best hawaii island to visit for honeymoon

Best Hawaiian Island for Your Honeymoon (plus itinerary & cost)

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Congratulations! You’ve tied the knot and you’ve made the great decision to head to Hawaii for your honeymoon. But what island should you pick? You really can’t go wrong with any island, but there is one that stands apart from the crowd. 

Maui is the best Hawaiian island for a honeymoon. Maui offers luxury resorts, romantic getaways, reliably sunny weather, and opportunities for outdoor activities. Maui offers a little something for everyone making it the ideal pick for most honeymooners’ wishes. 

But, while Maui is the best choice for most couples on their honeymoon, for some couples one of the neighboring islands will be a better choice: Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, Molokai, and Hawai’i. Want to make sure you really pick the best island for this once-in-a-lifetime trip? This is how you decide. 

Photo credit: Paradise Photography Maui with Erica and Jordan as models

Need photos for your romantic vacation? See our full list of recommended Hawaii photographers .

Keep the planning going with: Planning a Trip to Hawaii: 15 essential details Your Maui Honeymoon: 10 Unforgettable Activities for Couples Plus you won’t want to miss our itineraries to truly make the most of your vacation!

The Best Hawaiian Island for a Honeymoon

Hawaii is a popular honeymoon spot. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority , 513,154 people honeymooned in Hawaii in 2019 ( 2% of all visitors ). 

So we know Hawaii is a good spot for the honeymoon, but which island is the best?  

Maui is the all-around winner when it comes to the best Hawaiian island to pick for your honeymoon. Why? Because it has an adults-only resort, has beautiful resort areas on the sunny and dry side of the island, has a mix of everything you could want, and offers an easy day trip to another island.

• The best resorts in the sunniest spots. Chances are, you’ll stay in Wailea or Ka’anapali and these two spots on the island also come with the most sun and the best resort and condo accommodations. 
• The only adults-only hotel.  The kids  are great. But on your honeymoon, you may want the quiet tranquility that comes with a kid-free vacation. Because Hawaii is so family-friendly, this can be hard to find. But you have a l uxury adults-only hotel on Maui.  
• It has a mix of everything. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it on Maui. The island has some of the best resorts, a relaxed night scene that’s not too quiet, and memorable outdoor adventures like the Road to Hana and Haleakala. 
• Lanai is just a boat ride away. If you want to add on a second island, a 60-minute ferry ride will provide a quick escape for a day or two for luxury at the Four Seasons Resort. Enjoy golf, snorkeling , quiet beaches, and romantic solitude. 

If you are in the beginning or the middle of your Hawaii honeymoon planning, read our How to Plan the ULTIMATE Hawaii Romantic Vacation . Also, check out our favorite spots for a Hawaii Beach Photoshoot .

Where to Stay on a Maui Honeymoon

Once you’ve decided that Maui is right for you, the next question is where do you stay? Maui has no shortage of hotels and you can find something in nearly any price range. These are some of our favorite hotels on the island .

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Adults-Only: Hotel Wailea

Everyone loves Hawaii, including families. And while Hawaii is extremely family-friendly, when you’re on a romantic honeymoon you likely don’t want to have enthusiastic kids ruining your relaxing vibe. If that sounds like you, welcome to Hotel Wailea . This adults-only resort is luxurious and is perfect for a romantic honeymoon.

Luxury: The Four Seasons, The Andaz, and Montage Kapalua Bay

Maui has no shortage of luxury resorts, but these three are extra special honeymoon spots:

• The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea : Every Four Seasons resort is stunning, but this one takes the cake. Located along Wailea beach, it has everything you could hope for: an adults-only pool, amenities like free snorkel rentals and canoe experiences, and exceptional service. 
• Andaz : Also located in Wailea, the Andaz is a modern and sleek hotel with plenty of secluded areas that make the resort feel less crowded. They have an adults-only pool, a fantastic breakfast buffet, and a shuttle service to the restaurant area in Wailea. 
• Montage Kapalua Bay : On West Maui just north of Lahaina is Kapalua Bay, one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. This sprawling resort offers one to four-bedroom suites, rather than standard hotel rooms. The sunsets are spectacular, the service is top-notch, and you feel like you have space to roam up here. Plus horseback riding, guided hikes, a world-class golf course, and romantic dining at Kapalua Cliff House make this a perfect honeymoon spot. 

Affordable Honeymoon Hotels: Kohea Kai Maui or Ka’anapali Beach Hotel

• Kohea Kai Maui : Just north of the resorts in Wailea you’ll find Kohea Kai. It’s a well-priced hotel with direct beach access and free breakfast served daily. The location makes it easy to explore the island and the lush grounds make evening strolls feel magical. 
• Ka’anapali Beach Hotel : This hotel is nestled between two hotels that are much more expensive, so you know the location is great. Located right on Ka’anapali Beach and close to Black Rock, this hotel has sprawling grounds and friendly staff. 

Charming Island Inns: Paia Inn and Hana-Maui Resort

If you want to spend your honeymoon on Maui away from the crowds, these are the two best spots.

• Paia Inn : Located in the charming surf town of Paia, this inn features tropical and Asian-inspired rooms. This chic hotel puts you on the north side of the island, ideal for exploring the road to Hana or Haleakala.
• Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt : If you want to escape it all, head to Hana. This hotel features 75 private bungalows on 72-acres. The experience is truly immersive and you can spend time exploring the remote area, luxuriating in the spa, and experiencing the quiet side of Maui. 

What to Do on a Maui Honeymoon

Once you’ve settled where to stay, it’s on to what to do for your Maui Honeymoon. One of the reasons we picked Maui as the best island for a honeymoon is there is just so much to do. While you will likely spend a lot of time sleeping, relaxing, and recovering from the wedding, you may also want to get out and explore all the island has to offer. 

Some of the most popular (and most spectacular) things to do on Maui include:

• Driving the Road to Hana
• Visiting Haleakala for sunrise or sunset
• Snorkeling with tropical fish and turtles (read: The Best Hawaiian Island for Snorkeling (with snorkel spots)
• Whale watching between mid-December and late March
• Exploring upcountry Maui, including MauiWine, Makawao Town, the Ali’i Kula lavender farm, and Surfing Goat Dairy – 15 Things to Do in Upcountry Maui
• Snorkel the 450-acre Olowalu reef on a kayak tour
• Get lunch or dinner in the historic town of Lahaina  
• Spend an evening at Old Lahaina Luau or Feast at Lele (read: which luau is right for you )

Some of our favorite, quiet beaches on Maui that are perfect for a honeymoon include:

• Kua’u cove north of Paia Town (and an excellent spot to view turtles)
• Ho’okipa Beach Park north of Paia Town
• Kahekili (Airport) Beach Park in Ka’anapali (great snorkeling and significantly less crowded than Ka’anapali beach)
• Kapalua Bay
• Secret Beach, located close to Makena Beach
• Maluaka Beach in Wailea

Want to climb a mountain? Our favorite hikes on Maui that are perfect for a honeymoon include:

• Kapalua Coastal Trail
• Waihee Ridge Trail
• Lahaina Pali Trail (great for whale watching during the winter)
• Makawao Forest Reserve
• Here are our favorite easy Maui hikes too

Related articles:

• Hotel vs Airbnb: How to Decide What is Best for Your Trip
• Dream Destination: Why Maui is a Great Place to Visit
• Your Maui Honeymoon: 10 Unforgettable Things to Do

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

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Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

When to consider other islands for your honeymoon:.

We admit that Maui might not be the dream destination for everyone. If you’re not sold on Maui, there are other islands you should consider. 

We have the best things to do in Hawaii for your honeymoon across the state.

Kauai: Best for the Most Secluded Honeymoon

While Maui is the overall winner when it comes to a Hawaiian honeymoon, it doesn’t necessarily win in every single situation. Kauai is the most romantic island for your honeymoon as it’s the most secluded and quiet island. 

Head to the Garden Isle for secluded, untouched, Hawaiian wilderness, tropical jungles, and great hiking. 

While you’re there, set sail on a romantic Na Pali Coast sunset cruise and enjoy the stunning scenery. Tour Waimea Canyon State Park, aptly named the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. And enjoy the beach at Hanalei Bay. 

Drawbacks to consider before planning your Kauai honeymoon:

The island is called the Garden Isle for a reason. Kauai is the wettest island, so depending on when you go, you run the risk of getting some rain. 

In fact, unlike Maui where the nicest resorts are on the sunniest side of the island, the resort area on Kauai (Princeville) is on the north shore of the island, where you’ll get windward rain and big surf during the winter. This makes this a less than ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming during the winter. 

If you’d prefer to happily trade a higher chance of rain for the tropical scenery on the island, we have some suggestions on where to stay:

• One Hotel Hanalei Bay : a luxury spot on a secluded cove. It’s close to charming Hanalei town with it’s picture-perfect Hanalei Bay. 
• The Palmwood : This secluded 5-acre estate hosts a B&B in the Moloa’a hills of the north shore Kauai.
• Grand Hyatt: Located on the sunny side of the island in Poipu, this hotel has a luau two times per week. 
• Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu : Located on the sunny South Shore of Kauai, this Marriott Autograph Collection property is the nicest hotel on the South Shore.

Big Island of Hawai’i: Best for an Adventurous Honeymoon

If lounging around a resort isn’t your thing, the big island of Hawaii might be your best bet. With 10-climate zones, the island has a lot to explore. Stay on the Kailua-Kona side (for the sun) and rent a car to explore the island. 

See the desserts on the Kohala Coast, a rainforest in Hilo, and the snow-capped mountains of Mauna Kea volcano. Take a tour of the observatories, go stargazing, swim in waterfalls, snorkel with manta rays, and hike through Volcanoes National Park. 

Plan one perfect day in Hilo with our itinerary . 

Note: Kilauea volcano is not currently erupting but always check for updates here .

If that sounds like your dream honeymoon, we suggest checking out one of these resorts for your stay: 

• Four Seasons Resort Hualalai : enjoy hula classes, lei making, picture-perfect lawns, six swimming pools, and a self-contained five-star resort.
• Holualoa Inn : Nestled in the hills above Kailua Kona is this B&B, spread out over a sprawling 30 acres. 
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel : Located along Kauna‘oa Bay on the Kohala coast, this five-star resort has plenty of activities on-site, including tennis courts and a golf course. 

Oahu: Best for a Cosmopolitan Honeymoon

If a quiet island isn’t quite your style, head to Oahu. Not only will you have gorgeous beaches and stunning mountains, but you’ll also have nightlife you won’t find on any other island. Check out our five day Oahu itinerary to visit all of the best spots. 

If you’re looking for romantic hotels right in the middle of it all (Waikiki), head to:

• The Royal Hawaiian : This iconic hotel is smack-dab in the middle of Waikiki, so you’re certain to be in the middle of it all. It’s been featured in movies, frequented by movie stars, and features architecture from the 1920s with modern updates. 
• Turtle Bay : Possibly our favorite hotel in all of Hawaii, this resort offers sprawling amenities on the North Shore and everything you could need all at your fingertips. Horseback riding, snorkeling, golf, excellent food, and picturesque sunsets.
• Four Seasons at Ko Olina : A spectacular hotel on the leeward side of Oahu, you’ll find fewer crowds than in Waikiki and more reliable weather than the North Shore of Oahu. Plus, the Four Seasons service is hard to beat. 

• Why is Waikiki Beach So Popular? 10 Answers to Your Question
• Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay? Waikiki or Ko Olina or Oahu’s North Shore

Hawaii Honeymoon Itineraries

If you decide to head to Maui for your honeymoon and stay put on one island, there’s plenty to do — you definitely won’t get bored. Below we outline a luxury honeymoon itinerary on Maui for eight beautiful days. We know that on a honeymoon it’s important to balance relaxation with sightseeing, and in this itinerary, we did just that. 

Luxury Maui Honeymoon Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive, check into your hotel, and head to happy hour at Monkeypod Kitchen

Day 2: Grab your snorkeling gear and beach hop, and visit our favorite snorkeling spots

Day 3: Resort day (because you’re recovering after a wedding!) and dinner at Mama’s Fish House

Day 4: Lunch at Hali’imaile General Store, Upcountry, Haleakala sunset, and dinner at  Kula Lodge

Day 5: Half-day snorkel boat and explore Lahaina

Day 6: Road to Hana

Day 7: Resort and spa day

Day 8: Leave and promise to return again someday!

You can get the full 8-day Maui honeymoon itinerary (with the need to know details) here . 

The Cost to Honeymoon in Hawaii

Assuming your honeymoon funds aren’t infinite, there will be a point where you need to consider the cost of a honeymoon in Hawaii. Is it within your budget? 

Don’t worry, we’ve crunched the numbers for you. Previously, we estimated that a one-week trip to Maui for two people would cost $5,120 (2020 price estimate). See our yearly updated cost estimate for a family of four so you can scale your trip to just the two of you!

But what about a more luxurious honeymoon? The average length of a honeymoon is eight days, so we’ll use that to estimate. 

How does that compare to the cost of honeymooning elsewhere? Hawaii isn’t cheap. The average couple spends $4,466 on their honeymoon and luxury honeymooners spend an average of $9,954. 

Hawaii is a luxury honeymoon destination and one of the most popular places couples opt for. Costs may be high, but they are in line with other luxury honeymoon spots.

• What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit

The 14 Best Things to Do on Maui on a Budget

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Which Island to Choose for Your Hawaii Honeymoon

By Juliana Shallcross

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

One way for couples to stay sane while wedding planning is to focus on the honeymoon that awaits them once the ceremony and reception is done. For those dreaming of a Hawaii honeymoon , the combinations of romance, relaxation, and adventure are nearly endless. Even better, there’s no “bad” time to visit Hawaii, as the weather is usually sunny and warm all year round—although some months are better to avoid crowds and peak room rates.

It’s also possible to mix and match islands by spending a few days on one island before taking a short flight to another. This especially makes sense for couples who are flying a long way to Hawaii and want to see as much of paradise as they can. Yet, while each Hawaiian island can deliver majestic sunrises, lazy days on the sand, and that warm Aloha feeling, some islands may speak to you more than others. Here’s the breakdown of each island for choosing the perfect Hawaii honeymoon vibe, and where to stay. 

Snorkeling in Maui

Island vibe: All-in-one island adventure

Island details:  Maui ticks all the boxes for first-time visitors—five-star resorts, excellent snorkeling, epic surf breaks, delicious restaurants and even a (dormant) volcano you can hike up to see the sunrise. But it also has a few remote hideaways if you and your partner want to go off-the-grid. 

Maui tends to be popular with families (especially around spring break and the holidays), so be sure to seek out a few adults-only excursions like a helicopter ride over the island, a couples massage in a beachfront hale, or the Road to Hana, a winding road trip along the island’s eastern coast stopping for waterfalls, forest hikes, and secret beaches. 

Where to stay: Some of the island’s best resorts are found along the beach in Wailea like the  Four Seasons Maui  (splurge for a club floor room for more dedicated service) and the  Andaz Maui (book a suite as the starting room category is small.) And since the resorts along Wailea’s beach are close together, it makes it easy to hotel hop for drinks and dinner. But if you want to check out of the resort life for a few days, head up the hill to  Hotel Wailea , an adults-only hotel with ultra-private accommodations. 

Over on Maui’s North shore where the vibe turns from resort-y to local living is the adorable  Inn at Mama’s Fish House . Twelve small cottages and suites overlook the peaceful Mama’s Beach and the island’s favorite restaurant, Mama’s Fish House; it’s not the most secluded spot but it feels more like the real Maui. 

If the Road to Hana is on your honeymoon wish list, then you’ll want to crash for a few nights at the  Hana Maui Resort , an off-the-grid escape perched on the edge of Hana Bay where newly renovated rooms offer prime views of the sunrise but thankfully, no TVs. There is WiFi though. 

Four Seasons Hualalai

Hawaii: The Big Island

Island vibe:  Fewer tourists, more Hawaii

Island details:  The Island of Hawaii—affectionately called The Big Island—has a considerably more laid-back vibe than Maui and Oahu and is far less crowded too. It also looks a bit different. Since The Big Island still has two active volcanoes, it’s common to see lava rocks instead of green fields, which only adds to the allure of the island. With smaller beaches, great hiking trails, and a handful of luxury resorts, it’s actually perfect for couples who want to retreat from the world for a while without going completely off the grid. 

Some activities to consider when you’re ready to leave the resort? Snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay in Kona, walking through lava tubes at Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park, and a drive out to the eastern side of the Big Island, which is rainier and rather remote, but still full of stunning only-in-Hawaii sights. 

Where to stay: To hibernate in a serene setting with your partner until it's time to go home, check into the  Four Seasons Hualalai . Each room at this beachfront resort is its own little paradise of relaxation, with deep soaking tubs and outdoor showers. (Just be sure to book a room in the adults-only wing.) There’s so much to indulge in on-property from drinks and meals, to wellness activities and water sports, including snorkeling amongst fish in the resort’s saltwater aquarium pond.

Stacey Lastoe

Tonya Russell

Steph Koyfman

Emily Pennington

The Mauna Lani , an Auberge Resort just north of Hualalai offers a modern take on the Hawaiian getaway with beautiful guestrooms and spacious lanais. Mauna Lani has all the amenities of a luxury resort including a spa, tennis and golf, and an oceanfront restaurant, but it also delivers the heart of Hawaii through its Living Culture team who share stories, songs, and educational talks about the history of the islands. 

If you plan on exploring the island more than staying in, book the  Mauna Kea Beach Hotel  overlooking the Kauna’oa Bay. Its beachfront rooms have balconies with unobstructed ocean views and there are plenty of dining options on-site including a grab-and-go market stocked with local products. And the resort’s luau is one of Hawaii’s best—intimate in size with a captivating performance, delicious food and gorgeous backdrop of the ocean at sunset.

Sunset in Kaui

Island vibe:  A little wild, a little sweet 

Island details:  Kauai is Hawaii’s Garden Isle, known for its lush forests, winding rivers and waterfalls. It’s also not as developed as other Hawaiian islands making it an ideal spot for the sustainable-minded couples. But all this lushness comes with a price as Kauai is Hawaii’s rainiest island particularly from November to March. Even in the drier months, it’s common to see rain overnight. 

Two of the island’s most beloved areas for exploring and hanging out are Poipu on the south shore and Hanalei on the north shore. Since they are only about an hour apart it’s possible to enjoy lunch in Poipu then drive to Hanalei to jump off the pier for a sunset swim, followed by a walk into town for dinner and drinks.

If you want to see more of the island, consider chartering a boat to explore more of Kauai’s shores or book a helicopter flight to get spectacular views of the waterfalls. Tubing down rivers, zip lining through forests and surfing are other ways to take in Kauai’s beauty.

Where to stay:  The eco-minded 1 Hotel brand has transformed the former St. Regis Princeville into 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay , a sexy sustainable resort overlooking the idyllic Hanalei Bay, complete with a Bamford Wellness Spa and an infinity pool just for adults. Book a room with an ocean view terrace to maximize the edge-of-the-world feeling that Hanalei Bay is known for.

Nearby is the  Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas where the guest rooms have plenty of space and small kitchens which is convenient for making small meals and storing snacks, especially since the on-site dining options are limited. 

If you want a traditional resort loaded with amenities and services,  The Grand Hyatt Kauai in Poipu delivers on all of that and with one of the best beaches on the island. Yet part of the charm of Kauai is its DIY-style, so booking an Airbnb for your stay might be the better way to experience the island.

 Turtle Bay Resort

Island vibe:  Life in the Big City 

Island details:  You can feel the energy  of Oahu from the moment you touch down in Honolulu. Even if you’re dying to relax, two nights in Honolulu can be a lot of fun. Hike to Diamond Head for panoramic views of the city, take surf lessons on the famous Waikiki Beach, visit Pearl Harbor and explore the wide-ranging culinary scene from hole-in-the-wall spots to glamorous fine-dining establishments. After that you can head out to the other parts of the island for some rest, relaxation and romance.

Where to stay:  In Waikiki, there are so many options from hip boutique lodgings like  The Shoreline Hotel  to the luxurious  ESPACIO, The Jewel of Waikiki hotel with only nine full-floor suites. But the  Ritz-Carlton Waikiki  hits the sweet spot with deluxe ocean view suites that also come with kitchens, washer and dryer units, and private lanais.  

Oahu’s North Shore is a surfer’s paradise, especially when Pipeline waves are firing, but the Haleiwa town is a fun, low-key place to hang out with food trucks, shaved ice shops and stores. Nearby is the  Turtle Bay Resort , fresh off a major renovation, with private oceanfront bungalows and dedicated personal hosts available during your stay. 

The Four Seasons Ko Olina is a part of the larger Ko Olina resort area that is popular with families (Disney’s Aulani resort is next door) but they’ve carved out an adults-only space at the hotel with a pool and a swim-up bar aptly called Dr. Mai Tai’s. Book a junior suite with an ocean view to elevate your stay. 

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

Island vibe:  Out-of-office, indefinitely 

Island details:  Lanai is a tiny island off the west coast of Maui. It’s about a 45-minute ferry ride from Lahaina or a 45-minute flight from Honolulu. For a long time, it served as a pineapple plantation for the Dole company. But in 2012, billionaire Larry Ellison snapped up almost all of the island and has gone about improving the island’s infrastructure to create one of the most magnificent island getaways. The usual Hawaiian activities are done here–hiking, sailing, snorkeling and beaching but within an almost unspoiled part of Hawaii. If you’re looking for something remote, rare, and memorable, look no further than Lanai. 

Where to stay: There are two Four Seasons resorts on this island,  The Four Seasons Resort Lanai  on the beach and the  Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort  up in the mountains. Sensei is an adults-only property focused on wellness with daily exercise classes, meditations, massage treatments and a Nobu restaurant. But since the two properties aren’t interchangeable, most guests book a few nights at each resort to get the full experience. 

Northeast coast of Moloka'i

Moloka'i

Island vibe:  Adventure & the Hawaii of yesteryear 

Island details:  Another island as remote as Lanai is Moloka'i, off Maui’s north west coast. Its history is complicated, having served as a leper colony for a hundred years. But because Molokai is so underdeveloped (the town has no traffic lights), a visit here gives you a good look at how Hawaii used to be. However, this is not an island for tourists and there aren’t any big resorts. This is a better fit for a couple who have been to Hawaii before and don’t mind hiking, kayaking or exploring on their own, or for couples who want to learn more about the island and its community. 

Where to stay: Hotel Molokai  is a small but friendly inn on Kamiloloa Beach with Polynesian-style bungalows and its own waterfront restaurant, Hiro’s Ohana Grill, where guests can end a day of adventure with cocktails and Hawaiian cuisine. 

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The Best Islands in Hawaii for Honeymoons and Couples Holidays

Visiting Hawaii? From Oahu and Maui, to The Big Island, Lanai and Kauai, find out the best islands in Hawaii for honeymoons and couples holidays.

Hawaii is one of my favourite places in the world. I don’t know if there are many places that are as naturally as beautiful as this unique collection of islands. Famed for big waves, epic scenery and tropical beaches, it’s a destination where you smell romance in the air!

There’s so much to do while you’re there too, from hiking to waterfalls and swimming with turtles, to relaxing on the beach. It’s the home of surfing, flip flops and laid back beach vibes, and I think it’s best explored while staying at a beautiful luxury resort!

However, there’s a lot more to these islands than tired honeymoon clichés! Whichever island you visit you’ll find breathtaking scenery, whether that’s lava fields, black sand beaches, tropical rainforests or dramatic coastlines, which are perfect for whale watching.

Eating in Hawaii is an activity in itself. Alongside all the American-style treats you’ve grown up enjoying, you’ll find chic Japanese fusion restaurants serving up top class fare. My advice? Grab yourself a poke bowl – you won’t regret it!

But when it comes to visiting Hawaii, how do you choose which island to visit? There are several and they’re all so different from one another. In this post I’ll give you a helping hand to discover the best island in Hawaii for couples. Although, to be honest, you can’t really pick a wrong island anyway! They are all amazing and special, but for different reasons.

So whether you’re choosing between Oahu or Maui, or you want to know why you’d visit The Big Island over Lanai or Kauai, this guide is guaranteed to help! Plus, I’ll share some great travel tips on where to stay and what to do once you’re there.

Which island should I visit in Hawaii?

In a nutshell: Busy, great for shopping, big choice of hotels, activities and big wave surfing.

Waikiki  Beach, capital Honolulu, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, and fantastic shopping are all found in Oahu. This is the most commercial island in Hawaii, and is where the majority of US and international flights land. There’s a huge variety of things to do on Oahu, so it’s a great option for couples who are first time visitors.

I’d recommend staying in a luxury hotel in Waikiki Beach , where you’ll find five star beach resorts, huge shopping malls and lots of drinking and dining options. One of my favourite things about staying in Waikiki Beach is that you’ll have amazing views out to Diamond Head Crater . The hike up here was one of my favourite activities on the island, and it’s just an hour from the main Waikiki Beach district.

You could go on a road trip to the North Shore, the area famous for its huge surf waves between November and July. Don’t worry if you’re not a pro yet, you can grab a board and take lessons on the island at a calmer beach!

Other famous sites on Oahu include Honolulu Zoo and The Polynesian Cultural Center. This is a ‘living museum’ of island culture, hosting an evening show and interactive exhibits. It’s a great place to really get to know Hawaiian culture during your trip. If you’re starting to plan your trip to this island, I’d recommend reading my guide to the top things to do in Oahu .

Where to stay in Oahu

Alohilani resort waikiki beach.

For a five star beach resort with a twist, you’ll love Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach. They’ve got their own Oceanarium, filled with native reef fish, right next to a lovely bar. A great, if unusual way to have a romantic drink together on your honeymoon or couples getaway!

The Laylow is a quirky hotel by Waikiki Beach. Set in tropical gardens, this is a lovely place to relax by the pool or grab a drink at the trendy bar.

For more recommendations of places to stay in Oahu, check out my guide to the best luxury and boutique hotels in Waikiki Beach .

Hawaii (The Big Island)

In a nutshell: The adventure island with erupting volcanoes, waterfalls, hikes, stargazing and outdoor activities.

We all know Hawaii is home to stunning beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and more… but head to The Big Island for some of the best scenery around. I absolutely adored my time on this island, in fact it was my favourite of the bunch as there is so much to see and do. If you’re the kind of couple who like to pack a lot into your travels, I’d say this is the best Hawaii island for you.

This island is an adventurer lover’s paradise, offering zip lining through the rainforest, waterfall hikes, scuba diving and snorkelling. You’ll find two active volcanoes on The Big Island, and you can hike to them from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Seeing bright red and orange lava erupting is an absolutely unforgettable experience. I loved it!

One thing that makes The Big Island the most romantic island in Hawaii, is Mauna Kea Observatory. Head up to the summit of this dormant volcano at night and you’ll be amazed! This is one of the best stargazing spots in the world. It’d be an incredible spot for a romantic date night!

Feel like you’ve seen enough white sand beaches on your trip? Papakolea, or ‘Green Sand’ Beach, is one of only four green beaches in the world, thanks to olivine crystals in the sand. There’s also Punaluu Black Sand Beach, one of the most famous in Hawaii, created by the volcanic sand.

If you’re starting to plot your trip to this island, I’d recommend reading my detailed guide to the best things to do on the Big Island. It has a ready made itinerary, so you can save on research time!

Where to stay on The Big Island

Mauna kea beach hotel.

Private lanais, a first class spa and a beach location make this a great choice for couples visiting The Big Island. But it’s the world class golf course onsite that will get you excited. Hole 3 is played on an ocean inlet, where the waves rise to cheer you on!

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Not just a luxurious five star resort, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai features a swimmable aquarium onsite, where you can help feed a famous fishy hotel resident―Kainalu, a spotted eagle ray!

Mauna Lani Resort

From the farm-to-table menu to the locally sourced spa ingredients, this exclusive beach resort is authentically Hawaiian. Enjoy water sports, chatting with an island historian or watch the sea turtles hatch, on quite possibly the most romantic island in Hawaii.

In a nutshell: A nature-filled paradise with epic scenery to match, definitely a great option for a romantic holiday.

The ‘Garden Isle’ of Kauai lets its natural beauty do the talking. Covered in tropical rainforest, this island is also home to some spectacular beaches.

Poipu Beach is a top choice for swimming, surfing and spotting monk seals. Hanalei Bay is a protected cove where the scuba diving is particularly good. There’s even an old shipwreck here!

If you like to keep active you could hike to the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, Waimea Canyon. The Black Pipe trail provides breathtaking views and leads to Waipo’o Falls – a spectacular waterfall which tumbles into the canyon.

If you’re looking for laid back atmosphere and lots of nature, Kauai might be the best Hawaiian island for your couples trip.

Where to stay in Kauai

Grand hyatt kauai.

At this luxury resort there’s a 24-hour pool ‘complex’ featuring waterfalls and an adults-only section. Take a nighttime swim here together, and stargaze while listening to the coconut trees sway. How romantic does that sound?

Koloa Landing Resort

At the 25-acre Koloa Landing Resort, they invite you to ‘become part of the island’. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture during your luxury honeymoon with surfing, hula and lei making lessons, or by relaxing in one of the three swimming pools!

In a nutshell: Lots of beach resorts and options for active adventures, this is another great option for romantic getaways.

When people think of Maui, they probably think of luxury resorts and honeymoons! The best resorts are found in West Maui and on some of the best island beaches at Wailea, Kaanapali and Kapalua.

Inland, Maui has a lot to offer couples, including the world’s biggest dormant volcano, found in Haleakala National Park. If you’re an active couple, you could go on a romantic sunrise hike here. Activities like this make Maui the best island in Hawaii for adventurous couples!

Take your partner snorkelling in the sheltered Honolua Bay, or go on a guided boat trip to the Molokini Crater, a marine life conservation area. Alternatively, head off and explore the 26km-long Pali Coast which boasts unique coral life, with huge cliffs and calm seas.

If you want some more helpful tips for planning your time on the island, don’t miss my Maui itinerary . From swimming with dolphins and beach time to exciting jungle hikes, it’s packed full of the best things to do in Maui !

Where to stay in Maui

Four seasons resort maui.

This Wailea resort is one of the best luxury honeymoon hotels in Hawaii. There’s a fabulous spa, three restaurants and its beachfront location provides excellent whale watching tours in winter seasons!

The beachfront Andaz offers luxury suites and amenities with authentic Hawaiian traditions. The regular Feast at Mokapu is an event which blends story-telling and locally sourced Hawaiian cuisine. Oh, and there are personalised cocktails there too! It’s an ideal choice for honeymooners visiting Maui.

For more great hotel recommendations on this stunning island, read my guide to the best luxury hotels in Maui .

In a nutshell: Quiet, romantic and intimate, ideal for nature lovers.

Worlds apart from Oahu, quieter Lanai is the best Hawaii island for honeymoon couples needing a post-wedding retreat. If the excitement of the celebrations got a bit much, this is a great place to zen out and enjoy each others company. Some say this is the most romantic island in Hawaii, with its off-the-beaten-track vibe. In fact, there are only three paved roads on the island! That gives you an idea of the slow pace to life here.

One of the best things to do on the island is to explore the Lanai Cathedrals. These are dive sites of rocky caverns that look positively church-like when the sunlight streams through from above.

Another great spot is Shipwreck Beach (yes, with a shipwreck!) which is a secluded spot where sea turtles often pop by. Swimming isn’t recommended here due to strong winds, so follow the trail by the beach where you can also see the Kukui Point petroglyphs rock art.

Lanai is also a great island for romantic hikes with your other half. One of the best is Sweetheart Rock, located along a short track close to the Four Seasons Resort. For truly special hiking trails, try the Munroe Trail which takes you up to the highest point on Lanai.

From there you’ll have absolutely breathtaking views of five islands: Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe and Hawaii! If you like to live life at a slower pace, enjoying nature and quality time together, you’ll love Lanai! Could this be the best island in Hawaii for couples?

Where to stay in Lanai

Four seasons resort lanai.

The Hawaiian island of Lanai only has one resort, and it happens to be one of the best in Hawaii! At the Four Seasons you’ll get five star rooms and suites, a private beach, spa, pool and restaurants. Amongst the many activities available, the most romantic are sunrise hiking trails or stargazing at the Lanai Observatory!

I hope this guide has helped you choose the best island in Hawaii for your honeymoon or couples holiday! Let me know which one you choose.

Plan Your Trip With These Hawaii Travel Blogs

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How To Have The Ultimate Adventure In Hawaii

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The Ultimate 5 Day Maui Itinerary: 15 Best Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii 

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5 Day Oahu Itinerary: 17 Amazing Things To Do In Oahu, Hawaii 

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5 Day Big Island Itinerary: 15 Best Things To Do On The Big Island, Hawaii 

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The Best Honeymoon Resorts In Maui, Hawaii

From chic beach resorts where you can walk straight onto the sand, to luxurious spa hotels and fine dining experiences, these are the best honeymoon resorts in Maui, Hawaii.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit on Your Honeymoon

An article attributed to "Martha Stewart Editors" indicates when several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.

The Martha Stewart team aims to teach and inspire readers daily with tested-until-perfected recipes, creative DIY projects, and elevated home and entertaining ideas. They are experts in their fields who research, create, and test the best ways to help readers design the life they want. The joy is in the doing.

Hawaii has been a popular honeymoon destination for years, and that's due to a variety of different reasons. First, it's part of the United States, meaning there's no language barrier or currency exchange to worry about. Second, it's a far-flung, remote South Pacific paradise, with guaranteed "exotic honeymoon" vibes, but the creature comforts of home are still widely available to you. And in today's climate, where travel guidelines and quarantine rules pertaining to outside countries are constantly changing, a post-nuptial vacation that doesn't require a passport is even more appealing.

The islands of Hawaii are also home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the country: towering cliffsides, active volcanoes, lush green jungles, gorgeous white- and black-sand beaches, snowcapped mountains (that's right, there's snow in Hawaii!). What's more, each island offers its own unique appeal: Oahu is equal parts urban (Honolulu) and untouched (the North Shore). Maui is picture-perfect and manicured, which is why it's home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the state. Kauai offers jungle-and-mountain lushness. The Big Island is raw and natural, with its white- and black-sand beaches and active volcanoes. And Lanai, which is essentially a private island , is perfect for couples who want to escape the crowds.

Which islands, and how many, you decide to go to will ultimately depend on your budget and how much time you have: The general rule of thumb is to avoid trying to visit more than two islands during a ten-day honeymoon, as you won't be able to fully experience what each locale has to offer. Beyond that, Hawaii promises once-in-a-lifetime memories.

If you're ready to plan a post-nuptial retreat to one or more of these beautiful destinations , click through here for a guide to paradise. We're offering accommodation ideas, our favorite spots to grab a bite to eat, the must-see tourist attractions, and even a few day trip ideas. All that's left for you to do is to choose the Hawaiian islands you most want to visit. Trust us, that won't be easy.

The most populated island in Hawaii is home to Honolulu, the buzzing state capital, the laid-back North Shore (a surf haven), and the rural Leeward Cost, which has off-the-beaten-path beaches.

Oahu: Where to Stay

Consider this the best of both worlds: White sands meet towering skyscrapers on the shores of Waikiki Beach, Oahu's most iconic resort area. Here, you can spend a morning on the beach and an afternoon on the concrete sidewalks of downtown Honolulu. You'll find no shortage of places to stay: 'Alohilani Resort has sky-high infinity pools and Morimoto restaurants; The Laylow, Autograph Collection, mixes mid-century modern design with present-day Hawaiian charms; while secluded Halekulani offers the chance to sip mai tais beneath an ancient kiawe tree at House Without a Key bar.

Oahu: Where to Eat

In recent years, downtown Honolulu has exploded with cool restaurants led by globally recognized, Hawaiian-born chefs. The Pig & the Lady, for example, is a Vietnamese spot is in the heart of Chinatown by Chef Andrew Le. On the vanguard of Hawaii's culinary scene, Chef Le melds Pacific ingredients with Asian influences to create some of the most flavorful dishes around. If stop in for lunch, make sure to save room for the soft serve for dessert—the flavors change weekly and are all delicious.

Oahu: What to Do

Oahu has more golf courses than any other island, so challenge your new spouse to a round for an afternoon of fun. History buffs should visit the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor , Bishop Museum , the Polynesian Cultural Center , and Iolani Palace , the only royal palace in the country. Souvenir-seekers will want to make a beeline for the International Market Place , an open-air shopping center with a daily hula show at sunset, while scuba divers should plan an excursion to Hanauma Bay , which has an underwater nature preserve.

Oahu: Day Trip

If you're staying downtown, set aside a day to explore Oahu's rugged North Shore. If traffic is light, the scenic drive takes only 45 minutes; before you know it, you'll be wandering the famed surf town Haleiwa and watching experts rip the biggest, baddest waves in the world (especially during winter, which is peak surf season).

Though Maui is home to some of the best resorts in the world, predominantly on western Wailea Beach and northwestern Kaanapali Beach (once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty), there's so much more to the "Valley Isle" than just luxury hotels. The island has world-class golf courses, a lush state park in Iao Valley, cattle and horses farms, sugar and pineapple plantations, and the largest dormant volcano crater in the world, Haleakalā, towering at 10,023 feet tall.

Maui: Where to Stay

It's your honeymoon, so why not treat yourselves to total luxury? The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is the hotel to book: Live like the cast of The White Lotus (the hit HBO series was filmed on-site!) and unwind at the adults-only infinity pool, grab dinner at one of the incredible on-site restaurants, and book massages in one of the oceanside hales, thatched treatment huts where you'll hear the waves crashing on shore at Wailea Beach. If you're looking for an adults-only vibe, try Hotel Wailea , an all-suite resort that's Relais & Chateaux-designated (insider speak meaning "the food is insane"). If you're a fun-loving couple, venture to Lahaina and stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa , where it's okay to act like kids. The pool includes a tunnel slide, cascading waterfall, and grotto bar. And if you're looking to visit the far west side of Maui, a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is where to go: You'll get to enjoy 54 acres of pristine Maui landscape and recently-updated guest rooms.

Maui: Where to Eat

Sure, you can get a burger back home, but Hāna Ranch Provisions serves organic meat on a brioche bun. At Wolfgang Puck's Spago , located within the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, you'll enjoy a fusion of Hawaiian and California cuisine, all served with a stunning ocean view beyond. Go for a farm-to-table meal at Merriman's (whatever you do, don't miss the Mai Tai) or local catch-of-the day at Mama's Fish House . And if you make it to Hana, located on Maui's east side, make sure to grab lunch at Hana Farms . The open-air spot serves up some of the best BBQ dishes on the island.

Maui: What to Do

One of Maui's prime activities is whale-watching; you can regularly spot humpback whales breaking the ocean surface from January to April. Escape the noisy boats and crowds by booking a private excursion with Hawaiian Paddle Sports . Couples can choose to get up-close-and-personal with these marine mammals by kayak, outrigger canoe, or stand up paddleboard. Digital photography is included with every whale-watching tour, so no need to pack a waterproof camera.

Maui: Day Trip

Some call the "Road to Hana," the drive from western Maui to Hana—a quaint, isolated town on the island's eastern end—a little touristy and a lot scary. While it's true that you may hit some traffic and will have to wind around hairpin turns, it's one of the best ways to see the "real Hawaii." You'll pass dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and photo-worthy black-sand beaches like Pa'iloa, plus secluded white-sand ones like Hamoa Beach.

Kauai is exactly the kind of untouched, land-before-time paradise you envision when you think of Hawaii. That's largely because it's one of the least touristed islands (it's hard to build big resort developments on mountain landscapes). But don't worry, you can still check all the necessary beach honeymoon boxes—snorkeling, cocktailing, and beach-strolling—plus unique activities like horseback riding.

Kauai: Where to Stay

The Palmwood , a quaint bed and breakfast, is situated on a secluded five-acre property, which is surrounded by the lush Moloa'a hills—simply put, it feels as far away from home as you can get. If resort life is more of what you're after, Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection , is located on Kauai's sunny South Shore. There, you can enjoy hiking, scuba diving, and some of the island's best shopping and dining.

Kauai: Where to Eat

Kauai's North Shore is a local's haven, so get off the beaten track and leave the resort for meals. Bar Acuda , in Hanalei, uses the freshest, regional ingredients for small-plate dishes. The place is run by chef Jim Moffat, who made a name for himself in San Francisco, and his reputation precedes him; reserve a table in advance or prepare to saddle up at the bar as you wait (no matter, the wine list is top-notch). The next morning, head to Chef Moffat's open-air café, Hanalei Bread Company , which has tons of gluten- and dairy-free options in addition to delicious iced coffee.

Kauai: What to Do

Take in the spectacular Napali Coast from Ke'e Beach, sometimes called "the beach at the end of the road," since it's literally the dead-end of route 560, the main North Shore artery. You'll feel like the only two people on the planet as you lounge on the sand and snorkel coral reefs (the water is calmest during summer). You also can't miss "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific," a.k.a Waimea Canyon, which you can explore from various lookouts or on one of the many hiking trails.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is home to the majority of the world's climate zones, meaning it's a place of spectacular contrasts: beaches, volcanoes, snowcapped mountains, forests, and even a desert can all be discovered in just a few short days.

Hawaii Island: Where to Stay

The Big Island has a few choice resorts: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel opened in 1965 as Hawaii Island's first resort (don't worry it has all of today's mod-cons). Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa has two championship golf courses. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai , meanwhile, delivers over-the-top luxury in an exclusive setting on the Kona-Kohala Coast.

Hawaii Island: Where to Eat

After a meal of smoky sashimi, miso chili yaki udon, and salty fish fried rice, you'll rave about Moon and Turtle , in the quaint town of Hilo. Bamboo , in Hawaii, is one of the island's oldest and most beloved restaurants; it serves affordable, Pacific Rim-inspired plates and plenty of aloha spirit. Kohala Coast's Napua offers a more contemporary take on Hawaiian classics.

Hawaii Island: What to Do

You can't visit Hawaii without a trip to Volcanoes National Park , on the southern half of the island. The best way to see two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, is by helicopter. (That way, you can spot both eruption points on Kīlauea.) Other worthwhile activities include an ATV tour of Waipiʻo Valley and waterfall repelling in Hilo with Kulaniapia Adventures .

Hawaii's "Secluded Island" was once solely used as a Dole Company pineapple plantation. Now, it's home to two world-class Four Seasons resorts, making this the ultimate private-island-style experience.

Lanai: Where to Stay and What to Do

The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is set on the island's southeastern shore. Come here last on your honeymoon journey, because this resort is all about relaxation: Book an ocean-side couples massage, a five-course private-dining experience, or a gourmet picnic on a beach to cap off the perfect trip.

Which Hawaiian Islands to Visit for Honeymoon

The seclusion is alluring as Hawaii is the most isolated chain of islands in the world. You can easily picture walking down a white sand beach with your loved one while feeling the soft kiss of sea spray. The water is electric blue, the palm trees wave in the wind and there's the faint strum of a ukulele on the breeze. Hawaii is an idyllic location for the perfect honeymoon.

But it's easy to get overwhelmed with the choice of Hawaii. The chain is made up of eight different islands. Four of those islands -- Hawaii , Maui , Oahu , and Kauai -- are where you'll find the majority of Hawaii's 10 million annual visitors. It's also where you'll find all the comforts and catering tourist infrastructure. 

Natural wonders that you can't see anywhere else in the world are waiting to be discovered on each island, and each of the islands has its own unique personality. Picking the right island can make for an absolutely unforgettable honeymoon. That's why you should familiarize yourself with the fruits of each isle and choose the one that suits your personality best.

First, A Thought Experiment

Really sink your teeth into the imagery. What do you see? Do you see pampering resorts and spas? Do you see towering waterfalls earned at the end of a long hike? Or do you see seclusion on a beach? Keep this image in mind as you read through each of the islands below. With this image, the right island should jump out at you.

Hawaii "The Big Island"

For those who want all of Hawaii's natural wonder.

Everything is big on the Big Island. The central volcano, Mauna Kea, is the largest mountain on earth if you measure from the ocean floor. Its peak stands 13,803 feet above the Pacific Ocean and is often snow-capped in the winter. Yes, Hawaiians ski and sled, and you can often find locals shoveling snow into truck beds for the kids after a fresh snowfall.

Mauna Kea also serves an important role when it comes to climate. The Big Island is incredibly unique as it is home to 10 of the world's 14 different climate zones. You'll find snow, deserts, rainforest and everything in between on the long, slow slopes of Mauna Kea. The massive mountain also cuts the island in half with two very different landscapes to the east and the west.

On the eastern slopes of Mauna Kea, you'll find rainforests and waterfalls. Hilo is the big city of the wetter east side. Kona, which translates to "leeward" or the side of the island less likely to see a storm, is the metropolis of the dry and hot west coast where you'll find endless fields of volcanic rock. And, in just a short drive, you can watch the world around you change dramatically in Hawaii.

Hawaii is relatively young, so the ocean hasn't had time to batter its volcanic rocks into sandy beaches. That's why you'll find the majority of the island's white sand on the older west side near Kona. But Hawaii also has a rare green sand beach , a mini- Na Pali Coast on the north shore and fields of coffee on the western slopes of the mountain.

You'll have to drive quite a bit to take it all in, but Hawaii offers up a little piece of every other island. It's for those energetic, go-getter types that want to sample everything the state has to offer and don’t mind changing hotels along the way.

Maui "The Valley Isle"

A world-famous romantic escape where small cities blend in with nature.

That massive volcano sits right in the middle of Maui's eastern island. Just take a look at a map. Maui looks as if it is two islands that have been fused in the middle. The larger eastern island is where you'll find the Road to Hana wrapping around the eastern edge of the massive Haleakalā. The smaller western island is home to former whaling stations that have turned into pleasant, resort-filled towns perfect for a honeymoon.

Maui has some of the best beaches in the state covering the shores of both "islands." It's a picture-perfect setting that will allow you to flood your social media feeds with envious stills. But the romance of Maui is known all over the world. With nearly 10 million annual visitors to the state, you'll likely be sharing those romantic settings with wedding parties and other honeymooners.

The resort towns of the smaller west "island" are perfect for five-star pampering. You can hike the crater, snorkel Molokini or drive the Road to Hana only to return to a romantic spa setting for recuperation. And, since each of the resort towns is a former whaling station, they are perfect for whale watching between January and March. The humpback whales may be honeymooning, as well, because they flock to Hawaii to breed in the warm, protected waters.

Maui is a laid-back mix of small cities, pampering resorts and nature. It's for those who want convenient amenities but don't want to deal with the hectic nature of Honolulu.

Oahu "The Gathering Place"

Hawaii's big city -- Honolulu -- set against historical sites and natural attractions.

You might be surprised by the sheer size of Honolulu when you land in the state's largest international airport. But it's the city that gives Oahu its defining feature. Oahu is the perfect honeymoon location for those who are seeking big-city amenities, five-star resorts, and an active nightlife.

In fact, you may be disappointed with the nightlife on the other islands. Everything seems to close down early to allow the outdoorsy types to recuperate for another day of adventure starting at dawn. But Honolulu is an international city where you'll meet people from all over the world in bars that stay open deep into the night. In fact, you'll find the state's only bars and clubs that are allowed to stay open until 4:00 a.m. 

A short drive south takes you to the somber Pearl Harbor Monument, but a drive north through the hectic traffic of Honolulu will take you past historical sites to the quieter north shore. You'll see sugar plantations and the famous non-operational Dole pineapple plantation which are reminders of Hawaii's history of exploitation before reaching the northern side of the island. You'll find the state's best shave ice, some of the world's best surfing and exhilarating ocean cliff jump on the north shore.

Oahu is for those seeking a big city atmosphere with day trips to historical sites and natural wonders. And Oahu could not be any more different than our next island. 

Kauai "The Garden Isle"

The wettest and lushest Hawaiian Island where you'll find unforgettable natural wonders.

The Garden Isle is also known as Chicken Island. Hurricane Iniki slammed into Kauai back in September of 1992. It destroyed the Elvis’s Coco Palms Resort and set free many of the caged chickens on the island. The farm bird has thrived. Now the island is littered with wild chickens that may surround you when you eat outside. You'll also hear the roosters when the sun comes up.

Kauai is easy. It's for those who love nature, seek seclusion and like to go to bed tired every night. There is a myriad of outdoor adventures awaiting you on the Garden Isle that'll test your mettle and have you to bed early. After a good night's sleep, you'll welcome the sound of the roosters in the morning. 

Mount Waialeale, the island's central dormant volcano, is the rainiest place on earth. The rain carves its way to the ocean to forge the state's only navigable rivers making Kauai the only island where you can freshwater kayak. You can also join a tour to the top of the island where you'll be outfitted with an inner tube to float back down to the coast inside decades-old stone irrigation canals.

The Garden Isle is old. The waves have had plenty of time to batter the volcanic rocks of its coast into white sand beaches. With a little effort, you and your loved one shouldn't have any trouble finding a secluded beach spot, especially if you venture out to Polihale Beach.

Kauai is for those who love the outdoors and want to feel the isolation of nature, but you'll have to sacrifice just a little bit of convenience.

Molokai & Lanai 

Truly isolated islands with no resorts or stoplights.

Molokai and Lanai are for the truly adventurous seeking solitude.

Weddings are also popular on the islands. You’ll find Oahu to be the most accessible and affordable island with Honolulu international airport and infrastructure. Weddings are incredibly popular on Maui with its array of coastal resort towns. You’ll have a variety of wedding landscapes to choose from on The Big Island while nuptials are very popular on Kauai’s consistently dry and clear south coast. Then it’s easy to start your honeymoon there. You simply stay while everyone else reluctantly goes home.

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The average two-person room on the Hawaiian Islands costs $176 per night, but, you have to remember, that's the average price.

Recommended budget for your Hawaii Vacation

As you can see, the islands are very different from one another. Each is a tropical paradise, but each offers its own unique experiences.

What Island Fits Your Personality Best?

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Best Hawaiian Island for Honeymoons That Will Make You Swoon

Are you planning a hawaii honeymoon but don’t know which island to pick keep scrolling to find out the best hawaiian island for honeymoons that are packed with romantic adventures and luxury resorts, this post about the best hawaiian island for honeymoons was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a Hawaii honeymoon and don’t know where to start?

You’re in luck! I’ve been to Hawaii 40 times . That includes many trips to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Moloka’i, and Lana’i and I have a LOT of opinions about them!

In this post, I’ll compare the different islands in Hawaii so you can figure out the best one for your honeymoon.

If you want an easy-to-read guide that will help make choosing between these four amazing islands easier then keep reading because this article is just what you need! 

After reading this post, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the perfect island for your honeymoon in Hawaii. 

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream vacation today!

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii itineraries complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Are There All Inclusive Hawaiian Honeymoons?

I know that a lot of couples are looking for ​​ Hawaii all-inclusive honeymoons , but I have to report that these don’t really exist in Hawaii. That’s more of a Mexico or Caribbean thing.

The majority of luxury resorts in Hawaii have several on-site restaurants and dining options. You can charge your meals to the room, but it’s not part of your Hawaii honeymoon package.

How to Find the Best Island for a Hawaii Honeymoon

Before I break down the different islands in Hawaii, let me point out what you can find on ALL of them. 

Each main Hawaiian island has gorgeous beaches , stunning hiking trails , and resorts that offer amazing pools to cool off in! You’ll also be able to explore farmers markets , go to luaus , and get beautiful photos .

There are a lot of things to do on all four main Hawaiian islands, but each one has its own unique personality. 

Below, I’ll tell you the things that set each island apart from the others so you can choose the best Hawaiian island for couples wanting a tropical honeymoon. 

Consider this your ultimate guide to the best Hawaiian island for honeymoons!

Oahu Honeymoon

I’m kicking off this list with Oahu because that’s the island most people are familiar with. It’s home to Waikiki Beach which is a top beach honeymoon location.

Top Oahu Attractions for Couples

Oahu is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world, and it’s no surprise that Pearl Harbor is one of the island’s most popular attractions. After all, this is where Japan bombed the United States, leading to our entry into World War II. 

Today, the USS Arizona Memorial is the most popular place to visit, but there’s also the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (it’s incredible), the USS Battleship Missouri , and the USS Bowfin Submarine . 

While it’s not exactly romantic, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Hawaii. So if you’re looking for something a little different on your Oahu honeymoon, be sure to add Pearl Harbor to your list of places to see.

Another one of the most popular attractions on the island is Diamond Head . It’s best to head up there close to sunrise so you can climb up all the stairs to get to the scenic viewpoint before it gets too hot (or crowded). 

They say couples that sweat together stay together, right? This is a great opportunity to test that theory out and see if you can make it to the top without killing each other. 

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the ocean and Honolulu. If you’re lucky, you might even see a rainbow. Just be sure to snag a reservation before you go!

if you’re looking for something a little more cultural, you should consider visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center . 

Here, you can learn about the cultures of the main Polynesian islands and even participate in hands-on activities. The highlight of the night is watching the Ha: Breath of Life show, which is an amazing performance that you won’t want to miss.

Things to do on an Oahu Honeymoon

Kualoa Ranch is a popular TV and movie filming site that covers 4,000 acres of green pastures, sprawling mountains, and picturesque valleys. 

The ranch has been used as a backdrop for over 60 Hollywood movies and TV shows, including Jurassic Park, Godzilla, Pearl Harbor , and Hawaii Five-O . 

Adventurous couples will definitely want to explore Kualoa Ranch. I highly recommend the ATV tour that takes you to Jurassic Park sites and has the most beautiful views of Oahu. You can also do horseback riding , ziplining , a movie tour , and even go to a secret island . 

Oahu is also the perfect place to experience a luau on your honeymoon! Toa Luau and Experience Nutridge Luau are both small, intimate events that you can’t find anywhere else in Hawaii. 

They’re located in North Shore and Honolulu respectively, so you can easily get to them no matter where you’re staying on the island. 

And, of course, they both offer the most authentic luau experience you can find in Hawaii. 

So if you’re looking for an intimate, authentic luau experience on your Oahu honeymoon, look no further than Toa Luau or Experience Nutridge Luau!

There are also tons of opportunities to see Hawaiian sea life. You can swim with dolphins at the Kahala Hotel & Resort. There’s a cool shark cage diving experience in North Shore Oahu. And there are lots of Oahu snorkeling tours.

Book a Hawaii Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll have more than just selfies. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Romantic Oahu Resorts and Hotels

Oahu is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why. From the bustling city life of Honolulu to the tranquil shores of North Shore Oahu, there’s something for everyone on this island paradise. 

And when it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, there are plenty of options for honeymooners in Oahu. 

If you’re looking for a classic Waikiki experience, the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is your perfect option. Nicknamed the “pink palace,” this iconic hotel is as Instagrammable as it gets. 

For a more modern take on Waikiki, check out the Surfjack Hotel . This hip property is great for couples who want to be right in the heart of the action. And they have a poolside bar.

Or, if you’re looking for some truly unique amenities, consider the Alohilani Resort . This property features a massive aquarium in the lobby and a DJ at their rooftop pool. 

If you don’t like the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, head up to Turtle Bay Resort in North Shore Oahu. It was completely renovated in 2021 and they have lots of spaces to just relax. It’s also where they filmed Forgetting Sarah Marshall !

No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Oahu for your honeymoon.

Maui Honeymoon

For many years, Maui was known as the “honeymoon island” because so many people came here for their Hawaiian honeymoon. It has a great mix of nightlife and outdoor adventures. And you’ll find some of the most luxurious resorts in Hawaii.

Top Maui Attractions for Couples

Maui is a bucket list destination for many honeymooners, and Haleakala National Park is one of the main reasons why. 

The park is famous for its epic sunrises and sunsets, and there are few better places in Maui to watch the colors of the sky change than from the top of Haleakala. 

You can drive up to the park on your own, but I recommend taking a tour . The tour will not only save you the hassle of having to find parking and driving in the dark, but it will also give you a chance to learn about the history and culture of Maui from your guide. 

And if you’re interested in exploring more than just the sunrise/sunset experience, there are also some great hiking trails within the park boundaries. 

No matter what you choose to do at Haleakala National Park, it’s sure to be a memorable experience during your Maui honeymoon.

Maui is also home to some of the best pineapples in the world. And what better way to enjoy Maui’s delicious pineapples than on a Maui honeymoon?

The Maui Pineapple Tour is a great way to learn about how pineapples are grown and to taste some of the sweetest (and freshest) pineapples in Hawaii. 

During the tour, you’ll get to go into the fields to see how the pineapples are grown. You’ll also get to taste some of the Maui-grown pineapples. And it’s not just delicious pineapple that you’ll get to taste on the Maui pineapple tour. 

The Maui pineapple tour is also right next to a distillery, so you can taste a bunch of locally made spirits after the pineapple tour!

I’ao Valley State Park is the perfect place to hike if you’re not a serious hiker like me. The easy hiking trail is only 0.7 miles long and the path is either paved or has stairs that lead up to a scenic viewpoint. 

Plus, there’s a cute swimming hole if you want to hang out a bit. This is really close to the airport so it’s an easy stop on your way to or from the airport. And if you’re looking for a more challenging hike, there are plenty of options nearby as well.

Things to do on a Maui Honeymoon

One of the best ways to experience all that Maui has to offer is to drive the Road to Hana . This windy road snakes its way along the coast, with stops along the way that offer everything from hiking to swimming to sightseeing. 

The best stops for couples include hiking to Twin Falls , exploring the Garden of Eden , seeing a black sand beach , and hiking through a bamboo forest . This is such a cool adventure that you might consider spending the night in Hana so you have more time to explore.

For couples looking for a romantic adventure, the Road to Hana is the perfect way to start their Maui honeymoon.

You’ll probably also want to book a luau in Maui. The swankiest Maui luau is the Feast at Mokapu . It’s located at the Andaz Maui in Wailea and it’s incredible.

It features a plated, 3-course farm-to-table meal, tasty tropical cocktails, and some of the best Polynesian entertainment. And it’s all oceanfront.

We’ve been to a LOT of luaus in Hawaii and the Feast at Mokapu is by far the top one I recommend for Hawaii honeymoons!

Molokini Crater is one of the most popular Maui honeymoon activities and for good reason – it’s gorgeous! 

You’ll need to take a snorkeling boat tour to get to Molokini but it’s definitely worth it. The water is so clear and you have a good chance of seeing Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. 

Some of the boats even have water slides on board, which makes for the perfect half-day or full-day Maui adventure! 

So if you’re looking for something fun to do on your Maui honeymoon, be sure to check out Molokini Crater. You won’t be disappointed!

Romantic Maui Resorts and Hotels

Maui is a great place for a honeymoon because there are so many romantic resorts to choose from. Andaz Maui is a Wailea resort that has world-class dining, the best luau in Maui, and an amazing pool area. 

Hyatt Regency Maui is a Ka’anapali resort with tons of food options and one of the best pools in Maui. 

Royal Lahaina Resort is pretty fabulous and close to Whaler’s Village, home to lots of restaurants and shops. 

So whether you’re looking for a resort with great food options, an amazing pool, or one that’s close to shopping and restaurants, Maui has it all!

Kauai Honeymoon

While Kauai used to be a Hawaiian island that was considered “under the radar”, Kauai has quickly become a top honeymoon destination in the United States. It’s perfect for adventurous couples as well as foodies.

Top Kauai Attractions for Couples

Kauai is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and honeymooners will find plenty to do on this lush island. One of the most popular Kauai attractions is the stunning Na Pali Coast . 

There are a few different ways to experience it. You can take a helicopter ride , hike into the Kalalau Valley, or take a Na Pali boat cruise . 

Whichever way you choose, you’ll see lush valleys, tropical rainforests, and secret waterfalls. It will seriously take your breath away.

Another one of the most popular Kauai attractions is Waimea Canyon , nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. Here you’ll find cool photo spots, scenic lookouts and hikes for all levels. Plus, there are some cool waterfalls in the red dirt on the drive up to Waimea Canyon.

From Waimea Canyon, I suggest heading up to Kokee State Park just up the road for a completely different experience. It can get a bit chilly, so bundle up!

Wailua Falls is one of Kauai’s most famous attractions and it’s easy to see why. It’s a beautiful Kauai waterfall that was featured in the classic TV show Fantasy Island . 

You can easily drive to the scenic lookout or you can kayak up the Wailua River to see the falls. Either way, it’s a great Kauai honeymoon spot.

Things to do on a Kauai Honeymoon

Kauai is an amazing honeymoon destination for couples who want to experience a little bit of everything. The Kauai Rum Safari is a great way to learn about the history of rum in Hawai’i, see some amazing sights, and taste some delicious rum. 

You’ll be taken around a lush plantation where you’ll see exotic plants, tropical fruit and vegetable orchards, and many more beautiful sites. You’ll learn about the history of Rum in Hawai’i and why Koloa Rum is so good, all before your first rum tasting. 

The Kauai Rum Safari is a great way to spend a day on your honeymoon and learn about the rich history of rum in Hawaii. Plus, it’s unlike any tour on Kauai!

Speaking of unique experiences, the Kauai Jungle Tub is super romantic. It’s a photography session that takes place in a secluded backyard. An outdoor tub is filled with tropical leaves and flowers for a gorgeous photo shoot.

It comes with professional hair and makeup so you will look and feel like a real supermodel. Plus, it’s fun to have your partner hop in the tub with you for some candid shots.

And if you’re looking for a Kauai adventure that isn’t too strenuous, check out this Kauai Mountain Tubing tour. 

They take you onto private property in Mt. Waialeale so you can float on an inner tube down an abandoned sugar cane canal. You even get to go through a few tunnels.

It’s not remotely scary but you’ll feel a bit adventurous.

Romantic Kauai Resorts and Hotels

There are plenty of Kauai resorts and hotels that cater to couples looking for a romantic getaway. The 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay opens in October 2022 and is the premier place to stay in North Shore Kauai. 

There’s also the Grand Hyatt Kauai that is right on Shipwreck Beach and features several nice restaurants and an on-site luau.

And the Koloa Landing Resort has one of the best swimming pools in Hawaii and it’s right next to the Shops at Kukui’ula. 

So whether you’re looking for a luxurious North Shore Kauai resort or somewhere in sunny Poipu, Kauai has plenty of romantic options for you to choose from.

Big Island Honeymoon

The Big Island is the ultimate Hawaii honeymoon destination for couples that love the outdoors and want to explore a volcano in Hawaii.

Top Big Island Attractions for Couples

Big Island is Hawaii’s largest island and home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. 

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the best place to see active lava flow and offers a variety of lava viewing sites. The park also has hiking trails, a lava tube, a visitors’ center, and the Volcano House hotel.

You can easily do a day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park from Kona or Hilo or plan on spending the night.

The Big Island is also the home of Kona coffee , one of the world’s most coveted coffee beans. Kona coffee is grown on the volcanic slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa, which gives it a unique flavor.

If you’re a coffee lover, a visit to the Big Island is a must. There are lots of different Kona coffee farms to choose from, and many offer tours of the coffee plantations. Of course, there will be plenty of opportunities to sample the coffee.

If you’re looking for a romantic Big Island honeymoon destination with lots of gorgeous waterfalls, the Hilo side is definitely worth a visit! 

Rainbow Falls is really easy to get to and just steps away from the parking lot. And there’s also Akaka Falls , which has a nice paved path with several scenic viewpoints. 

Plus, the Hawaii Tropical Biosphere & Garden has a really cute waterfall inside that’s definitely worth checking out.

Things to do on a Big Island Honeymoon

If you’re looking for a truly unique activity to add to your Big Island honeymoon, look no further than night swimming with manta rays . 

While most people think of snorkeling as a daytime activity, swimming with manta rays is best done at night. 

You can join one of the many snorkeling or diving tours that operate in Kona. Swimming with manta rays is an incredible experience that you won’t find anywhere else in Hawaii.

If you’re looking for an adventurous way to experience the Big Island’s culture, the cultural ATV ride with Aloha Adventure Farm is a must-do. 

You can either ride your own ATV or hop in a UTV with a guide if you’re not feeling confident. Either way, you’re in for a wild ride. You’ll stop at little villages where you’ll see cultural presentations and participate in hands-on activities. 

They even have a Polynesian wood carving experience you can do. You won’t find anything like this on any other island in Hawaii.

Horseback riding in Waipio Valley is the perfect activity for couples looking to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of nature. 

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you ride through lush green foliage and across bubbling streams. And, of course, the views of Hi’ilawe Falls are simply breathtaking. 

If you’re planning a Big Island honeymoon, horseback riding in Waipio Valley is an absolute must! All Waipio Valley tours are currently closed due to roadwork.

Romantic Big Island Resorts and Hotels

There’s no shortage of luxury hotels on the Big Island of Hawaii, so couples planning a Big Island honeymoon have plenty of options to choose from. 

I suggest staying at the Big Island’s first resort, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel . Couples can indulge in romantic private dining in tiki-torch-lit locales around the resort or get in the Hawaiian spirit during the on-property luau. 

There’s also the incredible Four Seasons on the Kohala Coast. This is where you’ll find private bungalow-style rooms and suites. 

And for those who want to indulge in a little spa time on their Big Island honeymoon, there’s the Fairmont Orchid , which has a spa with outdoor huts. 

No matter which hotel you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable Big Island honeymoon.

Lana’i Honeymoon

Most people have only heard about Lana’i because this is where Bill Gates got married years ago. It continues to be a quietly popular honeymoon spot in Hawaii because it’s so private.

Top Lana’i Attractions for Couples

Honestly, there aren’t too many actual attractions on Lana’i. There’s the Lana’i Ferry that will take passengers to and from Maui. That can be fun to do for a dinner out or to go shopping.

Sweetheart Rock is also worth seeing, especially on a Lana’i honeymoon. It’s just a natural landmark but it’s cute for some photos.

There’s also the Garden of the Gods . You’ll need to either rent a 4×4 vehicle or book a tour to see this Hawaii park. There are some cool rock formations, but it’s mostly rolling hills of dirt. It’s just so unlike other Hawaii landscapes that you’ll just need to see it in person.

Things to do on a Lana’i Honeymoon

The Hawanawana Spa at the Four Seasons Lana’i is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring Lana’i. With its soothing atmosphere and luxurious treatments, the Hawanawana Spa is sure to please any bride and groom. 

For those looking for something a little more unique, Sensei Lana’i offers a variety of unique spa experiences. From Thai massage to body wraps and traditional Hawaiian lomi lomi massage, Sensei Lana’i has something for everyone. 

So whether you’re looking to relax or rejuvenate, Lana’i has the perfect spa experience for you.

Lana’i is the perfect place to enjoy a honeymoon, and NOBU LANAI is the perfect place to enjoy Lana’i. This cliff-side restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean, along with delicious Japanese cuisine. 

You can even book a teppan experience or book private dining somewhere in the resort.

Romantic Lana’i Resorts and Hotels

On the Southeast coast of the island, the Four Seasons Lana’i sits just a moment away from many of the most scenic spots. Guests can enjoy lagoon-style pools, gorgeous botanical gardens, the Hawanawana Spa, or fabulous restaurants. 

There’s also Sensei , which is located in the spiritual uplands of Lana’i. It features an incredible sculpture garden, spa facilities, and lots of outdoor activities. 

Lana’i is the perfect place to honeymoon if you’re looking for an intimate and exclusive experience. 

Moloka’i Honeymoon

I’ve added Moloka’i to this comparison of the best Hawaiian islands for honeymoons because it’s gorgeous, but I recommend island hopping from Maui. That way you can do a few adventures/activities on Maui and then really unplug and relax on Moloka’i.

Things to do on a Moloka’i Honeymoon

Since there aren’t a lot of “tourist attractions” on Moloka’i, let’s just right into things to do on Moloka’i.

There’s a small Moloka’i Plumeria Farm off the side of the road. You can pick your own flowers and learn how to string a fresh flower lei. It’s really easy to do (trust me) and it makes a fun souvenir while it lasts.

One of the prettiest drives in Hawaii is the road to Halawa Valley . It’s similar to the Road to Hana on Maui except there are a lot more sections with one-lane roads and hairpin turns. However, it’s totally worth it for the epic views.

You can even book a tour with a local guide who will take you on a cultural hike into the Halawa Valley where you can see a secret waterfall.

And while this may not seem like a romantic thing to do in Hawaii, getting hot bread on Moloka’i is a must-do. 

Basically, you head down a dark alley at night to buy bread fresh from the bakery ovens. They smear toppings like cream cheese, mango, blueberry, or strawberry preserves and it’s incredibly delicious. It’s one of the stories that you will tell to all your friends and families.

Finally, one of the most famous things to do on Moloka’i is visit Kalaupapa National Historical Park . This is the site where people with leprosy (now called Hansen’s disease) were sent to live out the remainder of their days. 

I definitely wouldn’t consider it a “honeymoon” activity, but it’s fascinating and part of American history that many people don’t know about.

Romantic Moloka’i Hotels

There’s actually only one hotel on Moloka’i and it’s aptly named Hotel Moloka’i . It’s a quaint hotel with a beach bungalow style. There are a lot of different types of rooms.

A few cool things about Hotel Moloka’i is that there are lots of hammocks throughout the property, they have a nice restaurant with live music, and it’s right on the water. 

Other than Hotel Moloka’i, you can stay in a condo or a vacation rental home.

Best Hawaiian Island to Honeymoon FAQs

It really depends on what you consider romantic. Oahu and Maui have a lot of romantic restaurants and adult-only experiences. Kauai has a lot of adventures that are perfect for honeymooners. And if you’re looking to really unplug and not do a lot, Lana’i has some luxury resorts that will blow you away.

If you’re not looking for a resort vacation, you can find a lot of affordable hotels and vacation rentals on the Big Island. Many of the activities on this island are pretty cheap and there are plenty of outdoor adventures. But, you can also find some pretty good deals for Oahu if you do some research. Since it’s the most populated island, there are a lot of hotels and resorts and some of them run pretty good sales.

Since there are often extra fees for renting a car if you’re under 25 years old, Oahu is a pretty good island for young adults visiting Hawaii. There’s the Waikiki Trolley and tons of Uber/Lyft options for the Waikiki area . Plus, most of the tours/activities offer transportation from Waikiki hotels.

So What’s The Best Hawaii Island for Honeymoons?

It really depends on your travel style, budget , and what you’d like to see in Hawaii. The four main islands (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island) are the easiest to get to. But, Lana’i and Moloka’i make easy day trips. And there are fantastic Hawaii honeymoon resorts everywhere you look.

And you can also island hop in Hawaii if you want to experience more than one island. I hope this helps you plan your perfect Hawaii honeymoon!

Looking for more Hawaii honeymoon content? Find out the most romantic Kauai resorts , the best Oahu honeymoon resorts , romantic things to do on Maui , are there overwater bungalows in Hawaii , and romantic Kona restaurants .

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Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list. 

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset. 

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Most romantic honeymoon resorts in Hawaii

When it comes to romantic destinations, Hawaii is beloved for a reason. Or rather, many reasons.

The collection of Polynesian islands in the Pacific Ocean is an apt definition of paradise, with crystalline lagoons, turquoise waves, powdery white sand and an abundance of palm trees, flowers and jungle-covered volcanoes. Better yet, the best time to visit Hawaii is almost anytime, thanks to the fabulous year-round weather.

Hawaii is a classic honeymoon destination in the USA that seems to only get better with time as more and more resorts learn to delicately balance some couples' desires for adventure and romance with others' cravings for privacy and pampering.

Here are the 14 most romantic hotels in the Hawaiian Islands and all the reasons they seduce travelers.

Oasis, idyll, paradise. They all describe the quiet beauty of a resort with not a single child for 15 acres. This tranquil sanctuary is not for exuberant tykes, but for couples looking for a quiet getaway. The whole vibe is Zen and lush, with waterfalls and panoramas from a densely landscaped hillside perch.

Hotel Wailea Maui is a Relais & Chateaux boutique resort of just 72 beach house-style suites, all of which seem designed to showcase Maui's natural beauty. There's a next-level option, too, which is a uniquely decorated top-floor Celebration Ocean View Suite, which has original artwork from the owner's private collection and comes with a bottle of Billecart-Salmon Champagne and daily in-room or restaurant breakfast.

Though the environment feels quite relaxed, there are opportunities to dress up a bit, too, like for dinner at The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea, where decadent prix fixe menus are built around seasonal ingredients from around the island and the resort's own orchard. As romantic as it is, the private Treehouse — with postcard-worthy seascapes and flickering candlelight — might have it beat with seven-course, wine-paired feasts narrated by the chef as he prepares certain dishes tableside.

Memories are also made by day, since the accommodating staff can set up beach picnics, surf safaris, aerial yoga and winding, romantic drives in a vintage Porsche.

Rates at Hotel Wailea Maui currently start at $999 per night.

In these parts, hotels' flower-lei greetings might feel standard, but the 334-key Mauna Lani resort goes a step further to make arriving guests feel special as they exit their vehicles: an icy cold beverage, such as a Hawaiian craft beer or juice. Visitors who appreciate richly layered, storytelling design will swoon over the Auberge Resorts property's $200 million 2020 makeover.

An authentic wooden outrigger canoe is at the heart of the soaring main building, ensuring guests will never forget the roots of this particular piece of land, recounted beautifully in soulful sessions with Uncle Danny, who has been the hotel's cultural ambassador for several decades.

Storytelling is also a meaningful part of the sunrise outrigger paddling excursions, which, after a blow of the conch shell and invocation of gratitude to Mother Nature, touch on the meaning of this sacred place that lies between five mountains. The Kainalu Ocean Sports team is a real highlight of this resort on a swim-friendly beach.

The Kohala Coast resort is a family favorite, to be sure, but it's quite possible to retreat to its adults-only pool for serenity — and cocktails — or book a later dinnertime, perhaps after the radiant sunset has long faded. Of the handful of eateries on the property, CanoeHouse is the brightest star. The tough reservation is worth booking far in advance for Japanese-inspired spins on Hawaiian seafood: Think roasted head-on Kauai shrimp with addictively buttery, salted shokupan bread to soak up the garlicky yuzu soy sauce.

Watch out for frequent pop-up culinary extravaganzas from visiting chefs from around the globe, like past events with Nami Nori and Broad Street Oyster Company.

Rates at Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection currently start at $1,099 per night.

Lanai is nothing if not exclusive, based on the simple fact the off-the-beaten-path island has just two hotels. They both happen to be outrageously luxurious Four Seasons that were completely reimagined in recent years.

This beachfront wonder on Manele Bay gives particularly honeymoon-y vibes, thanks in part to the supreme sense of privacy afforded by its sumptuously appointed rooms with signature Four Seasons beds and contemporary Hawaiian art.

There are no room keys but instead waterproof wristbands, so couples needn't worry about misplacing anything when sneaking down for a soak in one of the little alcoves cleverly hidden in the lagoon pools, or when diving into Japanese flavors at Nobu Lanai, one of the three distinctive restaurants plus one open-air bar on-site. Couples who love to cook should book a musubi (Japanese rice ball) or poke class, too.

Concierges can set guests up with Jeep Wranglers to explore the natural wonders of Lanai, including the otherworldly Garden of the Gods or typically deserted, reachable-only-by-4x4 beaches. Or arrange for sunset sails during which spinner dolphins might play in the golden-tinged water.

Perhaps the coolest recent addition to the property is the Observatory, complete with a powerful, state-of-the-art telescope for after-dark sessions that broach traditional Hawaiian wayfinding and astronomy.

Rates at Four Seasons Resort Lanai currently start at $1,575 per night.

Nature is a major draw at this tucked-away resort on Maui . But not exactly in the palm-trees-and-coconuts way that one imagines in Hawaii, since the topography here is unique and even includes pine trees, morning mist and gusty gales. There are bays with pristine reefs and marine sanctuaries for snorkeling, of course, but the surrounding area includes two golf courses and even treetop zip lines.

Couples will find plenty to engage in, from the great outdoors to Hawaiian cultural activities at the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua . The 466 freshly renovated rooms, suites and residences are plenty plush, with Diptyque toiletries, island-inspired palettes, deep soaking bathtubs and wide balconies.

Meanwhile, luxurious shared amenities include tennis courts, hot tubs, kayaks, a 10,000-square-foot pool and an adults-only one that remains a blissed-out zone all day. The fabulously large spa's treatments are informed by Hawaiian traditions, sure to deliver the right amount of relaxation along with a dose of culture.

The resort speaks to foodies and those who love variety, too, since the six restaurants range from one serving local pupus and craft cocktails to Banyan Tree Kapalua, presenting bright, coastal fare using sustainable ingredients. Cozy fire pits are undoubtedly the most romantic setting for a star-sprinkled conclusion to each night.

Rates at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua start at $812 per night or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

In the heart of Honolulu , this hip hideaway may have 353 rooms, but its energy is distinctively boutique-y. The bedrooms are cool, comfy and coastal, with a neutral palette, teak plantation shutters and playful pops of color. Views, meanwhile, are delightfully diverse, though couples celebrating an occasion might want to splurge on a harbor or ocean view (not that the city skyline vistas are shabby).

The chic ambience also extends to the two outdoor pools, which are framed by tropical flora. The Sunrise Pool has an exclusive bar with hanging lanterns, bougainvillea and drink specials each day. There are cabanas available with a reasonable food and beverage minimum spending at the Grove Pool.

There, sandwiches, salads and light island-grown fare are available all day, alongside delicious sips such as Frozen Coconut Mojitos. Responsible, regional sourcing is also integral to the offerings at Fresh+Local, with seafood caught nearby delivered six days a week and produce from a North Shore family farm.

Rates at The Modern Honolulu currently start at $145 per night.

If the idea of swimming in a gigantic aquarium sounds like an epic way to spend a holiday with your most loved one, add the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai to your bucket list. Fish — even a spotted eagle ray — are prolific inside the 1.8 million-gallon King's Pool, carved from lava rock. But that's not the only place to do your best mermaid impression: The resort has seven other pools, some for families or kids but also a quite large ocean-view sanctuary just for adults.

With 243 recently transformed rooms and out-of-this-world suites organized into low, crescent-shaped buildings themed around the grounds' features, including pools and golf, the resort is sizable and its oceanfront space is hard to beat, especially come winter when migrating humpbacks breach and play on their way past. The resort's water sports options are encyclopedic, including snorkeling trips and Ribcraft outings.

Day and night, guests choose from three resort restaurants with bars. There are exclusive experiences on offer, too, such as a fancy picnic lunch at a beautiful sandalwood farm, maybe with a helicopter flight, and the Kimi Werner Ocean Experience. That once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn to free dive from the spear-fishing champion herself takes place over two days and includes a locally sourced seafood dinner to match the underwater magic.

Rates at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai currently start at $1,210 per night.

There's nothing generic about the architecture or aesthetic of this Maui escape , which attracts families, yes, but is also beyond bucolic for those traveling sans kids. The islands' deep history of seafaring is translated into design in striking ways, such as in the canoe-inspired roof of Cane & Canoe, one of the two on-property restaurants.

The 50 accommodations are also not standard-issue. They start at 1,250 square feet and soar from there, with each featuring soaking tubs, small kitchens, washer-dryer combos and generous lanais. Plenty of privacy is, however, typical; there's no standing in line for check-in since that paperwork occurs in each suite or residence upon arrival.

Complimentary activities include guided hiking and tidepool excursions, plus storytelling with the cultural ambassador, while couples can snag stand-up paddleboards and snorkeling equipment at the Kapalua Bay beach for a fee. For more of an R&R vibe, there are stunning tiered pools with daybeds serviced by smiling staff happy to deliver pina coladas from the bar with breezy views of Lanai and Molokai in the distance, plus customizable Maui-inspired treatments at the spa.

Rates at Montage Kapalua Bay currently start at $1,110 per night.

Fans of "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" expecting to see a replica of the movie's backdrop won't exactly find it at the location where it was filmed, but they won't be disappointed, either, since the 450-room, suite and bungalow retreat is much more luxurious now, after an extensive, $250 million renovation. Accommodations are now chock-a-block with chic furnishings, ocean-inspired artwork and 65-inch smart TVs.

The North Shore icon — and sole resort in the famous area — is so sprawling it's hard to imagine ever wanting to leave the property, since it has not only spectacular hiking and horseback riding trails plus sweet surf breaks but also a diverse set of eight restaurants and bars and even an organic farm.

This Edenic natural playground is eco-friendly in meaningful ways, too, such as sourcing tropical ingredients from the aforementioned farm for homegrown meals and harnessing solar energy for part of its power supply. Key to the renovation was a new 11,000-square-foot spa where native medicinal plants are harvested from the healing garden and a Nalu Wellness Concierge can help couples find the most nurturing treatments for them.

Bookable experiences also feel special and singular. Cultural bike rides are a chance to learn some Hawaiian history in a fun, active way, while diving with a famed environmentalist brings visitors up close and personal with one of the most thrilling yet misunderstood species: sharks.

Rates at Turtle Bay Resort currently start at $599 per night.

Direct beach access is just one of the many advantages of this romantic World of Hyatt favorite , steps off the soft sands of Mokapu Beach and just far away enough from other properties to feel un-touristy. Modernist and minimalist yet completely cushy, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is a rarefied retreat of 320 rooms, suites and villas with lava stone-clad bathrooms, complimentary minibars and private lanais.

Sushi lovers shouldn't sleep on an advance booking for Morimoto Maui, the fine dining Japanese destination restaurant that is far from the only delectable dinner option. Otherwise, things on the property are fairly casual and convivial. There's an all-day restaurant with a juice mixologist at the morning breakfast buffet and also a beach bar that services the pool, too. Acai bowls, a Hawaii staple, are available from the 24-hour market, as is wine, beer and more — a very appealing convenience when you may want to end your night with a few glasses while scanning the skies for shooting stars.

Without any amount of cheesiness, the resort's offerings, from lei making to coconut husking, manage to captivate curious travelers, and at the Awili Spa, couples can make customized products from local herbs and flora as souvenirs of their sensuous escape.

Rates at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort currently start at $890 or 35,000-45,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Without barring children, this 121-key resort naturally attracts mostly honeymooners and couples for vacations that slip into the sublime. The hotel even offers honeymoon registries to future guests who can register for things like aquatic adventures, spa treatments and six-course private-cabana dinners for their loved ones to gift.

Set on Poipu Beach in front of one of Kauai's most beloved surf breaks, it's a place for learning to ride the waves or simply watching them from the vibrant rooms' balconies or lanais — or the chaise loungers at the free-form pool. In homage to the laid-back concept of island time, there are plenty of spots to lounge barefoot while sipping handcrafted tiki drinks.

There's no mistaking the tropical location when dining at Red Salt Restaurant, where the Kauai-native chef puts a modern spin on the fresh catch and produce sourced locally, such as vanilla bean-seared mahi mahi. An intimate sushi bar also offers the freshest fish imaginable, with sake and beer straight from Japan.

Rates at Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach currently start at $510 per night.

When a hotel room isn't sufficiently sexy, this resort offers only suites and villas with a minimum of 860 square feet — and up to 2,200 with private plunge pools — that feel indulgent and thrillingly private. Whatever the view (ocean, pool, garden or mountain), the 450 roomy accommodations represent a divine escape from daily life.

In keeping with the treat-yourself vibes being dished out by its spacious suites, this vast Wailea resort is all about luxury. And that can mean both sun-soaked private pool cabana experiences as well as intimate Hoku Lani dinners out under the starlit night sky, complete with flaming torches and four courses of Maui-caught fish, Kauai prawns and lobster.

Beyond special occasion meals, Kea Lani's four restaurants and two bars set the stage for day after day of culinary exploration, mixing and matching casual bites with mouthwatering multicultural cuisine at Ko, where dishes are inspired by mid-19th-century Maui.

Couples who tend to get bored on beach vacations should be safe here, especially when taking advantage of what the resort fee covers, which includes cultural experiences, snorkel equipment and daily fitness classes. There are sailing trips to be taken, luaus to be entertained by, an adults-only swimming pool, and golf in the Wailea development. Of course, the acclaimed Willow Stream Spa, with state-of-the-art facilities, is also a commendable way to wile away paradisiacal days.

Rates at Fairmont Kea Lani currently start at $764 per night.

Storied and sophisticated, this historically beloved oceanfront hotel on Gray's Beach with its own live jazz lounge is an amorous escape for the ages. Memory making is what the veteran staff excels at, along with making couples feel special and completely pampered.

The 453 guest rooms, suites and premier suites all have deep soaking tubs spacious enough for two, while some offer Diamond Head views from bed — not to mention sweeping panoramas of the otherworldly turquoise water below. One nice perk is that nightly turndown service, access to the freshwater swimming pool and fitness center all come without a resort fee.

The smoke-free hotel comprises towers connected by lush courtyards, and as many reasons as there are to stay on the property — such as the impressive collection of fine art that includes soulful Hawaiian pieces — Les Clefs d'Or concierges delight in personalizing suggestions for guests, such as surfing excursions or visits to the nearby Iolani Palace.

Along with hospitality, Halekulani is known for its wide-ranging dining outlets, including but not limited to three restaurants, two cocktail bars and a wine bar. House Without A Key is the sunset-ready spot for evenings accented by local music and hula performances, while La Mer is the refined, heavily awarded French restaurant that seduces lovebirds with its splashes of Hawaiian flavors.

For some TLC there's SpaHalekulani, but it's not simply a spa; it's a full-blown haven for well-being in the sense that it offers not only movement classes and bodywork but in-room sleep therapies and sessions on emotional health, too.

Rates at Halekulani Hotel currently start at $665 per night.

If you're a believer that the journey is the destination, this remote and romantic resort on Maui's epic Road to Hana is perfect for you and your other half. It's for lovers of nature who appreciate waterfalls, rainforests, secret beaches and road trips, but who also want to just lie back and relax.

The sprawling resort's 75 rooms, bungalows and cottages feel like stepping back to old Hawaii, thanks in part to having no air conditioning, clocks or TVs. Stays are gloriously analog. There is, however, Wi-Fi, and a breezy private lanai for each accommodation — many of them perfectly positioned for admiring the awe-inspiring sunrises. For special occasions, the ocean bungalows offer the best aquatic panoramas.

Farm-to-table nourishment comes via the main restaurant, Hana Ranch, plus in-room dining and grab-and-go selections from the Hana Dry Goods shop. There are two pools, one of which is wellness-themed, and a fitness center with Peloton bikes, a yoga pavilion and classes.

Couples treatments are highly recommended in the comprehensive full-service spa, where skilled therapists dole out lomi lomi massages and other locally inspired techniques using hot lava rocks. It doesn't get better at the end of an active day than a cold plunge or soak in the jetted tub looking out to Kapueokahi Bay, though it's also hard to beat a mai tai and bowl of island-caught poke at the pool bar.

Rates at Hana-Maui Resort currently start at $579 or 25,000-35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

City meets sea in this bright white bastion of hospitality set just off the Waikiki strip within walking distance of so much, including the Pacific. Reopened in 2018 as Alohilani after a massive refurbishment of an older existing hotel, this contemporary-styled gem is light-drenched and stocked with all the beachy necessities, down to shopping and plenty of delicious food and drink.

Momosan provides breakfast (at an additional fee), while "Iron Chef" Masaharu Morimoto's namesake restaurant downstairs is tantalizing for pan-Asian fare. Swell bar is a scene-y spot, especially for sunset happy hours, with an innovative menu of cocktails and bites dubbed "Earth to Cup," featuring ingredients from the Hawaiian Islands that are sustainably sourced. More options, such as for Italian and small-batch ice cream, are available, too.

When the beach looks too busy, there's always a private cabana at the hotel's saltwater infinity pool — home to morning yoga classes, too — for a more elevated vibe, bookable through the always-helpful concierges. For more exclusivity, honeymooners might also opt for a room with access to the Longboard Club lounge, where breakfast bites are available each morning and 16 wines are on tap for later in the day.

Rates at Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach currently start at $275 per night.

Related reading:

• 6 versions of paradise: How to choose the right Hawaiian island for you
• The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler
• The best ways to get to Hawaii using points and miles
• I had sworn off Hawaii during the pandemic — here's why I went back (and plan to again)
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Top 10 Hawaii Honeymoon Resorts & Planning Guide

By: Author Dan Bagby

Posted on Published: February 3, 2023

Hawaii is one of the most popular destinations in the  USA and the world to honeymoon for a good reason. The tropical setting boasts pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere that is the perfect way to start your marriage. Hawaii really has something for everyone.  Whether you are looking for adventure by hiking volcanos or surfing, to take in the culture by enjoying a luau and some typical Hawaiian music played on the Ukulele, relaxing on the beach, or a bit of a mix.

An added benefit to Hawaii is its proximity to the USA. For the California coast, you can get to Hawaii with four-hour flights. Additionally, since you are traveling West, it makes it easy for you to get there in the early afternoon due to the hour change.

Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina

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The elegant and spacious king-sized rooms at the Four Seasons Oahu come with large private balconies or lanais (Hawaiian patios), deep-soaking marble tubs, and glorious views of the gardens, mountains, or ocean. There’s a beautiful salt-water infinity-edge pool for just adults, two other swimming pools, a full-service luxurious spa, a choice of fine-dining and beachside restaurants, tennis courts, games rooms, and a range of free daily activities.

You can arrange exceptional tailor-made trips and experiences to make your stay truly special. Honeymoon activities include couples’ massages and training in massage techniques to learn how to pamper each other at home, romantic private picnics on the beach, and candle-lit dinners without another soul in sight.

See our  full review of the Four Seasons Oahu.

Use My Perks

• $100 resort credit
• Room upgrade when available
• Daily Breakfast

Four Seasons Wailea Resort

The elegant and spacious king-sized rooms at Four Seasons Wailea come with large private balconies or lanais (Hawaiian patios), deep-soaking marble tubs, and glorious views of the gardens, mountains, or ocean.

There’s a beautiful salt-water infinity-edge pool for just adults, two other swimming pools, a full-service luxurious spa, a choice of fine-dining and beachside restaurants, tennis courts, a games room, and a range of free daily activities. The resort just steps away from the beach where you can snorkel to see sea turtles.

See our full review of the Fous Seasons Maui at Wailea

Kalaekilohana

Kalaekilohana is a luxury boutique hotel without the luxury price tag that comes with the larger resort. Well located in between both the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Pu`uhonua `O Honaunau National Historic Park, the property is a great place to stay a few days while experiencing the Island.

Accommodations include breakfast with locally sourced ingredients and breakfast with dinner available at an additional charge.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is one of the best Kauai resorts whose famed breakfast will be a great way for honeymooners to wake up in the morning.

Their extensive pools, lazy river, a saltwater lagoon, and waterslide all boast the property’s activity and while the beaches aren’t swimmable, their spa, golf course, tennis courts, and horse-riding stables make up for the short walk to a swimmable beach.

Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Located on the southern shore of Lanai, the Four Seasons is an exclusive retreat. The resort borders a marine preserve with colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and spinner dolphins and has two lagoon-style pools that overlook Hulopoe Bay.

The resort is family-friendly, but much of the clientele are couples with many honeymooners. Because the property is so massive with no bordering resorts it feels like a private island resort.

Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu

At Koloa Landing Resort you can find deluxe studios and large villas that feature floor-to-ceiling windows. The landscape of this hotel is gorgeous and perfect for honeymooners who are looking to get away from a beautiful setting.

Enjoy amenities like a poolside bar & grill, 4,000 sq ft day spa with 5 private treatment rooms, and the island’s only all-copper Ofuro Japanese soaking tub and three gorgeous resort pools. 

Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach

Ko’a Kea is Set on Poipu Beach , near Kauai’s southernmost point and offers either ocean or garden views and have private balconies or patios. Enjoy a pool with ocean views, an upscale seafood restaurant, a pool bar and a spa along with an activities hut on the beach for ocean gear.

Visit the spa with a focus on natural and indigenous ingredients to ease aways the stresses from your wedding together in the romantic couple’s suite.

Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort

Enjoy the beachfront Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, a luxury hotel with five different pools to relax and soak up the sun, including three ocean-facing, cascading infinity pools, a lagoon pool, and an adult tranquility pool. Immerse yourself in the island spirit with regional farm-to-table dining, direct access to Mokapu Beach, and rooms boasting tropical views.

Grand Wailea Maui

The Grand Wailea is a Waldorf Astoria Resort set on 40 acres of tropical gardens bordering Wailea Beach. Rooms are spacious with breathtaking views from private lanais. Try the award-winning dining option including Hawaiian seasonal cuisine. Splash into one of 9 pools and try the three-story lava tube slide, lazy river, and waterfalls.

Ke Iki Beach Bungalows

Stay oceanside at the recently renovated Ke Iki Beach Bungalows on Oahu’s Beautiful North Shore. Enjoy romantic sunsets on an acre and a half of palm-fringed beachfront land.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Keiki Beach (@keiki_beach_bungalows)

Sunset Beach, only a few minutes away, is known as surfing’s Mecca. The surf and scenery are amazing any time of the year.

Prince Waikiki

Prince Waikiki is situated minutes from Ala Moana Beach and Waikiki Beach and offers delicious on-site dining, a full-service spa. The hotel also features an on-site activity desk, fitness center, and The Library. available for guest use. Printer available for printing airline boarding passes.

The signature pool deck provides the perfect oasis with an adult-only infinity and bar.

Queen Kapiolani Hotel

The Queen Kapiolani Hotel is located steps from Waikiki Beach, right at the edge of Kapiolani Park and it offers unobstructed views of Diamond Head.

The hotel is a 19 floor property with 315 rooms with a retro vibe that were renovated in 2018.

Kauai Shores Hotel

Kauai Shores Hotel is budget-friendly hotel on Kauai’s eastern coast with a retro vibe. There are two pools with free morning yoga classes on the property’s massive green lawn. The 200 rooms are colorful and bright, with modern tropical decor in a motel style.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kauai Shores (@thekauaishores)

Which Island To Visit On Your Honeymoon

The good news is you can’t really go wrong when choosing an island in Hawaii for your honeymoon .

Kauai, more commonly known as the Garden Isle, lives up to its name and is the perfect place for honeymooners to steal away and relax. You’ll understand what we mean when you visit the island for yourself. Everything is lush and green and beautiful. More than that, it feels otherworldly.

Popular opinion amongst the most experienced Hawaiian travelers is that Kauai is the best island. It is the fourth largest island and does not pull in the amount of tourism that the other islands do, which makes it quiet, relaxed and secluded; perfect for a romantic getaway. Their incredibly scenic mountains, clear blue water, adorable restaurants, and breathtaking hiking views will make sure that honeymooners never want to leave.

Oahu blends the city atmosphere with its exotic landscape. The island has a plethora of stunning beaches like Waikiki and attractions like Diamond Head Crater, and Pearl Harbor.

Oahu is just perfect for those wanting to enjoy the lively Waikiki shopping, the beautiful beaches, and the Hawaiian culture by going to its festivals, art scenes, and even the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Apart from immersing yourself in the mesmerizing view of the sea from Waikiki with its breezy palms and inviting grounds, you can also go swimming, snorkeling, hire a canoe or a kayak. The waters of the Waikiki will surely remain etched in your mind for the rest of your life, allowing you to relive your honeymoon years later!

Get up early and make it to the Diamond Head peak for an amazing 360-degree view from the top. The hike itself is 1.5 miles up the crater and can get crowded quickly. A one-hour drive from Waikiki will get you to this legendary surf mecca. The North Shore has a more laid-back vibe. In the winter there are amazing waves where you can watch the pros. Also in the area is the Turtle Bay Resort, the Polynesian Cultural Center (a bit of a tourist trap), and Haleiwa Town which is a perfect place for shopping and getting a bite to eat.

Beautiful Maui is Hawaii’s second-biggest island and a hugely popular honeymoon and destination wedding choice.

It offers a little bit of everything with snorkeling spots, black sand beaches on the west side, luxury resorts, and famous sunsets. For travelers who want a more active vacation, Maui is also home to Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano in the world, and the famous Road to Hana, a great 64-mile drive on the east side of the island that connects Kahului with Hana and takes you through some of the most beautiful places in the island.

Honeymooners especially will find plenty of romance between the glorious beaches, lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and fascinating cultural activities, Whether you’re an active and adventurous couple or a couple who prefers to luxuriate in bliss, take it easy, and relax, the stunning tropical island has something for all lovers.

The Big Island, the largest Hawaiian island, is formed by 5 volcanoes, has 8 of the 14 climate zones in the world, and offers a great variety of activities. The Big Island is perfect for those who like the outdoors and it has some unique places that you won’t find anywhere else.

This is where you should go if you are looking to see active volcanos. At Hawaii Volcano National Park you can see lava flows from Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and Mauna Loa, a colossus measuring almost 30,200 feet from the base (underwater) to summit.

Unique to the Big Island is the Manta Rays which you can go diving with year-round.

Featured Travel Package

Maui & Lanai Luxury Honeymoon

7 nights – 4 nights in maui, 3 nights lanai.

• Airfare from Los Angeles to Oahu
• $100 Resort Credit

Spend your time in Hawaii at two of the best-rated and luxurious honeymoon resorts in Hawaii . After arriving in Maui , make your way to Four Seasons Maui at Wailea Resort . The beachfront resort has 3 pools including an adults-only infinity pool with a swim-up bar and complimentary cabanas. Snorkel with sea turtle right off the shore of the beach in front of the resort and add additional activities like zip-lining, the road to Hana, helicopter tours, and much more.

After three days in Maui, head to Hawaii’s unsettled Island next door, Lanai. At the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, you will find a secluded oceanfront retreat offering relaxation and adventure. Contact us for pricing and honeymoon extras.

The Westin Maui Resort and Spa Ka’anapali

For a five-night stay at the perfectly located Westin Maui Resort and Spa Ka’anapali. Enjoy being steps from the Pacific ocean, relax at the pools, have fun with on-site activities or take advantage of the shuttle service to take you to nearby attractions.

Spend your time in Hawaii at two of the best-rated and luxurious honeymoon resorts in Hawaii. After arriving in Maui , make your way to Four Seasons Maui at Wailea Resort . The beachfront resort has 3 pools including an adults-only infinity pool with a swim-up bar and complimentary cabanas. Snorkel with sea turtle right off the shore of the beach in front of the resort and add additional activities like zip-lining, the road to Hana, helicopter tours, and much more.

Split your time between two unique Islands of Hawaii. Stay for 5 nights in Maui with luxury honeymoon accommodations at the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. Customize your stay with experiences like day cruises, snorkeling, zip-lining, or many others. Next head to Kauai for 4 nights at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa where you can relax on the beach, at the resort pool, and enjoy a couples massage at Anara Spa. Before you head home, take a helicopter tour of the entire island.

Honeymoon Package Extras

• $100 USD Property Credit per honeymoon resort
• Room Upgrade
• Daily Breakfast for Two
• Welcome Amenity
• Early Check-In

Relax at the Grand Hyatt Poipu Resort with a spectacular ocean view, pools, and a spa where you can enjoy couples massages or other treatments. The pools are very large with adult pool waterfalls, a lazy river, a water slide, hot tubs, and a saltwater lagoon pool. Go on a helicopter ride above the Island to see every side of the diverse island, enjoy local cuisine, and go tubing down the old ditches from the sugar cane plantations.

HONEYMOON PACKAGE EXTRAS

See other Hawaii Honeymoon Package Ideas

Hawaii Honeymoon Costs

Your budget is going to make a big difference in how you plan your honeymoon and should be the first thing to decide.

Airfare can always vary but in general, a trip to Hawaii will cost around $450 round trip per person. Flights from the midwest will run around $500 – $650 and from the east coast closer to $700. If you plan on going between islands those flights are very affordable on Hawaiian Airlines or Southwest Airlines. They run all day, every day, and usually cost between $50-$80 each way.

The greatest variation in price for a honeymoon in Hawaii comes from accommodations. The variation in quality of the resorts, the location, the view from them room and the time of travel can mean a huge difference in price.

A mid-range 3-star hotel on the beach will usually cost around $300-$400 a night. Luxury 4 star resorts start around $600 a night and go up from there, easily reaching $1500 a night. There are tons of options in between.

Keep in mind that many resorts have resort fees and parking cost.

Regardless of which Hawaiian island you decide to go to for your honeymoon, there are plenty of activities you can expect to find anywhere.

Helicopter Tours

See the Islands from above! See the lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and other amazing sites during a thrilling helicopter ride. See the white-sand and black-sand beaches, turquoise blue water, and historical sights. Each island offers a unique perspective but all helicopter tours will make your honeymoon memorable.

Hawaiian Luaus are very festive experiences with great food, lively music and cultural performances with Hawaiian roots and other Polynesian islands represented as well.

Take advantage of the world class spas by enjoying a spa day. At most spas you can experience massages and treatments using Hawaiian traditions and ingredients.

Hawaii has some of the best snorkeling spots in the USA. In Maui, you can snorkel the Molokai crater or turtle town. Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park on the Big Island offers numerous snorkeling spots. You can see giant Pacific manta rays while snorkeling at The Big Island as well. In Oahu, head to the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve which is packed full of fish, but unfortunately packed full of people most of the time.

Each Island has zip lining experiences perfect for raising your heart beat and zooming through the jungle canopy.

Sunset Sailing

A great way to end a day, sunset sailing can be arranged at all the Hawaiian Islands. Relax together as you enjoy the sunset, usually accompanied by drinks and snacks.

He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club. Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.

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Which island to choose for your Hawaii honeymoon

By Juliana Shallcross

One way for couples to stay sane while wedding planning is to focus on the honeymoon that awaits them once the ceremony and reception is done. For those dreaming of a Hawaii honeymoon, the combinations of romance, relaxation, and adventure are nearly endless. Even better, there’s no “bad” time to visit Hawaii, as the weather is usually sunny and warm all year round – although some months are better to avoid crowds and peak room rates.

It’s also possible to mix and match islands by spending a few days on one island before taking a short flight to another. This especially makes sense for couples who are flying a long way to Hawaii and want to see as much of paradise as they can. Yet, while each Hawaiian island can deliver majestic sunrises, lazy days on the sand, and that warm Aloha feeling, some islands may speak to you more than others. Here’s the breakdown of each island for choosing the perfect Hawaii honeymoon vibe, and where to stay.

Snorkeling in Maui

Island vibe: All-in-one island adventure

Island details:  Maui ticks all the boxes for first-time visitors – five-star resorts, excellent snorkelling, epic surf breaks, delicious restaurants and even a (dormant) volcano you can hike up to see the sunrise. But it also has a few remote hideaways if you and your partner want to go off-the-grid.

Maui tends to be popular with families (especially around spring break and the holidays), so be sure to seek out a few adults-only excursions like a helicopter ride over the island, a couples massage in a beachfront hale, or the Road to Hana, a winding road trip along the island’s eastern coast stopping for waterfalls, forest hikes, and secret beaches.

Where to stay: Some of the island’s best resorts are found along the beach in Wailea like the  Four Seasons Maui  (splurge for a club floor room for more dedicated service) and the  Andaz Maui (book a suite as the starting room category is small.) And since the resorts along Wailea’s beach are close together, it makes it easy to hotel hop for drinks and dinner. But if you want to check out of the resort life for a few days, head up the hill to  Hotel Wailea , an adults-only hotel with ultra-private accommodations.

Over on Maui’s North shore where the vibe turns from resort-y to local living is the adorable  Inn at Mama’s Fish House . Twelve small cottages and suites overlook the peaceful Mama’s Beach and the island’s favourite restaurant, Mama’s Fish House; it’s not the most secluded spot but it feels more like the real Maui.

If the Road to Hana is on your honeymoon wish list, then you’ll want to crash for a few nights at the  Hana Maui Resort , an off-the-grid escape perched on the edge of Hana Bay where newly renovated rooms offer prime views of the sunrise but thankfully, no TVs. There is WiFi though.

Four Seasons Hualalai

Hawaii: The Big Island

Island vibe:  Fewer tourists, more Hawaii

Island details:  The Island of Hawaii – affectionately called The Big Island – has a considerably more laid-back vibe than Maui and Oahu and is far less crowded too. It also looks a bit different. Since The Big Island still has two active volcanoes, it’s common to see lava rocks instead of green fields, which only adds to the allure of the island. With smaller beaches , great hiking trails, and a handful of luxury resorts, it’s actually perfect for couples who want to retreat from the world for a while without going completely off the grid.

Some activities to consider when you’re ready to leave the resort? Snorkelling in Kealakekua Bay in Kona, walking through lava tubes at Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park, and a drive out to the eastern side of the Big Island, which is rainier and rather remote, but still full of stunning only-in-Hawaii sights.

Where to stay: To hibernate in a serene setting with your partner until it's time to go home, check into the  Four Seasons Hualalai . Each room at this beachfront resort is its own little paradise of relaxation, with deep soaking tubs and outdoor showers. (Just be sure to book a room in the adults-only wing.) There’s so much to indulge in on-property from drinks and meals, to wellness activities and water sports, including snorkelling amongst fish in the resort’s saltwater aquarium pond.

John O'Ceallaigh

Olivia Morelli

Lauren Burvill

Monisha Rajesh

The Mauna Lani, an Auberge Resort just north of Hualalai offers a modern take on the Hawaiian getaway with beautiful guest rooms and spacious lanais. Mauna Lani has all the amenities of a luxury resort including a spa, tennis and golf, and an oceanfront restaurant, but it also delivers the heart of Hawaii through its Living Culture team who share stories, songs, and educational talks about the history of the islands.

If you plan on exploring the island more than staying in, book the  Mauna Kea Beach Hotel  overlooking the Kauna’oa Bay. Its beachfront rooms have balconies with unobstructed ocean views and there are plenty of dining options on-site including a grab-and-go market stocked with local products. And the resort’s luau is one of Hawaii’s best – intimate in size with a captivating performance, delicious food and gorgeous backdrop of the ocean at sunset.

Sunset in Kaui

Island vibe:  A little wild, a little sweet

Island details:  Kauai is Hawaii’s Garden Isle, known for its lush forests, winding rivers and waterfalls. It’s also not as developed as other Hawaiian islands making it an ideal spot for the sustainable-minded couples. But all this lushness comes with a price as Kauai is Hawaii’s rainiest island particularly from November to March. Even in the drier months, it’s common to see rain overnight.

Two of the island’s most beloved areas for exploring and hanging out are Poipu on the south shore and Hanalei on the north shore. Since they are only about an hour apart it’s possible to enjoy lunch in Poipu then drive to Hanalei to jump off the pier for a sunset swim, followed by a walk into town for dinner and drinks.

If you want to see more of the island, consider chartering a boat to explore more of Kauai’s shores or book a helicopter flight to get spectacular views of the waterfalls. Tubing down rivers, zip lining through forests and surfing are other ways to take in Kauai’s beauty.

Where to stay:  The eco-minded 1 Hotel brand has transformed the former St. Regis Princeville into 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay , a sexy sustainable resort overlooking the idyllic Hanalei Bay, complete with a Bamford Wellness Spa and an infinity pool just for adults. Book a room with an ocean view terrace to maximise the edge-of-the-world feeling that Hanalei Bay is known for.

Nearby is the  Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas where the guest rooms have plenty of space and small kitchens which is convenient for making small meals and storing snacks, especially since the on-site dining options are limited.

If you want a traditional resort loaded with amenities and services,  The Grand Hyatt Kauai in Poipu delivers on all of that and with one of the best beaches on the island. Yet part of the charm of Kauai is its DIY-style, so booking an Airbnb for your stay might be the better way to experience the island.

Turtle Bay Resort

Island vibe:  Life in the Big City

Island details:  You can feel the energy  of Oahu from the moment you touch down in Honolulu . Even if you’re dying to relax, two nights in Honolulu can be a lot of fun. Hike to Diamond Head for panoramic views of the city, take surf lessons on the famous Waikiki Beach, visit Pearl Harbor and explore the wide-ranging culinary scene from hole-in-the-wall spots to glamorous fine-dining establishments. After that you can head out to the other parts of the island for some rest, relaxation and romance.

Where to stay: In Waikiki, there are so many options from hip boutique lodgings like  The Shoreline Hotel  to the luxurious  ESPACIO, The Jewel of Waikiki hotel with only nine full-floor suites. But the  Ritz-Carlton Waikiki  hits the sweet spot with deluxe ocean view suites that also come with kitchens, washer and dryer units, and private lanais.

Oahu’s North Shore is a surfer’s paradise, especially when Pipeline waves are firing, but the Haleiwa town is a fun, low-key place to hang out with food trucks, shaved ice shops and stores. Nearby is the  Turtle Bay Resort , fresh off a major renovation, with private oceanfront bungalows and dedicated personal hosts available during your stay.

The Four Seasons Ko Olina is a part of the larger Ko Olina resort area that is popular with families (Disney’s Aulani resort is next door) but they’ve carved out an adults-only space at the hotel with a pool and a swim-up bar aptly called Dr. Mai Tai’s. Book a junior suite with an ocean view to elevate your stay.

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

Island vibe:  Out-of-office, indefinitely

Island details:  Lanai is a tiny island off the west coast of Maui. It’s about a 45-minute ferry ride from Lahaina or a 45-minute flight from Honolulu. For a long time, it served as a pineapple plantation for the Dole company. But in 2012, billionaire Larry Ellison snapped up almost all of the island and has gone about improving the island’s infrastructure to create one of the most magnificent island getaways. The usual Hawaiian activities are done here – hiking, sailing, snorkelling and beaching but within an almost unspoiled part of Hawaii. If you’re looking for something remote, rare, and memorable, look no further than Lanai.

Where to stay: There are two Four Seasons resorts on this island, The Four Seasons Resort Lanai  on the beach and the  Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort  up in the mountains. Sensei is an adults-only property focused on wellness with daily exercise classes, meditations, massage treatments and a Nobu restaurant. But since the two properties aren’t interchangeable, most guests book a few nights at each resort to get the full experience.

Northeast coast of Moloka'i

Moloka'i

Island vibe:  Adventure & the Hawaii of yesteryear

Island details:  Another island as remote as Lanai is Moloka'i, off Maui’s north west coast. Its history is complicated, having served as a leper colony for a hundred years. But because Molokai is so underdeveloped (the town has no traffic lights), a visit here gives you a good look at how Hawaii used to be. However, this is not an island for tourists and there aren’t any big resorts. This is a better fit for a couple who have been to Hawaii before and don’t mind hiking, kayaking or exploring on their own, or for couples who want to learn more about the island and its community.

Where to stay: Hotel Molokai  is a small but friendly inn on Kamiloloa Beach with Polynesian-style bungalows and its own waterfront restaurant, Hiro’s Ohana Grill, where guests can end a day of adventure with cocktails and Hawaiian cuisine.

Which island to choose for your Hawaii honeymoon was first published by Condé Nast Traveler US.

The Ultimate Hawaii Honeymoon Guide: Hawaii Honeymoon Tips & Best Hotels

By: Author The Honeymoon Edit

Posted on Last updated: 28/11/2022

Categories North America Honeymoon Destinations

Planning a honeymoon in Hawaii? Start booking your flights and packing your bags – we’ve got the inside scoop on where to stay and what to do. 

Arguably one of the most famous honeymoon destinations worldwide and certainly in the US , Hawaii is a tropical haven for those looking to honeymoon somewhere beautiful. 

With its sprawling landscape, welcoming locals, and indulgent resorts, we don’t blame you for eyeing up the archipelago for your post-wedding vacay.

Read on to discover the top Hawaii honeymoon resorts and places you need to visit.

Why Honeymoon in Hawaii 

How much time have you got? We could ramble on forever about why you should honeymoon in Hawaii.

In all seriousness, it’s an excellent place to kick off your marriage if snorkeling, sightseeing, and romantic dinners rank highly on your list of priorities. And they definitely should.

Hawaii honeymoon packages create memories that will last forever. So read on to discover our favorite resorts and activities on the islands.

Best Honeymoon Hotels & Resorts in Hawaii 

Fairmont kea lani.

Wailea, Maui

Best for Luxe Honeymoon Packages in Hawaii

The Fairmont Kea Lani is the hotel you want to stay at if you want to save the planning for the concierge team. And, let’s be honest, who doesn’t?

From dinner and drinks to a private poolside hangout, the hotel staff sets it all up so you can worry about the crucial details of your honeymoon. You know, things like having fun and enjoying each other’s company.

Rooms are super stylish and come with oversized balconies so you can have a romantic time together inside and out. Choose the mountain-view room and we guarantee you’ll fall head over heels in love with the view.

Check Rates and Availability

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Kaupulehu, Big Island

Best for Golf Lovers

Want to hit the links during your honeymoon in Hawaii? The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has one of the premiere golf courses on the Big Island – and it’s right on the property. 

The Jack Nicklaus course boasts 18 holes and is a Hawaii honeymoon cost you’ll want to budget for if you and your spouse love golf. 

As well as this, the five-star resort sits along white sand beaches and has its very own saltwater pool, extensive fitness center space, and three restaurants. 

Looking for one of the premiere honeymoon packages Hawaii has for golf enthusiasts? Book the Unlimited Golf Package, and you’ll get a delicious breakfast before you head out to the signature course each day.

Hana-Maui Resort

Hana Highway, Maui

Best for a Luxury Roadside Resort

We think we’ve found the best place to honeymoon in Hawaii. Hana should be at the top of your list if you want to access some of Maui’s most scenic waterfalls, cliffs, and coastlines.

Hana highway is one of the world’s most famous stretches of roadway. But as incredible as the scenery is – it’s a challenging highway. If you want to break up your drive and stay in one of the quieter sections of Maui, the Hana-Maui Resort is your best option. 

You’re surrounded by nature (a whopping 70 acres of it), giving you plenty of opportunities to check some boxes off your Hawaii honeymoon itinerary.

As incredible as all the nature is nearby, you might need a little more motivation to move far from your room. The bungalows have an outdoor terrace where you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most scenic coastal views possible on your Hawaiian honeymoon. 

Choose one of the best honeymoon packages in Hawaii for outdoor lovers. You’ll have access to fishing poles, bikes, and paddle boards that you and your spouse can enjoy during your stay.

Princeville Mauna Kai 9

Princeville, Kauai

Best for a Kauai Honeymoon

The Princeville Mauna Kai 9 is another excellent offering in Hawaii.

The large accommodations make you feel at home on the pretty island. From large bedrooms and living spaces to a full kitchen where you can cook up a moco loco breakfast, you’ll be able to enjoy your Hawaii honeymoon like a local.

The bathrooms are fully stocked and have a shower and tub for soaking after a long day of hiking, snorkeling, or taking a helicopter tour over the volcanic mountains. Wow – it’s such a hard life, we know.

Ready to stretch out on your balcony with a fresh cup of Kona Coffee? Your private outdoor terrace has ample space to enjoy a tropical honeymoon outdoors with your partner.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

Honolulu, Oahu

Best for an All-Inclusive Honeymoon in Oahu

Dreaming of a honeymoon in Hawaii where everything is taken care of for you? The Kahala Hotel and Resort has numerous packages you can choose from if a Hawaii all-inclusive honeymoon sounds like a dream. It does to us.

While breakfast is the only meal you can add to your bill ahead of time, you can select from several bundles the hotel curates, including one where you pay for your airfare and hotel together.

Four restaurants are situated on the property, though you’re not far from Honolulu’s most delicious food options if you fancy venturing further.

Bedrooms and bathrooms are large and comfortable, and your balcony might just overlook the mountains above or the beaches below (we recommend specifying this in advance).

Hawaii Honeymoon Tips: What You Need to Know 

How to get to hawaii .

You should have no problem reaching most Hawaii honeymoon resorts by plane (there’s at least one airport on each of the most popular islands), where you can then rent a car.

But if you want to island hop, consider traveling by boat. This can make it a little bit easier to jump from one location to another and save time in the security line (sign us up for that ).

The Best Hawaii Honeymoon Destinations

Road to hana.

If you’re looking for a scenic drive through the tropics that will take your breath away on your Hawaii honeymoon – the Road to Hana is it. 

Over 50 miles of highway on the eastern side of Hawaii make up the incredibly scenic route – you’ll get to admire some of the most breathtaking waterfalls, coastline, and clifftop views along the way. 

Now, we don’t want to tempt fate: It’s not an easy drive and is often referred to as The Divorce Highway (YIKES) due to the challenging landscape that can feel quite dangerous. We recommend booking a guide for a stress-free journey.  

Akaka Falls

What’s the best Hawaiian Island for honeymoon hot spots featuring waterfalls? We’re hard-pressed to name just one, but the Big Island has some of the most stunning rapids you’ll find on your Hawaii honeymoon. 

If you’re looking for one of the biggest and best waterfalls, ‘Akaka Falls is where you’ll want to go.

Hi’ilawe Falls is larger, but ‘Akaka falls still stands over 400 feet tall, and you can catch a pretty spectacular view after hiking about 5-10 minutes through the jungle.

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

One of the most famous places on your Hawaiian honeymoon is Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. And it’s no wonder why. 

The trail is extremely challenging and you’ll need a permit to hike most of it – if you’re up for the challenge, however, it’s the hike of a lifetime.

One of our favorite places to snorkel, Ke’e Beach, is where you’ll want to swim out and see tropical fish in Kauai – and it’s just a few steps from a trail head. 

Waimea Canyon State Park

Searching for the best Hawaii island for honeymoon trips with a lot of hiking involved? Kauai is one of our favorite places to get out and explore, and Waimea Canyon State Park is a big reason why.

The large canyon is famous for its majestic views looking 3,000 feet down and the bright red earth that is unique to the area (be sure not to wear your favorite sneakers).

Hiking the many trails at Waimea is one of the very best things to do on Hawaii honeymoons. Allow time to see Waipo’o falls; it’s one of the area’s highlights.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Drive to the Northeast side of Hawaii near Hilo to check out one of the most revered national parks in the United States. 

When you arrive at the Volcanoes National Park, you want to head to the visitor’s center to learn a bit about the active volcanoes and which parts are open for visits. The UNESCO world heritage site is one of the most incredible locations you’ll see on your Hawaii honeymoon. 

While you’re here, bring your best hiking shoes (you will need them). Why? The national park soars from sea level to over 13,000 ft. 

The diversity of the landscape is stunning. From natural arches in the ocean to ancient petroglyphs, you’ll need to plan at least a full day here to take in all the natural beauty. 

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii 

Our favorite time to visit Hawaii is from September through November. The weather is usually still excellent and you’ll likely miss the peak tourist season. 

In the fall, the crowds are smaller, restaurant reservations are easier to get, and you may have better luck booking your rental car or hotel.  

How Long to Spend on Your Hawaii Honeymoon

Plan to spend as much time as possible on your Hawaii honeymoon. Let’s be real: You probably won’t want to leave, no matter how long you’re there. 

We suggest at least seven days on your honeymoon in Hawaii – and even longer if you want to see more than one island.  

How Much Does a Hawaii Honeymoon Cost?

A Hawaii honeymoon is not the most affordable option – but if you can do it, it’s a vacation you’ll remember for the rest of your life. 

On average, a honeymoon in Hawaii will cost you between $5,000 – $15,000, depending on where you’re traveling from, which hotel you choose and how long you stay.

Hawaii Honeymoon Resorts: Map 

Hawaii honeymoon guide: read next.

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“We went to Bora Bora!”

Choosing Which Hawaiian Islands to Visit for your Honeymoon

With five main Hawaiian islands to choose from, each with its own personality and attractions, it's important that newlyweds narrow down the one (or two) Hawaiian islands that resonate most with their honeymoon goals. Oahu, for example, offers a unique blend of city-meets-beach, while Kauai is a veritable natural wonder. Maui is the ultimate spot for amenity junkies, whereas Hawaii (a.k.a. The Big Island) has a diverse mix of landscapes and few other tourists. And then there's tiny Lanai, a single-resort paradise that provides the ultimate honeymoon luxury: privacy.

To determine your perfect Hawaiian honeymoon itinerary, including where to stay and what to do, read on for our comprehensive Hawaiian island guide.

If you're looking for a mixture of big city atmosphere and an impressive array of historical and natural attractions, then Oahu is likely for you. Honolulu , Hawaii's largest city, is packed with every kind of cultural activity, plus top-notch restaurants, shopping, museums, theaters, and more. With its wide crescent beach, backdropped by high-rises and the iconic Diamond Head crater, Waikiki remains a hub for surfers, locals, and tourists alike. Further afield, you'll find two beautiful mountain ranges, amazing North Shore surf breaks, plus other must-see historic and cultural sites, including Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona, and numerous botanical gardens.

To post up in the heart of Waikiki Beach, consider booking a room at 'Alohilani Resort or the hip downtown hideout, Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club . For those who prefer more remote setting, there's Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko'Olina , on the island's sunny western coast, or the North Shore Turtle Bay Resort , where the movie Forgetting Sarah Marshall was filmed.

Honeymooners who prefer for a more beachy, less big-city vibe should put Maui at the top of their list. The island was formed by two volcanoes, most notably the 10,000-foot Mt. Haleakala , which still inspires visitors with its amazing sunset views and abundant adventure activities. There are plenty of areas worthy of a Maui honeymoon: Wailea Beach is the most popular, with plenty of resorts built along its golden shores. Kapalua Bay , to the northeast, offers a more reserved island home, while inland towns such as Paia provide a first-hand look at Hawaii's exigent cowboy culture. Make the "Road to Hana," an unbelievably scenic coastal drive, to spend a night or two in the perfectly stuck-in-time town of Hana.

Depending on your desired level of remoteness, top Maui resorts include: the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea (with picturesque ocean views), Montage Kapalua Bay (home to large, apartment-style accommodations), and Travaasa Hana (a secluded bungalow-style retreat).

Kauai is known as the Garden Isle for good reason. It's the wettest, greenest, and lushest of all the Hawaiian islands. While a Kauai honeymoon often includes a posh resort (there are a number on the island) and popular attractions (like the 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon), the island still manages to feel like a remote tropical paradise. Activities include kayaking along the scenic Na Pali Coast , hiking the scenic Kalalu Trail , or walking hand-in-hand along Hanalei Bay , one of Kauai's most stunning golden beaches.

Perch yourselves right on the North Shore beaches at Princeville Resort or at Kauai Beach Resort , an oceanfront property near Lihue. For a more out-of-the-box stay, consider booking one of the 61 traditional bungalows at Waimea Plantation Cottages , which fronts a black-sand beach along Kauai's Western Shore.

Hawaii (The Big Island)

Hawaii is the only island where couples can get up-close to an active volcano ( Kilauea has been continuously erupting since 1983) or climb the snow-capped summit of a dormant one ( Mauna Kea , the tallest mountain in the world when height is measured from the sea floor). The arid western coast of the island is home to a wide variety of luxury resorts, while the rainier eastern shore is filled with colorful botanical gardens, waterfalls, and the laid-back seaside town of Hilo.

Drop your bags at the newly renovated Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii , set on 32 oceanfront acres along the Kohala Coast. Couples are guaranteed prime access to water sports, plenty of first-rate restaurants, a championship 36-hole golf course, and more.

Just off the western shore of Maui lies Lanai, a former pineapple plantation turned tropical paradise. Ideal for those newlyweds seeking complete solitude, Lanai has a tiny local population and just one resort, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai (though a second Four Seasons-branded lodge is on the way).

There's no need to rent a car and you never have to fret over traffic--there isn't a single traffic light on the island. Instead, it's all about relaxing by the pools (one is adults-only), horseback riding through forested trails, thrill-seeking souped-up ATV rides, challenging rounds on the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, and toasting your new life together on a relaxing sunset catamaran cruise.

In case you missed it:

The 9 Most Romantic Honeymoon Activities in Hawaii

Honeymoon Road Trip Itineraries: Maui's Road to Hana

Best Hawaii Island for a Honeymoon 

Hawaii Aloha Travel > Blog > Best Hawaii Island for a Honeymoon 

We’ve decided on the 3 Best Hawaii Islands for a Honeymoon to take the guesswork out of your newlywedded travel. 

When you’re in the trenches of wedding planning and stressing over each detail of your big day, there is a light at the end of the tunnel: your honeymoon. No pressure, no worries, just you and your new spouse relaxing in a beautiful location. 

Are you dreaming of a honeymoon in Hawaii? Many newlyweds flock to the Aloha State for incredible scenery, laid-back lifestyle, and luxurious resorts .

But before you pack your bags and head off on a memorable getaway, choose the best Hawaii islands for your honeymoon. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. 

At Hawaii Aloha Travel, we’ve worked with all kinds of couples, so we’ve seen first-hand the experiences newlyweds have in the islands. So read on to find out which is your best island. 

In general, Maui is the best place to honeymoon. There are lots of options for both lower-cost condo rentals and high-end resorts. You’ll find both fine dining options and hole-in-the-wall eateries, plus pretty much endless activities. 

It’s also super romantic on Maui. There are great sunset views, places for relaxed strolls, amazing spas, and a laid-back vibe that will allow you to really enjoy these blissful days. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Wailea

The Hotel Wailea is an adults-only, all-suite hotel located in Maui’s upscale resort community of Wailea. It’s a short drive to the beach, and you can book lots of great activities through their concierge. The restaurants at the Hotel Wailea are incredibly romantic, and you’ll love the care they put into your honeymoon. 

We recommend you plan for lots of relaxing beach time during your honeymoon. Wailea has some of the best beaches in Hawaii, so you won’t have to go far for that. You may also want to take a day trip on the Road to Hana or drive to the summit of Haleakala Crater.

Paia town is a great place to peruse local shops and get a taste of small-town life in Hawaii. Upcountry Maui (on the slope of Haleakala) has scenic parks, local restaurants, and a tranquil lavender farm full of meandering, whimsical pathways. 

Maui has a lot of great activities, like ziplining, horseback riding, kayaking, surfing, and hiking. 

And with so many upscale resorts, there is no shortage of incredible spa options, so you and your new spouse can unwind with a couple’s massage. 

#2 – Kauai

We always go back and forth between Maui and Kauai, as they are both the best Hawaii Islands for honeymoons. 

Kauai is far more relaxed than Maui and has a unique beauty. After all, Kauai’s nickname is the Garden Isle, and its lush, rich landscape is incredibly romantic. That may mean fewer sunny days during your honeymoon (since ample rainfall creates this lush environment). But, if your number-one goal for your honeymoon is to connect with each other in a serene place, Kauai could be perfect for you. 

Where to Stay: 1 Hanalei Bay

1 Hanalei Bay is a brand-new resort on Kauai’s north shore. If you are visiting this island to feel connected to nature, this is the place to book. Every detail at 1 Hanalei Bay is centered around wellness and oneness with the land. A stay here is super pricey, so your honeymoon will feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

If you are visiting Kauai because it’s the best Hawaii island for a honeymoon, then 1 Hanalei Bay is a place to fully experience its romance and beauty.

For a relatively lower-cost option in Kauai, we recommend the Sheraton Kauai Resort near Poipu Beach. It’s in the sunniest part of the island and is perfect for couples. 

Poipu Beach will likely be your best spot for swimming and relaxing on the sand, but you should plan to take romantic walks along the shoreline of the rougher north shore beaches. For a scenic drive, head to Waimea Canyon or check out Spouting Horn blowhole.

Top Kauai activities include cruises along the Na Pali Coast and mountain tubing through irrigation streams. You can also kayak through the Hanalei River or visit one of the many Kauai Botanical Gardens . 

While there are lots of activities to do on Kauai, things there do move at a slower pace than on Maui, which could allow you to really take in quality time with each other during your honeymoon. 

#3 – Lanai

Lanai isn’t typically at the top of our list for the best places to stay in Hawaii, but it does offer something special for honeymooners. 

Lanai is extremely rural, with one small community and lots of undeveloped land. This means that a vacation here will be limited to your resort’s grounds and excursions, which could be perfect for some couples who don’t want to spend their vacation time driving around trying to see and do it all.

However, this magic comes at a price. And since there aren’t many options for low-cost food and activities nearby, Lanai won’t work for couples sticking to a budget for their Hawaii honeymoon.  

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Resort Lanai

The Four Seasons is pretty much your only accommodation option on Lanai. It’s incredibly luxurious and secluded and has a true “resort bubble” feel to it. 

Another benefit of the Four Seasons Lanai’s seclusion is that it repels a lot of families with children who need more activities than what you can find on the small island. 

So Lanai earns its place on our list of Best Hawaii Islands for a Honeymoon solely because of its Four Seasons Resort. If you can’t swing for a stay here, the nearby island of Maui may be a better choice. 

The Four Seasons staff can book excursions like catamaran tours, golfing, guided hikes, horseback riding, and Jeep rentals – so you don’t have to be completely confined to the hotel’s (amazing) grounds. 

Lanai is also one of the best places to see spinner dolphins and for scuba diving. In the winter months, humpback whales breach not far offshore. 

A ferry connects Maui and Lanai, so you can also take a day trip to see another excellent honeymoon island. 

Other Best Hawaii Islands for Your Honeymoon 

While we love both Hawaii Island and Oahu, they’re typically not our top choice for honeymoons. There’s so much to see and do on these islands that you may forget to unwind and simply take in your newlywedded bliss. Plus, we just think Maui and Kauai are the most romantic.

But, if you dream of visiting some of these islands’ top attractions, you could have a great honeymoon. On Oahu, you can watch the sunset over Diamond Head in Waikiki or swim in the pristine lagoons of Ko Olina. 

And the Big Island of Hawaii is home to Volcanoes National Park, a bucket-list sight for many couples. 

The great thing about visiting Hawaii? The islands are just a short plane ride apart. So you may not have to choose just one of the best Hawaii islands for your honeymoon. You could island-hop and stay at multiple places during your vacation. 

Honeymoon Planning

Wedding planning is tough, and your honeymoon should be worry-free and fun to look forward to. Let our team of travel agents put together a custom Hawaii honeymoon plan for you so that your vacation truly is the ultimate celebration of your love.

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The Ultimate Hawaii Honeymoon Guide [ 2024 ]

Hawaii for a honeymoon is easily one of the best honeymoon destinations within the USA , and the world. Between luxe Maui , adventurous Kauai , remote Lanai, hoppin’ Honolulu, and the volcanic Big Island, you’ll have no shortage of amazing honeymoon locales to choose from in Hawaii – but which island should you go to for a Hawaii honeymoon? Which island is the most honeymoon-worthy of all the Hawaiian islands? And where should you stay and what should you do when you get there? I’ve got you covered!

Here is Jetset Christina’s Ultimate Hawaii Honeymoon Guide !

Let’s start with some Hawaii honeymoon FAQ’s that I get from couples most often when I’m planning Hawaii honeymoons :

Table of Contents

Which island in Hawaii is best for a honeymoon? 

That totally depends on you, your fiance, and your personal travel styles. Kauai is one of my favorite islands in the world. It reminds me a lot of Bali and is full of adventurous hikes, beaches and waterfalls. Kauai is super tropical, and more remote than resortey. Lanai is a favorite for honeymooners because of it’s ultra -remote feel. If you’re looking to TOTALLY get away from it all together and are seeking a quiet, romantic honeymoon vibe, check out this resort – easily one of the most beautiful honeymoon resorts in the world. Maui , in my opinion, has a little bit of everything – adventure (the Road to Hana, snorkel trips, whale-watching, waterfalls, etc.) but also some of the most luxe resorts in all the islands (I recommend staying in Wailea for a honeymoon ). Honolulu and Oahu are great, but are more happening and hoppin’ than romantic – but sometimes couples like to do a couple nights in Honolulu (I recommend this hotel) before going somewhere more remote and romantic. Also the Big Island is a gorgeous island, and Hawaii’s dryest – but it tends to draw more families than romantics, and everything is more spread out, versus Maui where you have lots of different restaurants, cafes,  beaches, snorkel spots etc. within walking distance. I do love this unreal resort for a great luxury Hawaii honeymoon resort on the Big Island, though.

Where should we stay in Hawaii on our honeymoon?

These are my absolute favorite honeymoon resorts on each Hawaiian island. 

Where to stay in Maui for a honeymoon

Luxe Maui is a hawaii honeymooners paradise for its gorgeous coastline, dazzling beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes & rain forests, but also its unassuming, quintessential VACATION feel – the perfect place to relax after a wedding, with five-star resorts, the world-class service, and the fresh island food that will keep you coming back year after year to celebrate your anniversary. (BTW check out all my go-to Maui recommendations to make the most of your honeymoon on the Valley Isle)

Four Seasons Maui

The Four Seasons Maui is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful – and exclusive – resorts and is hands down my choice of where to stay for luxury in Maui. I love this hotel so much that it’s where i’m planning my wedding for next year! We couldn’t think of a more perfect place, and are so excited to have all of our loved ones there with us.

How to book the Four Seasons Maui and get honeymoon perks for being a Jetset reader!

For free breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit, a welcome amenity, and a room upgrade (if available), fill out this contact form and be sure to use the referral code “JETSETCHRISTINA” if you use my referral, my agency partner will reach out with more information and can help book you with all kinds of fun perks (at no extra cost to you, and they don’t charge a fee to book!)

Montage Kapalua

I recently met a couple while at the Four Seasons Hualalai that had stayed there and at Montage Kapalua on their honeymoon and they said Montage’s service was out of this world – due to it being a smaller hotel and them being able to completely spoil the couple on their honeymoon – they said everyone at the hotel knew it was their honeymoon! So cute.

How to book the Montage Kapalua and get honeymoon perks for being a Jetset reader!

For free breakfast for two, a $150 spa credit, and a room upgrade (when available), fill out this contact form and be sure to use the referral code “JETSETCHRISTINA” if you use my referral, my agency partner will reach out with more information and can help book you with all kinds of fun perks (at no extra cost to you, and they don’t charge a fee to book!)

The Andaz is many people’s favorite hotels on Maui! It has a sleek, young, contemporary country-club-like ambiance and stunning oceanfront views, with 4 infinity pools, 2 restaurants, a full-service spa, and 15 acres on Waikapu Beach. It’s a fab choice for a honeymoon on Maui. AND each Andaz room also comes with its own balcony, perfect for watching those unbeatable Maui sunsets. 

Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott Maui

With private lanais, a drop-dead-gorgeous infinity pool, and a sleek contemporary feel, the Wailea Beach Resort is one of my favorite picks for hotels in Maui . The rates tend to be decent for Wailea and it’s still one of the most beautiful properties – in a great location. During the day, you can soak up the sun in their beautiful newly-renovated Makani oceanfront pools which feature cabanas and fire pits. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and sunset mai tais at the Marriott’s new Kapa restaurant and bar ( one of the best happy hour spots in Maui! ) . They also have the Nalu Adventure Pool for families (with the longest resort waterslide in Hawaii). 

Check rates for your dates here.

Where to stay in Lanai for a honeymoon

Laid-back Lanai for a honeymoon is a couples’ dream! Just a ferry away from Maui (or a quick hopper flight), it’s an easy island to tack on to a Maui honeymoon. If you’re really looking to get away from it all, this romantic, remote island is the one for you. 

The Four Seasons Lanai

A secluded luxury oasis with 5-star restaurants like Nobu and Malibu Farm, and an out-of-this-world breakfast buffet that will keep you full until dinner! This is one of the most exclusive resorts in Hawaii, and is hands down a favorite among honeymooners. 

How to book the Four Seasons Lanai and get honeymoon perks for being a Jetset reader!

To book and get perks, fill out this contact form and be sure to use the referral code “JETSETCHRISTINA” if you use my referral, my agency partner will reach out with more information and can help book you and get you the best perks (at no extra cost to you, and they don’t charge a fee to book!)

Where to stay in Kauai for a honeymoon

Kauai is the farthest of the Hawaiian islands, and has managed to stay very ‘Old Hawaii’ with a slow-paced island lifestyle and one-of-a-kind beauty. Nicknamed “The Garden Isle”, Kauai is home to canopies of lush tropical plants and trees that envelop the entire island, while the coastline is marked by emerald-green seacliffs dropping dramatically to white-sand beaches and crystal-clear coral reefs below. Kauai is so mind-blowingly beautiful and idyllic, it’s one of the most visually stunning destinations in the world.

Kauai has two main sides to it, Hanalei (North Shore), and Poipu (South Shore). They are about an hour and a half apart and have very different feels to them. Poipu is known as being the sunnier side of the island, while Princeville & Hanalei on the North Shore are home to some of the most beautiful tropical settings (but depending on the time of year it can get rainy over there!)  Here are my favorites for both locations.

For the celeb treatment – Get a bungalow at The Lodge at Kukui’ula  

Located on the sunny side of the island in South Kauai, The Lodge at Kukui’ula is where to feel like a celebrity on Kauai. As a guest at The Lodge at Kukui’ula , you will enjoy private access to all the Club amenities – ocean view cocktails at sunset, gourmet dining with farm fresh ingredients, signature spa treatments, Peacock Bass fishing at the lake, private picnic at the upcountry farm, a round of golf on our award-wining Tom Weiskopf course, or a kayak ride or the spectacular Koke`e hike. Just a short drive away you will find The Shops at Kukui`ula, with great dining, shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, etc.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

The new 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay may have the most gorgeous setting in all of Hawaii.

The hotel is committed to sustainability and aims to connect guests with the natural world through its design, amenities, and services. The setting of this hotel could not be better – located on a crystal-clear bay perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, and the beach is an ideal spot for sunning. And you have stunning views of the mountains and the bay everywhere you look.

Get special perks for being a JETSET Christina Reader at this property! fill out this contact form and be sure to use the referral code “JETSETCHRISTINA” if you use my referral, my agency partner will reach out with more information and can help book you with all kinds of fun perks (at no extra cost to you, and they don’t charge a fee to book!) Here’s what you get for being a Jetset Christina reader:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability, Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, Resort Credit, applicable towards our food & beverage outlets or towards Spa Services, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full). Bookings of 1+ nights will receive a $100 credit, once during stay. For 2023 stays only, bookings of 3+ nights will receive an increased credit of $400 USD, once during stay, for 2023 stays only, bookings of 5+ nights will receive an increased credit of $1000 USD, once during stay.

Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability, Complimentary Wi-Fi

Big Island (Hawaii)

Where to stay on hawaii’s big island.

Four Seasons Hualalai

I love the Four Seasons Hualalai – and their tropical rooms with outdoor showers and beautiful tropical plants remind me a little of Bali ! Read more about my stay at Four Seasons Hualalai here .

How to book the Four Seasons Hualalai and get honeymoon perks for being a Jetset reader!

To book, fill out this contact form and be sure to use the referral code “JETSETCHRISTINA” if you use my referral, my agency partner will reach out with more information and can help book you with all kinds of fun perks (at no extra cost to you, and they don’t charge a fee to book!)

Where to Stay on Oahu for a Honeymoon

In downtown waikiki:, moana surfrider.

Located right in the heart of the downtown strip of beach in Honolulu – the famous & beautiful Waikiki Beach. Built as the first hotel in Waikiki, it is within walking distance of everything, making it a great spot to spend a few days in Oahu. 

Outside of downtown:

Turtle bay resort.

You may recognize this resort as the setting of Forgetting Sarah Marshall! is where the “7-Mile Miracle” of world-class surf begins, and the lineup is endless. With this as your home base, you can explore North Shore’s shrimp trucks, pristine beaches, and plantation-style towns.

Ke Iki Beach Bungalows

I absolutely loved getting away to North Shore Oahu and the sleepy, adorable town of Haleiwa and all of the beautiful beaches up there. Ke Iki has awesome oceanfront bungalows, where you can enjoy romantic sunsets on an acre and a half of palm-fringed beachfront land, and one of the least crowded beaches around! All beachfront bungalows has bean fully remodeled in 2020 and have beautiful ocean and sunset views. 

Kahala Resort

Although this is an older resort and the pool needs a little bit of a remodel, the location and classic Hawaii vibe is hard to beat! As soon as we got to check in, I felt relaxed. I loved the rooms and their GORGEOUS view of Honolulu’s stunning ocean. If you’re looking to be near Waikiki but not in the heart of downtown, this is a great base for a honeymoon.

What should we do in Hawaii on our honeymoon?

Kauai must-do’s :.

Napili Coast Hike, sailing the Napili Coast, dolphin watching, helicopter tour over the island, snorkel tour

Where to eat in Kauai on a honeymoon: Dolphin , Bar Acuda

Maui must-do’s

Road to Hana, Mama’s Fish House, Luau, Makena Beach, Snorkel Tour, Whale-watching, Hiking

For all my favorite restaurants and activities on Maui, check out these posts:

JETSET CHRISTINA’S ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MAUI

JETSET CHRISTINA’S WAILEA TRAVEL GUIDE

The Best things to do in Oahu: Check out all my must do’s in Oahu here!

What do i need to pack for a hawaii honeymoon , a matching honeymoon swimsuit set and a matching hawaiian shirt and sarong , of course , read more on what to pack for your honeymoon, hawaii honeymoon packing list:, sunglasses –  my favorite brand that you guys always ask me about on instagram is bisous, they have mens and womens and are so chic, sun hat(s) – all my favorite sun hats are in this post here, swimsuits, bikinis and cover-ups, flip flops ( i’m obsessed with this pair right now, and my fiance has their mens ones ), 1 pair of sneakers for hiking/the hotel gym, 1 flying outfit ( these are always my in-flight leggings because they’re so soft ), cute resort dresses for day and night.

my favorite melon green ribbed bikini – I’m obsessed! 

I wore this chic dress in Oahu last trip and I can’t recommend it enough – so easy to pack and versatile for every destination!

Check out The Ultimate Honeymoon Packing Guide for outfit and more packing tips & ideas

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WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Best Hawaii Honeymoon Resorts

Four Seasons Resort Hualālai is our pick for the best Hawaii honeymoon resort

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Known for its spectacular beaches, scenery, laid-back vibe, and outdoor activities, like surfing, hiking, snorkeling, and whale watching, the best Hawaii honeymoon resorts are synonymous with romance. From the famous Nā Pali Coast to the lush mountains of Maui to the stunning waterfalls of the Kona-Kohala Coast on the Big Island, newlyweds can choose from an array of resort options.

Best Hawaii Honeymoon Resorts in 2024

• Best Overall: Four Seasons Resort Hualālai
• Best Almost All-Inclusive: The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
• Best Luxury: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Best Beachfront: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
• Best Boutique: Ko’a Kea Resort on Poipu Beach
• Best Historic: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
• Best for Romance: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
• Best for Foodies: Hotel Wailea, Maui
• Best for Activities: The Royal Hawaiian Waikiki in Oahu
• Our Top Picks
• Four Seasons Resort Hualālai
• The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
• Ko’a Kea Resort on Poipu Beach
• Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

• Hotel Wailea, Maui

The Royal Hawaiian Waikiki in Oahu

• See More (6)

Final Verdict

• Guide to Choosing

Methodology

Best overall : four seasons resort hualālai.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Situated on the lava-filled Kona-Kohala coast, Four Seasons Resort Hualālai delivers the ultimate Hawaiian experience. The remarkable landscape, the private pools, and the abundant activities make for an unforgettable honeymoon experience.

Swimmable aquarium, championship golf course, five restaurants

Beachfront access

Plenty of activities

Some better deal offers

Free parking requires a walk

The Four Seasons Resort Hualālai promises oceanfront splendor with a focus on sustainability. An array of exclusive suites and villas—including the Makaloa Villa and the Ho'onanea Villa, both of which feature private beachfront access—deliver optimal privacy for newlywed couples. Five restaurants and a snack bar serve regional seafood, sushi, steak, pastries, and ice cream. King's Pond, Hualālai's signature 1.8-million-gallon swimmable aquarium, offers a protective cove for snorkeling lessons. And the resort's stunning beach, with its white sand and lava rock outcroppings, is the perfect place to relax, explore, and swim in the sheltered coves.

Best Almost All-Inclusive : The Ritz-Carlton Maui , Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton offers several vacation packages, with past offerings including breakfasts for two and savings on room upgrades. You also get concierge service and internet access.

Multiple pools and jacuzzis, two championship golf courses, pre-wedding golf and spa events, customized reception dinners

Lush landscaping

Friendly, helpful staff

Great views

Gourmet room service

No private beach

Nearly a one-hour drive from airport

Daily resort fee

Maui's Ritz-Carlton Kapalua sits on 54 lush acres and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. It features an array of meandering pools that offer the perfect place to relax and unwind. Couples can book the 2,560-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite, which boasts a large bedroom, two balconies, and a separate living space. The hotel's secluded beach offers breathtaking mountain views, and on-site gourmet dining at six distinctive restaurants makes it possible to enjoy your getaway without leaving the resort.

Best Luxury : Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

With its world-class Anara Spa, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort is one of the most exclusive resorts on Kauai. The hotel's superb poolside service and spacious suites with refined furnishings and premium bathroom amenities make it the most luxurious.

Multi-level pool with waterslide, golf course, world-class spa, private saltwater lagoon, tennis courts

Beachfront hotel with private beach

Spacious rooms

Environment friendly

Lots of activities for kids

Breakfast packages available

Water can be rough for swimming

Can be crowded at peak times

The island of Kauai is as exclusive as it gets, and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa has an ideal location with lush tropical grounds and gorgeous views from every direction. Several room options are suitable for a luxurious honeymoon, from the posh Presidential Suite to the 1,500-square-foot Royal Suite with an oversized bathroom, a wine chiller, and a cozy reading nook. In addition, honeymooners can relax in the saltwater lagoon, play championship golf, or book couples treatments at the resort's upscale Anara Spa.

Best Beachfront : Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Andaz Maui's private beach cove on the famous Mokapu Beach has crystal blue waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and a wide swath of sand to sunbathe. The hotel is also the start of the Wailea Beach Walk, a coastal trail that extends south to Polo Beach. 

15 acres of beachfront, 70,000 square feet of event space, adults-only infinity pool, guided excursions, personalized spa and wellness experience  

Private beach

Hip, design-concept guest rooms

LEED Silver certification

Pet friendly

Not all that service-oriented

Some rooms face the parking lot

With a spectacular location in South Maui, the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort offers the perfect spot for couples celebrating their happily ever after. Private oceanfront villas and the 1,500-square-foot Premier Suite with a separate living area and kitchenette are available. The hotel sits on 15 beachfront acres with direct access to Mokapu Beach, a stunning mountain backdrop, farm-to-table dining, and an on-site spa. Couples who crave privacy can rent a poolside cabana or unwind at the adults-only tranquility pool.

Best Boutique : Ko’a Kea Resort on Poipu Beach

Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort

The comparatively small 121-room Ko’a Kea Resort delivers an intimate experience with its boutique-style accommodations and amenities, including a pool and tiki bar, beachside yoga, and an on-site adventure center.

Private beach, water sports equipment rental, fitness center with gym and Workout room, pets welcomed

Quiet and intimate

Upscale furnishings and decor

Great snorkeling

Only one small pool

Swimming beaches require a walk

Kauai's Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort sits along Poipu Beach in Kauai and features an array of rooms and suites primed for romance. Options include an oceanfront suite with a separate living area, an enormous soaking tub, custom robes, and flip flops. On-site dining features fresh, local favorites, like vanilla bean seared mahi and ahi tuna, and the on-site spa has a romantic couples suite you can book to escape the world while you enjoy luxurious treatments.

Best Historic : Moana Surfrider , A Westin Resort & Spa

Moana Surfrider

Private beach, full fitness center, kids' TV networks. nightly entertainment

Opened in 1901, Moana was the first resort on Waikiki Beach. Over the years, and with the addition of the Surfrider Hotel, the resort has experienced several renovations, expansions, and restorations. Now known as the "First Lady of Waikiki," the Moana Surfrider is our pick as the best historic hotel.

Central location

Historic charm

Several beachfront dining options

Only one pool

During their memorable trip, couples exploring Honolulu and Waikiki should check out the Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa. This iconic beachfront hotel is home to Waikiki's only oceanfront spa and the renowned Beach Bar. Rooms geared to couples include the Tower Ocean Suites, which boast a separate bedroom and living area and extraordinary ocean views. In addition, the resort's location along the main drag, Kalākaua Avenue, makes it ideal for couples who want to enjoy nightlife and the city's best dining as they celebrate their big day.

Best for Romance : Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

You'll never want to leave your romantic room at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, with its customizable mattress, private lanai, and sunken bathtub. The adults-only serenity pool also offers couples a romantic reprieve.

$100 shopping credit, adults-only serenity pool, air purification systems

Beachfront location

Indoor and outdoor fitness center with beach yoga

3 restaurants and access to many more

No resort fee

Daily parking charge

Some rooms have sub-par views

This five-star resort located on the island of Maui has oversized suites and guest rooms, often with upgraded amenities like air purification systems, marble bathrooms, and 180-degree oceanfront views. Couples can also rent over 80 different cabanas—some oceanfront and some poolside—or enjoy watersports, like stand-up paddleboarding, on the adjacent white sand beach. The adults-only serenity pool also provides a respite from the rest of the resort and a spot for quiet romance and bonding.

Best for Foodies : Hotel Wailea , Maui

Executive chef Bryan McMahon, who runs the acclaimed The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea and The Treehouse, worked with Wolfgang Puck's Fine Dining Group for a decade. As a result, the resort's dining focuses on fresh, organic, and "hyper-local" ingredients, and the food is directly inspired by the seasonal offerings of the island's farms and fishermen.

Dream drives in vintage cars, outrigger canoeing, sunset sailing, surf safari

Small and intimate

Posh pool area with free cabanas

World-class dining at two restaurants, one bar, and poolside cabanas

Not located on the beach

Small fitness center

Maui's Hotel Wailea is Hawaii's first and only Relais & Châteaux resort, and its adults-only environment is perfect for couples who want to get away from kids. The 72 suites are spread across 15 rolling acres with tropical greenery and mountain views galore.

Guests celebrating a honeymoon can book a Celebration Suite with panoramic ocean views and vaulted ceilings. You can also reserve a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in an open-air treehouse, where a private chef will cook a seven-course tasting menu with expert wine pairings.

Best for Activities : The Royal Hawaiian Waikiki in Oahu

The Royal Hawaiian Waikiki offers free activities, like surf lessons, lei making, guided historical tours, and hula lessons. You can also use one of the resort's Go-Pro cameras for free to document your adventures throughout the day.

Special honeymoon venues, award-winning Azure restaurant, parasailing, surfing, shopping

Historic resort

Oceanfront pool

Free Go-Pro camera loans

Historic rooms need renovated

Pool and hot tub close early

Honeymooners who want to be close to the action should consider booking their trip at the "Pink Palace of the Pacific," also known as The Royal Hawaiian. This resort is located in stylish Waikiki, which puts it close to award-winning golf, hiking, shopping, and some of the best dining in Hawaii.

Couples should consider booking a Historic Ocean Deluxe Suite, which is lavishly appointed with fine amenities like crisp linens and a separate living area. Sample world-class dining at the award-winning Azure Restaurant or experience a Royal Hawaiian Luau for the most authentic and delicious dinner money can buy.

Out of the nine resorts reviewed, the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai is our best overall pick due to its private beachfront access and 1.8-million-gallon swimmable aquarium. The landscape is unique, set among lava rock and crystal blue waters, and the on-site restaurants offer regional fare suitable for any honeymooner's tastes. The private snorkeling option and the Jack Nicklaus championship golf course help deliver a once-in-a-lifetime couple's getaway.

Guide to Choosing a Hawaii Honeymoon Resort

Each of the five main Hawaiian Islands offers unique personalities and attractions. Newlyweds should carefully choose the island that best serves their honeymoon goals, especially regarding budget, activities, and mutual interests.

Things like coffee makers, cable TV, and room service are essentials, not amenities. For a great Hawaii honeymoon, look for resort amenities like private pools and beaches, championship golf courses, kids' clubs, gyms and wellness studios, daily entertainment, and free excursions.

Nightly Rate

Not surprisingly, Hawaii has some of America's highest nightly hotel rates. In the resorts listed here, for example, nightly rates range from $299 to $2,200 per night. However, those rates include many complimentary amenities rarely found in less costly hotels. Since the last thing any newlywed couple wants to do is return from their honeymoon broke, hotel room rates and fees must be carefully considered.

The number one tip for a successful honeymoon is never to get bored. Whether it's a hiking, surfing, swimming, or sightseeing experience, choose a resort that offers plenty of excursion options. Look for free transportation and guided tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place in hawaii for a honeymoon.

Maui is the best Hawaiian island for a honeymoon. It's considered the most romantic of all the islands. Its northernmost beach, Kaanapali Beach, hosts a nightly tiki torch lighting that ends with a spectacular sunset. 

What Is the Most Romantic Place in Hawaii?

Lanikai Beach on Oahu is considered one of the most romantic spots to be at sunrise. The sky comes alive in a pastel of colors, with the offshore Mokulua Islands as a backdrop. Go early and enjoy the nice walk to the white sand beach.

What Is the Average Cost of a Honeymoon in Hawaii?

An average seven-day honeymoon trip to Hawaii costs approximately $7,000, which includes an average of $1,200 in airfare, $500 a night in accommodations, $1,800 for food and drink, and about $500 for additional activities. Of course, depending on the time of year, you can shop around and pull it off for less.

When Should You Honeymoon in Hawaii?

The best time to visit Hawaii is April through September. November and March are the rainiest months, and hurricane season lasts from June through November.

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Honeymoon in Hawaii?

At least two months before you plan to leave is a good rule of thumb. The best hotels fill up quickly, especially during the summer months and over holidays.

When reviewing the best Hawaiian honeymoon resorts, we looked for hotels with amenities for couples. We considered the resort's location, size, and room types, choosing a sampling of those that offer rooms, suites, and villas. Our pick for best overall is set in a striking landscape and includes a unique lineup of amenities. We also considered resorts with world-class restaurants, upscale spas, and adults-only pools, all designed to deliver the most romantic experience for couples celebrating their new marriage.

Brides / Designed by Amelia Manley

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The Best Hawaii Honeymoon Resorts of 2023

• Esther is the Deputy Editor of The Knot. She currently leads all content on The Knot Wellness, focusing on financial, relationship, and mental wellbeing.
• She oversees The Knot's travel vertical (honeymoons, destination weddings, bach parties), as well as overarching features and trends.
• She proudly serves on the Advisory Council of VOW For Girls, focusing on ending the injustice of child marriage around the world.

With its unfettered, natural beauty and refined luxury offerings, the Hawaiian Islands feel as though they're a world away from the continental US. A romance destination for hundreds of thousands of newlyweds each year, the Aloha State offers much more than swaying palm trees and fresh poke (albeit, both sound divine). In fact, select Hawaii honeymoon resorts are among the most distinguished in the world, known as such for their splurge-worthy suites and unique, on-site experiences for couples.

In This Article:

Is There a Best Hawaiian Island for a Honeymoon?

The best hawaii honeymoon resorts & properties, the best all-inclusive honeymoon resorts in hawaii, the best hawaii honeymoon packages.

Each island boasts its own unique feel and it truly depends on what you enjoy most as a couple . For newlyweds who want to experience the appeal of vintage Hawaii, Oahu is a prime option. With an abundance of urban development against the beautiful Pacific, Oahu is also home to the world's top surf and renowned Waikiki Beach. Adventure-driven couples will want to explore Hawai'i (home to Mauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano) or they'll want to venture along the pristine Napali Coast of Kauai, otherwise known as "the Garden Isle."

For those who want the classic luxury experience–think HBO's White Lotus without the psychological drama– Maui has built its reputation as the island with the finest Hawaii honeymoon resorts and oceanfront developments. Shaped like a turtle, the "Valley Isle" is home to famed, sheltered beaches like Ka'anapali, Wailea and Kapalua, as well as UNESCO Heritage sites like Haleakalā National Park.

If your schedule allows, we recommend island-hopping and enjoying stays across various Hawaii honeymoon resorts. If not this time, the state attracts millions of repeat visitors each year, especially in time for its prime whale-watching season.

Due to the sheer influx of travelers who visit the islands each year, the list of the best Hawaii honeymoon resorts continues to grow and evolve. However, several properties across the archipelago of eight islands continue to defend the title of top Hawaii honeymoon resorts for high-quality service, unique romance options, adults-only offerings, spa experiences and plush accommodations.

The Ritz-Carlton Maui at Kapalua, Maui

The Kapalua Coast is arguably one of the most iconic regions of Maui. Between black volcanic coastal trails and golden sandy beaches, the Kapalua Resort development is a haven for honeymooners who prefer the quiet luxury of the region coupled with the service reputed by Ritz-Carlton properties globally. With its recent renovations, the property offers even more experiences for couples, including access to nearby and revered DT Fleming Beach. Couples will enjoy morning snorkeling and swimming at the beach, as well as the hotel's private cabanas and an adults-only pool. Finally, couples will want to book a world-class spa treatment and end the day with a cocktail.

The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui

Numerous "musts" await at this world-class property, which you've likely either seen across aspirational travel social media pages or on season one of HBO's White Lotus. (Yes, this is the resort.) The ever-blossoming list of romantic experiences well-recommended by frequent fliers includes booking a private sunset dinner for two at Ferraro's Bar e Restaurant , reserving prime seats at the adults-only Serenity Pool (how White Lotus of you), enjoying an outrigger canoe date for a turtle sighting or two, and ditching the phone for sunrise walks along the peaceful Wailea trail. While rates reflect the Four Seasons brand name, amenities like fresh aloe gel, copious Sun Bum options and beyond add the perfect amount of luxury to this tasteful Hawaii honeymoon resort.

The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Ka'anapali Beach, Maui

It's no surprise honeymooners (and Marriott Bonvoy members) have been flocking to the Westin Maui, especially after the debut of its Hokupa'a Tower , the premium 217-room tier with an exclusive club lounge. Restaurant offerings include Waicoco Grill and Auntie's Kitchen. Within walking distance to the Shops at Ka'anapali, couples can easily pick up all the local goodies (honey, Kona coffee, luxury hand creams) as thank-you gifts for loved ones back home. While there, you'll want to try the award-winning pineapple cocktail from Merriman's.

Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux, Maui

The only Relais & Châteaux property in Hawaii, the Hotel Wailea is comprised of 72 one-bedroom suites that face the ocean. The adults-only destination (a rare claim among even the highest-rated hotels on the island) has been rated a top honeymoon resort in Hawaii as it's tucked away on a cliff for privacy. Each room's neutral interiors blend beautifully against the surrounding land, while there's a serious focus on local fare, culture and history. Couples leaning into education and purposeful travel will especially enjoy a stay at the Hotel Wailea.

Kōloa Landing Resort at Poipu Beach, Kauai

A picturesque open-air lobby, freshly-made leis and beverages await guests who step into this Autograph Collection property on Poipu Beach. Honeymooners in search for adventure and relaxing pool days will appreciate Koloa Landing's proximity to Napali Coast boat charters and Kauai's famed Waimea Canyon for ATV outings and Jurassic Park tours. As Kauai is as rugged as it gets, the property offers amenities like in-room laundry. That way, you won't have to bring muddy clothes home–only romantic tales from your honeymoon.

Turtle Bay Resort, Oahu

Considered one of the finest luxury honeymoon resorts in Hawaii, Turtle Bay Resort's suites are unparalleled as some rooms come with private plunge pools overlooking the Pacific--and corresponding views for morning coffee or sunset cocktails. The resort is also home to the Alaia Restaurant for foodies.

Four Seasons Resort O'ahu at Ko Olina, Oahu

Arguably one of the best-known Hawaii honeymoon resorts on the island of Oahu, the Four Seasons O'ahu Ko Olina has incredible views of the ocean and it's located along the quieter megaresort that's literally translated to "place of joy."

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, Hawai'i

This five-star resort that calls the breathtaking Kohala Coast its home was once a favorite haunt of Elvis Presley in the 1970s. With a massive restoration by Auberge, the property received modern upgrades that debuted in 2020. Its focus on history, culture and wildlife conservation continues to set the Mauna Lani apart. In fact, resident historians and culture guides are living legends to the many well-traveled first-time and repeat visitors.

Fairmont Orchid at Kohala, Hawai'i

Along the black rocks of the Kohala Resort, the Fairmont Orchid is known for its sprawling grounds, refreshing pools, five dining options, and, for culture buffs, the Gathering of the Kings luau.

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, Lanai

The ultimate Hawaii honeymoon resort is the uber-exclusive Sensei Lānaʻi. The five-star Four Seasons property is considered even more premium than its siblings. For those who appreciate quiet luxury, this property is the best option for a honeymoon.

It's a known fact that Hawaii isn't an all-inclusive honeymoon destination. In the traditional sense, this means most of the luxury properties aren't all-inclusive with food and beverage options and will require careful planning especially if you're on a budget. However, select resorts offer all-inclusive alternatives or romance packages. Depending on your booking type, some rooms at properties will include complimentary food and beverage options, as well as exclusive programming like paddleboarding, canoeing or sunrise yoga.

Honeymooners who book a room in the Hokupaa Tower will have access to the members-only Lanai, an exclusive club lounge offered to distinguished-level Marriott Bonvoy members. There, breakfast and daily tastings are included. Couples will also enjoy prime access to their own private oceanfront balconies in each suite–a perfect spot for your morning coffee, sunrise meditation or both. The club itself includes a well-maintained infinity pool and terrace overlooking prime Ka'anapali Beach–an especially exclusive experience during whale-watching season. While this isn't an all-inclusive stay, by standard wording, extra amenities do bring it a step closer. Book it on the site or via Costco Travel.

At Sensei Lānaʻi, the wellness program includes everything from activities, a devoted guide, and fresh meals at Nobu. The purpose of its wellness retreat, which could easily double as a honeymoon for health-conscious travelers, is to refine the art of well-being and longevity. Oh–and did we mention it's only open to guests ages 16 and up?

Couples who want the ease and flexibility of visiting multiple destinations without building their own itineraries should consider tour packages. While it's recommended each couple does their due diligence when itineraries are formed by operators, the following options come with positive reviews.

Costco Travel

Those who like save and splurge will be pleasantly surprised by Costco's partnerships with various resorts across the Hawaiian islands. For example, this deal with the Grand Hyatt Kauai includes waived daily resort fees (which can add up), as well as special member rates for stays and roundtrip flights.

Hawaii Aloha Travel

For 20-plus years, this tour operator has helped plan over 100,000 vacations across Hawaii. With five-star partners across four islands and comprehensive, locally-focused guides, couples can simply book and relax as they go from one destination to the next.

Tripmasters

Tripmasters is reputed to partner with names like the Grand Hyatt Kauai, Grand Wailea Maui, and Hawaiian Airlines for a consistent travel experience. For a tour of both the Garden and Valley Isles, try this itinerary which offers three nights in Maui and three in Kauai with roundtrip travel.

Park Hours 9 AM - 5 PM

A Couple’s Guide to Choosing the Best Hawaiian Island to Honeymoon

November 30, 2023.

The first step in deciding which island is right for you is asking yourself what type of traveler you are? Are you the adventurous type? The luxury honeymooners or maybe a combination of a few. Let’s narrow it down!

The Adventure Seekers:

• Characteristics: Thrill-seeking, active, and always up for an adrenaline rush.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Ziplining through tropical rainforests, exploring volcanic landscapes, or diving into coral reefs for an underwater adventure.

The Romantic Escapists:

• Characteristics: Dreamy, romantic at heart, and captivated by the idea of secluded getaways.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Private beachfront villas, sunset dinners, and intimate strolls through scenic landscapes.

cultural connoisseurs:

• Characteristics: Inquisitive, interested in history and local traditions.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Exploring cultural landmarks, attending local events, and immersing themselves in the authentic traditions of the destination.

Relaxation enthusiasts:

• Characteristics: Stress-free, laid-back, and drawn to tranquility.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Lounging on pristine beaches, indulging in spa treatments, and enjoying leisurely walks in serene surroundings.

Urban Explorers:

• Characteristics: City-loving, intrigued by urban life, and fascinated by vibrant atmospheres.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Exploring cosmopolitan cities, dining in trendy restaurants, and enjoying the cultural offerings of a bustling metropolis.

Nature Lovers:

• Characteristics: Connected to the environment, appreciative of natural beauty.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Hiking through lush landscapes, bird-watching, and immersing in the tranquility of remote nature reserves.

Luxury Aficionados:

• Characteristics: Appreciative of opulence, seeking top-tier experiences.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Staying in lavish resorts, enjoying gourmet dining, and indulging in exclusive spa treatments.

The Spiritual Wanderers:

• Characteristics: Seeking inner peace, interested in spiritual and wellness activities.
• Ideal Honeymoon: Yoga retreats, meditation sessions, and visits to serene, spiritually significant locations.

Brief Overview of the Main Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi, a tropical paradise in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, is a diverse archipelago

of islands, each with its own character and charm. Hawaiʻi is celebrated for its unique blend of indigenous Hawaiian culture, Asian influences, geological processes, and historical events that have shaped each island.

To understand which island is right for you, you must understand the cultural influences and unique blend of heritage that each encompasses. Let’s get into it!

Oahu: The Gathering Place

Perfect for the: Cultural Connoisseurs & The Urban Explorers

Oahu is referred to as “The Gathering Place,” and stands as the vibrant heart of the Hawaiian Islands. Characterized by diverse geography, it hosts iconic landmarks such as Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor . The island’s cultural significance is deeply rooted in Hawaiian history, serving as the historical seat of power for Hawaiian royalty. Throughout the pre-unification period, Oahu played a pivotal role in the island chain’s governance, hosting important chiefdoms and becoming a hub for political and social activities.

The district of Waikīkī on Oahu, in particular, held great importance as the residence of Oahu’s high chiefs and ruling monarchs. The ancient heiau (temples) that once graced the landscape, such as Pu’u O Mahuka Heiau , stand as enduring testaments to Oahu’s historical and spiritual significance. The island was a key player in the events that led to the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under King Kamehameha I in the late 18th century, solidifying Oahu’s place in Hawaiian history as the nexus of political authority and cultural heritage.

Oahu has a well-developed transportation system, including buses and highways, making it easy for visitors to explore the island. Our urban explorer honeymooners will love Honolulu and its unique blend of urban sophistication. 

And for those beach vibes that you came to Hawaiʻi for, Waikīkī Beach stands as an iconic and world-renowned stretch of shoreline nestled in the heart of Honolulu. In addition to it’s white sand, Waikiki Beach provides an array of water activities, including paddleboarding, snorkeling, and catamaran cruises. The beachfront is alive with entertainment, from traditional hula performances to live music events, but also caters to families, with sections of the beach providing calm waters suitable for children. 

Maui: The Valley Isle

Perfect for the: The Romantic Escapists & Nature Lovers

Often hailed as the best Hawaiian island to visit , Maui stands out for its rich Hawaiian culture and unique biology and microclimates. 

Maui is often referred to as “The Valley Isle” due to the presence of numerous large valleys carved into its volcanic landscape. The island’s topography is shaped by the West Maui Mountains and the massive shield volcano, Haleakalā, which together create deep, lush valleys. The island’s diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, coral reefs, and wetlands, support native plants and endangered species like the Maui parrotbill and Hawaiian hoary bat. Conservation initiatives focus on protected areas, coral reef preservation, watershed protection, and educating residents and visitors about sustainability.

Maui offers the perfect outdoor escape for those couples that enjoy connecting through nature with stunning hikes. Among those is the popular Haleakalā Crater hike, which unveils volcanic landscapes and unique flora. The Pipiwai Trail near Hāna leads through bamboo forests to cascading waterfalls like Waimoku Falls. For panoramic views, the Waihe’e Ridge Trail near Wailuku traverses lush rainforest and offers glimpses of waterfalls and stunning vistas.

Maui also offers some of the best beaches you can find. Kāʻanapali Beach gives you crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and fantastic snorkeling opportunities. While Honolua Bay is a snorkeling and diving haven known for its picturesque beauty, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. For a quieter beach experience, Baldwin Beach Park on Maui’s north shore provides a beautiful expanse of sandy shoreline, ocean views for that perfect romantic and sunset.

Beyond its beaches, Maui takes pride in its heritage and you can find cultural festivals and events throughout the year that showcase Hawaiian arts, crafts, music, and dance. Make sure you look at what events are happening before you go! This could affect rates and accommodations. 

Lastly, It wouldn’t be a trip to Maui without visiting one of the top 10 best aquariums in the world, Maui Ocean Center. At the aquarium you won’t just be able to get up close and personal with local marine life, but you’ll get the chance to learn about their conservation and coral restoration efforts in a larger conversation about preserving Maui’s ecosystem. Maui Ocean Center has also started to roll out adults only themed nights at the aquarium so make sure to check their event calendar so you don’t miss one while you’re there.

Maui offers a perfect blend of romantic ambiance and diverse landscapes, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic yet unforgettable getaway. For a comprehensive list of things to do in Maui make sure to read this blog: Things To Do In Maui For Couples .

Kauaʻi: The Garden Isle

Perfect for the: Spiritual Wanderers & Nature Lovers

Kauaʻi, often referred to as “The Garden Isle,” is the oldest and fourth-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. It’s known for not only its natural beauty but also a haven for wellness and rejuvenation. Kauaʻi’s tranquil and less-crowded atmosphere offers couples a sense of privacy and seclusion. There are secluded beaches, hidden coves, and intimate accommodations that makes it a paradise for our nature lovers and spiritual wanderers alike.

Explore the diverse beaches of Kauaʻi, each with its unique charm. Start on the north shore of Kauaʻi, where Hanalei Bay is one of the largest and most picturesque bays in Hawaiʻi. Couples can take a leisurely stroll along the crescent-shaped beach, relax on the soft sand, or even try paddleboarding or kayaking in the calm waters. Also situated on Kauaʻi’s north shore, Tunnels Beach is known for its unique underwater tunnels formed by lava tubes. The beach is framed by the dramatic peaks of the Nāpali Coast, providing a breathtaking setting for romantic moments. Tunnels Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving due to its vibrant coral reefs. 

Located on the western side of Kauaʻi, Polihale State Park boasts a long and remote beach. The beach offers panoramic views of the Napali Coast and the island of Ni’ihau. If you’re up for a little more adventure opt for a helicopter tour offering unrivaled views of inaccessible areas, majestic waterfalls, and the diverse terrain that defines the island.

Dive into Kauaʻi’s heritage with a tour of the Kauai Coffee Company estate to learn about the art of coffee cultivation and indulge in tastings of locally grown coffee. Make sure to also visit the Kauaʻi Museum in Lihue to peek into the lives of the island’s early inhabitants. The museum offers insights into the customs, rituals, and daily practices of the ancient Hawaiians. From the ingenious agricultural techniques that sustained communities to the spiritual beliefs embedded in their daily lives, the exhibits paint a vivid picture of Kauaʻi’s pre-contact era.

Whether couples are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Kauai offers a diverse range of experiences that make it an attractive destination for honeymooners.

Big Island (Hawaiʻi): The Orchid Isle

Perfect for the : Adventure Seekers

The Big Island of Hawaiʻi, often referred to as “The Orchid Isle,” is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands. The nickname “The Orchid Isle” is inspired by the abundance of orchids that flourish in the island’s tropical climate. Orchids are known for their exquisite and diverse blooms, adding vibrant splashes of color to the island’s natural tapestry. 

Beyond orchids, the Big Island boasts a remarkable biodiversity, thanks to its varied climate zones. The island features everything from lush rainforests and botanical gardens to arid deserts and snow-capped peaks which makes it perfect for our honeymooners that want to experience adventure, romance, and cultural exploration. 

The island’s vast expanse of over 4,028 square miles offers a playground for activities such as biking, horseback riding, and scenic drives, allowing couples to explore microclimates and lush tropical gardens in the Hāmākua Heritage Corridor. 

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, ziplining adventures over waterfalls and dense forest canopies provide an exhilarating way to witness the island’s majestic landscapes. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at world-class courses on the Kohala Coast, offering not only challenging play but also unforgettable scenic backdrops. For hiking enthusiasts the island boasts over 150 miles of trails, including iconic routes like the Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) and the challenging Crater Rim trail in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Each activity, from exploring historic sites to traversing volcanic landscapes, contributes to a memorable and enchanting honeymoon on the Big Island.

The Big Island is home to some of the world’s most active and impressive volcanoes, including Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are found on the Big Island. 

Kīlauea has been continuously erupting since 1983, while Mauna Loa is the largest shield volcano on Earth. The volcanic activity has shaped the island’s topography, creating dramatic landscapes and fertile soils ideal for plant life. Visitors can explore volcanic craters, lava fields, and witness the raw power of nature in action. For more information on how to visit these volcano’s click here .

Remember to tailor your activities to your interests as a couple, and take advantage of the unique opportunities the Big Island has to offer for a truly unforgettable honeymoon experience.

Molokai: The Friendly Isle

Perfect for the: Cultural Connoisseurs & Relaxation Enthusiasts

Molokai’s renowned for its unspoiled beauty and preservation of traditional Hawaiian culture, providing visitors with a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. The island is characterized by its remote beaches, historic sites, and a leisurely pace of life, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an intimate and tranquil escape.

One of Molokai’s distinct features is its slower pace of life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a more relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. This leisurely pace aligns with the island’s commitment to maintaining its rural and traditional character. Part of what makes Molokai special is the warmth of its local community. The residents embody the spirit of aloha, a concept that goes beyond just a greeting—it’s a way of life rooted in kindness, compassion, and respect. Travelers have the opportunity to engage with the community, learning about the island’s traditions, stories, and the deep connection residents have with their land and heritage.

The aloha spirit is palpable in everyday interactions, from encounters with local artisans and farmers to conversations with community members. Visitors often find themselves welcomed with open arms, creating a sense of belonging and leaving them with lasting memories of the genuine hospitality that characterizes Molokai.

The unspoiled landscapes of Molokai showcase pristine beaches, many of which are secluded and offer a sense of exclusivity. Visitors can explore these remote shores, bask in the natural beauty, and enjoy moments of solitude away from the crowds often found in more touristy locations. The island’s commitment to preserving its environment contributes to the authenticity of its natural attractions.

In addition to its natural wonders, Molokai is rich in history and culture. The island is home to historic sites that reflect its significance in Hawaiian history, including the Kalaupapa National Historical Park . This park holds the remnants of a former leprosy settlement and provides a poignant glimpse into a challenging chapter of Hawaiʻi’s past.

Overall, Molokai stands as a haven for those who appreciate unspoiled landscapes, a rich cultural tapestry, and an escape from the hustle and bustle. Its commitment to preserving tradition and providing a serene environment makes it an ideal destination for intimate moments and a truly authentic Hawaiian experience.

Lānaʻi: The Pineapple Isle

Perfect for the: Luxury Aficionados & The Romantic Escapists

Lānaʻi is a unique blend of luxury, seclusion, and natural beauty. Formerly a pineapple plantation, the island has undergone a transformation and now stands as an exclusive retreat, particularly appealing to couples seeking a tranquil and intimate escape. 

To get to Lānaʻi, there are no direct flights from the continental United States. Instead, visitors typically fly to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) or Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui and then connect to local airlines with service to Lānaʻi Airport (LNY). Alternatively, travelers from Maui can take the Expeditions Ferry from Lāhainā Harbor to Lānaʻi’s Mānele Harbor.

One of the key features of Lanai is its focus on providing a luxurious experience for visitors. The island boasts exclusive resorts that are designed to offer both comfort and seclusion. Visitors can indulge in the island’s two world-class resorts: the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi and the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi, Sensei Lanai. The historic Hotel Lānaʻi, located in Lānaʻi City, provides another charming accommodation option. These resorts are strategically situated amidst Lanai’s stunning landscapes, providing guests with breathtaking views and a sense of serenity. The emphasis on luxury accommodations contributes to the overall atmosphere of indulgence that defines Lanai as a premier destination for couples.

Popular activities on Lānaʻi include hiking, with trails such as Munro Trail, Koloiki Ridge Trail, and Fisherman’s Trail offering unique perspectives of the island. Beachgoers can enjoy Hulopoe Beach Park and other secluded spots like Shipwreck Beach and Polihua Beach.

For transportation on the island, taxis, shuttles, and rental cars are available, and reservations are recommended due to limited supply. The unique driving experience on Lānaʻi includes rugged roads and landscapes, with only 30 out of the island’s 400 miles of roads being paved. Travelers can also explore off-road adventures with four-wheel drive vehicles or book tours with local operators.

While on Lānaʻi, visitors can enjoy various attractions, including Dole Park, Lanai Community Pool, Mike Carroll Gallery, Lanai Cat Sanctuary, and more. The Lanai Culture & Heritage Center provides insights into the island’s history and culture. It’s important to note that Lānaʻi doesn’t have lifeguards on its beaches, so visitors should exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines. 

The island’s transformation from a pineapple plantation to an exclusive retreat has created an atmosphere of serene intimacy. Visitors can explore the remnants of the island’s agricultural past, gaining a deeper understanding of Lānaʻi’s history and evolution. The blend of luxury amenities, rugged landscapes, and historical significance makes Lānaʻi an ideal destination for couples.

The Perfect Hawaiian Island for Your Honeymoon

Whether it’s the timeless allure of Maui, the cultural richness of Oahu, or the adventurous spirit of the Big Island, your perfect Hawaiian island awaits. As you embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey, may your chosen island become the backdrop for a love story that unfolds with each sunset and whispers. Aloha and happy honeymooning!

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Purchase tickets, visiting maui check out our recommendations of things to do while you're here in maui.

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Everything You Need To Know About Haleakalā National Park

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13 Best Overwater Bungalows in the U.S. and Caribbean (2024)

Posted In: Overwater Bungalows

By Jim Campbell | Updated on March 26, 2024

Overwater bungalows seem like this distant dream that take days of flying to get to, but there are actually overwater bungalows in the U.S. There are also bungalows in the U.S. that give you the French Polynesia vibes and overwater bungalows within a short flight of the U.S.

Does the U.S. Have Overwater Bungalows?

Unfortunately, overwater bungalows are rare in the US. There is little opportunity for them, and they can be expensive to build and maintain. However, you can find one true overwater bungalow in the U.S. and many other types of bungalows that will feel just as magical. 

Disney’s Polynesian Bungalows , Hawaii

If anyone can make your overwater bungalow dreams come true close to home, it’s Disney. These are the only authentic overwater bungalows in the U.S. and are exactly what you would imagine.

These bungalows are huge, sleeping up to eight people. They also have a seating area, a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a plunge pool, and a thatched roof. The only difference between these and a true Polynesian bungalow is it’s on one of Disney’s lakes instead of the ocean.

Bungalows in the U.S.

The U.S. does have plenty of bungalows on land that give you tiny home vibes set in a beautiful destination. Some of them are about as close to overwater as you can get, while others are more similar to cottages. 

Bungalows Key Largo , Florida

The bungalows at Bungalows Key Largo are extremely similar to overwater bungalows. You get the outdoor shower and soaking tub, access to the ocean within a few steps, and a big terrace to enjoy the spectacular view.

This resort is also all-inclusive, to top it off. Your meals, non-motorized watersports, bike rentals, and transportation around town are all included in your nightly rate. You can even add on different romantic packages to include spa treatments, chocolate-covered strawberries, sparkling wine, and more. 

Little Palm Island Resort , Florida

These bungalows are unique because they’re set in the only private island resort in the U.S. If that doesn’t give you Maldives vibes close to home, we don’t know what will. The resort transports you to another world with thatched roofs, dense palm trees outside your window, and an outdoor shower.

You can choose between five different bungalow suites, all with a spectacular view of the clear ocean. Our pick is the Island Romance Suite—it’s small enough to feel intimate but has a huge deck with a copper tub for two and a giant lounging bed. 

Avalon Hotel and Bungalows , California

Located in Palm Springs, California , are cute historic desert bungalows that are about as comfortable as a bungalow could be. Avalon Bungalows feels like a village of bungalows, with some located poolside and others that open up to a large courtyard.

Each bungalow has a king-sized bedroom, a cozy fireplace, a standard kitchen, and a furnished patio. Your patio is a short walk or bike ride from the design district, a must-see in Palm Springs.

Andaz Scottsdale Resort and Bungalows , Arizona

Andaz bungalows are different from overwater bungalows, mainly because they overlook a desert and have a mid-century modern vibe. However, they’re unique and give a similar vibe of privacy and luxury.

The key takeaway from these bungalows is their large patios with enough space and furniture to host a small party. Each patio comes with a spectacular view of Camelback Mountain—don’t miss watching the sunset behind the immense peak in the evening.

Overwater Bungalows Close to the U.S.

If you don’t mind getting your passport, these eight overwater bungalows are so close that you may not even realize that you’ve left the U.S. You can easily get to any of these resorts with a short flight from major cities in the U.S. and you’ll be floating on the water in no time. 

Sandals Royal Caribbean , Jamaica

If you’ve ever stayed in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives or Bora Bora, you won’t be able to tell the difference at Sandals Royal Caribbean’s overwater bungalows — you’ll find everything that you would see in those bungalows here.

Choose between an overwater bungalow with a private infinity pool or one without. Each bungalow has butler service , a soaking tub on the patio, glass floors, a swimming deck, a fully stocked mini-bar, and more. Plus, they’re all located on Sandals’s private island off the coast of Jamaica.

El Dorado Maroma Palafitos , Mexico

El Dorado Maroma has some of the only overwater bungalows you’ll find in Mexico , located in Riviera Cancun, a 2.5-hour flight from the U.S.

The Palafitos thought of everything when they built this overwater bungalow property. Beyond the bungalows having everything you could imagine, there’s an overwater spa and overwater restaurant exclusively servicing bungalow guests. The in-suite mini-bar also has full-sized bottles of liquor that you can take with you, which is almost unheard of.

Thatch Caye , Belize

Thatch Caye provides you with the ultimate escape from reality. This eco-resort, located on a private island off the coast of Belize , is made out of reclaimed materials, and the food is as fresh as can be. 

The resort has two different types of overwater bungalows that you can choose from. One has its own private pier to get to it, giving you ultimate seclusion. The others are all connected via one pier. Each bungalow has a huge deck where you can relax the day away on a hammock.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian , St. Lucia

The overwater bungalows at Sandals Grande St. Lucian are one of our personal favorites. Primarily because St. Lucia is a bucket list island and the resort offers tons to do. However, these overwater bungalows may make you want to spend your entire vacation at the suite.

Each bungalow comes with glass floors, a soaking tub on the deck, a swimming deck, a hammock that hovers over the water, and an indoor-outdoor feel. You also get butler service , private transfers, and a fully stocked in-suite bar at this all-inclusive .

Royalton Antigua , Antigua

The Royalton in Antigua has some of the largest overwater bungalows out of any resort on this list. The bungalow has three rooms total, not including the massive attached deck. There’s a large bedroom with a bathroom, a two-person jacuzzi tub, and a separate shower, as well as a sitting and dining area with a full kitchenette. 

The bungalows also offer amazing services that you would typically only get with an added honeymoon package . You get sparkling wine, a romantic dinner on your deck, fresh fruit daily, a romantic jacuzzi or hammock set up, and so much more. A few other unique inclusions are a personal yoga or fitness instructor, aromatherapy options, and free movies. 

Azul Paradise , Panama

If you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime when you’re not relaxing in your overwater bungalow, Azul Paradise is the place to be. The resort will take you to visit an indigenous tribe, see some of the amazing wildlife in the area, and snorkel or dive into the surrounding reefs. 

There are four overwater bungalows you can choose from, such as the king, deluxe, two-bedroom, and standard bungalow. Each one has a fantastic view, with nearly every wall covered in windows. 

Sandals Sou th Coast , Jamaica

Sandals South Coast takes overwater seriously, with overwater bungalows, an overwater bar, an overwater chapel, and overwater cabanas. And if the overwater bungalows are all booked up, you can book a swim-up rondoval suite that feels like it’s floating on the pool surrounding it.

This all-inclusive Sandals resort has 2-miles of beachfront property, so the overwater bungalows feel like they’re somewhat separated from the rest of the resort. The bungalows come with butler service and VIP transfers meaning that the resort will help you through immigration and provides a luxury car for your transfer, plus you have access to an arrival lounge.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba , Mexico

This resort has some of the most unique overwater bungalows. First, they’re located in a lagoon surrounded by mangroves rather than on the ocean. Also, they have two stories, with the upper story being a large deck that overlooks the mangroves. 

But don’t worry, these overwater bungalows are still extremely close to a pristine beach. These are much more modern-looking than other bungalows and have a heated infinity pool on the upper deck. Each bungalow comes with its own bicycle, too, so you can explore the resort. 

About The Author

Jim Campbell

Jim is the owner of Honeymoons.com. A lifelong traveler, Jim's wanderlust has led him to spend months living on the Mayan Rivera, instruct SCUBA diving in Croatia, sail from San Diego to Hawaii, and cruise the Caribbean on a catamaran. Jim launched his honeymoon business while planning his own honeymoon in 2019. Since then, he has helped thousands of honeymooners plan their trips through his honeymoon travel agency .

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What A Realistic Budget For A Honeymoon Typically Looks Like

According to figures from Zola , which offers wedding planning tools, the average wedding in the United States in 2024 costs $33,000, a whopping $4,000 bump compared to 2023. With the cost of saying "I do" getting steeper by the year, the dream of splurging on a lavish honeymoon seems more like a fantasy for many couples. If you don't go on your honeymoon right after the wedding , going on the trip months or even years later may seem unjustifiable, especially if you're juggling other expenses, like paying for a mortgage or loans. But if going on a trip of a lifetime with your newly-minted spouse is non-negotiable for you and your partner, there are strategies to fund your vacation without accruing even more debt.

Financial savvy is vital when it comes to planning a honeymoon that doesn't put you in the red. In the U.S., The Knot notes that couples who exchanged vows in 2023 spent an average of $5,700 on their respective post-wedding getaways, but your honeymoon budget doesn't necessarily have to mirror that. To land on a number that both you and your partner are comfortable with, it's important to take into account where you want to go, where you want to stay, what you want to do, and how long your honeymoon should last . Through careful planning and a mutual agreement on what matters most, you can craft a honeymoon that is both enjoyable and financially feasible.

The cost largely hinges on the location and season

Just like any other vacation, a huge chunk of your honeymoon budget will likely go to your airfare and accommodations. Obviously, the farther you want to travel and the more luxurious you want your hotel or resort to be, the more expensive your honeymoon will be. The price tag of your trip is heavily influenced by the destination's popularity and the timing of your visit, too. Opting for sought-after spots like Bali, the Caribbean Islands, Hawaii, Greece, and Italy during peak seasons like summer means paying a premium.

The Honeymoon Edit advises setting aside $5,000 for a week-long trip to the Caribbean , around $7,500 to $25,000 for an excursion in Europe, anywhere between $3,000 and $15,000 for an Asian adventure, and roughly $3,000 per week if you want to explore Africa. If these estimates seem daunting, you can always adjust your budget accordingly by cutting corners on some things, like choosing a budget hotel over a luxury resort, opting for a shorter getaway, and scaling back on activities. And, of course, you may also want to keep the honeymoon close to home. You don't necessarily have to jet off to some exotic destination for a meaningful experience.

For significant savings, schedule your trip in the off-season when fewer people are traveling. "If you are flexible with your travel dates, consider traveling during the off-peak season. In addition to saving some money, you might like the less crowded vibe," Sara Margulis, CEO of honeymoon registry site Honeyfund, shared with Brides .

Define your priorities from the get-go

Do you want to eat your heart out in as many restaurants as possible? Fancy being one with nature and go camping instead? Then again, your idea of a good time might involve lazing around by the beach with indulgent spa treatments waiting at the end of the day. Whatever it is, deciding on the mix of activities that excite you — or perhaps doesn't — is crucial in coming up with a realistic budget, as it dictates how you should allocate your funds. Plus, it also helps determine the best place to spend your honeymoon. If you want your vacation to be adventure-packed, it might not make sense to go on a remote island where the most exciting thing to do is sip on sangrias. Similarly, if you want to immerse yourself in culture, a destination whose main highlight is the local mall will definitely not meet your expectations.

"The more honest a couple can be about their wishes, the easier it is to create just the right recipe," advised travel expert Melissa Biggs Bradley in an interview with Vogue . "They should ask what is most important to each of them in a hotel, a location, and a great day and then compromise so they both get those things every day or in a portion of the trip." While budgeting is important, it's equally crucial to ensure that your honeymoon is mutually enjoyable. It is the trip that marks the start of your life, after all.

Book early if you want to minimize your expenses

If you're a frequent traveler, you likely already know the virtue of planning a honeymoon early . Considering that your honeymoon stands as one of the most important trips you'll ever take, it's all the more vital to get the ball rolling ASAP, not only to snag the best deals but also to secure your ideal lodging. "That boutique, locally-run B&B that's based in the Tuscan hills only has eight rooms. It's going to book up if you don't book early enough," Craig Zapatka, co-founder of a honeymoon planning company, told  The Knot . "We always recommend booking six months in advance."

When it comes to flights, you also probably know by now that booking ahead, especially for those far-flung destinations, is key to ensuring the best rates. Self-proclaimed chief flight expert Scott Keyes told  CNBC  that the likelihood of scoring cheaper flights is higher if you book months ahead instead of buying them at the last minute. "For domestic flights, if you're talking peak season, it's about three to seven months in advance," he advised. "For international flights — [it's] four to 10 months." The added bonus of booking early? You can cross a major task off your checklist. If you're planning your wedding and honeymoon simultaneously, securing your flights and accommodations well in advance means one less thing to worry about, allowing you to focus on the big day.

Consider opening a honeymoon registry

Traditionally, it's the groom or his family who are expected to shoulder the expenses for the honeymoon, but those days are long over. More and more couples are now opting to fund their trips themselves. To stretch their budget further, many are swapping the traditional wedding registry for a honeymoon registry, allowing the people closest to them to contribute to their dream vacation.

You may want to consider this approach, too. Instead of asking your friends and family to gift you an Instant Pot or an at-home treadmill that, face it, will only gather dust down the line, starting a honeymoon fund lets you invite your loved ones to play a part in creating unforgettable memories for your dream trip.

For those who might balk at the idea of soliciting contributions towards a vacation, fret not. You just have to be intentional with your approach, said luxury destination wedding planner Suzanne Reinhard. "Taking the time to craft your Honeyfund to be specific about the experiences you would like to participate in on your honeymoon, versus just asking for cash, is a classier way of handling the fund," she explained to Vogue . "Your guests would rather buy your dinner at the resort's Italian restaurant than send money. It's the similar preference many people have in purchasing a gift card instead of giving cash."

Don't forget to make room for unplanned expenses

Unexpected expenses are part and parcel of nearly any trip, and honeymoons are no exception. Whether it's transportation costs being higher than your initial estimates, your resort imposing unforeseen fees, or a local experience that you simply can't pass up, unplanned expenditures have a knack for popping up and putting a damper on your budget. It's almost inevitable to spend on something you did not initially plan for, so when finetuning your budget, ensure that there's enough cushion to accommodate these surprise costs.

"When anticipating all of their honeymoon spending and creating their budgets, [couple's should] add about 15 to 20 percent wiggle room for unexpected costs," wedding expert Emily Forrest Skurnik told Brides . "Just like with the wedding, there are bound to be expenses that pop up while planning that couples may want to make room for, or splurge on because it's such a special trip." While you're at it, take into account pre-departure costs as well. Think visas, travel insurance, baggage fees, and more. All these can quickly snowball and significantly impact your overall budget, so it's wise to factor them into your plan early on.

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The best honeymoon destinations, according to a travel expert

N ot only are you planning the most important day of your life but you’re also expected to organize an amazing trip to enjoy directly after your wedding, too? While plenty of people opt to go on their honeymoon a couple days or weeks (even years) after their big day to avoid extra stress, the endless options on where to go can get a bit overwhelming no matter what timeline you go with.

In an effort to help you choose the best honeymoon destination for your needs, wants and budget, we spoke with Andrew Satkowiak, executive vice president for The Luxury Travel Agency to get his top recommendations.

From a safari-filled trip in South Africa, the romantic vineyards of Tuscany, adventurous accommodations in Patagonia or even something a bit closer to home in Hawaii, there’s an option for all couples.

“I like to think of a honeymoon as a once in a lifetime event,” Satkowiak said. “Some people want a destination that they’ve never been to and probably would never go back to — to keep the honeymoon as a special memory and other people want to go to a destination they’re more familiar with, in the end it really comes down to what the client is looking for.”

Ahead get the 411 on the best honeymoon destinations of 2024.

If you have plenty of time and PTO isn’t an issue, a honeymoon in Australia would be an unforgettable memory.

“You can climb [the] Sydney Harbor Bridge, do a private tour of the Sydney Opera House or a private behind the scenes [tour] of Taronga Zoo in Sydney,” Satkowiak suggested. “Hike in the Blue Mountains, [go on] wine tours in Adelaide, spend a day on Whitsunday Islands (or do helicopter tour), [enjoy] a guided café crawl in Melbourne or a restaurant tasting tour in Sydney.”

Where to stay in Sydney: For a spectacular high-end pick, you can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons Hotel . If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable and near Bondi Beach go with The Baxley Bondi hotel .

Where to stay in Melbourne: The Westin Melbourne is a great choice for those who want to be in a centrally located area to see the most of the city.

New Zealand can easily be paired in the same trip to Australia although both countries could also be done very well during separate vacations.

“In New Zealand, a few days in Queenstown is a must as is a visit to Milford Sound and a Fiorland helicopter tour. If you’re adventurous, you can try a Dart River Jetboat adventure and go bungee jumping off Kawarau Bridge. If time allows, try fly fishing in Taupo, sailing on Lake Taupo, wine tours, hiking, private picnics and much more,” Satkowiak said of honeymooning in New Zealand.

Where to stay in Queenstown: Situated directly on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa boasts famous waterfront and mountain views — a place you won’t regret booking.

“Los Cabos is a popular destination for honeymoons especially with its close proximity to the western side of the US. The array and options for top-end hotels and resorts is unparalleled to most other honeymoon spots in Mexico and the Caribbean,” Satkowiak said. “There really is something for everyone in addition to that they’ve got a great restaurant scene and a lot of water-based activities, plus some charming towns nearby which are worth a visit.”

Where to stay in Los Cabos: Corazon Cabo Resort & Spa is situated on Medano Beach and steps away from everything else you could want in Cabo. Another great option is the JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa . Boasting a beachfront location in San Jose del Cabo, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, this JW Marriott location is the perfect place to celebrate your marriage.

Another fabulous spot in Mexico to spend your honeymoon? Tulum. The chic jungle-esque spot is the perfect destination for the couple who loves to spend time at the beach, eat incredible food and enjoy a slow-paced vacation.

Where to stay in Tulum: For an incredibly unique and luxurious experience go for La Valise Tulum . The five-star, boutique hotel only has 11 rooms where guests can indulge in a dreamy escape. The property is a two-wing property that includes both beachfront and jungle accommodations. Guests on both sides can enjoy the state-of-the-art spa, king-size beds (with wheels, giving you the option to sleep outside, under the stars, if you wish!) and much more.

Another great option in Tulum is the XELA property . Located in one of the first private villas ever built on Tulum Beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea, just across the road from the lush jungle, the hotel has maintained the intimacy of its former home. The villa has been transformed into a 12-bedroom boutique hotel, complete with a rooftop, lounging space that offers 360° panoramic views, a beachfront restaurant, two swimming pools, spa cabins, and more.

For the adventurous couple who loves wildlife, a trip to South Africa is the way to go.

“A trip to South Africa must include some time in the vibrant city of Cape Town (Johannesburg is worth a visit too). It has a diverse and colorful culture, a great dining scene and tons of things to do in town and nearby,” Satkowiak told The Post. “Wine tours in the Winelands, shark cage diving, mountain hiking, visiting the African penguins going to see where the Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean meet. And of course, no trip to South Africa is complete without a few days on safari!”

“South Africa’s safari lodges are some of the very best lodges in the world with many of the located on private game reserves which just adds to the remoteness and peace of the whole experience. It often feels like you have the whole country just to yourself!” Satkowiak said.

Where to stay in Cape Town: The Westin Cape Town is a great, centrally located spot with unique views over the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain and the whole of Table Bay. 

Where to stay in Kruger National Park: For an incredible safari experience the Imbali Safari Lodge is a no-brainer. With limited cell reception, romantic suites with private plunge pools, personalized safari tours and exquisite service, you won’t be disappointed.

For the couple who loves romance and history, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Scotland! Since you’re liking flying in and out of Edinburgh, many travel experts reccomend spending a few days exploring the Scottish captial.

Tour the Edinburgh Castle, climb the Scott Monument, walk the Royal Mile, go on a “Harry Potter” tour and see all the locations that inspired the scenes in the series, walk around the National Museum of Scotland and much more.

Where to stay: For an elevated, mid-century hotel, look no further than IHG Hotels and Resorts’ Kimpton Charlotte Square located on one of New Town’s trendy blocks. This location offers a luxury boutique feel as it’s made up of seven interconnected Georgian townhouses. Boasting 199 room (including 18 suites) that are both comfy and chic, plus an ultra-tasty Middle Eastern restaurant, BABA, a decadent spa for a romantic couple’s massage after touring the city, and incredible accommodations — you won’t be disappointed.

Another popular option for honeymooning is Bali. It’s incredibly beautiful and quite inexpensive once you get there — making it very appealing to many.

“Bali is a tropical paradise with stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, and a rich culture. It’s [also] a perfect destination for those with a more typical budget of time (7-10 days),” Satkowiak said. “Bali is known for its peaceful atmosphere [so] it’s perfect for newlyweds who want to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.”

“Bali has some of the most stunning landscapes in the world,” Satkowiak said before mentioning the emerald rice paddies throughout the countryside are one of his favorites.” Couples can explore these natural wonders on hikes, bike tours, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of their surroundings.”

Other activities include sunset cruises, sunrise hikes, white water rafting, trekking along the rice terraces and for the less active travelers, the resorts are perfect for lounging and most of them offer world class spas.

Where to stay in Bali: Immerse in authentic Balinese culture at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay — an ocean-side, all-villa beach retreat that features a hand-crafted furniture, stunning views and incredible staff. For an equally as special but less-expensive option, consider the Kelapa Retreat and Spa . For an extra special treat, consider staying in a luxury treehouse .

For a historic and scenic honeymoon spot, consider Vienna, Austria. It’s the perfect place to enjoy incredible food, museums, music and an ideal home base for day trips to Salzburg, Hallstat and more.

Romantic activities include listening to music at a nearby cafe — after all, Vienna (the “city of music”) is the birthplace of musicians like Mozart and Beethoven. You can also explore the Imperial Palaces (the former home of the Habsburg Monarchy), visit the world’s oldest zoo, go on a romantic boat cruise, eat wiener schnitzel at local taverns, and more.

Where to stay in Vienna: Enjoy true luxury at the Ritz-Carlton in Vienna . The five-star hotel is located on the iconic Ring Boulevard in Vienna’s cultural heart and is only a short walk from the city park — the perfect starting point to discover Vienna. The hotel boasts 200 guest rooms, five restaurants (including the farm-to-table Dstrikt Steakhouse), a rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the city, a spa, an indoor pool and more.

For another cultural experience filled with fairy-tale castles, historic churches and some of the world’s best pubs, look no further than Prague.

Honeymooners can explore Prague Castle, stroll through Old Town Square, learn about medieval history, go pub hopping and eat rich local delicacies, like roast pork, sauerkraut and dumplings.

Where to stay in Prague: The Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague is a great option. The hotel is conveniently located in the center of Prague’s fabled Lesser Town district, right below Prague Castle and just steps away from Charles Bridge. The historic location was converted from a 13th-century monastery and has four monks still living on the grounds. The pet-friendly property offers 101 individually furnished luxury rooms.

“Known worldwide for their luxury over-water villa, the Maldives has a plethora of resorts to choose from. Each has its own unique character, distinctive style and atmosphere,” Satkowiak said. “With each island only having just one resort on it, privacy is one of the biggest benefits of the Maldives, that, plus the crystal clear water, white sand beaches and of course, the sunny blue skies.”

“To make it even more private, many of the villas have their own private pools. Nothing says romance like having your own pool,” Satkowiak told The Post.

According to Satkowiak, while most people think of the Maldives as a place to relax, there’s plenty of activity to do including snorkeling, scuba diving, private sunset cruises, boat charters, mingling with locals, private romantic dinners, wine tasting, star gazing, cooking classes and more. Another big draw to the Maldives? The spas!

Satkowiak also often recommends his clients add a few days in Dubai, Istanbul or London, to the start or end of their time in the Maldives, depending on where they’re coming from since most flights to the islands stop in the locations.

Where to stay in the Maldives: The Four Seasons Resort Maldives At Landaa Giraavaru or the JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa are two options that anyone would enjoy. Both offer incredible scenery, outstanding service and private villas to create the most romantic honeymoon.

According to Satkowiak, Patagonia is bucket list trip for many honeymoon clients. 

“This gives a great mix of both adventure, awe-dropping views, romance and unforgettable excursions,” he said. “Spanning into Chile and Argentina Patagonia is one of the most unique destinations in the world. With tons of lakes, glaciers and the snow-capped Andres mountains, there is a little something for everyone to do.”

In the winter travelers can ski, trek on glaciers, enjoy winter hikes, go canoeing or kayaking in icebergs. During the summer you can hike, go on 4×4 excursions, splurge on a scenic helicopter tour, go white water rafting, fly fishing and horseback riding, just to name a few activities.

If you and your partner enjoy wine, Mendoza is another great option in Argentina.

“Here visitors can visit wineries to do some wine tasting and learn all about the wine making process,” Satkowiak said.

“Mendoza has some of the most exceptional lodging options, small boutique options — the perfect destination to truly escape the hustle and bustle of life and really connect with your new spouse.”

Where to stay in the Patagonia: While you can certainly find budget-friendly ways to enjoy the beauty of Patagonia, most will recommend spending a bit more money, especially during a special trip like your honeymoon. An all-inclusive, luxury lodge like Estancia Cristina , located in the north arm of the Lago Argentino is a great option. While the property is no longer a working cattle ranch, the trip to this Estancia is well worth the trip. With extraordinary views of landscapes you could only dream of, incredible service and included activities like horseback riding, hiking and more — what’s not to love?

Where to stay in the Mendoza: The Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine Hotel boasts just 19 rooms, winery tours, a vineyard, and a tasting room, plus a spa and a high-end, on-site restaurant.

For those looking to experience the incredible Iguazú Falls, the luxury Awasi Iguazú treehouse-esque hotel is all-inclusive and outstanding.

“From its history and culture to the scenery, fashion and of course the food, Italy is a spectacular destination! Most first timers to Italy tend to visit Florence, Rome and Venice,” Satkowiak said before mentioning the wine region of Italy, Tuscany.

“The Tuscany region is surely one of the most picturesque and beautiful areas that I’ve visited. You don’t need to be a wine aficionado to enjoy that region but it surely does help. Depending on how much time you have, it’s very easy to tie in [Florence, Rome and Venice] or another popular add-on would be the Amalfi Coast and Capri.:

Where to stay in Florence: For an extra special treat, go with the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze . For those looking for something a bit more affordable, Hotel Pendini is a great option, too.

Where to stay in Rome: Hotel Artemide is one of the best hotels in Rome for it’s incredible service and amenities but more so for it’s location. Walk to just about any attraction directly from your hotel! Enjoy an incredible buffet breakfast, as well.

Where to stay in Venice: The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Venice is housed in a 15th century noble palazzo and one of the most iconic and romantic properties in Europe. Overlooking the Grand Canal, the property boasts one of the most majestic views in the city, spanning from the island of San Giorgio Maggiore past Punta della Dogana and the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. 

For a special experience about 20-minutes outside the city, consider the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa . Settled on its own private island in Venice, Isola delle Rose, the property features 40-acres of gardens, olive groves and exceptional amenities.

Where to stay in Tuscany: The Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is located on 1,700 acres in the heart of the Serchio Valley and is the perfect destination for your Italian getaway. Enjoy ideal access to charming and historic attractions including Pisa.

Where to stay in the Amalfi Coast: The Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel is a fabulous 5-star option in the Amalfi Coast that was once home to Capuchin Monks. Featuring an infinity pool, elegant decor, exquisite views and more.

Last but not least, Hawaii — a classic honeymoon location that won’t disappoint!

“Maui is the perfect destination for [travelers] that want to be around people, have great shopping, restaurants and great beach life. Maui offers all types of land and water activities for you to enjoy,” Satkowiak said. “Maui also [offers] some of the beat Luau’s in all of Hawaii.”

Expert tip: Whale season is from mid-November to Mid-May in Maui.

After spending some time in Maui, Satkowiak recommends venturing to Kauai for a totally different experience.

“Kauai [is] lush, idyllic, peaceful and serene,” he said. “If you are looking for great scenery, outdoor adventure and being ‘off the grid’ [this is the place for you].”

“The island has jagged costal cliffs, deep emerald valleys waterfalls and sea caves – truly an amazing island.  This island gives you a good mix of romance, outdoor adventure and culinary and cultural experiences,” Satkowiak said.

Where to stay in Maui: AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea or the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea (where The White Lotus season 1 was filmed !) are two great options that offer amazing views, great service and amenties.

Where to stay in Kauai: The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is set on the soothing white sands in Poipu (Kauai’s sunny south shore) over 50 acres of lush gardens.

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