If you've ever found yourself yearning to step into the sun-drenched scenes of HBO's The White Lotus, you're not alone. The show's luxurious settings, from the lush landscapes of Maui to the historic charm of Taormina, have captivated audiences worldwide. Let's embark on a journey through these iconic filming locations, exploring the real-life destinations that brought the series to life.
Season 1: Maui, Hawaii – A Tropical Paradise
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
The inaugural season of The White Lotus was filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, a five-star haven nestled along the island's southwestern coast. This resort, with its pristine beaches and opulent amenities, served as the perfect backdrop for the show's satirical exploration of privilege and entitlement. Guests can lounge by the infinity pool, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy the resort's world-class dining—just like the characters in the series.
Olowalu Landing and Kahului Airport
Beyond the resort, the production also utilized other Maui locations. The guests' arrival scene was filmed at Olowalu Landing, a picturesque beach spot known for its calm waters and vibrant marine life. Additionally, the opening episode features Kahului Airport, Maui's main airport, grounding the series in real Hawaiian locales.
Season 2: Sicily, Italy – A Mediterranean Dream
San Domenico Palace, Taormina
For its second season, The White Lotus transported viewers to the enchanting island of Sicily. The primary filming location was the San Domenico Palace in Taormina, a historic hotel perched atop a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea. Originally a 14th-century convent, this Four Seasons property boasts panoramic views of Mount Etna and the ancient Greek theater, blending history with luxury.
Cefalù Beach
While the hotel scenes were set in Taormina, the beach sequences were filmed at Cefalù Beach, located on Sicily's northern coast. This charming town, with its medieval architecture and golden sands, provided a stunning coastal setting for the show's dramatic moments.
Villa Tasca, Palermo
In one memorable episode, characters Daphne and Harper retreat to the opulent Villa Tasca in Palermo. This 16th-century neoclassical villa, surrounded by lush gardens, exudes old-world charm and sophistication. Guests can actually stay here, immersing themselves in the same grandeur experienced by the show's characters.
Noto and Castello degli Schiavi
The series also showcases the baroque beauty of Noto, where characters explore its ornate architecture and vibrant streets. Additionally, a visit to the Castello degli Schiavi in Fiumefreddo offers a nod to cinematic history, as this castle was also featured in The Godfather.
Season 3: Thailand – A Southeast Asian Sojourn
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
The third season of The White Lotus unfolds amidst the tropical allure of Thailand, with the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui serving as the primary filming location. Nestled on the island's northeastern coast, this five-star resort offers private villas, pristine beaches, and panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, providing an idyllic backdrop for the show's intricate narratives.
Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort
Several scenes were filmed at the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, known for its serene beaches, lotus ponds, and traditional Thai architecture. The resort's distinctive features, including its grand tree-lined entrance and spirit house, added depth and authenticity to the series' setting.
Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort
The Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort features prominently with its Singing Bird Lounge, a treehouse-style bar nestled within a 120-year-old tree. This unique setting provided a memorable backdrop for the show's bar scenes, enhancing the series' exotic ambiance.
Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas
Scenes depicting the wellness center, where the character Belinda returns, were filmed at the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas. This resort, located on Phuket's northern coast, offers open-air pavilions surrounded by lotus ponds, aligning perfectly with the show's themes of spiritual exploration and luxury.
Wat Pu Khao Thong, Koh Samui
The series also ventures into cultural exploration with scenes filmed at Wat Pu Khao Thong, a Buddhist monastery on Koh Samui's north coast. This location adds a layer of spiritual depth to the narrative, reflecting the characters' quests for meaning and transformation.
Bangkok
Additional scenes were shot in Thailand's bustling capital, Bangkok, showcasing the city's vibrant energy and contrasting it with the tranquil island settings. While specific locations within Bangkok remain undisclosed, the city's inclusion adds a dynamic urban element to the season's tapestry.
Whether you're a fan of the show's biting satire or simply enamored with its breathtaking settings, these real-world locations offer a chance to experience the allure of The White Lotus firsthand. So pack your bags, and perhaps you'll find yourself sipping a cocktail by the same pool where drama once unfolded.
