Aside from the wedding, what is the most anticipated event by newlyweds? That’s right — the honeymoon. This extra special vacation is the perfect opportunity for couples to celebrate their marriage by enjoying some alone time before settling into married life. Picture it – no more stressful wedding preparations or tiring questions from relatives. It's just the two of you and the entire world will have to wait.
But where should you go? The possibilities are endless, but we hold a special place in our hearts for Hawaii. This picturesque state in the Pacific Ocean is a slice of heaven on earth boasting unbelievable sunsets, dream-like landscapes, and Instagrammable food (aloha, authentic Poke Bowls!). In Hawaii, you can find peace and an escape from the stress of a fast-paced modern reality. We’ve compiled the best places to see, dine, and experience. Book your flights and take off to enjoy the magic of Hawaii!
Fairmont Kea Lani
If you and your partner are eager to know what paradise looks like — welcome to Fairmont Kea Lani. Located on the second-largest Hawaiian island, Maui, this luxurious hotel on the shore is where dreams come true. You can either stay in one of Fairmont Kea Lani’s best suites or the luxurious and spacious villas, which are only a few minutes walk away from the Pacific Ocean. Embrace warm turquoise water, enjoy the local beach, discover tropical gardens or spend your time just relaxing with your lover under the swaying palms. We'll bet that after experiencing Fairmont Kea Lani once, you won't even want to leave.
@fairmontkealani, Pinterest
Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort
A honeymoon is not only about celebrating a marriage, it’s also a time for healing, both mentally and physically. Take a trip to the island of Lanai, where you can find luxurious accommodation, private spa sessions, and restaurants with exquisite food. Here you will be able to connect with the natural world with the help of local wellness practitioners. Sensei Lanai is a unique retreat program and is the result of a collaboration between Sensei, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, and Nobu restaurant. The property is surrounded by beautiful mountains and green valleys, thus hiking, biking, and even horseback riding are among the special activities guests can experience.
Pinterest, @xxchloeparkxx
Senia
Check up on Honolulu’s “Senia” to discover the abundance of Hawaiian ingredients and to try out a rich variety of flavors. It’s a modern and sophisticated place where different cultures mingle, creating one gastronomic marvel. There’s a menu option that is great for couples and small groups of people, as one large portion can easily be shared. Plus, there’s a special sense of intimacy in this little action.
@meanshaka, Pinterest
Poké Bar: Dice and Mix
If you are tired of fancy dinner, and instead you yearn for something simple — grab a poke bowl. In Hawaii, there are dozens of different food chains specializing in this authentic local dish. At Poké Bar, you can customize an order to your liking: choose a base whether it’s rice or noodles, add your favorite raw fish, some mix-ins then top it with a sauce and your takeaway is done! Find the perfect sunny spot and enjoy your little Hawaiian paradise.
Pinterest, @pokebar
Cafe 100
While in Hawaii, it’s a must to taste the crown jewel of local cuisine, a Loco Moco. Cafe 100, in Hilo, is somewhat of a legend when it comes to this Hawaiian treat. They offer more than 30 variants of Loco Moco — a flavorsome dish made of rice, hamburger meat, and fried egg finished with brown gravy. Try this traditional treat once and you will forget about the infamous pineapple pizza, which doesn't even have Hawaiian roots.
Pinterest, @justimetoeat
Byodo-In Temple
Visiting Oahu’s Byodo-In Buddhist Temple, gives couples a chance to recharge their spiritual batteries and find some peace. This architectural icon was established in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants coming to Hawaii. Byodo-In Temple is a beloved tourist destination with a long and rich history. Here, people of all faiths and cultural backgrounds can freely meditate and pray for a better life, inner peace, and a bright future. Take a deep breath of fresh Hawaiian air, embrace nature and exhale your stress.
@_ghostbones_, @tatyanandilmar
Punalu’u Beach
You can't go to Hawaii without visiting Punalu’u beach, which is one of the most popular spots on the Big Island. Famous for its unique black sand (thanks to basalt and lava), the beach is a perfect location for a lovely couple photoshoots. Plus, Punalu’u is one of the few places where you can meet critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtles, chilling under the sun. Go on a picnic with your significant other, snorkel, and simply enjoy the moment.
@bri_drewtravels, Pinterest
Mauna Kea
Reaching the top of Big Island’s dormant volcano called Mauna Kea, couples can not only get an adrenaline rush, but also have the most romantic and mesmerizing view that anyone could imagine. At the summit of Mauna Kea, which means White Mountain, there are astronomical observation facilities and gigantic telescopes, giving you a glimpse into the universe. There’s a lack of artificial light pollution at the top of Mauna Kea. Stargazing programs are easy to book and are readily available — you’ll remember this expereince forever.
Lanai Cat Sanctuary
Missing your pet while being away? Or maybe you want to adopt one? During your Lanai stay, head to the open-air Cat Sanctuary — a vast playground filled with hundreds of fluffy purring cats of different shapes and sizes yearning for attention and a new family! This piece of paradise, located on the most remote island in the United States, was created in 2009 to rescue the island’s cats that were being hunted due to overpopulation. Nowadays, thousands of tourists and cat lovers visit the sanctuary to play with the littlest, feline islanders. You might come home with more than just a husband or wife, but with a little ball of happiness by your side as well!
@lanaicatsanctuary, Pinterest
Author: Polina Bronstein
