Fairmont vs Four Seasons (with 2 little kids)

Question

My husband and I, with our 2 kids (ages 3 and 1) are looking for a luxury family friendly resort for our first time to Hawaii. Our kids are still little, so they don’t need the chaos of Grand Wailea, but a small waterside and good pool is perfect for their age. We prefer calm and quiet vs a hustling and bustling resort. We want it to feel upscale but also family friendly. Leaning towards Fairmont because of the suites, and also because I didn’t read amazing reviews on the FS (specifically the Maui property) but open to opinions!

Answer

For a family with very young children, both the Fairmont Kea Lani and the Four Seasons Maui are top-tier luxury options, but there are some differences that could make one more suitable for your family than the other.

Fairmont Kea Lani:

All-suite property: This is a big plus for families with toddlers, as having separate sleeping areas for kids and parents is very convenient.
Spacious grounds and calm pools: Fairmont is generally quieter than Grand Wailea, with a family-friendly pool area that is smaller, shallower, and safer for little kids.
Family amenities: Offers kid-friendly dining options, children’s programs, and easy beach access. The calm lagoon area is suitable for toddlers.
Upscale yet relaxed vibe: Less bustling than some other large resorts, giving a sense of exclusivity while still being welcoming to families.

Four Seasons Maui:

Luxury and service: Renowned for exceptional service, beautiful grounds, and fine dining, but some families note the resort can feel more adult-focused.
Pools and kids’ options: While there is a pool and kids’ program, the main pool is large and can be busy, sometimes not as ideal for toddlers who need calm water and shallow play areas.
Atmosphere: Four Seasons tends to be very upscale, sometimes leading to less of a “casual family” feel compared to Fairmont.

Summary Recommendation:

Given the ages of your children (3 and 1) and your desire for calm, quiet, family-friendly accommodations with spacious suites, the Fairmont Kea Lani may be the better choice for your family. Its all-suite layout, shallow pools, and relaxed atmosphere make it very practical and enjoyable for young children.
Four Seasons is an excellent property overall but may feel more adult-oriented and less ideal for toddlers needing calm waters and flexible spaces.

Ultimately, both resorts are beautiful, but for a first-time Hawaii family trip with very young children, the Fairmont’s suite configuration and family-oriented amenities make it a strong option.

Fairmont vs Four Seasons (with 2 little kids)

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