their cameos in the cult classic Endless Summer II. Witch’s Rock oversees strong, open breaks and A-frame waves that are best from late November to early April, while Ollie’s Point is a long, fast right-hand point break popular among intermediate and advanced surfers. They’re both just a short boat ride from Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, where guides from outfitter SurfX are on hand to help beginners get up on the board or to assist pros looking to refine their skills. Looking for an easier ride? Head to Playa Iguana or Playa Prieta, a 15-minute boat ride from the Resort, or do some snorkelling off the white-sand beaches of Playa Blanca.

Explore Activities in Costa Rica

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DRAMATIC DROPS

Ericeira has long been a favourite destination for European surfers, who know that excellent swells can be found off the coast of Portugal between September and January – and it’s just 40 minutes from Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. But other locales in Portugal offer similar thrills: Waves in Nazaré – an hour and 30 minutes from the Hotel – can reach 80 feet. “For surfers, the great Portuguese highlight, without a doubt, is the city of Nazaré, home to the biggest wave in the world ever ridden,” says Concierge Catarina Amorim. “If you want to watch the daring surfers drop from the big waves, a visit to the Miradouro do Forte São Miguel Arcanjo is suggested.” Join a guide for lessons off Guincho Beach, or catch one of the hollow waves at Praia de Supertubos. You’ll soon discover why this area is often called the “Dream Coast.”

Dive into Lisbon adventures

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COAST-TO-COAST BREAKS

Its exposure to both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean means Morocco’s coast is awash in excellent swells from December to March. Some of the best surf can be found just steps from Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca. Beginners will appreciate the gentle waves at Plage Lalla Meryem – known to locals as Pepsi Beach – and the Concierge can arrange a surf safari for more advanced boarders. Follow the Moroccan coast from Casablanca to Agadir, with stops at surf spots like La Crique in Bouznika or Mehdia Beach in Kenitra. And opt for a detour to Four Seasons Resort Marrakech, where an overnight stay means you have time to unwind in the traditional hammam before tackling the breaks at popular Essaouira.

Explore Morocco with Four Seasons

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WAVES FOR ALL SEASONS

Hawaii already has a reputation as a year-round surfing destination – it’s famous for gnarly reef breaks like Banzai Pipeline and Haleiwa, plus the variety of swells on its north and south shores means surfers of all skill levels can find suitable waves. But savvy surfers know that the best big waves can be found from November to March off the shores of Maui and Oahu. Beginners can take lessons with a local at Makaha Beach Park, considered the birthplace of surfing and just a short drive from Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko Olina, while seasoned surfers from around the globe flock to Maui each winter to experience its monster waves. The walls of water at legendary Peahi (also known as Jaws) are best left to the pros, but watching world-class surfers dart through the waves is thrilling for those on shore. If you’re ready to get your feet wet, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea can arrange two-hour lessons in friendlier waters with Maui Wave Riders. More advanced surfers will enjoy a heli-surf safari at Hana: Surfboards will be waiting at the beach for you and your guide, who will lead you to iconic spots like Hamoa Bay. The flight home doubles as a waterfall tour of the island’s east coast.

Explore Hawaii with Four Seasons

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OFF-SEASON SWELLS

December to February is considered the off season for Maldives surfers, but the swells are still consistent and warm. Find your balance on the board in the calm lagoon at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and work your way up to six quality breaks within a stone’s throw of the Resort. Pros with outfitter Tropicsurf can guide you to the long, bowling lefts at Honkies or open tubes at Cokes. Or chase the biggest breaks on a customized surfing safari: Drop into a wave from your Flying Triggerfish seaplane and surf epic, empty waves before returning to the Resort in time for sundowners on the beach.

Dive into Kuda Huraa

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BEGINNER BLISS

Consistent winter waves can be found right outside your door at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita: The lobby overlooks breaks that are rarely crowded, making them perfect for first-timers or those looking to build their skills, says Hannah Bing, programs manager at Resort partner Tropicsurf. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, Tropicsurf excursions depart directly from Las Manzanillas Beach. Good waves aren’t hard to find in winter: “Winter brings northwest swells to Bahia de Banderas, which means more waves within 20 minutes by car or boat,” Bing says. “Or set out on the Four Seasons Explorer and head north from La Cruz Harbour. The boat will drop you at the best waves of the day.” On your return to the Resort, your next move should be to the spa for the After Sun Relief treatment to relax your muscles and rehydrate your skin.

Experience Punta Mita

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SURFER’S PARADISE

While Bali has been on the surf travel radar since the 1960s, its waves change with the season. From December to March, surfers will find stellar conditions not far from Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, where the sheltered Coconut Grove provides calm waters for beginners. When you’re ready, Tropicsurf guides are on hand to lead you to bigger waves by sea, land and air: A boat excursion will stop at spots in Jimbaran Bay, like Toro Toro and Airport Rights, while a road trip lets you chase swells at Nusa Dua, Padang and Sanur. A 45-minute helicopter ride carries experienced surfers to the famed G-Land, home to thrilling left-hand breaks and ultra-fast, heart-pumping tubes. The remote location means the line-up is uncrowded and your wave count high, and you’ll enjoy personal guidance from your Tropicsurf pro. After you’ve worked up an appetite, dig into a picnic lunch prepared by a Four Seasons chef. Then you can take on the water for a few more hours before soaking up unforgettable aerial views of Bali, Java and East Java National Park on your ride back to the Resort.

Find Your Wave in Jimbaran Bay