The sequel to the comedic hit Vacation Friends took audiences on a wild ride once again, but there’s more to this movie than meets the eye. While the storyline unfolds against the lush backdrop of the Caribbean, the reality of where Vacation Friends 2 was filmed might just surprise you.
Caribbean Charade: A Not-So-Tropical Paradise
In Vacation Friends 2, the picturesque Caribbean serves as the setting for a chaotic adventure that reunites Marcus and Emily with their friends for another whirlwind escapade. The tropical ambiance, coupled with the free vacation invitation, gives the impression of an island paradise, ready to immerse viewers in a world of sun-soaked beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, the truth behind the scenes reveals a rather unexpected filming location.
Hawaiian Hideaway: Unmasking the True Locale
Contrary to the movie’s ostensible Caribbean setting, much of Vacation Friends 2 was actually shot in Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. The island, known for its vibrant cities like Waikīkī and the bustling state capital, Honolulu, became the backdrop for the supposed Caribbean resort. It’s a clever illusion, considering the bulk of the action unfolds within the confines of a resort setting. The architectural style might differ, but given the resort’s distinct appearance, this discrepancy is easily overlooked. The lush vegetation and stunning landscapes of Oʻahu further contribute to the mirage, effectively camouflaging the true filming location.
Turtle Bay Resort: A Multi-Faceted Illusion
The makers of Vacation Friends 2 employed multiple Oʻahu resorts to create the illusion of a Caribbean paradise. However, the Caribbean resort in the movie predominantly used the exterior of the Turtle Bay Resort. Nestled amidst palm trees, this expansive and high-end resort stood in as the perfect representation of a tropical getaway. While recognizable to those familiar with Hawaiʻi’s resorts, the resort’s appearance is generic enough to deceive the untrained eye, effectively transforming it into a different location altogether.
A Wild Ride: Kapaa Quarry Road’s Role
The movie’s thrilling car chase scene, a hallmark of any action-packed comedy, was captured on Kapaa Quarry Road. This two-lane road, engulfed in dense vegetation, provided an ideal backdrop for the adrenaline-pumping sequence. Shut down twice for safety reasons, the road’s narrow appearance heightened the sense of pacing and suspense, ensuring that viewers were gripping their seats throughout the action-packed moments.
Unexpected Interlude: Dragonara Palace’s Cameo
When the characters ventured to the casino to meet with business associates, the movie showcased a distinct building with an alluring silhouette. Little did audiences know that this wasn’t the Caribbean, nor was it the tropical realm of Oʻahu. Instead, this scene was shot at the Dragonara Palace in St. Julian’s, Malta—an entirely different part of the world. The picturesque shoreline of the location seamlessly blended with the rest of the movie, and the elegant pillared architecture added a luxurious touch, in harmony with the resort’s overall ambiance.
Coastal Drama: Kalaeokaunaʻoa’s Appearance
Towards the latter part of the film, a pivotal scene featuring a plane took place on a breathtaking beach. This sequence, set approximately two-thirds into the movie, was filmed at Kalaeokaunaʻoa, also known as Kahuku Point, on Oʻahu. This stretch of untouched coastline, nestled not far from Turtle Bay Resort, provided an unspoiled and undeniably scenic backdrop. Its ecological integrity added authenticity to the movie, transforming it into a versatile natural setting that could pass for various coastal locales with similar biodiversity.
Conclusion: The Allure of Illusion
Vacation Friends 2 succeeded in captivating audiences once again with its riotous comedy and captivating action sequences. However, the allure of illusion was strong, as the movie’s supposed Caribbean charm was skillfully crafted on the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. The blending of distinct locales, from the Turtle Bay Resort to the captivating Kapaa Quarry Road and the unexpected interlude at the Dragonara Palace, showcased the filmmakers’ ability to seamlessly weave together a tapestry of settings that contributed to the movie’s allure. Ultimately, Vacation Friends 2 serves as a testament to the power of cinematic magic, where even the most discerning viewers can be swept away by the mirage of a tropical paradise.