Where Was The White Lotus Filmed? Every Major Location You Can Visit In Real Life

Over the past few years, HBO’s “The White Lotus” has captivated TV audiences with its clever blend of dark comedy and murder mystery. This series isn’t just a brilliant portrayal of societal critique as wealthy idlers explore a tropical paradise; it also doubles as an enticing travelogue showcasing stunning locations and breathtaking landscapes. One of the reasons for its success is the immersive experience it offers, making viewers feel like they’re part of the exotic surroundings. This has led to a surge in interest for “The White Lotus effect,” where destinations featured on the show have seen an increase in popularity due to their allure.

In contrast to what might be assumed from “The White Lotus,” the show isn’t limited to high-end resorts as its filming locations. Instead, various settings such as bustling city streets, museums, restaurants, sandy beaches, and even religious institutions have been used for shooting by HBO’s crew. Remarkably, many of these spots are open to the public, and some offer opportunities for overnight stays in rooms that were featured on the show. Here is a compilation of major filming locations across all three seasons of “The White Lotus” that you can explore personally.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

In an unusual twist due to COVID-19 limitations, the initial season of “The White Lotus” was predominantly shot at a single location – Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea in Hawaii. The filming process lasted for eight weeks within a designated production bubble. Despite some constraints, outdoor scenes were captured on beaches close to the resort, with the crew making the most of their surroundings given the restrictions they faced.

Designer Laura Fox explained to Town and Country Magazine that her aim was to blend opulence with a touch of quirky style. She mentioned that she had full creative control to temporarily transform the hotel rooms to showcase the extravagant flair she wanted, but any permanent alterations were off-limits. “My team and I brought in a seamstress who began sewing right away,” she said. “We didn’t construct new spaces; we worked with existing ones and couldn’t repaint them. We mainly used fabric to achieve this. We emptied all the rooms of everything except the beds, but essentially, we were working with the rooms as they were, using them as a canvas.

Visitors dropping by the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea should not anticipate their rooms to resemble those depicted in “The White Lotus.” Nevertheless, enthusiasts are welcome to visit the establishment, but be prepared to spend generously to do so. At the current moment, a room at this resort costs over a thousand dollars per night, with certain rooms costing significantly more than that.

The San Domenico Palace, Taormina

In Season 2 of “The White Lotus,” filmed after most COVID-19 travel restrictions were eased, the production was able to explore new locations beyond its initial setting. Filming took place in Sicily, Italy, where the San Domenico Palace, Taormina – another Four Seasons property – served as the backdrop for the series. Originally built as a 14th-century convent and later transformed into a commercial establishment in the 1800s, this hotel now offers Michelin-starred dining, a spa featuring custom treatments, and opulent accommodations that exude luxury.

As a devoted admirer, I can confidently say that this hotel boasts an unparalleled heritage, captivating Americans for decades. It has been graced by an array of illustrious personalities, from banking titan J.P. Morgan Jr., to the legendary Ava Gardner of Golden Age Hollywood. Luminaries like Oscar Wilde, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Sophia Loren have also left their footprints here. As series creator Mike White expressed during an interview with Architectural Digest, “the place has a real vibe.” During our search for properties in France and Italy, we came across numerous options that were small and not ideal for photography. However, when we visited the San Domenico, there was an undeniable allure that stood out from the rest.

If you’re eager for a “White Lotus”-like getaway, be prepared to book well in advance since the hotel often fills up quickly. However, there are specific dates available in 2025 and 2026, but the price tag ranges from $4,000 to $7,000 per night. It’s a substantial expense, especially if you’re sensitive to spooky things – some of the “White Lotus” cast reportedly had identical unsettling dreams after their stays, leading them to believe the place might be haunted.

The streets of Noto, Sicily

Season 2 of “The White Lotus” showcases various city streets from the public domain, with filming taking place in multiple Sicilian cities. The opening scene of the season is set in Cefalù, and Palermo and Noto are also prominently featured. Notably, episode 3, titled “Bull Elephants,” heavily showcases Noto. In this episode, characters Harper (played by Aubrey Plaza) and Daphne (Meghann Fahy) embark on a tour, exploring several sites in Noto that are easily accessible if you’re traveling in southeastern Sicily.

On their excursion, you might spot Daphne and Harper strolling around Noto’s renowned limestone square, appreciating the captivating local architecture like the Palazzo Ducezio and the cathedral on Corso Vittorio Emanuele. This city, a Baroque marvel, was rebuilt in the 18th century following an earthquake in 1693 that devastated the original city. A sight to behold for any traveler, but fans of “The White Lotus” will particularly enjoy retracing Harper and Daphne’s steps.

Villa Tasca

For fans of “The White Lotus,” here’s an interesting tidbit: The villa where Daphne and Harper stayed in Noto, Sicily, from the show doesn’t exist there in reality. Instead, the building used for that scene is situated in another Sicilian city – Palermo. This 16th-century mansion has been home to Jacqueline Kennedy and offers a luxurious experience with staff, four en-suite bathrooms, a billiard room, and a complete renovation. It’s even equipped with two swimming pools for guests to enjoy. So if you want to see the actual villa, make sure you plan your trip to Palermo!

The place is quite upscale, but it’s surprisingly affordable compared to the luxurious resorts featured on TV shows. Instead of paying several thousand dollars a night like you would at those resorts, rooms here go for just a few hundred. If you can’t afford that or simply want to visit without staying overnight, you can take a tour of the property for only €15 per adult. Children between 10 and 17 can enter for €10, while kids under nine pay €5. And if you have a pet dog, feel free to bring it along as long as it’s on a leash.

The Castello degli Schiavi

The Castle of the Slaves, located 10 miles south of San Domenico Palace in Sicily, was renowned long before “The White Lotus” filmed there, primarily because of its association with “The Godfather.” This castle served as a sanctuary for Michael Corleone, portrayed by Al Pacino, when he fled America following his first assassination. Remarkably, it’s also the location where Michael met his end in “The Godfather III,” making it an essential destination for cinema enthusiasts.

In the third episode of “The White Lotus” Season 2, characters Albie (Adam DiMarco), Dominic (Michael Imperioli), Bert (F. Murray Abraham), and Portia (Haley Lu Richardson) explore the castle. The show is filled with references to “The Godfather”. If you’d like to visit this location personally, private events can be arranged at the castle, or you can schedule a private tour by appointment only.

Villa Elena

The opulent Italian villa belonging to Quentin (Tom Hollander), a property that drains his finances and he yearns to discard, is known as Villa Elena. Upon exploring the estate, Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge, who abstains from watching “The White Lotus”) casually remarks its high price tag, and she was not too far off the mark – its owner invested significantly in both time and money for its acquisition, renovation, and upkeep.

In reality, Villa Elena is owned by Jacques Garcia, a renowned fashion designer who has transformed this 17th-century monastery into a tranquil getaway. Unlike Quentin, the actual owner has successfully turned it into both a personal haven for him and his friends, as well as a profitable business. If you’re interested in experiencing Villa Elena firsthand, you can rent the property for approximately $3,150 per night, though the exact cost may vary based on your arrival date and length of stay.

The Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is the main hotel location in Season 3

In Season 3 of “The White Lotus,” the story unfolds in Thailand, with various hotels representing the Thai equivalent of the White Lotus. As per tradition, a Four Seasons property was utilized, primarily filming at the resort located on Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island. The show features the resort’s lavish pool villas, infinity pool, and fitness facilities. The scenic pathways meandering through the tropical resort are also depicted. Notably, the breakfast and lunch scenes were filmed here. A night at a serenity pool villa starts from $1,959, while a five-room suite costs over $15,000.

To craft their dream hotel for the screen, the film crew also explored hidden gems of luxury hotels and combined these locations in post-production editing. Among the other hotels incorporated were:

– Cape Pawna Hotel in Phuket, utilized for a specific scene;
– Villa Amaravida in Phuket, serving as Gary’s (Jon Gries) villa;

The cast resided at Siri Sala Private Thai Villa in Bangkok during filming, which was also featured as the exterior shots of Sritala (Lek Patravadi)’s and Jim Hollinger’s (Scott Glenn) mansion. A night’s stay at Siri Sala will set you back by approximately $4,700, while Cape Pawna charges between $4,000 to $12,000 a night, and the Villa Amaravida in Phuket ranges from $2,000 to $14,000 per night.

Season 3 also used a chain of luxury hotels founded in Thailand

In the third season of “The White Lotus,” producers didn’t just rely on a Four Seasons resort; they also filmed at various locations belonging to Anantara, a luxury hotel chain established in Thailand in 2001. While Anantara is quite recognized in Asia, it might not be as familiar to Americans (yet, this could certainly change post “The White Lotus” Season 3).

As a devoted fan, I can attest to the thrill of stepping into Anantara Bophut Koh Samui, a place that mirrors the enchanting White Lotus hotel lobby on screen. The chandelier and picture frames you see in the show are authentic features here, adding an extra layer of immersion. Notably, the numerous monkey statues scattered around the premises are not just props but permanent fixtures. Moreover, the library transformed into a luxurious jewelry store for that dramatic heist scene is accessible to visitors. And let’s not forget the outdoor spa huts used in the series, several of which still stand today, offering a unique blend of reality and screen magic.

At present, these suites are priced at $190 per night. For those with a higher budget, the hotel offers lavish rooms that can cost up to $744 a night for a two-bedroom suite featuring private pool access. This price doesn’t cover in-room dining, meals at the restaurant, or other extra amenities, but it could be the most affordable method to indulge in the luxury lifestyle reminiscent of “White Lotus”.

Two more Anantara hotels were used

Have you ever wished to indulge in the luxurious spa experiences depicted at the Wellness Sanctuary in Season 3 of “The White Lotus”? If so, you’re in luck! You can book a relaxing afternoon at the very same spa, offering a range of tantalizing treatments. Interestingly, The Anantara Mai Khao Phuket’s spa was utilized for many of those Wellness Sanctuary scenes, and it also boasts stunning outdoor lagoons that were featured in the show. Remarkably, even if you’re not a hotel guest, you can still enjoy this spa! Prices for treatments vary based on their duration and type; for instance, an Anantara Signature Massage typically costs approximately 6,000 Thai baht for 90 minutes (all fees are payable in Thai baht).

Ultimately, you’ll find the White Lotus bar nestled within the Singing Bird Lounge at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort. This captivating hideaway perched in a 120-year-old tree canopy promises breathtaking vistas of Koh Samui. The lounge, renowned for its cocktails, boasts a unique collection tailored to the locale, with each drink named after native birds that suit its tropical, treetop setting. However, they’ve introduced a special creation called the Anantara White Lotus Mirage, celebrating the HBO original series.

Rosewood Phuket’s Ta Khai restaurant

Most of the dinner scenes in the show were shot at the Ta Khai restaurant within the Rosewood Hotel Phuket. Despite the chaotic antics happening off the tables, the food remains visually appealing. The Cafe Del Mar sequences were also filmed at this Rosewood location, which boasts an authentic atmosphere. According to their website, the restaurant features repurposed materials that evoke a rustic Thai village feel and offers a responsible, genuine Thai cuisine menu.

As a gamer, I’d say: “Chill vibes all around at Ta Khai, where they sling some amazing Southern Thai dishes straight from the heart. It’s more than just eating; it’s an experience with every bite thoughtfully prepared. The prices might be a bit steep compared to other Thai joints, but remember, you’re getting top-notch chef skills and an unbeatable view. And yes, Cafe Del Mar is the real deal – a spot for dining, drinking, and dancing under the stars. But don’t forget to reserve your table in advance!

The Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok

I’ll never forget that captivating dining moment when Frank (Sam Rockwell) shared a meal over cocktails with Rick (Walton Goggins), an experience I can now relive in my mind, thanks to its filming at The Bamboo Bar in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Bangkok. Unlike the open-air charm of Ta Khai, this venue offers a distinct ambiance—dimly lit, adorned with vintage 1950s decor, and exuding an air of sophistication that transports me right back to that era.

Of course, The Bamboo Bar (reputed as Thailand’s first jazz bar, according to the Mandarin Hotel) is welcoming guests. Drop by and you’ll get to enjoy the smooth melodies of jazz or the lively beats of blues music played by our resident bands. If you look carefully, you might spot a photograph of Mike White, the creator of “White Lotus,” on the bar’s walls.

In Bangkok, the lobby of the Mandarin Oriental hotel was utilized as part of the Bangkok Hotel’s lobby in the show “The White Lotus” Season 3. However, it’s essential to note that this isn’t the only accommodation in the Thai capital that made an appearance in the series. A significant scene involving Rick and Sritala took place at the Michelin-recognized Royal Osha restaurant in Bangkok. Additionally, scenes were filmed at the Sing Sing Theater in Bangkok, which was transformed into a sex club for the show’s setting.

Wat Pu Khao Thong Monastery and the Dusit Dheva Cultural Center in Koh Samui

In the television series “The White Lotus,” numerous characters grapple with their spiritual needs, making it fitting that Season 3 introduces a Buddhist monastery into the storyline. Notably, filming for both the interior and exterior scenes of this monastery took place at the Wat Pu Khao Thong Monastery in Koh Samui. Moreover, the monastery’s tranquil garden can be found within the Dusit Dheva Cultural Center, which is also situated on the beautiful island of Koh Samui.

If you’re interested in a personal journey of cultural, spiritual, or emotional growth, Wat Pu Khao Thong is open for you to visit at no cost. You can ascend the temple to hear monks chanting, and then venture out to explore the ancient Ayutthaya ruins nearby. Additionally, don’t forget to check out the Dusit Dheva Cultural Center, a public park that offers a variety of attractions such as temples, sculptures, and botanical gardens.

Beaches, bays, and harbors

Multiple Thai beaches were featured in “The White Lotus” Season 3, not all being located on Koh Samui. The beach where the Full Moon Party scenes were filmed is Haad Rin Beach, situated on the nearby island of Koh Phangan. Despite its scenic beauty, it’s important to mention that Haad Rin Beach no longer holds real-life Full Moon Parties due to COVID-19 restrictions. As of now, they haven’t fully resumed since then.

In different locations, certain scenes were shot at Choeng Mon Beach on Koh Samui (including portions of the Full Moon Party sequences) and Ya Nui Beach in Phuket. Boating sequences took place at the Phuket Yacht Haven Marina, Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park on Koh Samui, and the stunning Phang Na Bay, which gained prominence through the classic James Bond film “The Man with a Golden Gun.” These locations are accessible to the public, although there is a fee for entering national parks in Thailand, with foreigners typically paying more under the dual pricing system.

Other White Lotus Season 3 shooting locations you can visit in real life

In my gaming world, I stumbled upon some captivating streetscapes in “The White Lotus” Season 3 that were magically transported from the Fisherman’s Village Night Market in Thanon Bophut, Koh Samui. This bustling marketplace, the longest on Koh Samui, is a vibrant hub that’s open round-the-clock for tourists like me. Here, I could shop for groceries and fresh produce day or night.

Just a stone’s throw away, I chanced upon the Snake Farm Koh Samui, where they filmed the mesmerizing snake charming scene we saw in the show. Every day, these talented performers put on a show for a small fee, making it an unmissable attraction for anyone passing by.

In Koh Samui, The Magical Weed Garden Lounge was used as a substitute for Aleksei’s (Julian Kostov) apartment. Just like his apartment, it is open to all visitors, offering food, drinks, and entertainment options. Additionally, it functions as a dispensary. Moving on from Koh Samui, enthusiasts might be interested in checking out Bangla Boxing Stadium located at Patong Beach, Phuket, which staged various Muay Thai boxing matches. Fight nights take place at the stadium every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

2025-06-26 00:32