When it comes to gift giving, we all want the same thing: to give something that matters. Not just another box under the tree, but a memory in the making. Something that lingers long after the paper’s torn and the twinkly lights have dimmed.

That’s where �鶹��Ƶ comes in. This holiday season, instead of guessing someone’s size or hoping they don’t already own it, you can give them something they’ll never forget – a breathtaking flight over the Pacific Northwest. Whether they’re an aviation buff, a nature-lover, a curious traveler, or someone who just needs a little lift, there’s a Kenmore experience that fits.

For the Dreamers: A Gift Certificate for Takeoff

Not sure which adventure to choose? Let them decide.

A is as flexible as it is unforgettable. It could be a floatplane lift off from Lake Union with the city sparkling below. A slow drift over the San Juan Islands, weaving through misty inlets and glassy waters. Or a scenic loop around Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens, where scale and silence meet in midair.

The beauty of it? No expiration date, no pressure. They choose the flight, the timing, the destination. You just get the credit for gifting a moment that turns into a story.

Gift certificates can be used toward:

• Scenic Flights: From city loops to islands exploration
• Scheduled Routes: San Juan Island, Orcas, Lopez, Victoria, Lower BC / Desolation Sound
• : For the ones who’ve always wanted to fly

You can pick one up at our Lake Union or Lake Washington terminals or order one by phone. Add a from the shop, and you’ve got a great little bundle to tuck under the tree.

For the Romantics: A Private Valentine’s Day Flight

Here’s a secret: the most romantic gifts aren’t things, they’re shared moments. The kind you talk about long after, when someone says, “Remember when we…”

With �鶹��Ƶ charter flights, you can whisk your person away in the most cinematic way possible by lifting off from the water or runway and heading toward wherever your hearts desire. A private beach. A snowy lodge. A winery in the Walla Walla sun. Even a surprise dinner date in Victoria or a weekend ski run in Sun Valley.

Kenmore’s charter team can help you dream it up and bring it to life. You pick the plane (seaplane or land plane), set the schedule, and chase the horizon together. It’s luxury, yes, but it’s also personal. And it’s unforgettable.

For the Curious: An Introductory Flight Lesson

Some people don’t just want to see the world, they want to understand how it moves. For them, there’s the .

This is a hands-on, eyes-wide-open, heart-racing experience where they’re not just along for the ride, they’re in the pilot’s seat. With a highly qualified flight instructor by their side, they’ll learn the basics of flying a Cessna 172 or Piper Super Cub and actually take the controls. Over Lake Washington. In a real plane. No flight school necessary, just curiosity and a sense of adventure.

The lesson runs about 30 minutes, and includes takeoffs, landings, and the kind of thrill that lasts a lifetime. It’s an ideal gift for future pilots, thrill seekers, or anyone who’s ever looked up at a plane and thought, What if that were me?

You can purchase a flight lesson outright or apply a gift certificate toward it. Minimum age is 15, and weight limits apply. But the memories? Boundless.

What We’re Really Giving… Is Time

Here’s the truth of it: most of us don’t need more stuff. What we’re all craving, quietly, is time. Time with the people we love. Time to feel something real. Time away from the glow of our phones and the crush of our calendars.

That’s what this is. A floatplane ticket isn’t just a gift, it’s a doorway. To stillness. To joy. To a very good story.

So this year, skip the predictable. Give them something unexpected. Give them the sky.

How to Gift a �鶹��Ƶ Flight

are available at Kenmore’s Lake Union and Lake Washington terminals, or by phone. They never expire, and can be used for scenic flights, scheduled trips, intro lessons, or toward a private charter.

To start planning something custom, whether for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or a just-because, reach the �鶹��Ƶ Charter team at 866-359-2842 or charters@kenmoreair.com.

Feature photo credit: Alex Diaz ()

The post �鶹��Ƶ’s 2025 Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on kenmoreair.com.

There’s no better way to start the holiday season than with a quick winter getaway to Victoria, British Columbia, a city that shines brightest when decorated with festive lights, cozy charm and holiday spirit. With �鶹��Ƶ’s 45-minute trip from Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, you’ll save the time-consuming drive or ferry ride and arrive right in the center of the city. No cars, no stress, just stunning views and instant holiday magic from the moment your seaplane lands.

After landing directly in the picturesque Inner Harbour, everything you need is within walking distance. Victoria is one of the most walkable cities in the Pacific Northwest, and during the holidays, the streets are transformed into a winter wonderland, full of shining lights, beautiful architecture and whimsical gardens.

After landing directly in the picturesque Inner Harbour, everything you need is within walking distance. Victoria is one of the most walkable cities in the Pacific Northwest, and during the holidays, the streets are transformed into a winter wonderland, full of shining lights, beautiful architecture and whimsical gardens.

Afternoon Tea at the Empress

In the center of the Inner Harbour, only a 5-minute walk from the seaplane dock, is the historic . Often referred to as “Canada’s Castle on the Coast”, The Empress overlooks the harbor and is an one of the most notable landmarks of the Victoria skyline. Inside, the world-famous offers one of the city’s most beloved traditions, a cozy yet elegant afternoon indulgence that’s been captivating guests since 1908.

Served in the hotel’s elegant Lobby Lounge, the tea experience has served guests since 1908, welcoming royalty, celebrities, and travelers from around the world. The experience features some of the finest luxury teas available that have been ethically sourced from the top 10% of producers and is unavailable in stores. The signature Empress Blend, crafted exclusively for the hotel, is a rich, aromatic combination of premium teas from around the world, offering a flavor as timeless as the setting itself. Each tiered tray showcases fresh, locally inspired treats from buttery scones with in-house strawberry jam to honey and lavender harvested from the hotel’s own rooftop garden. Elegant yet inviting, Tea at the Empress is a quintessential Victoria experience, and reservations are open to all, not just hotel guests.

Festive Cocktails at Q Bar

Before you go, make a stop at , located adjacent to the Tea room inside the Empress, for a specialty cocktail that perfectly captures the holiday season. Named one of Canada’s 50 Best Bars, Q Bar’s menu of festive cocktails as well as elegant mocktails for non-drinkers. With and a warm, twinkling ambiance, it’s the perfect way to toast the season.

Strolling & Shopping in Downtown Victoria

Once you’ve finished your tea and treats, bundle up for a walk around downtown Victoria. Head to Lower Johnson Street for locally owned boutiques and storefronts. Grab a perfectly brewed cup at or a signature box of chocolates from the iconic . Pop over to Market Square which offers artisan goods, handmade jewelry, and cozy winter wear, perfect for thoughtful gifts that capture the spirit of Victoria.

Festival of Trees at The Bay Centre

While you’re downtown, don’t miss the at The Bay Centre. This free, family-friendly event transforms the mall’s courtyard into an indoor forest of dazzling Christmas trees, each decorated by local businesses and organizations to celebrate community and creativity. Visitors can vote for their favorite tree, with all proceeds supporting BC Children’s Hospital.

Habitat Victoria 17th Annual Gingerbread Showcase

Another festive must-see is the , hosted by Habitat Victoria at the Hotel Grand Pacific from November 21 to January 4. Back for its 17th year, this event brings the community together to create and display incredible gingerbread creations, all in support of affordable housing for local families. Visitors of all ages can stroll through the exhibit, admire the creative designs, vote for their favorites, and make a donation. Bakers from all skill levels spend hours crafting imaginative and detailed gingerbread pieces, competing in categories like Best First Impression, Most Creative, and People’s Choice. It’s a sweet and heartwarming way to celebrate the season while supporting a good cause.

�鶹��Ƶ Magic of Christmas

A visit to Victoria during the holidays wouldn’t be complete without experiencing , a beloved annual tradition that transforms the world-famous gardens into a glowing winter wonderland. From December 1 through January 6, visitors can wander through more than a million twinkling lights and enjoy the charming displays inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas.

Between 5:00pm-9:00pm, you can enjoy the sounds of the holidays from the traditional carolers and festive brass band. In between songs, warm up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and a gingerbread cookie by the fire at The Coffee Shop, or indulge in a cozy sit-down meal at , located in Jennie Butchart’s former home. You also have the opportunity to lace up your ice skates and skate across the outdoor ice rink beneath strings of sparkling lights and experience a real Canadian winter experience. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or someone special, The �鶹��Ƶ’ Magic of Christmas is an unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays, blending nature’s quiet beauty with the joyful spirit of the season.

Victoria is the perfect holiday getaway for a quick 48-hour escape. From the luxury of Tea at the Empress and festive cocktails at Q Bar to strolling downtown for last-minute gifts, and enjoying seasonal celebrations at �鶹��Ƶ and the Gingerbread Showcase, there’s something for everyone. With �鶹��Ƶ’s short 45-minute flight from Seattle, the holiday magic of Victoria is just a plane ride away, making it easy to create unforgettable memories this holiday season.

The post Victoria’s Holiday Magic: Festive Lights, Tea, and a Flight to Remember appeared first on kenmoreair.com.

During the fall, the San Juan Islands transform into a serene and colorful getaway, creating a safe haven for those seeking peace, fresh air, and breathtaking scenery. Autumn brings a slower rhythm to island life, making it the perfect time to unwind, explore, and enjoy the quiet charm of the Pacific Northwest.

�鶹��Ƶ makes fall travel effortless and unforgettable with daily flights from Seattle on both seaplanes (through early or mid November depending on route) and �鶹��Ƶ Express wheeled planes. You can skip the drive and be on “island time” in under an hour, soaring over sparkling waterways, evergreen forests, and quaint coastal towns before landing directly at your island destination.

Whether you crave a romantic weekend, a restorative solo retreat, or a cozy getaway with loved ones, �鶹��Ƶ’s exclusive fly n’ stay travel packages make it effortless to plan the perfect island escape. Enjoy lower seasonal rates, fewer crowds, and a one of a kind getaway experience that showcase the heart and soul of island life reimagined for fall.

Why Travel in Fall?

• Fewer Crowds & Lower Rates: Shoulder season brings peace, privacy, and exceptional travel deals.
• Scenic Beauty: Gorgeous autumn scenery meets sparkling blue waters and misty mornings.
• Convenient Flights: Skip the long drive and fly direct from Seattle to your island retreat.
• Unique Fall Experiences: Seasonal dining, cozy spa days, whale watching, bonfires, and more.

Outlook Inn

Location: Orcas Island, WA

In the heart of Eastsound on Orcas Island, the encompasses the perfect Pacific Northwest fall escape. Located only 80 miles northwest of Seattle, Washington, your quiet, getaway is just a quick, scenic �鶹��Ƶ flight away. This island retreat blends the natural island beauty with refined comfort for travelers seeking restoration, connection, and elevated hospitality.

Wake to the gentle sounds of the Salish Sea, explore Eastsound’s local shops, or take in the crisp autumn air along the forested trails. The Outlook Inn offers spacious guestrooms and that combine modern amenities with coastal charm to make every moment on the island feel luxurious and relaxing. Fall on Orcas Island is also the perfect season for outdoor adventures. Enjoy hiking along scenic trails, kayaking in peaceful coves, or indulging in wellness activities that restore the body and soul.

The , the beloved on site restaurant is celebrated by the community for their local sourced, fresh ingredients to create their beloved brunch classics, vegetarian dishes, and handcrafted cocktails creating a tide-to-table dining experience. In the evening, enjoy seasonal dinners highlighting Pacific Northwest flavors with ingredients sourced from local vendors, complemented by an approachable wine list and local brews. Special offerings, including happy hour events and holiday dinners make dining at New Leaf Cafe a highlight of the island experience.

Fall on Orcas Island is the ideal season for quiet outdoor adventures. Enjoy the autumn scenery through the tranquil hiking trails or embrace wellness activities designed to refresh the body and mind. For those seeking a slower pace, Eastsound Village offers a variety of shops featuring handmade ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, and other artisan crafts, perfect for leisurely browsing and connecting with the island’s creative spirit. Seasonal highlights include the , held from the first weekend in October to the weekend before Thanksgiving, offering local foods, crafts, and a chance to experience community life on the island.

Outlook Inn “Best of Orcas Island” Package Includes: 

• 10% off your round-trip airfare on a �鶹��Ƶ Express flight from Seattle/Boeing Field to Eastsound on Orcas Island for two guests
• 20% off Outlook Inn’s Best Flexible Rate
• One $100 Dining Credit to
• Two (2) branded hand-crafted mugs from local ceramists, Forest Ceramic
• A copy of Ode: Orcas Island –  A glimpse of life, art, and the power of place on remote Orcas Island.

Doe Bay Resort and Retreats

Location: Orcas Island, WA

For a truly secluded and restorative fall escape, on Orcas Island offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, rustic charm, and curated relaxation. With the Fly, Stay, Save Doe Bay & Flight Package, you’ll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the calm, secluded beauty of Orcas Island.

Sitting on 38 acres of pristine waterfront, Doe Bay Resort offers rustic yet charming cabins, yurts, and campsites that provide the foundation for a perfect fall getaway. At what once was a secret gem of the Pacific Northwest, Doe Bay has a rich history and a devoted following of fans both locally and worldwide.

While the resort is open year-round, the fall and winter provide a particularly calm and secluded experience, making it the ideal time to embrace quiet reflection and reconnect with nature. Walk quietly to Meditation Point and take in the playful sea life or take a hike up Mt. Constitution for breathtaking panoramic views. A highlight amenity is the , which offers a variety of relaxation activities, including their soaking tubs, sauna, massages and yoga sessions, offering both communal and private rental options.

is a destination in itself, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many grown in Doe Bay’s very own organic garden. Every meal is crafted with care, often leaving guests declaring it the best dining experience on the island.

Doe Bay Fly, Stay, SAVE Package Includes:

• 10% off round-trip �鶹��Ƶ Express flight from Seattle’s Boeing Field to Eastsound on Orcas Island
• 30% off Doe Bay accommodations
• Complimentary private or communal spa session (subject to availability)
• $50 credit per person for the Doe Bay Cafe or General Store

Friday Harbor House

Escape to the serene beauty of San Juan Island with a stay at , perched on a bluff overlooking the marina and offering stunning views of the Salish Sea. With �鶹��Ƶ, your island getaway is effortless. You can choose between a wheeled plane flight from Boeing Field or a seasonal seaplane flight from Seattle/Lake Union or Kenmore/Lake Washington to start your island adventure in comfort and style.

Whether arriving by seaplane or wheeled plane, you’ll enjoy a seamless, stress-free journey that sets the tone for a relaxing and unforgettable island getaway. This modern, charming hotel combines comfort, style, and convenience, making it ideal for romantic escapes, babymoon retreats, or easy-going trips with friends and family. Guests enjoy luxury guestrooms with king beds, most offering stunning views of the marina, ferry landings, San Juan Channel, and even Mount Constitution on Orcas Island. The hotel is just steps from the downtown hub of the island, providing access to art galleries, boutique shops, bookstores, and local eateries, while maintaining a sense of peaceful seclusion.

At the heart of the experience is , where a seasonal menu highlights local ingredients and flavors. From indulgent burgers and fresh pastas to creative craft cocktails, every meal promises to be memorable. Evening fireside nights on the patio offer the perfect way to unwind, sip a cocktail, and watch boats float in the marina.

Exploration extends beyond the hotel with nearby attractions such as Roche Harbor, San Juan Island Sculpture Park, The Farm at Krystal Acres, San Juan Vineyard, and San Juan Island Brewing Co., providing endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, wine tasting, and local culture.

Friday Harbor House Package Includes:

• Round-trip airfare for two (2) on a �鶹��Ƶ Express or Seasonal Floatplane Flight
• Luxury overnight accommodations at Friday Harbor House
• $100 Dining Credit to at Friday Harbor House
• Bottle of Sparkling Wine
• Transportation assistance

Edenwild Inn

Location: Lopez Village, Lopez Island, WA

For those seeking charm, creativity, and calm this fall, offers an intimate escape in the heart of Lopez Island. Often called “the Friendly Isle,” Lopez is known for its welcoming spirit, open landscapes, and charming village atmosphere. This boutique inn captures the essence of island life – quiet, comfortable, and full of heart. Fall in the islands brings in a slower pace, a welcoming community spirit, and time to enjoy Lopez Island’s stunning waterfront, farm-to-table dining, and outdoor adventure.

With the new year-round �鶹��Ƶ Express flights operating out of Boeing Field, getting to Lopez has never been easier or faster. With �鶹��Ƶ you can you skip the long drive and ferry with flights from Seattle’s Boeing Field to Lopez Island, offering a breathtaking scenic tour of the Pacific Northwest.

Fall is the best time to visit Lopez — with its lowest prices of the year and far fewer visitors, it’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to recharge. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows at a beach bonfire, exploring tide pools, or simply enjoying the view from your window, Edenwild lets you experience the magic of Lopez at your own pace.

The post 4 Cozy Fall Island Getaways from Seattle appeared first on kenmoreair.com.