Why Honeymooning in Hawaii is the Best Decision You’ll Make
When it comes to choosing the perfect honeymoon destination, Hawaii stands out as a top contender for couples seeking a blend of romance, adventure, and relaxation. Here’s why Hawaii could be the ideal backdrop for your first getaway as newlyweds.
Hawaii offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and rich cultural experiences. Spend your days lounging on pristine beaches, exploring lush rainforests, or dining under a canopy of stars. With its year-round warm weather, Hawaii is a paradise that caters to every couple’s desires, whether you’re looking to unwind or embark on an adventurous journey together. Grab a mai tai and get ready to dive into some serious Hawaiian honeymoon daydreaming!
Hawaii offers a dreamy blend of pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and luxurious resorts, creating the ultimate romantic getaway for newlyweds. With its unique mix of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking natural beauty, it’s the ideal destination to celebrate your love.
How Long Should a Hawaii Honeymoon Be?
The ideal length for a Hawaiian honeymoon is typically around 7 to 10 days. This allows enough time to explore multiple islands, soak in the local culture, and enjoy a mix of activities without feeling rushed. However, if you’re looking to fully immerse yourselves and explore the islands more deeply, extending your stay to two weeks would provide ample time to experience everything Hawaii has to offer at a leisurely pace.
There’s really no bad time to visit Hawaii, but some seasons might be better than others depending on what you’re looking for. Winter months (December to February) can be busier and pricier due to holiday travelers, and it’s also the rainier season, especially on the northern shores. However, winter is also prime time for whale watching! Summer (June to August) tends to be drier and warmer, but it can also bring more tourists and slightly higher prices. If you’re aiming for fewer crowds and a mix of good weather, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal.
For a Hawaiian honeymoon, plan for at least 7-10 days to fully experience the islands’ diverse beauty and activities. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the weather is warm and the crowds are smaller, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed escape.
Which Islands are Best for a Hawaii Honeymoon?
Each Hawaiian island has its own unique charm, making it a challenge to choose just one. Here are some top picks:
Maui: Known as the "Valley Isle," Maui is the perfect balance between the lively vibe of Oahu and the seclusion of Kauai. It's great for couples seeking luxury resorts, romantic sunsets, and a variety of outdoor activities like snorkeling in Molokini Crater or exploring the scenic Road to Hana.
Oahu: Ideal for couples who love a mix of city life and natural beauty. Oahu offers the bustling energy of Honolulu, rich history at Pearl Harbor, and world-famous beaches like Waikiki. It's perfect for those who want to experience a little bit of everything—shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures.
Kauai: The "Garden Isle" is for couples looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. Kauai is the least developed of the major islands, offering a serene environment with breathtaking landscapes, from the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the lush Waimea Canyon.
Big Island (Hawaii Island): For couples seeking adventure, the Big Island offers volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, and opportunities to see active lava flows. It’s an island of contrasts, from lush rainforests to arid deserts.
Feel free to pick one island for your honeymoon or island hop, but I might recommend only two islands. The most popular and quickest way to island-hop is by taking inter-island flights. Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines offer frequent flights between the major islands, usually taking 30-50 minutes. A ferry service is available between Maui and Lanai (with the Lanai Ferry) and between Maui and Molokai (via the Molokai Ferry), providing a scenic alternative to flying. If you really can’t pick one or two: A cruise around the Hawaiian Islands allows you to visit multiple islands without the hassle of multiple flights. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a week-long cruise that stops at Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
For a Hawaiian honeymoon, start with Maui for its mix of stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and scenic drives like the Road to Hana. Pair it with Kauai for a more secluded, nature-filled experience, featuring lush rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and serene hideaways perfect for romance.
Top Excursions for Relaxation and Adventure
When I’m planning honeymoons, I often see couples fall into two camps: “We’re all about relaxation” or “Bring on the adventure!” And, of course, there are those who want both—because, let’s face it, opposites attract! Luckily, Hawaii is the ultimate playground for both relaxation and adventure, so here’s what I suggest for my newlyweds looking for a bit of both worlds.
Oahu
Relaxation:
Lanikai Beach: Spend a day at this stunning beach known for its turquoise waters and soft, white sand. It's less crowded than Waikiki and perfect for a romantic, peaceful day by the ocean.
Couples Spa Day at a Luxury Resort: Indulge in a couple's massage at one of Oahu's luxury resorts like The Kahala Hotel & Resort or the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina.
When I’m working with clients, there tends to be two camps of travelers: I want relaxation or I want adventure… & since opposites attract, I also tend to get “BOTH!” Hawaii luckily has the best of both worlds when it comes to excursions so here is what I recommend to my newlyweds.
Adventure:
Hiking Diamond Head: This iconic hike offers panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. It’s moderately challenging but well worth the effort for the breathtaking vistas at the summit.
Shark Cage Diving in Haleiwa: For thrill-seekers, a shark cage diving excursion on the North Shore is an unforgettable experience that brings you face-to-face with these majestic creatures.
Maui
Relaxation:
Sunset Cruise: Sail along the coast of Maui on a sunset cruise, complete with cocktails and a stunning view of the sun setting over the Pacific.
Beach Day at Wailea Beach: Known for its golden sands and calm waters, Wailea Beach is perfect for a relaxing day of sunbathing and swimming.
Adventure:
Road to Hana: Embark on an all-day adventure along the Road to Hana, where you’ll encounter waterfalls, black sand beaches, and lush rainforests. Be sure to stop at Wailua Falls and the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o Gulch.
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater: Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs in the clear waters of Molokini Crater, one of Maui’s top snorkeling spots.
Kauai
Relaxation:
Hanalei Bay: Spend a tranquil day at Hanalei Bay, a crescent-shaped beach backed by lush mountains, offering a peaceful setting for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Sunset at Poipu Beach: End your day with a breathtaking sunset at Poipu Beach, one of the best spots on the island for a romantic evening by the water.
A helicopter ride on your honeymoon offers breathtaking aerial views of Hawaii’s stunning landscapes, creating an unforgettable, romantic adventure that’s perfect for making lasting memories.
Adventure:
Na Pali Coast Helicopter Tour: Experience the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls of the Na Pali Coast from the air on a thrilling helicopter tour. It's a breathtaking way to see one of the most stunning landscapes in Hawaii.
Hiking the Kalalau Trail: For adventurous couples, the Kalalau Trail offers a challenging hike along the Na Pali Coast, with sweeping ocean views and a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
Hawaii offers a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty that makes it a top choice for honeymooners. Whether you choose to explore the vibrant culture of Oahu, the stunning landscapes of Maui, or the serene beauty of Kauai, your honeymoon in Hawaii is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Ready to just skip to the good part? Have Escape Key Travel Co plan absolutely everything and cater to your preferences as a couple with a free honeymoon design session. With a well-planned itinerary that includes both relaxation and adventure, you'll create memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bags, and get ready to start your married life with an extraordinary Hawaiian honeymoon!
