Cruising to Paradise: A Honeymooner’s Guide to the Hawaiian Islands

Welcome to the enchanting islands of Hawaii, where every shore excursion during your cruise promises breathtaking beauty and unforgettable experiences. For honeymooners seeking the perfect blend of romance and adventure, Hawaii offers an unparalleled paradise. From pristine beaches to lush rainforests, each island has its own unique charm that will leave you spellbound.

Introducing Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands (collectively, Hawaii) are a multi-island archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, and the 50th state in the United States as of 1959. They are comprised of eight primary islands along with smaller atolls and islets — each one with their own distinct culture, characteristics, and unique experiences.

From the bustling energy of Oahu to the serene beauty of Kauai, visitors can immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes and traditions that define each locale. With a history steeped in Polynesian culture and a landscape shaped by volcanic activity, Hawaii offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and adventure.

While it may be easy to mistake it for just another popular vacation spot, Hawaii offers a wealth of experiences that appeal to all ages and interests, making it a truly remarkable destination in the heart of the Pacific.

At the top of many honeymooners’ wish lists, Hawaii offers islands with stunning scenery and beautiful beaches, creating the perfect setting for romantic getaways. For those dreaming of a Hawaiian honeymoon, the combinations of romance, relaxation, and adventure are practically endless.

Meet the Islands

The main Hawaiian Islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii (referred to as The Big Island), Lanai, Molokai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. Out of these, Niihau is privately owned and Kahoolawe remains uninhabited. Lanai and Molokai are both sparsely populated, with Lanai being 98% privately owned by Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle.

That leaves Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii as the primary destinations for tourists, particularly for those traveling to Hawaii for the first time.

Take A Deeper Look

Journey with us through the four main islands of Hawaii — Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii — each one inviting exploration and promising an unforgettable adventure through the diverse wonders of the Hawaiian archipelago.

Below, we’ve detailed the distinctive features and main highlights of each of these islands to assist you in organizing your trip.

Oahu

Snapshot: Oahu, the beating heart of Hawaii, is characterized by vibrant city life, iconic Waikiki Beach, and historic sites like Pearl Harbor. This is the best island for those who want to experience a little of everything, from sunny beaches and historical landmarks to delicious cuisine.

Things to do in Oahu:

Take a guided hike through dense forests to the island’s tallest accessible waterfall and journey through the jungles of the Jurassic Park film site. Amidst the remnants of movie magic, majestic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, you can almost hear the echoes of prehistoric roars. It’s a journey not just through nature but also through cinematic history, crafting an unforgettable experience for hikers and movie buffs.

Pay homage to history at Pearl Harbor as you visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place of the crew members who lost their lives December 7, 1941 — a “day of infamy” that launched WWII. You’ll witness authentic footage of the infamous attack, visit moving memorials, and see Battleship Row.

Dive into the vibrant culture of Oahu with visits to bustling markets, historic sites, and iconic landmarks. This day-long island safari tour will take you to over 20 points of interest for a great overview of this incredible island. Hop in an SUV to see Diamond Head, Pali Lookout, Sunset Beach, Sharks Cove, and much more. Enjoy a little retail therapy in the boutiques at Haleiwa Town, then round off your day at a pineapple and coffee plantation.

Maui

Snapshot: Maui, often dubbed the “Valley Isle,” boasts breathtaking vistas along the scenic Road to Hana, world-class snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, and the majestic Haleakala National Park. As you can guess, it’s a fantastic option for road-trippers and those who enjoy nature.

Things to do in Maui:

Set out on an air-land combo tour to experience the majestic Haleakala Crater and the scenic Road to Hana, also known as the Hana Highway. This winding roadway takes you far from the resort areas and into miles upon miles of Insta-worthy photo opps of lush forests, enchanting waterfalls, and a gorgeous coastline. Next, hop into a helicopter for more amazing views and photos from high above the Haleakala Crater.

Explore the underwater wonderland of Kealakekua Bay with a snorkeling adventure that takes you through sea caves and lava tubes. View several types of coral and interact with colorful fish including grouper, tang, and blue-eyed damselfish. Keep an eye out for urchins, starfish, and turtles.

An important word about Lahaina:

In August 2023, Lahaina in West Maui bore the brunt of devastating wildfires, resulting in the devastating loss of lives, homes, cultural landmarks, and businesses. The community faced profound grief and the difficult task of rebuilding in the aftermath of this tragic event.

In light of the recent tragedy, it’s requested that visitors refrain from visiting the affected area out of respect for the rebuilding efforts and the lives that were lost. Taking photographs, even from a distance, is discouraged as it may inadvertently disrespect the deep losses endured by the community.

With the exception of Lahaina, Maui offers a wealth of sights and experiences to enjoy. We ask visitors to embody the spirit of aloha by showing compassion and empathy, and supporting local restaurants and businesses that are vital to the community’s recovery efforts.

Kauai

Snapshot: Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” enchants with its lush rainforests, rugged sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, and the awe-inspiring Waimea Canyon. It’s no wonder this island is a favorite with hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Things to do in Kauai:

Soar high above Kauai on a helicopter tour, taking in iconic sights like the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. While airborne, you’ll see Manawaiopuna Falls as well as Wailua Falls — the latter being famous from the Fantasy Island television series. You’ll also get a bird’s-eye view of the dramatic cliffs dotting the Na Pali Coast; if they look familiar to you, it’s probably from seeing the film South Pacific.

Experience the spirit of aloha at a traditional Hawaiian luau, complete with local delicacies and riveting performances. Watch a mesmerizing Samoan fire knife dance, and marvel at the hip movements of the graceful hula dancers (secret: the dancers use their knees to help create their famous swaying hips!)

Hawaii (Big Island)

Snapshot: The Big Island offers a dynamic landscape of contrasts, from the fiery lava flows of Kilauea Volcano in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to the snowy peaks of Mauna Kea and the serene beaches of the Kona coast. It is one of the less touristy of the main islands, and a perfect choice for those craving action and adventure.

Things to do in Hawaii:

Discover the otherworldly landscapes of the Big Island as you explore the Chain of Craters Road and Volcanoes National Park. Witness steam vents, sulfur banks, and the 500 year-old Thurston Lava Tube, then stand in awe at the summit of Kilauea Caldera.

If you love diving, then this is the tour for you! Enjoy a professionally guided dive of Hilo’s waters as you take in the abundance of beautiful coral and majestic sea life at Turtle Cove. On this world-class dive into turtle-rich waters, you’ll see manta rays, octopus, reef fish and more around stunning lava walls and rock formations. And did we mention the turtles?

Best Time to Visit

While anytime is a great time to visit Hawaii, keep this information in mind:

For those seeking a lot of choices, cruising between October and April presents the widest array of options (this timeframe also coincides with the Alaska cruising season, featuring one-way repositioning cruises between Hawaii and Vancouver, British Columbia, or Seattle)
Cruise options to Hawaii tend to be more limited during the summer months
Although Hawaii boasts a year-round balmy climate with minimal severe weather, some beaches may experience strong currents or rough seas around the winter months —particularly in the rainy season between December and January, and especially on Oahu’s northern shores.

What’s Next?

Hawaii is the perfect destination for honeymooners seeking adventure and romance, as well as families eager to immerse themselves in the enchanting allure of these extraordinary islands.

Exploring volcanic landscapes, trekking through lush forests, and diving into vibrant island culture create unforgettable adventures, fostering a sense of belonging to the ohana (family) and crafting lasting memories.

Feeling prepared? Secure your Hawaiian shore excursions today for an unforgettable journey in paradise.