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Kauai's stunning Napali Coast

Romantic Honeymoon Tips for Honeymoons in Hawaii

Congratulations to the newly engaged! Are you fantasizing about a honeymoon on remote tropical islands? Well Hawaii has it all – take Moloka‘i, for example, the least populated of the Hawaiian island chain—sparse, white-sand beaches as far as the eye can see, plus historical sites like the monument commemorating Father Damien in the remote village of Kalaupapa.

Besides being a remote getaway, Moloka’i now charming accommodations—which is part of my fantasy. On the other end of the spectrum, there’s Waikiki: easy to get to, same warm, gentle Pacific and tons of shopping and world-class restaurants, all within walking distance. And then there’s my favorite hammock at the Big Island’s Kona Village Resort, overlooking Kahuwai Bay and its resident pod of honu, or green sea turtles. I can hear the tide rolling in and feel the warm trade winds pass over me as I and swing back and forth in front of our private beach hale. Does any of this sound like a perfect honeymoon destination to you? Is so, here are a few tips on what we consider to be the most romantic spots on all the islands. (and many of these spots/romantic activities can be included on your Simplicity Life Travel  honeymoon registry!)

Kaua‘i

Catch the sunset

• Positioned perfectly to catch the nightly show of pinks, oranges and possibly a flash of green. The Point at Sheraton Kaua‘i has been serving up island-inspired cocktails and pupus to swooning couples for decades.

• Hop aboard a late afternoon boat tour to experience unnamed shades of green and gold as the sun sets on the majestic Na Pali Coast.

• Walk the beach at Hanalei on the north shore and if you’re lucky you might see the infamous green flash.

• Watch the sun ease into the Pacific from the most western point in the United States – Polihale Beach, which is also considered a Hawaiian-style-Sahara with dazzling white sand dunes, some rising 100 feet.

Remote (romantic) hike

• The Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast.Leave early (as in 6 a.m.) to avoid the hot sun and crowds. Head to the secluded Hanakapi‘ai beach about 2.5 miles from the trailhead, have a snack and then it’s another 2 miles to Hanakapi‘ai falls.

Romantic dinner

• Reserve a table for two on the terrace of Café Hanalei at the Princeville Resort, 808.826.9644
• The Beach House in Poipu is an ideal spot to watch surfers take the last wave of the day as you enjoy a sampling of island cuisine and a glass or bottle of wine. 808.742.1424
• Cozy into a beach-facing gazebo, order a mango martini, and share fresh sashimi as Hawaiian musicians serenade the sunset at the Aupaka Terrace sushi bar at the Kaua`i Marriott Resort & Beach Club. Or plan ahead and ask executive chef Guy Higa to prepare a customized meal for two in a private seaside cabana with a view of Kalapaki Beach. 808.245.5050

Pack a picnic

• Paddle your own kayak up the Wailua River to a romantic waterfall grotto. Most kayak tours include a picnic lunch.

• Grab lunch at the Shrimp Station in Waimea, before heading to a lookout in the picturesque Waimea Canyon.

O‘ahu

Catch the sunset

• For expansive views of Waikiki and beyond, check out the Diamond Head Lookout. From the parking lot at Diamond Head State Park, there is a short hike to the top.

• Celebrate literary history at the Sunset Lana‘i Bar at the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel. Word has it, Robert Louis Stevenson wrote poems here to the Princess Kaiulani, under the shade of the hau tree fronting the property. 808.923.1555

• Perched to catch the very last rays, the Hau Terrace at the venerable Outrigger Canoe Club has been a locals’ choice for sunset dining for decades. Located on the southern end of Waikiki, this social club has reciprocity with most yacht club memberships. 808.923.1585

• The Kane‘ohe Yacht Club defines island casual; flip-flops and T-shirts (only if there’s a breeze). It’s hard to beat the cement patio and fold-out chairs for a front-row view of the sun setting behind the jagged ridge of the Ko‘olau range. Toast the day with a chilled Bud Light. Any mainland yacht club membership is reciprocal. 808.247.4121

Romantic dinner

• Reserve a private dining gazebo right on the water at Hoku’s restaurant in the Kahala Resort on O‘ahu. 808.739.8888

• For the past century visitors and locals alike have enjoyed the sunset and Diamond Head views and award-winning island-inspired cuisine at Halekulani’s House Without a Key 808.923-2311

• Reserve a table at sunset at Jameson’s by the Sea in Haleiwa, a casual indoor/outdoor setting. 808.637.6272

• For an oceanfront dining experience, Ola at the Turtle Bay Resort recently opened to rave reviews. 808.293.6000

Remote (romantic) hike

• Old Pali Trail is short and steep (coming back). The first part is not remote, but once you head off the main trail, Likelike Trail is a lush, uncrowded, narrow path that passes through waterfalls. Go at sunrise or sunset for the best views of the Ko‘olau Range and the windward coast; trailhead starts at the Pali lookout.

• The Makapu’u Lighthouse hike is not remote, since the trailhead is right off Highway 72, but once you crest the hill after a mile-long easy ascent, it’s just pounding surf and miles of blue sky.

Pack a picnic

• Pick up a veggie sandwich or tuna melt at Kalapawai Market in Kailua, then head to Kailua Beach State Park, consistently rated a “Best Beach in the World” by coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman.

• O‘ahu’s North Shore is famous for big surf and laid-back vibe, but it’s also a great place to spend the day. Grab a grilled sandwich to go at Ku Aina in Haleiwa, bring a towel and beach mat and head to the scenic Waimea Bay. Even if the surf isn’t pounding, there will be plenty of people-watching.

Maui

Catch the sunset

• Grab a chair in the sand and order a cocktail at the Barefoot Bar at Hula Grill on Ka‘anapali Beach, as the sun sets over the neighboring island of Lana‘i. 808.667.6636

• Overlook all of Wailea Resort with views of Molokini and Kaho’olawe (and Lana‘i on a clear day) while dining at Capische at Diamond Resort. 808.879.2224

Remote (romantic) hike

• Haleakala Crater, whether you opt for the 3a.m. pickup for a sunrise hike, or just take one of the many trails, there is plenty of room on this 10,023-foot high dormant volcano to find a scenic path for two.

• Just past Hana. It takes awhile to get to the 7 Pools trailhead from the west side of the island, so leave early. Besides freshwater pools, the trail passes through bamboo forests and a remote black sand beach.

• Not an outdoor hike, but a romantic notion for a stroll…docent-led art tours at the Four Seasons show off the new museum-quality art collection with over 280 original works.

Romantic dinner

• Consistently rated one of the best restaurants in Maui,  the Hailemaile General Store is a bit of a drive from most hotels, but the scenery is gorgeous and well worth the effort.

• Chez Paul in Olowalu enjoyed recent publicity when chef Patrick Callarec shared his culinary talents with the “Romance Me Maui” campaign. 808-283-9044.

• Duo at the Four Seasons — dine by the pool waterfall overlooking Wailea Beach.

• Mama’s Fish House in Kuau Cove on Maui’s North Shore While some say this longtime standby is too pricy and hyped, nobody seems to be listening….be sure to make reservations.

• Sushi for two? Locals and returning visitors flock to Sansei for its award-winning dishes. Two locations on Maui; Kapalua 808.669.6286 and Kihei 808.879.0004.

• Lunch or dinner at Ka’uiki Restaurant at Hotel Hana-Maui will be a meal to remember. 800.321.4262

Pack a picnic

• Aim for getting to Makena Beach around 11:30, before the crowds hit the Taco Truck. Located just where the road turns toward the beach, this white truck is popular among locals, who line up for the fish tacos and fish burritos. Once you’ve got your lunch, head over to the Cove at Secret Beach.

• On the way to Cove Park at Kihei Beach, stop off at Da Kitchen (808.875.7782, da.kitchen.com) in the Rainbow Mall in Kihei. After sharing a box lunch of Korean chicken, take a surf lesson offered on site.

Moloka‘i

Catch the sunset

• A rocking chair on the lanai of any room at the Lodge—they all face west.

• While wading in the tidepools off Kaupoa Beach at the Beach Village, search for medeka (minnows) and opihi shells.

Remote (romantic) hike

• Waikolu Valley. Depending on your fitness level, trek (or park near) the look-over to the forest reserve. Locals call it a truly untouched otherworldly valley.

• The most popular trail on the island (four people a day) is Halawa Valley. This daylong hike will take you through a waterfall spilling into a large bubbly (think champagne) pool. With soaring cliffs as the backdrop, the trail ends at Halawa Bay where it’s said the first Polynesians set foot on Moloka‘i.

Romantic dinner

• Reserve the intimate greenhouse on the grounds of the Lodge, for a private dinner created by chef Erwin Kudoba.

• Wiggle your toes in the sand, at your own table with private service a the Beach Village. Casual to formal, depends on your own style.

Pack a picnic

• Pick up a prepared lunch at the Lodge or the general store in Mauna Loa and head to Mile Marker 19: a remote white sand beach protected by a coral reef.

Lana‘i

Catch the sunset

• For a bit of the surreal, head to the Garden of the Gods, and watch the ancient red rock formations change color with the setting sun.

Remote (romantic) hike

• Plan for an early morning or late afternoon moderate hike along the Koloiki Ridge, which offers expansive views of the island and the ocean and neighboring isles.

Hawai‘i

Catch the sunset

• Huggo’s on the Rocks: Casual setting serves up cocktails, Hawaiian pupus and music right next to the iconic Huggos Restaurant on the south end of Kona’s downtown. 808.329.1493

• Any hammock-for-two on the Kohala Coast.

• Watch the sun set as fishing boats return to Keauhou Bay and the coastline of Kailua-Kona lights up while at Crystal Blue, an indoor/outdoor cocktail lounge at Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa.

Remote (romantic) hike

• Meet up with the ancient Ala Kahakai trail at the public access parking lot behind the new Waikoloa Beach Marriot Resort and Spa and head south. Wear sturdy shoes and hats and bring sunscreen; this is a long and potentially hot trek over lava to freshwater lagoons and a black sand beach.

• Get existential about the meaning of life as you hike through the trails at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. nps.gov/havo

Pack a picnic

• Waterfalls, lonely black sand beaches and wild ginger are just a few sights to behold when hiking the famed Waipi‘o Valley. Stop at the Waipi‘o Valley Artworks for a takeout deli sandwich along the way.

Romantic dinner

• Pahui‘a at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has been earning awards and accolades since opening. Aim for sunset when you make reservations. Desserts include a daily soufflé and the pièce de résistance; their warm dark chocolate lava cake. 888.340.5662.

Simplicity Life Travel ~ We want to you “simplify” your life as you plan your wedding and move forward into your new life together. 

• Help booking your perfect honeymoon
• Our Honeymoon Registry
• Our Blog (destination information, tips and ideas!)
• Our Store (all the things you need “while you’re there!”…)

Not sure where you want to go on your honeymoon? Simplicity Life Travel offers some advice on choosing the honeymoon destination that’s perfect for you.

It’s a big world, after all! And there are so many places that sound wonderful for your honeymoon. And it is the trip of a lifetime right? How do you decide where to go on your honeymoon?

It may seem obvious, but the first step in planning a trip is deciding where to go. Here are some simple guidelines:

1.) Be realistic – the first step is determining how much time you have to travel, and as important, how much money do you have allocated for your honeymoon. (Using Simplicity Life Travel’s honeymoon registry can give extra cushion to that budget!)

2.) The best way to start your planning may be to choose a list of specific destinations that interest you. Then start reading and researching these places to see if they fit your desires. If there are only beach and water sports and you don’t tan and can’t swim, then it may not be the place for you.

3.) Narrow your choices. The world is big. Even one country is big. You can’t see it all in a lifetime, much less in a week or a few weeks. Most people try to do too much in too little time. You’ll have a much better experience if you can actually take the time to enjoy where you are – instead of being exhausted because you’re running from one city to the next, one country to the next. (This makes for some cranky travelers!)

4.) Choose a place that interests you – not just for the monuments but also for the culture and way of life. Your daily activities and the people you meet have more influence on the quality of your travel experience than the sites you visit or the sights you see.

5.) Make your own choices. Don’t go somewhere just because someone else liked it or told you to go there. See #4 – again, just because a friend enjoyed the trek through the Himalayas in freezing temperatures carrying a 60-pound bag doesn’t mean you will. If you’re idea of roughing it is a 5 star hotel in Tahiti then a river-rafting trip down the Grand Canyon may not be for you!

6.) Think about who is giving you advice and what their knowledge is based on. Have they actually been there or are they experts on this destination? Look for resources from and by people in the places you are thinking of going for the most accurate picture of what travel in those places will really be like.

7.) Travel in the present. Learn about contemporary life and current affairs in the places you are going. (The Internet makes this much easier than ever before.)

8.) And most importantly, be sure that you and your fiancée are on the same page. If you want a week at a luxury hotel with a spa and a swim up bar, and he wants to go to a dude ranch, then you need to talk about that early on and find a way to compromise. (That is what you do in marriage!) Perhaps you can go to Kauai and stay at the Princeville Resort, which has a wonderful spa and is conveniently located by the Princeville Stables!

9.) Once you’ve made your decision, book early! Waiting for those last minute Internet fares is not honeymoon appropriate. The most popular honeymoon destinations such as Tahiti sell out months in advance!

10.) Don’t forget to say “I DO” and go have the honeymoon of your dreams. You should come back from your trip feeling like you’ve just experienced one of the most memorable and enjoyable events of your new life together.

(TIP: It’s more than just buying the air fare!)

Kauai's stunning Napali Coast

I once had a bride call to book a honeymoon cruise in Hawaii. I asked her if they might like to fly to Oahu a day early to have some time on the island before the cruise. I told her about Honolulu, Waikiki, Diamond Head, Don Ho, and of course, Pearl Harbor. To my utter amazement she said (in all seriousness) “What’s Pearl Harbor?”

Hawaii is an amazing and diverse collection of islands in the South Pacific.  Before you even begin planning your honeymoon, DO read up on as much as you can aboout Hawaii!  If you want a fabulous honeymoon with an opportunity for Polynesian Culture, white sand beaches, tropical rainforests, adventure and activities, gourmet restaurants and more, then Hawaii is for you! Each island offers a different atmosphere and different opportunities. If you have the time to visit more than one island, you should! We recommend at least 4 nights on each island, which islands you pick is up to you!

Clothing: The islands of Hawaii each have many different climates – including snow! Consider what activities you plan to enjoy, then pack (fleece jacket if going to Haleakaka, sturdy hiking shoes if hiking on the lava fields). There are many useful guidebooks that offer in depth information on various activities and what to wear. Overall dress is “aloha wear”. Be casual. You do not need to bring a suit, dress slacks, or fancy cloths (unless you want to!)

Weather, Water and Sun: October to May the temperature averages mid 80’s during the day and mid 60’s to mid 70’s at night (light jackets or sweaters are recommended for the evening). These months see more rain but unless there is a weather system, the rain doesn’t usually last long. May to October averages mid to high 80’s during the day and mid 70’s at night. The year-round average water temperature is a warm 74 degrees. The sun is very, very strong. Waterproof sunscreen with maximum protection is essential.

Hotels, be sure to ask: Many hotels offer discounts for honeymooners or extended stays. They may also offer room upgrades or amenities for honeymooners. Just because a hotel is on a beach does not mean it’s on a “swimmable” beach. What does “partial” ocean view really mean? Is there a charge for parking? Is there a “daily activity fee”?

Time and Money: Hawaii does not observe daylight savings time. During the Spring and Summer months, when the clock is turned ahead, Hawaii is 6 hours behind Eastern Standard Time (EST), 3 hours behind Pacific Standard Time (PST).

The islands have many banks and ATM’s. We do recommend traveling with more than one ATM or credit card in case something happens to your primary card. Check with your bank before you go about fees they may charge for using your ATM out of network.

Common Sense and Need to Know: Do NOT leave valuables in your rental car, on your beach blanket, or loose in your hotel. Use the safe in your hotel room if you must bring valuables that you won’t be carrying on you. If renting a convertible is a MUST (which we think it is!) rent a convertible with a lockable trunk.

Be sure to ask about discounts when booking activities (AAA, military) and do book the most popular activities in advance. Research and read up on vendors and talk with them directly before you arrive. Beware of special deals where you get a free dinner or activity if you go to a time share presentation. Although you may actually get a free dinner, what’s the point.? Your time in the islands is so limited, use it wisely!

Car Rental and Driving: The islands do not have great public transportation – and with the exception of Honolulu, you will need a rental car. There are major roadways that will take you along beautiful coastlines, to waterfalls, through rainforests, and even to a live volcano! If you are under 25, do check with the rental agency about their policies. Auto insurance is a must. Be sure to check with your auto insurance policy and your credit card about what, if any, protection they offer before you leave.

Start your honeymoon planning at the Hawaii Visitor’s Bureau : http://www.gohawaii.com/

Before you go to Hawaii, buy yourself a guide book and do your homework!

Simplicity Life Travel recommends, Wizard Publications: Ultimate Kauai, Big Island Revealed, Maui Revealed, Oahu Revealed

When you arrive at the airport, be sure to look for, and pick up, the updated ACTIVITY and VISITOR GUIDE for that island. They’re often in stands near the baggage claim. Go, relax and have the honeymoon of your dreams!

Oh and be sure to create a honeymoon registry with Simplicity Life Travel!  You can fill your registry with fun activities like snorkeling at Molokini Crater, a Napali Coast Boat Cruise, a visit to Pearl Harbor, couples massage on the beach, Zip Line Tours, biking down Haleakala…. the list of fun and romantic activities is endless!

Also, it’s a good idea to take prescription medication with you that you may not use everyday, but might need while on your honeymoon.  (Should any of you want to hear MY honeymoon story and my quest in a foreign country for a medication to help with a pesky YI, do let me know!)

Destination (Wedding) Wednesdays for all your destination wedding and honeymoon tips.

Has he said “Will you?” and you’ve said “I will” (or visa versa)? Is your dream wedding on a beach? Is it in a stunning tropical paradise? Maybe it’s high on a mountain top?  Are your friends and family surrounding you as you exchange your vows?

“Fiji has a way of making dreams come true. Be assured of one thing in this South Pacific Paradise… say “We do” in Fiji and you will experience a dream wedding that will provide fantastic memories that will last a lifetime….”

On Wednesday’s we will post ideas about where to have the perfect Destination Wedding or just the perfect honeymoon with tips and recommendations about making your dream come true!

 Simplicity Life Travel can help you book your dream destination wedding.  And don’t forget, even if you have a destination wedding, you can still create a fabulous honeymoon registry!

Take your passport...and copies!

However, it is important to be smart when traveling. It doesn’t matter if you are going outside the US or staying stateside creating a paper trail is always a smart safety precaution.  Add these items to your honeymoon check off list.   Make copies of airline schedules, hotel information, check in and checkout dates, planned excursions, car rental information and your in-laws phone numbers.   If you are traveling outside the US it is very important to make 3 copies of your passports: one to leave at home, one to carry while you are out having fun and one to leave in the hotel room in case yours gets lost or stolen.  The US will let you back into the country with a copy.   Never carry your passport when you are out site seeing.

In case of an emergency you will be very happy you took these measures in advance!  Be like the Boy Scouts and be prepared.

By: Renee Madison — National Travel Director, Simplicity Life Travel