Hawaii, Sicily, Thailand: Which "The White Lotus" Destination to Visit?

Not only does HBO’s The White Lotus captivate through its satirical storytelling but the mesmerizing backdrops have inspired wanderlust. With the first two seasons filmed on location in Hawaii and Sicily and Thailand confirmed for the third installment, travelers face a tough decision. Hawaii, Sicily, Thailand: which vacation destination should you visit?

Hawaii

Although part of the United States, touching down in Hawaii feels like arriving on a different continent. A trip to the Aloha State revolves around tropical beaches, volcanic landscapes, and immersion in Hawaiian culture. 

The seven main islands – Big Island, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Niihau – each offer an entirely different experience. The principal island stuns with its headliner attraction the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as well as lesser known activities including subterranean lava caves and high-altitude volcanic wineries. 

The White Lotus was filmed at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort in Maui. Premium and Elite Suites have a private lanai overlooking Wailea Beach, the most beautiful beach in Maui, and meals are served in the open-air beachfront restaurant. The resort arranges snorkeling trips to Molokini Crater, sunrise excursions to Haleakala, private catamaran charter, helicopter tours, and bespoke family Luaus. 

Hawaii has equal appeal to families with young children as for honeymooners and couples marking a milestone anniversary. 

Sicily 

Floating off the “toe” of Italy’s “boot”, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Vacations in Sicily revolve around the powerful scenery, gastronomy, golfing, and ancient wonders.

Straddling a cliff with uninterrupted views of the Ionian Sea, the Four Seasons provided the dreamy setting for The White Lotus at San Domenico Palace in Taormina. Fusing Sicilian elements with contemporary design, the resort is well-placed for the wineries of Mount Etna and pottering around the historic town center. As featured in the series, the Greek Theater of Taormina and Isola Bella are must-sees for fans of the show or otherwise. 

Perfect for romancing, Sicily offers authentic experiences in southern Italy. Travelers may take a private island tour by Fiat 500 Spiaggina and visit the Baroque town of Noto and the ancient port of Catania. Odysseys led by sommeliers take you deep into the countryside to sample Sicilian DOC wines and learn about the unique terroir and cultivation methods. 

Thailand

With Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui confirmed as the filming locations for the third season of The White Lotus, all eyes are on Thailand as a travel destination for 2025. Vacations in Thailand revolve around wat (Buddhist temples), food markets, wellness, and getting out on the water. 

Energetic Bangkok is a natural starting point where the Grand Palace will leave you as breathless as the views from skyscraping cocktail bars. Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas is one confirmed filming location where all luxury bungalows come with a private pool. Mornings start with Ayurveda-inspired juices, dawn yoga, and wellness therapies before exploring the uninhabited islands of the Andaman Sea. 

Over on the gulf side, Koh Samui offers some of the most luxurious resorts in Thailand and a diverse array of activities encompassing culture, wellness, and adventure. Spend days diving in crystal-clear bays, kayaking emerald lagoons, and taking in the splendor of Wat Phra Yai – the Big Buddha Temple. 

While The White Lotus is known for its theatrics, a vacation should be nothing but peaceful. Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations for a serene vacation in Hawaii, Sicily, or Thailand free from drama.