Hawaii Honeymoon Guide: Best Islands, Resorts, and Romantic Spots
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So you’re planning a Hawaii honeymoon? First off, congratulations! We are truly happy that you have found “the one”, and maybe started envisioning your honeymoon in Hawaii together! Personally, we had an elopement wedding and spent our honeymoon in Hawaii, and let us tell you, Hawaii is basically the definition of “romance” in island form! Think soft sand, glowing sunsets, tropical cocktails, volcanoes, and so many more “wow” photo spots to fill up your phone storage.
The tricky part? Hawaii has multiple islands and many different resorts to stay in. Not to mention, endless activities to do on the various islands. Not to worry as we have done the research for you and will give you a general guide of the islands, some of the best resorts for a honeymoon in Hawaii on each of the islands, and the best activities to do for a romantic experience for newlyweds, depending on which islands you decide to stay!
Why Choose Hawaii for your Honeymoon?
Hawaii is one of the top destinations for honeymoons for a reason! It is one of those rare destinations where you can have a fully luxurious experience, simply have a laid-back experience, or have more of an adventurous experience. Whichever you choose, you are certain to have unforgettable memories here!
Here’s what make’s Hawaii a top-tier honeymoon destination:
- No passport needed (if coming from the U.S.)
- Year-round warm weather- There is no wrong time in the calendar year to book a trip to Hawaii for ideal weather!
- Multiple islands with totally different experiences- Want waterfalls? Volcanoes? Private beaches? Scenic hikes? You can do all of these depending on the islands you decide to visit!
- Delicious food and drink- we’re talking seafood, poke bowls, and of course, tropical drinks!
- Some of the most beautiful sunsets and rainbows you will ever see- We have seen some of the most unbelievable view on the islands!
Best Hawaiian Islands for a Honeymoon
Now to break down each of the Hawaiian islands! Not all are made equal, as some have adventurous hikes with beautiful scenery while others have a more calming and tranquil vibe.
Maui: the Classic Honeymoon Island
If there is one island that really stands out from a romantic destination, Maui would be the one! This island is a perfect mix of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. The vibe is upscale, laid-back, safe, and absolutely stunning!
Here are some features of the island that make it best for honeymooners:
- The Road to Hana drive is an iconic thing to do here. Think waterfalls, black sand beaches, and bamboo forests!
- The sunrise at Haleakala is a spiritual experience. Be sure to bring a jacket!
- Wailea and Kapalua are full of dream destination resorts and high-end dining.
If you can splurge on a couples’ massage, it has to be one of the most relaxing activities, especially if you are by the ocean to hear the waves!
Kauai: the Garden Isle
Welcome to Hawaii’s greenest, and most dramatic island! It is wild but in the best way possible! This is the best for outdoorsy couples that love activity and/or nature lovers that want to embrace Hawaii’s aesthetic scenery. The vibe of Kauai is quiet, lush, and of course, still super romantic! These are some romantic things to do in Kauai to enhance your honeymoon experience:
- Take a helicopter ride over the Na Pali Coast– This is a jaw-dropping experience if you’re not too afraid of heights.
- Hike Waimea Canyon– Similar to the Grand Canyon but on the Pacific!
- Activity in Hanalei Bay– This is a crescent-shaped beach with beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and clear water! There are several activities that you could potentially do here as well, including snorkeling, surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and hiking!
As far as nightlife, Kauai is typically more low-key but for stars, waterfalls, and privacy, this is definitely the island for you!
O’ahu: the Social Butterfly
If you want a bit of a city experience while still having the opportunity for beaches and nature, O’ahu is the best of both worlds! This island is best for couples who like a variety of activities whether it’s surfing, shopping, or eating sushi. The island vibe is lively, historical, and full of culture. Some of the best things to do on your honeymoon while staying in O’ahu include:
- Waikiki Beach– This beach is usually crowded, but it is an iconic area and includes most of the city experience on the island!
- North Shore– Home to big wavers, laid-back vibes, and shrimp trucks. Speaking of shrimp trucks, be sure to try out Giovanni’s It was one of our favorites!
- Pearl Harbor– Definitely a powerful, moving experience that’s worth doing if you love history!
For a true romantic dining experience, try booking a table at Michel’s at the Colony Surf for a beachside dinner for a beautiful sunset and delicious seafood!
Big Island (Hawai’i Island): for the Adventurous Duo
Thinking about exploring a volcano together? Then you definitely have to visit the big island! This particular island has a raw, diverse, and unpredictable vibe. We would recommend it for the adventurous couple types. Here is why this island is loved by these types of honeymooners:
- Explore volcanoes– You can literally see lava flows (and still be safe, don’t worry).
- Mauna Kea Stargazing– This is one of the most romantic things you can do here!
- Experience Hawaii’s magical snow– It can snow on the peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. This is the only island where you’ll find green sand beaches and snow-capped peaks all on the same day!
Something to note is that this is a massive island, so you most likely won’t be able to do it all in one trip unless you plan on staying for an extended period of time. We recommend picking a coast and sticking with it!
Best Hawaii Resorts by Island
Here are some of the best Hawaii resorts in each of the islands. We have picked these to cater to couples who are looking for a quiet environment to relax on your honeymoon!
Maui Resorts
- Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea– Luxury, an incredible spa, and beautiful ocean views. What more can you ask for?
- Hotel Wailea (Adults Only)– Boutique, quiet, and romantic.
- The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort– Even though this could be a resort more so for families, we personally have stayed here for our honeymoon, and they treated us extremely well! Similar to that of Wailea resorts, you will have an incredible view of the ocean, a wonderful spa, and delicious restaurants on the property.
Kauai Resorts
- Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach– Small intimate, beachfront, very little kids, and an underrated on-site restaurant!
- 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay– New, sustainable luxury with insane view of the bay and cliffs.
O’ahu Resorts
- Halekulani Hotel– Timeless charm, oceanfront dining, and ridiculously comfy beds.
- The Royal Hawaiian– The Pink Palace, located right on Waikiki Beach. Some of there more luxury room types have insane panoramic views of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and Pacific Ocean!
Big Island (Hawai’i Island) Resorts
- Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection– Modern luxury with ancient Hawaii. This resort includes a spa, golf, and the beach!
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai– The most luxurious stay in the island. This is pricey for sure, but is it well worth it? Absolutely!
Most Romantic Things to Do in Hawaii
A honeymoon isn’t just about the great resort service, spa days, fine dining, and relaxation on the beach (though it could be if you really wanted to). Here are some exciting, romantic activities that you can add to your itinerary in Hawaii:
Sunset Cruises
Just you and your spouse, a catamaran, and maybe some mai tais? This is a great activity to experience if this sounds like something you would love. Some even have live music and/or dinner included!
This activity is available on all islands!
Helicopter Rides
This is not a cheap activity, but the views you could experience are unbelievable. This is truly a bucket-list item!
The best islands to do a helicopter ride include:
Private Beach Picnics
Several resorts will offer this package. Picture just you and your spouse on the beach with tropical fruit and champagne! There are also activities that you can book as well!
This activity is available on all islands!
Snorkeling
You’ll laugh, splash, and “sea” turtles! Hawaii has some of the best snorkeling areas that you can do in the world.
This activity is available on all islands!
Stargazing
Whether it’s Mauna Kea or simply your hotel balcony, Hawaii night skies are unreal! Here is an activity: try cuddling under the night sky and listening to the waves crash. Talk about a true romantic activity!
This activity is available on all islands!
Tips for Planning the Perfect Hawaii Honeymoon
Here are some final tips for touching up your Hawaii honeymoon! We want to save you potential headaches along the road that can come from things you don’t think about prior to going on your trip.
- Book early– Resorts fill up fast, especially for the best room types as well as the honeymoon suites!
- Go shoulder season– April to May or September to October typically has fewer crowds. This also means cheaper prices, slightly better service due to less guests, and better chances to have your room upgraded! As said before, Hawaii will likely have great weather all year round, no matter when you book your honeymoon.
- Have downtime when planning adventure– You still want to have time to relax during your honeymoon. Planning a super busy itinerary will lead to not feeling refreshed after your trip, coming from those who love time to relax on vacation. Don’t forget to account time for meals and transportation!
- Rent a car– We recommend this especially in Kauai and the Big Island (Hawai’i Island) for ease of transportation to far destinations! Despite the islands appearing small, most spots on the island are hours away from each other due to not having as many routes to drive through. Hawaii does get quite a bit of traffic!
Final Thoughts: Say “Aloha” to your Dream Honeymoon!
A honeymoon is a special moment between newlyweds and can be one of the last moments you truly have together (for those planning kids after). Hawaii delivers romance, beauty, and adventure. It really provides a “honeymoon experience” that many new couples dream of! Whether sipping cocktails in Maui, visiting waterfalls in O’ahu, helicopter rides in Kauai, or stargazing on the Big Island (Hawai’i Island), you will find your idea of paradise in Hawaii!
If you found this guide helpful, please give us a pin! Have you been to Hawaii for a honeymoon? We would love to know your experience and receive your feedback!
Aloha, and HAPPY HONEYMOONING!