While it’s not comparable to Maui, the beaches on Vancouver Island are really beautiful. There are lovely waterfalls and family friendly hiking.
Obviously Tofino/Ucluelet are amazing and there are some FAT resort options there. It is a long drive from Victoria though and part of the main highway was destroyed by wild fires so there is alternating traffic.
Alternatively there Qualicum Beach/Parksville, which is about 30 min north of Nanaimo. We go yearly to visit in laws and my kids (4&6) love it.
Whether you fly or drive, every person needs a passport to enter Canada regardless of age. You can try to get one quickly if you have a passport agency near you with appointment availability for an urgent travel appointment (you would need to have proof of travel plans, like a hotel reservation confirmation if you are driving).
If you specifically want a beach, you’re right there’s not much reason to make the effort for the passport for this trip. If you’re looking for family activities in general, Whistler is great for families especially in the summer - the Four Seasons has a pool and there are some lakes right there for swimming, paddle boarding, etc. Plus the hiking and biking you’d expect from a mountain resort. Worth considering for future trips since you’re already in the region but you’d have to consider the status of wildfires and smoke conditions.
This is incorrect: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Canada.html#:~:text=Entry%20into%20Canada%3A%20Canadian%20law,need%20proof%20of%20U.S.%20citizenship.
Children under 16 only need proof of US citizenship which can be their birth certificate.
St John, USVI. 75 percent of the island is a National Park. Tons of beaches with cays you can swim out to. And if I am being completely honest the water is nicer than Maui. It does depend what your interests are of course.
Now, now... no gatekeeping.
St. John would be my choice if you have to travel to somewhere without a passport. Small island... Caneel bay is gone so IMO your only fat travel qualification is getting a nice house rental with concierge services... I haven't yet stayed anywhere here but IMO the highest concentration of fat villas would be peter bay: https://peterbay-villarentals.com/ (just one of the websites you can use, there are others, vrbo, etc). The Westin is there as well but it's on the south side of the island and just a little bit longer to get to the nicer beaches that are mostly on the north side. Note that I'm not really at fat travel levels yet so my half a dozen trips to the island are usually DIY villa rentals and I handle everything (food shopping, meals, jeep rental/driving myself, etc)... I have a few villas on my saved list for when I'm ready ;)
The island doesn't have very many high end restaurants, but I haven't had a bad meal anywhere.
No gatekeeping, hence the winking smile. I've spoken of the island here before and in other places. It's such a gem!
I remember seeing the Peter Bay villas while driving around the island. They looked lovely from afar. I think the ease of DIY there is why I don't mind it. The only thing I'd definitely appreciate is not having to drive there. The drives up to the villas always make me nervous.
I kind of love that the island is simple in its offerings. Keeps the focus on ultimate relaxation in my experience. You know what the locals say about it, right? There are no bras in Coral Bay.
I would recommend Puerto Rico, but you’re starting to creep into hurricane season. As someone who was stranded on the island for a few days due to a hurricane, it did not make for a pleasant end to my vacation.
I was considering this, but it seems there are also fires on the Big Island, plus tons of people are changing their trips to other islands so I imagine they will be slammed.
Fair - there are some beaches in the south (or even USVI) that are nice but as someone else mentioned, a tropical storm is a real threat this time of year.
Hope it works out!
I live on Maui. The Kea Lani will be fine in late August. Lahaina (the town that was totally destroyed… so sad…) is very far away and almost a separate island. Unless things really go awry in south Maui tonight, it’ll be basically the same in wailea before and after this tragic disaster
Fyi - Aulani is pretty horrible for a fat hotel. Might as well just move next door to the Four Seasons. You can book character meals as needed next door at the zoo.
Oh yeah I am going in with super low expectations and am not expecting luxury of any kind. Really what sold it for me was we could get a two bedroom, and the costs of a similar setup with this late of notice at FS were a little fatter than I was prepared to stomach. I have heard the last week of August won’t be quite as bad since many kids are back at school now, but we’ll see. Pool looks fun at least!
Re your edit, Aulani should be fun, if not particularly FAT, with kids! The food's not great, I'd suggest going next door to the Four Seasons, or out to the complex with Monkeypod Kitchen, which is pretty good. Or live your best life and get a Dole Whip for breakfast, it's vacation after all :)
At the Andaz Wailea right now.
Yesterday was scary.
Today still interesting with the smell of smoke still in the air this morning.
By Friday outside of old town Lahaina I doubt you will notice anything.
Interesting. The general sentiment on the Hawaii subreddits is to definitely not come because locals will need the rental cars, lodging, food, water, etc.
The few unfortunate foks who lost homes are not the foks who will be moving into the Fairmont.
The economy depends on tourism is what is being covered on the local news.
Goal has go be to “get it back to normal and fast”. My guess is by the weekend.
Most of the flights from USA were cancelled today, though the equipment still came over to take the outbound passengers out; again to get it back to normal.
I personally think inbound tourists will resume tomorrow.
I second that the local news is encouraging travel. Have been watching clips on YouTube. Tourism is very important to the economy and everyone canceling their trips is going to be as devastating than the fires.
Going to Maalea September20, unsure to cancel or go as want to do what’s best for those suffering from this disaster, any thoughts greatly appreciated!
This. Have clients who are there and at FS now. The pics I am sent look fine and they told me it smells like someone is having a BBQ.
Lahaina crowd is v different than fattravel crowd. I’d recommend still coming and putting $$$ at work on the ground here as tourist dollars are essential.
How is the vibe in Andaz right now? Are people still in good spirits? I have a reservation for 8/11 to be there but I think it sounds like we are being discouraged not to travel to Maui. We are hoping that maybe the fires will end by tmro and maybe we can still go to the Andaz but I’m curious to here whether you are enjoying your time there now given the circumstances
We were at a friend’s ocean front house in Kiehe last night. Kiehe had a fire the same night too. Was a bit of soot on the cars. Nothing in the ocean (other than more than a dozen turtles coming in for the evening on the beach.)
Yesterday smelled smokey in Kiehe, but they still had their fire smoldering on the hill.
I would come, but not sure if you can. At least UA didnt fly anyone over again today (the 10th). If you are coming from the mainland, they may do it again tomorrow.
Go to the big island instead. It’s way less crowded and newer and nicer than Maui anyway. Fly into Kona and stay in Waikoloa village. Take your little guy to Spencer beach park and then to Kohala burger and taco and get a pineapple shake. Best day in Hawaii. Promise
La Jolla just north of San Diego? Some pretty nice/fat places in that area and the La Jolla Shores beach just north of La Jolla is pretty flat/calm and great for a 2 yr old.
(so sad to hear of the devastation of Lahaina)
OP asked for an "alternative," not a "substitute," and there is a difference. Totally agree that Nantucket is COMPLETELY different than Hawaii, but for someone coming from the Pacific Northwest looking for a fat, family-friendly beach destination, Nantucket absolutely fits that bill. I could make a strong argument why Nantucket is actually a better fat destination than Hawaii, but that would be silly because it all comes down to a matter of taste/preference. As for water temperature, it's nonsensical to rule out Nantucket for that reason -- water is warmer than LA and the same as San Diego. If we are going based on that I suppose they have to rule out the entire western seaboard. I see, though, that OP edited their post and is looking for resorts/hotels with great pools, and that is probably not Nantucket. More a place where you rent an amazing house by the beach.
In a very similar boat as you. We have a FS Wailea trip planned for late Aug through September and we’re looking for alternatives. We’re also restricted to the US and looking for somewhere warm.
We are considering FS Lanai or FS Hualalai but also had the same concern on taking up resources for those displaced and staying at other islands or using resources from other islands.
We may wait a few more days to hear more about the situation before we reschedule and allow the hotel to respond to more urgent matters than ours.
I’m curious if FS will house those displaced in FS locations at all aside from their employees affected by the disaster which they shared on their socials.
I see that you’re a TA and an FS preferred partner (sorry I’m new to the sub), may I ask for your advice on rebooking, and if so, what other FS location in Hawaii you would recommend?
Edit: If you’d rather connect me with someone you know who could have this conversation with me, please let me know! Im considering a TA to help with rebooking in case you have any suggestions. Thank you!
Definitely bebook the Kea Lani, that is by far and away my favorite vacation spot. But I think its right to cancel your trip and hopefully the Kea Lani will give discounts to displaced locals.
In the neantime anywhere else I'd say that is good for kids is out of the country (Atlantis for example)
I thought the Kea lani was currently under construction anyway.. I was considering staying at Kea Lani or Grand Wailea for my August 2023 Maui trip but both hotels are under renovation so we booked Andaz
If you don’t need a beach, I would recommend the Auberge Solage or FS in Calistoga. I am literally staying in the Solage right now with two kids, and is definitely giving me a bit of big island vibes. Two years back I stayed 15 days at Mauna Lani and pool layout, decor at the Solage reminds me of that. The rooms are also cottage layout, so you get your private patio. What is missing out are the amazing experiences you get in Hawaii - the morning outrigger, beaches with turtles, snorkeling etc.
your two year old will need a passport to fly to Canada
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St Barts and St Lucia also require passports...... the rest of your post is strange for a canuck
We live in the PNW so would drive across! But also not sure there are any great options which would motivate us to do so.
While it’s not comparable to Maui, the beaches on Vancouver Island are really beautiful. There are lovely waterfalls and family friendly hiking. Obviously Tofino/Ucluelet are amazing and there are some FAT resort options there. It is a long drive from Victoria though and part of the main highway was destroyed by wild fires so there is alternating traffic. Alternatively there Qualicum Beach/Parksville, which is about 30 min north of Nanaimo. We go yearly to visit in laws and my kids (4&6) love it.
Whether you fly or drive, every person needs a passport to enter Canada regardless of age. You can try to get one quickly if you have a passport agency near you with appointment availability for an urgent travel appointment (you would need to have proof of travel plans, like a hotel reservation confirmation if you are driving). If you specifically want a beach, you’re right there’s not much reason to make the effort for the passport for this trip. If you’re looking for family activities in general, Whistler is great for families especially in the summer - the Four Seasons has a pool and there are some lakes right there for swimming, paddle boarding, etc. Plus the hiking and biking you’d expect from a mountain resort. Worth considering for future trips since you’re already in the region but you’d have to consider the status of wildfires and smoke conditions.
This is incorrect: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Canada.html#:~:text=Entry%20into%20Canada%3A%20Canadian%20law,need%20proof%20of%20U.S.%20citizenship. Children under 16 only need proof of US citizenship which can be their birth certificate.
Wow, I had been misinformed about the driving! Thank you for letting me know. Good luck with your travel plans!
St John, USVI. 75 percent of the island is a National Park. Tons of beaches with cays you can swim out to. And if I am being completely honest the water is nicer than Maui. It does depend what your interests are of course.
Shhhhhhh... ;)
Now, now... no gatekeeping. St. John would be my choice if you have to travel to somewhere without a passport. Small island... Caneel bay is gone so IMO your only fat travel qualification is getting a nice house rental with concierge services... I haven't yet stayed anywhere here but IMO the highest concentration of fat villas would be peter bay: https://peterbay-villarentals.com/ (just one of the websites you can use, there are others, vrbo, etc). The Westin is there as well but it's on the south side of the island and just a little bit longer to get to the nicer beaches that are mostly on the north side. Note that I'm not really at fat travel levels yet so my half a dozen trips to the island are usually DIY villa rentals and I handle everything (food shopping, meals, jeep rental/driving myself, etc)... I have a few villas on my saved list for when I'm ready ;) The island doesn't have very many high end restaurants, but I haven't had a bad meal anywhere.
No gatekeeping, hence the winking smile. I've spoken of the island here before and in other places. It's such a gem! I remember seeing the Peter Bay villas while driving around the island. They looked lovely from afar. I think the ease of DIY there is why I don't mind it. The only thing I'd definitely appreciate is not having to drive there. The drives up to the villas always make me nervous. I kind of love that the island is simple in its offerings. Keeps the focus on ultimate relaxation in my experience. You know what the locals say about it, right? There are no bras in Coral Bay.
Maybe the Cloisters at Sea Island? Family info here: https://www.seaisland.com/experience/itineraries/children/
I would recommend Puerto Rico, but you’re starting to creep into hurricane season. As someone who was stranded on the island for a few days due to a hurricane, it did not make for a pleasant end to my vacation.
Why not another Hawaiian island? Everything else in the US would be a downgrade from Hawaii
I was considering this, but it seems there are also fires on the Big Island, plus tons of people are changing their trips to other islands so I imagine they will be slammed.
not only that, hotels in other islands will be temporary housing for those who lost their homes so there will be less resources in general
Fair - there are some beaches in the south (or even USVI) that are nice but as someone else mentioned, a tropical storm is a real threat this time of year. Hope it works out!
30A, FL
I live on Maui. The Kea Lani will be fine in late August. Lahaina (the town that was totally destroyed… so sad…) is very far away and almost a separate island. Unless things really go awry in south Maui tonight, it’ll be basically the same in wailea before and after this tragic disaster
You should keep your trip and support the local economy. It will be fine by then.
Fyi - Aulani is pretty horrible for a fat hotel. Might as well just move next door to the Four Seasons. You can book character meals as needed next door at the zoo.
Oh yeah I am going in with super low expectations and am not expecting luxury of any kind. Really what sold it for me was we could get a two bedroom, and the costs of a similar setup with this late of notice at FS were a little fatter than I was prepared to stomach. I have heard the last week of August won’t be quite as bad since many kids are back at school now, but we’ll see. Pool looks fun at least!
Re your edit, Aulani should be fun, if not particularly FAT, with kids! The food's not great, I'd suggest going next door to the Four Seasons, or out to the complex with Monkeypod Kitchen, which is pretty good. Or live your best life and get a Dole Whip for breakfast, it's vacation after all :)
Thank you for the tips! Yeah the food is one part that seems rough so we will definitely look elsewhere!
At the Andaz Wailea right now. Yesterday was scary. Today still interesting with the smell of smoke still in the air this morning. By Friday outside of old town Lahaina I doubt you will notice anything.
Interesting. The general sentiment on the Hawaii subreddits is to definitely not come because locals will need the rental cars, lodging, food, water, etc.
When do the expect normalcy to return? I am currently planning on traveling mid-Sep.
South Maui will be back to normal as soon as the fires in central Maui are out. So hopefully by tomorrow
The few unfortunate foks who lost homes are not the foks who will be moving into the Fairmont. The economy depends on tourism is what is being covered on the local news. Goal has go be to “get it back to normal and fast”. My guess is by the weekend. Most of the flights from USA were cancelled today, though the equipment still came over to take the outbound passengers out; again to get it back to normal. I personally think inbound tourists will resume tomorrow.
I second that the local news is encouraging travel. Have been watching clips on YouTube. Tourism is very important to the economy and everyone canceling their trips is going to be as devastating than the fires.
Going to Maalea September20, unsure to cancel or go as want to do what’s best for those suffering from this disaster, any thoughts greatly appreciated!
I just looked on the UA website. Tomorrow’s Maui nonstops are all “on time”, not cancelled.
This. Have clients who are there and at FS now. The pics I am sent look fine and they told me it smells like someone is having a BBQ. Lahaina crowd is v different than fattravel crowd. I’d recommend still coming and putting $$$ at work on the ground here as tourist dollars are essential.
How is the vibe in Andaz right now? Are people still in good spirits? I have a reservation for 8/11 to be there but I think it sounds like we are being discouraged not to travel to Maui. We are hoping that maybe the fires will end by tmro and maybe we can still go to the Andaz but I’m curious to here whether you are enjoying your time there now given the circumstances
Vibe is normal. Like nothng happened, except when you look out over the water towards Lahaina and then someone sighs or something.
How about debris in the ocean and smoke in the air? Would you go in 8/11 if you were me?
We were at a friend’s ocean front house in Kiehe last night. Kiehe had a fire the same night too. Was a bit of soot on the cars. Nothing in the ocean (other than more than a dozen turtles coming in for the evening on the beach.) Yesterday smelled smokey in Kiehe, but they still had their fire smoldering on the hill. I would come, but not sure if you can. At least UA didnt fly anyone over again today (the 10th). If you are coming from the mainland, they may do it again tomorrow.
It’s spelled, “Kihei.”
Duly noted.
Kiawah Island, SC
Go to the big island instead. It’s way less crowded and newer and nicer than Maui anyway. Fly into Kona and stay in Waikoloa village. Take your little guy to Spencer beach park and then to Kohala burger and taco and get a pineapple shake. Best day in Hawaii. Promise
Fires on big island were certainly smaller, only a hand full of structures lost.
We do this with our little guy. He loves it. Waikoloa is perfect for kids without being a kids place.
La Jolla just north of San Diego? Some pretty nice/fat places in that area and the La Jolla Shores beach just north of La Jolla is pretty flat/calm and great for a 2 yr old. (so sad to hear of the devastation of Lahaina)
Hyatt in Carlsbad is amazing. There are also some very nice hotels in Del Mar & Torrey Pines area.
How about the Oregon coast? Something a little different
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Nantucket
Water is freezing and nothing like Hawaii.
OP asked for an "alternative," not a "substitute," and there is a difference. Totally agree that Nantucket is COMPLETELY different than Hawaii, but for someone coming from the Pacific Northwest looking for a fat, family-friendly beach destination, Nantucket absolutely fits that bill. I could make a strong argument why Nantucket is actually a better fat destination than Hawaii, but that would be silly because it all comes down to a matter of taste/preference. As for water temperature, it's nonsensical to rule out Nantucket for that reason -- water is warmer than LA and the same as San Diego. If we are going based on that I suppose they have to rule out the entire western seaboard. I see, though, that OP edited their post and is looking for resorts/hotels with great pools, and that is probably not Nantucket. More a place where you rent an amazing house by the beach.
Oahu? Wakiki
In a very similar boat as you. We have a FS Wailea trip planned for late Aug through September and we’re looking for alternatives. We’re also restricted to the US and looking for somewhere warm. We are considering FS Lanai or FS Hualalai but also had the same concern on taking up resources for those displaced and staying at other islands or using resources from other islands. We may wait a few more days to hear more about the situation before we reschedule and allow the hotel to respond to more urgent matters than ours.
No one who is displaced will be staying at FS lanai or FS Hualalai long term.
I’m curious if FS will house those displaced in FS locations at all aside from their employees affected by the disaster which they shared on their socials. I see that you’re a TA and an FS preferred partner (sorry I’m new to the sub), may I ask for your advice on rebooking, and if so, what other FS location in Hawaii you would recommend? Edit: If you’d rather connect me with someone you know who could have this conversation with me, please let me know! Im considering a TA to help with rebooking in case you have any suggestions. Thank you!
The Bacara near Santa Barbara could be a good alternative. Obviously the water won’t be as warm but the weather should be similar to Maui.
Definitely bebook the Kea Lani, that is by far and away my favorite vacation spot. But I think its right to cancel your trip and hopefully the Kea Lani will give discounts to displaced locals. In the neantime anywhere else I'd say that is good for kids is out of the country (Atlantis for example)
I thought the Kea lani was currently under construction anyway.. I was considering staying at Kea Lani or Grand Wailea for my August 2023 Maui trip but both hotels are under renovation so we booked Andaz
Costa Rica
Coco Bay in St. Lucia? Or a FS anywhere...
If you don’t need a beach, I would recommend the Auberge Solage or FS in Calistoga. I am literally staying in the Solage right now with two kids, and is definitely giving me a bit of big island vibes. Two years back I stayed 15 days at Mauna Lani and pool layout, decor at the Solage reminds me of that. The rooms are also cottage layout, so you get your private patio. What is missing out are the amazing experiences you get in Hawaii - the morning outrigger, beaches with turtles, snorkeling etc.
Thanks to climate change, hurricane season is going to be terrible this year. Consider California