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These expert tips will ensure you have a memorable visit, no matter which island you choose.
Here are some expert tips for planning the perfect Hawaii honeymoon.
Credit:Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Outline expectations.
As you start to plan, put your honeymoon vision on paper with your partner.
Be realistic about your budget, too.
Courtesy of Kualoa Private Nature Reserve
Prices increased during the pandemic, and in many parts of Hawaii, they remain high.
Outlining the itinerary you want can help you create a clearer picture of what your costs will be.
Courtesy of Kualoa Private Nature Reserve
Choose an island.
Courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines
Honeymooners seeking a slower-paced experience will appreciate the laid-back vibes ofKauaiand the Island of Hawaii.
And if you love lounging at beaches and luxury pools, Meyer recommends Maui.
Meyer also advises thinking carefully about any island-hopping plans.
Courtesy of Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Try not to visit too many islands on your honeymoon, she says.
Youll spend more time in airports and traveling than seeing the islands.
If youre taking the ferry between November and March, keep your eyes peeled for whales along the route.
Courtesy of Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa
Determine dates.
Choose dates suited to your interests and budget.
If cost is a concern, be flexible.
Courtesy of Wailea Beach Resort
Many hotels base pricing on occupancy, not the season," Meyer says.
Note that it’s not always sunny in Hawaii; winter can be extremely rainy in some areas.
Research the weather for the islands you’re interested in to determinethe best time to visit.
Courtesy of Montage Kapalua Bay
Courtesy of Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Check out event calendars, too.
Doing so can enrich your honeymoon.
Ask questions.
Courtesy of Kukui’ula
If you expect a full ocean view, book oceanfront, she says.
Courtesy of Wailea Beach Resort
Also, ask for a breakdown of resort fee inclusions.
Look for hotels that offer complimentary activities and access to adults-only pools, says Meyer.
Courtesy of Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
If you’rehoneymooning on a budget, ask whether the property accepts loyalty points or partners with theMalama Hawaii program.
So much more of the money you spend here will stay here and benefit our communities.
Beware of illegal rentals, too.
Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
If youre booking a vacation rental, Ah Moo suggests double checking whether they have proper licensing.
This keeps you safe and protects residential communities from overcrowding.
Courtesy of Kukuiula
Make reservations.
Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Lanai
Dont wait to make reservations, either.
Make your restaurant reservations as early as you’re able to.
Courtesy of Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
This applies to activities, too.
Courtesy of Prince Waikiki
Many popular sites, likeHanauma Bay, have implemented booking systems to protect the environment.
Secure them well in advance.
And dont forget to book your rental car, or you may find them sold out.
Courtesy of Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort
Try something old and something new.
Do something once a day that youve never done before, says Tiffany Dusenberry, director of events atKukuiula.
Watch the sunrise from atop Haleakala.
Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Book a private picnic on a secluded beach.
Indulge in a rooftop cocktail.
Take a heli-tour by day, then experience the magic of a manta ray snorkel at night.
Courtesy of The Royal Hawaiian
Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Lanai
There are plenty of other Native Hawaiian-led experiences across the islands, too.
AtMauna Kea Resort, the “Aloha ambassador” Healani Kimitete-Ah Mow leads sunrise ceremonies inspired by Indigenous traditions.
Courtesy of Prince Waikiki
Every meal offers a chance to try something new as a couple.
Courtesy of Turtle Bay Resort
If you want to enlist a local guide, book anAloha Plate Food Tourwith chef Lanai Tabura.
But dont overschedule.
All of the experts agree: Plan ahead, but dont fill every minute.
Courtesy of Timbers Kauai
Dont overplan your Hawaii honeymoon, says Bobbilyn Jones, an event planner at Andaz Maui.
Slow down and make memories.
Make a commitment to being present, advises Meyer.
Dont bring your phones to dinner.
Or, leave your phones in your room (locked in the safe) for the day.
Travel with aloha.
While celebrating your love, dont forget to be a mindful traveler.
Meyer urges her guests tolearn some Hawaiian phrases.
Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Another key tenet is to respect nature.
High surf advisories, shore breaks, and strong currents are not to be taken lightly, says Farm.
Stay on marked trails when hiking, for your safety and for protection of the environment and culture.
Farm also suggests choosing lower-impact options when possible.
it’s possible for you to also reforest native trees and plants at a site likeGunstock Ranch.
Courtesy of Timbers Kauai
Whatever you do onyour honeymoon, just remember to do it with aloha.
Don’t wait for it; be the first to extend it without expectation of return.
In Hawaii, we love love.
