If you thought Hawaii was just all tiki torches and luaus, you could not be more wrong. With a combination of adventure, relaxation, culture, history, luxury, and beauty that cannot be found elsewhere, there is something for everyone. Your honeymoon is all about celebrating your love and the start of a new chapter in your lives, and I can’t think of a better place to do that than Hawaii. With six islands, all with their own unique sites and personalities, exploring beyond the beaten path is when you will have the most fun and where the magic happens.
If you are lovers of history and food, Oahu is the island to head to. Pearl Harbor is an obvious stop for those WWII buffs to learn and see the place where it all began. The site includes the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the USS Bowfin Submarine along with the Pacific Aviation Museum. The area surrounding the state capitol of Honolulu also has some must see sites, like the Iolani Palace. Where Hawaii’s final monarchs resided, it is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Hawaii’s royal heritage. The Waikiki neighborhood is famed for it’s dining, shopping, and its iconic Waikiki Beach. If you are looking for that beach experience with a less touristy feel, head up to the North Shore. And don’t forget to stop at Matsumotos in Haleiwa for some delicious shave ice.
Commonly called The Big Island, Hawaii Island is the largest of all the islands in the Hawaiian archipelago and the place for exploration and adventure. Get up close and personal with an active volcano at Volcanoes National Park. Then head over to the historic seaside town of Kailua-Kona for snorkeling or scuba diving with manta rays. Be sure to try the Loco Moco, a traditional Hawaiian dish that is too delicious for words. The Big Island Grill in Kona is a great place for a taste! You won’t want to miss star-gazing at the mountaintop conservatory on Maunakea. As the tallest sea mountain in the world and one of the foremost astronomy sites, it is a do not miss!
If you are looking to take in the breath-taking island scenery, Kauai is your place. Explore the beautiful beach towns, hike in lush jungles, and swim in waterfall pools. Waimea Canyon is nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and is a site to behold. The whole island is covered in gorgeous beaches, but Poipu Beach is a favorite with it’s calm waters and soft sands. The daily farmer’s markets all over the island are a great way to spend an afternoon taking in the culture.
Maui is a mixture of charming small towns and luxurious resorts that will have you immediately falling in love. The Road to Hana, one of the world’s most scenic drives, is a must. Take the time to really explore the island on this legendary drive, stopping at gorgeous waterfalls and beautiful tropical gardens along the way. The Iao Valley State Park also features the Iao Needle, one of Maui’s most recognizable landmarks.
Dreaming of seclusion and serenity? Lanai is the island for you. The Four Seasons Resort at Manele Bay will have you living the life of luxury, but there is tons to explore on the island too. Here is your chance to swim with the dolphins and relax in the natural tide pools. Then try 4×4-ing to Keahiakawelo, known as the Garden of the Gods, for out of this world scenery in the rock gardens.
To really go off the beaten path and disconnect from the modern world, hop over to Molokai. This island is unspoiled and untouched, known for it’s cultural authenticity and commitment to a simpler life. Papohaku is one of the largest white sand beaches on Hawaii. At over 3 miles long, you will pretty much have a whole beach to yourself. The Halawa Valley has stunning vistas and waterfalls that will take you back in time to a Hawaii from long ago.
Which island sounds like your dream honeymoon? Or maybe a stop at all is in order? Either way, you can by sure that you will leave with a lifetime of unforgettable moments and memories.
