In a world of WiFi and smart phones, it’s hard to go anywhere without being connected to some form of technology, thus keeping work, family, obligations only a few taps away. When taking a vacation, it can be difficult to really escape all that waits at home when your direct line back to real life is always close at hand. But on my recent trip to Maui, I had the accidental fortune to have left for the airport without my cell phone.

I’ll admit, at first I was panicked. What if work calls? Or my mother? Should I have someone overnight it to me? I found myself unconsciously reaching down to my pocket to check my messages or email, only to discover all over again that I was phoneless.

I felt better once settled on the plane. Heading to Hawaii has that effect, and the cheery staff on Alaska Airlines made me feel at ease at once. The airline recently opened direct service between San Diego and Maui. Complimentary Mai Tais served prior to landing.

Upon arrival at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, I was greeted with leis and refreshments. Staff members go out of their way to put a smile on your face with their extremely friendly and knowledgeable assistance. The Lobby Lounge, a place to gather for cocktails and music in the evenings, offered a stunning view of the grounds and private beach. I couldn’t wait to quite literally get my feet wet.

I found a quiet retreat at the adults-only Serenity Pool Terrace, where the saline pool has an infinity edge providing panoramic ocean views. I swam up to the bar for a signature Blueberry Mojito. The shady poolside cabanas were perfect for reading and napping, and the sandy beach below was a favorite spot to catch rays. I snorkeled various locations during my stay, but the best spot happened to be the reef directly in front of the Four Seasons beach. Dozens of varieties of sea life were visible in the coral, including moray eels and sea turtles swimming just inches away. The resort provides snorkel gear free of charge.

At sunset, I enjoyed the resort’s torch-lighting ceremony, announced by the conch shell’s call, as well as a hula kahiko performance in the Lobby Lounge. After a day on island time, I hardly noticed my phone was missing.

I satisfied my craving for fresh seafood at Wolfgang Puck’s Spago. A fusion of Hawaiian and Californian cuisine with Pacific Rim accents, the variety of flavors was phenomenal, especially in the Spicy Ahi Tuna Poke in Sesame Miso-Cones; the Steamed Hawaiian Onaga “Hong Kong” Style with ginger, chili, and garlic; and the Line Caught Local Mahi Mahi over chive potato puree with a ginger-sake sauce. The ambience, attentive staff, and ocean views made the meal magnificent.

Duo is the resort’s steak and seafood restaurant, which also offers a sumptuous brunch each morning with all of the breakfast staples and more, including local dishes, made-to-order omelets, smoothie shots, and plenty of pineapple. At dinner, start with the “Surfing Goat” fritter, a heavenly creation of almost-but-not-quite-too-rich cheese that melts in your mouth. I couldn’t resist the Brandt True Natural Beef Filet Mignon, and the Seafood Tower offered a tasty sampling of cold shellfish. Dessert is not to be missed, whether you opt for the decadent Molten Chocolate Cake or the unusual but delicious Strawberry Crumble Ice Cream Float.

Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante offers beachfront dining in an open-air setting perfect for lunch, pupus and cocktails, or a romantic dinner under the stars.

The Spa’s Mele Wailea treatment was undoubtedly the highlight of my stay at Four Seasons Resort Maui. Performed in a private hale — a traditional Hawaiian thatched-roof hut — on a cliff overlooking the beach, this wonderfully relaxing massage combined Swedish, Lomi Lomi, and aromatherapy techniques. Coupled with the sounds of the waves and the sea breeze wafting through the open-air bungalow, the experience was truly unforgettable. The Spa’s extensive menu also offers water therapies, acupuncture, and the signature E ola hou — a Hawaiian healing wrap.

Four Seasons Resort Maui recently opened a trio of boutiques with designer collections and high-end apparel. If they don’t have all that you’re looking for, walk along the beach to The Shops at Wailea, offering everything from Tiffany & Co. and Dolce & Gabbana to ABC Stores. Stop in to Lappert’s for Kauai Pie ice cream.

For a look at old Hawaii, consider making an excursion to Iao Valley State Park. This lush untouched canyon surrounded by the walls of the Pu’u Kukui Crater offers hiking along crystal clear freshwater streams and through tropical foliage. On a clear day, the lookout point offers views all the way to Kahului Harbor.

The resort also provides plenty of opportunities for activities. Hit the beach for early morning yoga or tai chi, meditate on the lawn, or try a scuba demonstration in the pool.

On my last morning in Maui, I took part in the resort’s Outrigger Canoe program. Gliding over the calm waves, learning to paddle in sync like Hawaiians have been doing for hundreds of years, and pausing to peer into the depths of the crystal clear water at the reefs and sea creatures 20 feet below was a wonderful way to say aloha to the Islands.

I returned to the Mainland refreshed and invigorated. Not having contact with the outside world truly let me unplug and experience the culture and therapeutic powers of Maui. I wanted to bring the tranquility I experienced home with me. I thought to myself, a few more days without my phone might not be so bad.   RINA VAN ORDEN