When you think of tropical, romantic getaways, the first destination that comes to mind is probably Hawai’i. It tops the list of “dream vacations,” for most people. The quiet tranquility of life, stunning tropical islands, and pink sunsets provide the perfect setting for couples looking for a romantic escape.
Hawai’i offers six unique islands for couples to choose from – Kaua’i, O’ahu, Moloka’i, Lana’i, Maui and Hawai’i’s Big Island. Each island provides the same whispering tropical breezes, perfect sun-drenched days and intriguing adventure, yet each one has their own distinct flair for couples.
Maui – The “Magic Isle”
With a landmass of 727 miles and a population of 117,644, this Hawaiian island is the second largest of the Islands of Aloha. It’s no surprise that frequent travelers to the Hawai’ian Islands rank this island as their favorite. The ideal combination of natural beauty, miles of beaches, and tropical adventure has earned Maui the title of “Best Island in the World,” for the 10th year in a row.
The island boasts a 10,023-foot dormant volcano – Haleakala. The volcano is recognized as the largest dormant volcano crater in the world. Ancient Hawaiian tales say that the demigod Maui harnessed the sun from atop the huge volcano to slow the progress across the heavens. They say he was responsible for making the perfect day on his namesake island last a little bit longer than most.
Whether it’s a romantic afternoon spent on a lazy beach or a whale-watching excursion in the warm offshore waters, there is always something to do while visiting the beautiful island of Maui.
Lana’i – “Hawai’i’s Most Secluded Island”
Ultra luxurious and secluded – what more could you want in a romantic destination? The smallest of the six major Hawaiian islands, Lana’i is home to just over 3,000 people. Until recently, the island was known as “Pineapple Island,” as the entire island was a Dole Company pineapple plantation. Today, tourists are discovering the quiet tranquility and unparalleled range of activities that are available on this tiny island. Here, in Lana’i, the pressures of the outside world seem a million miles away as you soak in the natural beauty of the island.
Swim in the warm waters of Hulopo’e Beach, snorkel in the pristine waters that cradles the West Coast of the island, or if you’re up for a challenge, visit Kaiolohia Bay. The best place to go for a treasure-seeker, Kaiolohia Bay is an 8-mile stretch of beach, commonly known as Shipwreck Beach due to the abundance of abandoned crafts on the reef. Though it’s not recommended for swimmers, the beach is a perfect place for beachcombers.
O’ahu – “The Heart of Hawai’i”
At 597 square miles, the island of O’ahu is often referred to as the sun and fun capital of Hawai’i. The world-famous Waikīkī Beach, with its turquoise waters and miles of shoreline, offer couples a plethora of ocean activities. The picture-perfect views, soft ocean breezes and gentle surf compliment the newly renovated promenade.
The tropical green valleys and miles of shoreline are the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape. Try your hand at the numerous watersports, explore the azue blue waters of the Pacific, take a hike through the rainforests or sit back on a lounge chair with a Pina Colada. Whatever you choose to do, the day will always end with a sense of wonder when the ocean becomes a blaze of gold as the sun takes her final bow.
Moloka’i – “The Friendly Isle”
The fifth largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Moloka’i has 88 miles of coastline in 280 square miles. Once know as the “lonely isle,” this island is now a haven for tourists year-round. If you’re looking for a place free from high rises, big resorts, fancy shops, and lots of tourists — Moloka’i is your place. Here you’ll find more than just the signature beauty and tranquility of all the Hawaiian Islands, you’ll discover the history and culture that is distinctly Hawaiian.
Pack plenty of film when you visit this island. The ancient sites, such as the 60-plus rock-wall fishponds that line the island’s South Shore, and may other natural wonders, will provide you with unique photos to brag about when you return home. Visit Western Moloka’i for the largest and least visited beaches in the state – a perfect place to picnic on the beach. Now that’s romance!
Kaua’i – “Hawai’i’s Island of Discovery
The oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, Kaua’i has a laid-back, comfortable feel. Green, tropical forests, cascading waterfalls, golden sand beaches combine to create a natural oasis for visitors.
Named for its wealth of “wonders,” Kaua’i was built by a massive volcano. Ninety miles of coastline compliment the diverse landscape – from desert-like to velvety green coasts – making this a true island of discovery. Swim, snorkel, fish, golf, hike, horseback ride, visit a garden or a museum. If you get a chance, take a helicopter to witness the Napali Coast – one of the world’s greatest wonders.
Don’t leave the island without experiencing a traditional lu’au. Kaua’i. I am told that some of the most authentic lu’au in Hawai’i are found on the island of Kaua’i.
The Island of Hawai’i’ – “The Big Island”
Named for its size – 4.028 square miles – The Big Island I twice the sizes of all the islands combined. With a population of almost 150,000, the island is still growing. Why is it growing? The world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea, is on this Hawaiian island, pouring lava out onto the land. Legend says that the goddess Pele gave volcanic birth to the Islands of Aloha, and the Big Island is her newest addition.
Romantics will revel in the gorgeous waterfalls, the Puna Fern Forest, snow clad Mauna Kea and the Ka`u Desert. These are not your everyday attractions. The beaches are not crowded, giving couples a birdseye view of the picturesque waters.
As they say in Hawai’i, “a hui hou” or “until we meet again.”
photo credit: Pet_r
