The Guide to a Honeymoon on the Unforgettable Island of Hawaiʻi
The biggest and youngest island along the Hawaiian archipelago is the Island of Hawaiʻi (affectionately named the Big Island), where beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, romantic sunsets and adventure abound. While many couples venture over to Maui or Oahu, a Big Island honeymoon is one to consider for its multitude of active offerings.
The island of Hawaiʻi has beautiful black sand beaches like Punaluʻu Beach, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, coffee farms, and so much more to explore. Most visitors tend to stick to the western part of the island as there's generally less rainfall. While there's nothing wrong with that, locals recommend flying into one airport and leaving from another (Hawaiʻi Island has two). That way, you're guaranteed to see more of the incredibly diverse land during your Big Island honeymoon.
Is Hawai'i (the Big Island) Good for a Honeymoon?
Couples on the West Coast should anticipate about a five-hour trek to the Aloha State. East Coast newlyweds should be prepared for, at minimum, a 10-hour flight from New York. It is a bit long but worthwhile. In the meantime, we recommend throwing on compression socks and drinking plenty of water for your long flights ahead. Also, couples should always be aware of safety at any given location. As the Big Island is home to Kīlauea, which is the most active volcano in Hawai'i, reading up on precautions is advised.
The Pros of a Big Island Honeymoon
The list is extensive for the Island of Hawaiʻi. Not only is the Big Island renowned for its beauty, but it has so much to offer to honeymooners. Visitors dream about the volcanic ash-created, black-sand beaches, in addition to the island's stunning landscapes and wildlife. At any given moment, it's easy to spot sea turtles, dolphins and tropical fish during diving and snorkeling experiences.
The Cons of a Big Island Honeymoon
The travel time, for one, isn't the easiest for all couples–especially those who are used to traveling to and from the Caribbean. Certain areas of Hawaiʻi can also be super touristy and crowded. If you're willing to splurge, we recommend booking an upscale resort with a private beach and the amenities to match.
The Best Times of Year to Go on a Big Island Honeymoon for Good Weather
The weather is mild year-round. Summer generally can reach the low 90s with slightly less rainfall between March through November. The best time to visit the Big Island in Hawaii is typically April, May, August, September and October.
Things to Do During a Big Island Honeymoon
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
With its vast lava fields, tropical rainforests, alpine summits and the most spectacular sight of all, Kilauea (one of the world's most active volcanoes), this is one of the top bucket-list items for honeymooners who visit the Big Island. The best way to explore the park is on foot. Trail maps and information are available at the Visitor Center, just inside the park entrance. One of the park's nicest short walks is the Thurston Lava Tube trail, a 20-minute stroll through a lush tree-fern forest and a tunnel-like lava tube. The Kilauea Iki trail starts at the Lava Tube parking lot and will let you experience what it's like to be on the floor of a crater. The trail descends 400 feet through native forest into a crater, which last erupted in 1959, and across still-steaming vents. There are lots of other trails to explore, from short walks to two- and three-day treks. Be sure to bring sunscreen, something warm and waterproof, a hat and plenty of water. (Again: follow travel advisories.)
Shop the Kailua Village Farmers Market
The local farmers' market in Kona is small but mighty. It's a great spot to try local delights like fresh, tropical fruits (we recommend a bag of lychee). Stop by Kona Coffee & Tea for a morning coffee to enjoy while sitting by the water.
Tour the Island's Top Attractions
If you prefer a tour with a guide, we recommend the Kailani Tours Hawai'i Deluxe Volcano Experience. Couples will start at Kona Joe's Coffee farm to witness the process of coffee bean production. Then, they'll head over to a well-known Black Sand Beach called Punaluu Beach to see the sea turtles sunbathing on the sand. Up next is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see the steam vents. This active day is followed by a divine, fresh fish dinner at Kīlauea Lodge. But one volcano experience isn't enough. Tourists will head back to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to walk about a mile to see the lava pools lit up at night.
Snorkel Kahalu'u Bay
For world-class snorkeling, couples should venture over to Kahalu'u Bay to learn about the conservation efforts from Kahalu'u Bay Education Center. After learning about the reefs and marine life, you can see and experience nature for yourself. Couples will likely see a variety of colorful fish, spotted eels, sea turtles, and, the elusive octopus. Just remember to respect marine life by avoiding any contact with the animals or the coral.
Swim With Manta Rays at Night
Gently enjoy a romantic evening paddle boat ride followed by a swim with manta rays. With Anelakai Adventures, couples will paddle out to sea and each guest will gently head into the water. A blue light will start shining under the boat that makes the plankton nearby visible. As the ecosystem goes, manta rays eat plankton, so the light attracts their attention and brings them closer for you to observe.
See Pele (and Dolphins) Up Close
Sea Quest Hawai'i Captain Cook Exclusive brings couples out to Kealakekua Bay to snorkel… and you never know what you might encounter. For the fearless, the bay is filled with plenty of colorful tropical fish and there's potential to see anything from whale sharks to pods of dolphins. On the boat ride to the bay, take in the stunning landscapes and rock formations including Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes which is truly a sight to see.
Tour the Island's Food Offerings Grab
Eating poke while on the Big Island is an absolute must (Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill is a fantastic option). With a wide variety of fresh fish and seasoning, ranging from spicy to sweet, couples can enjoy their poke with plenty of sides like delicious mac salad and rice sprinkled with furikake. After dinner or an adventurous afternoon of soaking up sun, shaved ice is the closest thing to heaven as the cool treat tickles the tastebuds. There are so many places to get shaved ice, but we recommend Kat's Kau Kau (across from Magic Sands Beach Park). A pro tip: add lychee cream to your shaved ice to give it a creamy and sweet finish.
The Best Hotels and Resorts on the Island of Hawai'i for a Honeymoon
Royal Kona Resort
When you're checking into the Royal Kona Resort, you'll notice an open concept with a beachy vibe. Many rooms have a terrace overlooking the ocean, where you can wake up to the sound of waves breaking. In addition to the rooms being comfortable, clean, and modern, with amazing views available, guests have access to unique amenities like outdoor yoga classes or luau's right on the property with fire dancers. Grab a drink while watching the sunset at Don's Mai Tai Bar & Restaurant.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Arguably "the" honeymoon resort of the Big Island, Mauna Lani is located on the Kohala Coast and is worth the stay. With spacious modern accommodations that blend into the environment, it's a place to relax and grow. You can listen to the sound of the ocean, swim in the crystal clear waters, or take a dip in one of the hotel pools overlooking the ocean. Indulge in culinary experiences, cultural and heritage traditions, and ocean sports like rowing, snorkeling, and diving.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
For honeymooners, particularly, the Four Seasons is an incredible option when searching for luxury options on the Big Island. The oceanfront property is adjacent to a soft-sand beach to relax on and offers guests amenities like terraces and private pools in their private villas.
Volcano Rainforest Retreat
A truly unique stay can be found at this lodge-type resort where private cottages line the Hawaiian rainforest. Surrounded by nature and stunning landscapes, it's the perfect opportunity to unplug and be together.
What to Pack for an Island of Hawai'i Honeymoon
For a trip to the Big Island, remember your swimsuits, sandals and sneakers, layers for hiking gear, and comfortable, breathable clothing. A sweater or light jacket both come in handy. Also, pack or purchase reef-safe sunscreen for days you will dip in the beach. There's a big push for reef-safe sunscreen (sunscreen without octinoxate and oxybenzone) that protects the coral from bleaching and other damage to ocean life.
Big Island Honeymoon Tour Packages
Hawaii is known for romantic resorts, adventure, and relaxing beaches, so naturally hotels and tour groups cater to honeymooners traveling to the Big Island. Accommodations and businesses on the Big Island can coordinate everything from itineraries and luxury stays to golf outings and adventures for couples to share together. Couples can also craft their own Big Island honeymoon packages by using services like TripAdvisor and Viator.