Everywhere you look on Oʻahu, there’s beautiful scenery, from the windswept beaches in Kailua to the majestic pali (cliffs) of the Koʻolau Mountains. These images are all over social media—and we figure you probably want to know where these spots are.

While some places—like the top of Haʻikū Stairs—are off-limits and others—like the entrance of Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden in Kāneʻohe—aren’t allowed anymore, Oʻahu has a ton of gorgeous backdrops for vacation photos sure to make your coworkers jealous.

Here are 13 easily accessible ones.

1. Makai Research Pier, Waimānalo

Makai Research Pier in Waimānalo.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

This working research pier off Kalanianaʻole Highway in Waimānalo on Oʻahu’s windward side is a popular stop for photographers. This view (above) is what everyone wants to capture—but the beach itself is stunning, especially with Mānana and Kāohikaipu islets offshore.

2. Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Makapuʻu

At the top of the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

The easy 2-mile (round trip) hike up to the summit of the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail offers breathtaking views from every part of the trail: the rugged and wild Kaiwi Coastline, the dramatic panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, the historic red-roofed lighthouse and the sleepy town of Waimānalo. During winter months this is a great place to see migrating North Pacific humpback whales.

3. Byodo-In Temple, Kāneʻoha

Byodo-In Temple in Kāneʻohe.
Photo: David Croxford

It’s nearly impossible to take a bad photo at the Byodo-In Temple, located at the base of the lush Koʻolau Mountains on Oʻahu windward side. This temple is a smaller-scale replica of the over 950-year-old Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan. (It’s a United Nations World Heritage Site.) The grounds are gorgeously landscaped and home to wild peacocks, Japanese koi (carp) and swan.

4. Kualoa Regional Park, Kualoa

Sunrise at Kualoa Regional Park.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

This sprawling beach park on the island’s eastern coastline boasts calm waters and great views of the Koʻolau Mountains and Mokoliʻi (aka Chinaman’s Hat), a 12.5-acre offshore islet.

5. Murals of wings, The Honolulu Zoo and Oʻahu’s North Shore

Wings at The Honolulu Zoo and on the North Shore.
Photos: Catherine Toth Fox

Wings are a thing! There’s a pair of butterfly wing murals at The Honolulu Zoo in Waikīkī (left) and angel wings outside Anahulu’s Shave Ice (66-620 Kamehameha Highway) in Haleʻiwa on Oʻahu’s North Shore. The latter is part of the Global Angel Wings Project that started in Los Angeles in 2012 to remind people we are all angels on Earth. This is the only one of these interactive art displays in Hawaiʻi.

6. Lanikai Beach, Kailua

Lanikai Beach, Kailua.
Photo: Getty Images/Wirestock

It’s hard to find a more picturesque beach on Oʻahu than Lanikai Beach in Kailua. With the Nā Mokulua islands offshore and clear aquamarine waters, this beach is easily one of the most photographed on the island.

7. Sunflower field, Waimānalo

Sunflowers in Waimānalo.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

Right now, through mid-November, Waimānalo Country Farms opens its sunflower fields for visits—and it’s spectacular. The family-run farm is nestled against the Koʻolau Mountains with views of the ocean, and the sunflowers are shockingly beautiful against the green mountains. It also sells farm-fresh food, including corn on the cob, freshly squeezed lemonade and even sunflower heads, grilled and slathered with butter and garlic. You can even book private picnics in the fields.

8. Duke Kahanamoku Statue, Waikīkī

Duke Kahanamoku Statue in Waikīkī.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

The bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku on Kalākaua Avenue is a must-stop in Waikīkī. Often draped or holding lei, this status honors Hawaiʻi’s first Olympian and the father of modern surfing. Kahanamoku grew up swimming and surfing in Waikīkī. He later went on to win Olympic gold in the 100-meter freestyle and silver in the relay in 1912. He also won two gold medals in 1920 and won a silver medal at age 34 in the 1924 Olympics.

9. Hanauma Bay, East Honolulu

Hanauma Bay in East Honolulu.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

As you make your way down the road to Hanauma Bay, the protected marine sanctuary in East Honolulu, stop and snap a photo. The vantage from here is everything.

10. Royal Hawaiian, Waikīkī

The Royal Hawaiian in Waikīkī.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

There are so many gorgeous hotels on Oʻahu, from the historic Moana Surfrider to the retro-cool décor of the revamped Kaimana Beach Hotel, both in Waikīkī. But nothing compares to The Pink Palace of the Pacific. The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort is one of the most iconic hotels in Hawaiʻi. Its distinctive architecture and rosy color have made this a popular—and beautiful—backdrop for vacation photos.

11. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden, Kāneʻohe

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden in Kāneʻohe.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

You see it all over Instagram: the tree-lined road from the entrance of Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden toward the Koʻolau Mountains. Pulling over to snap photos isn’t allowed, but there are so many other spots in this 400-acre city-run garden to photograph. Take the trek to the top of Kilonani Mauka for a nearly 360-degree view of the mountains and Kāneʻohe Bay. Or head to the overlook of Loko Waimaluhia, for a view of the garden’s 32-acre lake built in 1982.

12. Leonard’s Bakery, Kapahulu

Leonard’s Bakery, Kapahulu.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

Hawaiʻi boasts some of the most Instagrammable vacation foods—the kind of food pics that make you want to lick your screen. Malasadas are hot—figuratively and literally—and the most iconic shot is at Leonard’s Bakery. This family-run bakery opened in 1953 and started serving these Portuguese doughnuts. Today, it’s a must-try when visiting the Islands—and a must-photograph outside the landmark bakery on Kapahulu Avenue.

13. Liljestrand House, Tantalus

The Liljestrand House, Tantalus.
Photos: Catherine Toth Fox

There are few Hawai‘i architects whose work is as recognizable as that of Vladimir Ossipoff, with his distinctly mid-century modern aesthetic. One of the most outstanding examples of his work—and one that you can tour—is the Liljestrand House on the slopes of Puʻu ʻŌhiʻa (Mount Tantalus) in Honolulu. The 6,700-square-foot, two-story home is perched above Honolulu, with views of the city and ocean beyond. You can book private tours of the residence; the best is to get a group of 10 friends to book the private sunset tour ($800 for 2 hours), where you can bring your own bottles of wine and pūpū (appetizers) and enjoy the sunset.

While traveling in the winter anywhere else in the world may subject visitors to colder weather, snow and darker days, Hawaiʻi sees tropical weather and perfectly sunny weather even in December and January. Sure, it may rain a bit more, and the daily temps may drop by a few degrees, but it’s still the same sunny tropical weather you could see in the midst of summer. However, there are some things you can only do or see during the Islands’ winter months, and here are some of our top winter activities in Hawaiʻi perfect for visitors or locals.

1. Watch a Surf Contest

A surf contest athlete on a wave.
Photo: Getty Images

From the shores of Sunset Beach on the North Shore to the cliffs that overlook Peʻahi, there are a handful of spots you can go to catch a surf contest. The World Surf League (WSL) holds events with some of the best surfers in the world on Oʻahu at Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline in the months of January and February—when the waves get good—and if you’re really lucky, you may even catch the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, which only can happen in Hawaiʻi’s winter months and requires a day of exceptionally large waves to run.

2. Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial

The USS Missouri, also known as Mighty Mo, served a total of 16 active years in duty.
Photo: Courtesy of the USS Missouri Memorial Association

For many, a trip to Hawaiʻi isn’t complete without visiting Pearl Harbor. The Hawaiʻi naval base was attacked on December 7, 1941 and became the immediate cause of the United States’ entry into World War II. Now, 77 years later, the site is home to relics of the last world war, and includes the USS Arizona Memorial which sees thousands of visitors daily. However, visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial during the dead of summer can be brutally hot—and may lessen your overall enjoyment of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Fortunately, the temperature does drop in the winter, if ever so slightly, making an all day visit to Pearl Harbor National Memorial way more comfortable. Visitors also love checking out the Pacific Aviation Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial and the USS Bowfin Submarine.

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3. Pick Out Your Own Hawaiian Christmas Tree

Norfolk pines, which stay healthy and alive for three to four months, have been dubbed the Hawaiian Christmas tree as they can grow in Oʻahu’s humid climate.
Photo: Kevin Allen

Helemano Farms in the central Oahu town of Wahiawā is known for its Norfolk pines. Dubbed “Hawaiian Christmas trees,” these tropical pines will stay healthy and green for three to four months and disperse less pine needles compared to your average Douglas fir. During December, the farm is abuzz with local families trying to find the perfect tree to take home, and it’s worth taking a stroll through the farm even if you aren’t in the market for a Christmas tree.

For more information, hours and prices, visit helemanofarms.com.

4. Book a Helicopter Tour

A Kauaʻi helicopter tour.
Photo: Getty Images

Sure, you can book a helicopter tour anytime in Hawaiʻi, however flying high above the Pacific with the chance to see North Pacific humpback whales—which migrate to the islands in the winter months—is a truly unreal experience. There are numerous helicopter tour companies from Hawaiʻi you can choose from, with some of the most popular being Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and Magnum Helicopters.

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5. See the Merrie Lights on Display

The decorations at Honolulu City Lights.
Photo: David Croxford

Oʻahu and Kauaʻi are best known for their Hawaiʻi-themed Christmas lights displays, such the Honolulu City Lights and Kauaʻi Festival of Lights. If you’re looking to check out the Honolulu City Lights, it’s best to plan ahead to avoid traffic and a parking fiasco. There are also numerous neighborhoods and streets in Hawaiʻi, like Namoku Street in Kāneʻohe and Hoʻolauae Street in ʻAiea that always put on a festive display.

READ MORE: 5 Tips for Seeing Oahu’s Honolulu City Lights

6. Go on a Snorkel Excursion to Turtle Canyon

Snorkelers at Turtle Canyon.
Photo: David Croxford

As the surf season gets started on northern shorelines during winter, south-facing coastlines enter a dormant state as waves and swell tend to dissipate from December through February. This means you can easily go on a snorkeling adventure or tour knowing your excursion won’t be affected by rocking waves. Turtle Canyon, right off the coast of Waikīkī, is a great place to check out if you’re looking to see a honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle)—however, be sure to never touch a turtle and to give them space when snorkeling around them.

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7. Watch for Whales

A humpback whale slapping his tail.
Photo: Courtesy of Tail Slap: Ed Lyman/NOAA

It’s not just Mainland visitors who flock to the Islands for warmer weather. North Pacific humpback whales also migrate to Hawaiʻi during the winter months, to mate and birth calves in warmer, safer waters. Oʻahu locals will often head to Makapuʻu Lookout for a chance to spot breaching whales; Maui residents have a much easier time, as these gentle giants often appear in the waters off the island’s northern coastline. If you want to get up close and personal, consider a whale-watching adventure with one of Maui’s many tour groups.

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1.    “Ke Kali Nei Au” (The Hawaiian Wedding Song) It just wouldn’t be a Hawaiian wedding without a performance of this song, composed in 1925 by Charles E. King.

2.    “To You Sweetheart Aloha” For decades, this song—written by Harry Owens—was the last song played at any Hawaii dance or nightclub.

3.    “I’ll Weave a Lei of Stars for You” One of R. Alex Anderson’s and Jack Owens’s greatest tunes. Singer Emma Veary says, “The lyrics are just breathtakingly romantic.”

4.    “I’ll Remember You” If you want to hear the real Don Ho, forget “Tiny Bubbles” and listen to him sing this classic penned by Kui Lee.

5.    “Night Bird” This composition by the late Mackey Feary was a huge hit for his group Kalapana in the mid-1970s. It captures young love at its most intense.

6.    “Kawaipunahele” This haunting ballad about longing for a former love was Kealii Reichel’s first big hit. A decade and change later, it remains one of his most-requested songs.

7.    “About You” Cecilio Rodrigues never got the girl he wrote this song for. But it was a massive hit from Cecilio & Kapono’s “Elua” album in 1975.

8.    “Better Together” Jack Johnson’s charming, heart-on-sleeve simple love song for his wife has in a few short years become a wedding staple, both in Hawaii and on the Mainland.

9.     “Kiss You in the Morning” by Kalaeloa is about as sappy as a romantic love song can get, but it still incredibly moving throughout.

10.     “Love and Honesty” is truly a love song’s love song. Crooning about a never-ending love, Hawaiian Style Band promises you love and honesty, and they surely do deliver with this local classic.

11.     “Guava Jelly” is not your typical love ballad. However, its message and wonderfully crooned lyrics are those of love and romance … and guava jelly.

12.     “Pretty Face / Jealousy”, a slow, sorrowful tune about someone in love, is about romance as much as it is about yearning. A classic by The Brothers Cazimero, this song is best enjoyed with your beloved at your side, watching the sun set or gazing out on the night sky.

I was on Lānaʻi recently, chasing down a few stories when that old familiar feeling struck. I was hungry. Actually, I was starving. Travel can do that to you—you’re so busy running around, not missing your flight, getting your rental car and voila, you’re starving. However, I had no clue where to even look for food on Lānaʻi. After asking a handful of local residents—who always know best—I kept hearing the same answer to my question on where to eat. Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine.

From what I was able to gather from the town’s residents, Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine has been around for decades, however the low-key food establishment only offered catering services until just recently. After Ganotisi’s opened its doors to dine-in and takeout customers a few years back, it became an instant local fave on Lānaʻi.

Good food, good mood.
Photo: Kevin Allen

Going into Ganotisi’s with an open mind and empty stomach, I immediately felt at home at the establishment’s relaxing, minimalistic seating area. It reminded me of the old-school plate lunch plate spots I’d go to as a kid on the North Shore, where emphasis and effort was placed more on the food than on the decor. However, there are outdoor seats at Ganotisi’s patio area that were complimented by the natural foliage of the area.

And the food? Let me just put it this way. If Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine were on Oʻahu or Maui, where more people could experience the it, it would be commonly accepted as one of the best plate lunch spots in the state. With a menu dedicated to local-kine grinds, from kalbi short ribs to meat jun and butter garlic shrimp, fans of Hawaiʻi-style fare will have a hard time choosing which of these filling plates to go with. As an avid fan of Korean fried chicken, I went with what I know best and was not disappointed in the slightest.

The Korean fried chicken plate.
Photo: Kevin Allen

An explosion of flavor with every bite, I was pleasantly surprised with not only how juicy the chicken was, and how it was the perfect ratio of chicken skin to meat. A heaping of perfectly made white rice followed every bite and before long I was more than half way through my plate. Turning my attention to the mac salad, I’m shocked at how different it is compared to the stock-standard mac salad I’d get at home. A bit more textured, a touch courser and with peas interspersed, Ganotisi’s mac salad proved to me that different can be good.

It’s not everyday you find a plate lunch spot this good. And while you may not find yourself on Lānaʻi anytime soon, if you do happen to visit the little island, be absolutely sure to visit Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine while you’re there. You won’t be disappointed—and try the mac salad.

Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine, open 8 to 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, 408 Eighth St., Lānaʻi City, (808) 565-7120.

About half an hour from Kahului Airport is Kīhei, a sunny area that stretches for 6 miles along Maui’s south coast. Once a destination for vacationing aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty), this laid-back beach town still lures visitors, with its golden sands, snorkeling, whale-watching, beachy eateries and a wide assortment of affordable accommodations. It’s easy to see why Kīhei has long been a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

1. Get Breakfast at Kīhei Caffe

 

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The motto at Kīhei Caffe says it all: “Eat, talk, share, and eat some more.” This popular breakfast spot—which opens at 5 a.m.!—doesn’t mess around: Its menu is packed with classic and local fare, including fresh buttermilk pancakes, crab cakes eggs Bennies and a kālua pork loco moco. The Surfer Dude sammie is a must-try, with three eggs, two pieces of bacon, tomato, avocado and cheddar cheese on a brioche bun. (The café also serves lunch.) The coffee and drinks menu is great, too, with fresh juices and smoothies. 1945 S. Kīhei Road, (808) 879-2230, kiheicaffe.com

2. Hit the Surf

Surfers heading out from Kalama Beach Park in Kīhei on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/mudskipperanne

Maui is a great place to hit the waves—whether you’re a beginning or veteran rider. In fact, one of Hawaiʻi’s best big-wave spots is Peʻahi—aka Jaws—on the north shore of the island. But there are gentle waves all over the island, and surf schools like Maui Surf Lessons that offer small-group lessons perfect for the entire family. (Recommended for ages 8 and older.) Plus, you’ll get free digital photos of your session—so you can brag about it later to your friends!

3. Enjoy Shave Ice

 

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Rain or shine, shave ice is always a good idea. And in Kīhei, there are a handful of spots that serve this Hawaiʻi treat. Check out Beach Street Maui in Rainbow Mall; it offers dozens of flavors and toppings like haupia (sweet coconut cream), chocolate, caramel and li hing mui powder. You can also get shave ice with vanilla ice cream, gummy bears, mochi balls or sweet azuki beans. The shop—which also serves açaí bowls, bagel sandwiches and smoothies—has a few signature shave ice combos, if you can’t decide what to get. The Hula Girl consists of raspberry, coconut and passion fruit syrups with vanilla ice cream and haupia; the Happy Honu is a combination of blue vanilla and Melona syrups with ice cream, azuki beans and haupia. Rainbow Mall, 2439 S. Kīhei Road, (808) 344-6598, beachstreetmaui.com

4. Learn about Humpback Whales

A humpback whale breaching off Lahaina on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/Beth Cagnoni/500px

During the winter months—November through May, with the peak season running from January to March—you’ll likely see koholā, or North Pacific humpback whales, off Maui’s southern shores. These magnificent mammals migrate to the warmer waters in Hawaiʻi to mate, give birth and frolic. Maui is one of the best places in the world to see these whales—and you don’t need to charter a whale-watching tour. The whales are visible from shore. Learn about these whales at the Humpback Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center, where you can tour the exhibits and interactive displays. 726 S. Kīhei Road,  (808) 879-2818, hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov/visit/visitor-centers.html

5. Hit the Beach(es)

Keawakapu Beach in Kīhei on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/7Michael

Kīhei boasts 6 miles of sandy beaches where you can surf, snorkel, swim or just lounge on the golden sands and enjoy the town’s perpetual sunshine. Keawakapu Beach has clear waters perfect for snorkeling around the coral reef. (You can often spot honu, of Hawaiian green sea turtles, here.) Kamaʻole Beach Parks is really three beaches, all with incredible views of Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi and Molokini offshore. The first of these beaches is Kamaʻole 1, a gorgeous white-sand, crescent-shaped beach that stretches for 1/3 of a mile.

6. Drink Mai Tais and Sing Karaoke

 

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There are parts of Maui that shut down when the sun goes down—but not Kīhei. Haui’s Life’s a Beach, for example, is open daily from 1 p.m. to midnight, with karaoke most nights until 11:30 p.m. Get there for sunset and watch from the lānai with a cold local beer or mai tai. If you’re hungry, LAB offers a variety of Mexican fare, from enchiladas to fish tacos. (Football fans can games Sunday morning games here, too.) 1913 S. Kīhei Road, (808) 891-8010, mauibars.com

Keālia Pond National National Wildlife Refuge on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/RASimon

8. Learn How to Stand-Up Paddleboard

Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun way to catch waves—or just be in the water. The family-run Maui Waveriders offers SUP lessons for all ages, and provides everything you need for a fun day in the sun. Lessons are 90 minutes long and start at $95 a person. 2021 S. Kīhei Road, Kīhei (808) 875-4761, mauiwaveriders.com

9. Take a Workshop

 

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Paper Garden Maui, a charming boutique in Wailea Village Center, offers small and unique workshops every month, ranging from macrame to candle-making. You can even sign up for a one-day watercolor painting class for beginners. Not only will you learn something new, but you’ll have a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take back home with you. Check its Instagram for workshop updates. Wailea Village Center, 116 Wailea Ike Dr., Suite 2202, Wailea, (808) 871-5541, papergardenmaui.com

10. Watch the Sunset

Sunset in Kīhei on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/sanfel

Because of its location on the south shore, Kīhei is one of the best places on Maui to watch the sunset. Sit on one of Kīhei’s many beaches—we like Sugar Beach—or grab a bite to eat at a beachfront eatery with a front-row seat. Nalu’s South Shore Grill, a locally owned restaurant across the street from the shoreline, has great sunset views plus a menu that will satisfy any craving: classic loco mocos, chicken and waffles, salads, burgers and, of course, tropical cocktails. The live music provides the perfect soundtrack to the unforgettable Maui sunset. Azeka Shopping Center, 1280 S. Kīhei Road, Suite 132, (808) 891-8650, naluskihei.com

Brought to life by the newly opened hotel Romer Waikīkī at The Ambassador, the Waikīkī Swim & Social Club is the perfect space for kamaʻāina (locals) and visitors to lounge in Waikīkī.

The idea of a swim and social club seems like something out of yesteryear, however the concept remains undeniably hip even in to 2023. And the Waikīkī Swim & Social Club captures the retro-modern aesthetic of a vintage-chic swim club perfectly with its vibrantly striped cabanas, old-school lounge chairs and almost psychedelic umbrellas, which features Romer’s exclusive marbling brand print. There are even colorful bean bags for guests to lounge on if staying poolside isn’t their thing.

Pool attendants will cater to your needs at the Waikīkī Swim & Social Club, an experience you likely won’t get at even some of the bigger luxury resorts in the Islands. Services include an hourly face misting, sunglasses cleanings, cold towel cooldowns, sunset viewing preparations and more. Yes, it may seem a little bougie from some, but that’s kind of half the fun of being at a swim club—to feel pampered by the pool.

Photo: Courtesy of Romer Waikīkī

If you’re looking to get your heart rate up—or maybe you just want your aura read—Waikīkī Swim & Social Club will also be offering weekly activity programming poolside. With activities ranging from fitness pop-up classes with Body Balance Studios to poolside readings with the hotel’s in-house astrologer, guests and club members can also enjoy live music performed by local musicians on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Of course, what’s a swim club without a smattering of food and drink options? Located at the Waikīkī Swim & Social Club, TableOne serves club members a variety of fresh bites, from favorites such as a homemade burrata from Italian deli Boccocino to tomatoes from Ho Farms Hawaiʻi and fresh bread from the iconic local bakery, The Patisserie. Nothing too heavy to weigh you down while you swim around, but just enough to satisfy any cravings you may have.

Photo: Courtesy of Romer Waikīkī

On the drink menu, you can enjoy a variety of mixed drinks and alcoholic beverages from the poolside bar. From local beers produced by Waikīkī Brewing Co., Kō Hana Distillers, Island Distillers and more, six specialty cocktails are also featured on the menu and sport local spirits and flavors that pay homage to Waikīkī’s vintage pool culture.

So how do you get access in to the Waikīkī Swim & Social Club? Locals who aren’t staying at Romer Waikīkī can experience the club by purchasing the Neighborhood Pass, which includes access to the club with a minimum $50 F&B spend and a kamaʻāina parking rate. Guests of Romer Waikīkī can book a day pass to the swim club or rent a cabana or day bed. (Daybed and cabana rentals include a welcome drink, cold face towels, one bottle of water per person and a Yeti cooler upon request.)

For more information on how to get a day pass or Neighborhood Pass to the Waikīkī Swim & Social Club, visit romerhotels.com or call (808) 941-7777.

Well, you’ve gone and done it, you’ve said “yes” to your person, and now there’s a wedding to plan, along with the best part of the wedding—your honeymoon. Naturally, the warm breezes and sandy beaches of Hawai‘i are appealing to most newlywed couples—who wouldn’t want to kiss under a waterfall or watch a volcano erupt with their new spouse? While lei and mai tais are an important part of the romance, so is planning ahead to ensure that only the best memories are made. Here are a few tips on how to plan your Hawai‘i honeymoon.

Which Is The Best Hawaiian Island For Our Honeymoon? 

The Hawaiian Islands are as diverse as the people (and couples) who visit them. The best island to spend your honeymoon really depends on what type of honeymoon you are looking for—do you want to have memorable outdoor adventures? Relax at a beachside hotel with an indulgent spa? Or maybe you want to eat and drink your way through your honeymoon? In some cases you can do all of those and more, depending on the island you choose.

READ MORE: Best Hawai‘i Honeymoon Resorts in 2023

Honeymooning on O‘ahu

A couple by the bar.
Photo: Courtesy of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono

O‘ahu offers experiences that appeal to those who like more urban adventures including world-class dining and shopping options, as well as gorgeous beaches, cultural activities and incredible museums. Adventure can be found with tours to Kualoa Ranch and Pearl Harbor or hikes along a variety of gorgeous jungle trails. A foodie adventure to the North Shore is also a great option, and you can indulge in area’s world-famous shrimp trucks and a stop along the way at some of the most postcard perfect beaches you’ve yet to see, like Sunset Beach or Waimea Bay. If nightlife is an important part of your stay, Oʻahu is your best bet, especially districts like Downtown Honolulu, Waikīkī and Kakaʻako, which are home to a number of clubs, karaoke bars and more. 

READ MORE: The Best Hotels in Oʻahu, According to our Editors

Your Maui Honeymoon

A couple at Haleakalā.
Photo: Courtesy of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)

For a romantic Hawai‘i honeymoon punctuated by picturesque waterfalls, diverse beaches and unforgettable sunrises, Maui is an island best for nature lovers. Both the newer, upscale resort area of Wailea and the country, beach-filled shores of Pāʻia are filled with classic Hawaiian vibes and offer romance paired with stunning views. Both areas offer easy access to various shopping and dining options, giving couples the choice of ditching the rental car and cruise around the area.

READ MORE: The Best Hotels on Maui, According to our Editors

A Honeymoon on Hawai‘i Island

A couple on the Big Island.
Photo: Courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / John Hook

Hawai‘i Island offers adventure around every corner with manta ray diving tours, caves to explore, excursions to the top of Mauna Kea and hikes to see one of the world’s most active volcanoes (which may or may not be erupting during your honeymoon visit). Add to that a burgeoning food scene, beautiful drives across constantly changing landscapes and both green and black sand beaches, and you’ve got a trip to remember.

READ MORE: The Best Hotels on Hawaiʻi Island, According to our Editors

Honeymooning on Kaua‘i

A couple on a Napali Coast boat tour.
Photo: Courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono

With its dramatic landscapes and quiet beauty, it’s no wonder couples can lose themselves against the backdrop of this gorgeous island. Whether you’re taking in the views at Waimea Canyon or testing your mettle hiking along the Nāpali Coast, there are so many spectacular things to see and do on Kaua‘i. If a hike isn’t on the agenda, you can hop on a helicopter or boat to explore the cliffs and caves of the Napali Coast on the island’s northern shoreline. For a truly memorable experience, float on a tube through caves, canals and chutes at an old sugar plantation with Kauaʻi Backcountry Adventures.

READ MORE: The Best Hotels on Kauaʻi, According to our Editors

Your Lānaʻi Honeymoon

For the chance to really get lost together, Lāna‘i can’t be beat—but it’s not necessarily in everyone’s budget. The small island only has two hotels, and accommodations can eat up a lot of your budget. However, it’s the ultimate destination for shutting most of the world out and focusing on one another. Both hotels offer incredible dining options, memorable spa experiences and all of the pampering you need. A day trip from Maui is also an option, as the only ferry in Hawaiʻi runs between the two islands.

READ MORE: Which Hawaiian Island is Perfect for You?

How Much Should We Budget For A Honeymoon in Hawai‘i?

If you’re planning a Hawaiʻi honeymoon, it’s important to understand that this will not be an inexpensive trip. Items you want to make sure to budget for after you’ve locked in the plane ticket and your travel dates include:

• Accommodations: Hotels across the state average $375 per night, more affordable options as well as more luxurious choices in the mix. Be sure to keep an eye out for resort fees, too—if you have to pay them, make sure you take advantage of what they offer. Be sure to check out our editors’ picks for best hotels on Hawai‘i Island, O‘ahu, Maui and Kaua‘i.
• Rental car and gas: Depending on where you’re staying and what kind of vacation you want to have, you might be able to skip a rental; but most self-directed adventures require your own set of wheels, and gas in Hawai‘i is some of the most expensive in the nation.
• Parking: Parking prices at hotels can add a significant amount to the bill when you check out; be sure you know your hotel’s rental policies and prices (and don’t forget to tip valets).
• Tips: Speaking of tips, be sure to plan for them for cleaning staff, hospitality staff, valets and excursion leaders.
• Food: Whether you’re dining out at five star restaurants, grabbing a poke bowl for the beach or making your own tuna sandwiches, you’ve got to eat , so be sure to budget appropriately.
• Excursions: Whether you want to hop on a boat or be guided through a jungle on a hike, excursions can add up quickly; be sure to book ahead so that you don’t miss out on the things you really want to do.
• Shopping and souvenirs: Shopping in Hawai‘i can be a lot of fun, plus you’ll want to charm that new mother-in-law with something beautiful from your trip; be sure to set some aside for some of the incredible local goods that Hawai‘i has to offer.

How Much Time Should We Spend in Hawai‘i For Our Honeymoon? 

A panoramic Maui view.
Photo: Getty Images

Figuring out how long to stay while planning your Hawaiʻi honeymoon depends on a few factors including budget, available time and whether you want to try out multiple hotels and islands. We recommend a week at minimum. It’s important to remember that travel time to Hawai‘i can cut into a lot of your vacation time. For those traveling long distances, you may also need to factor in time to adjust to the new time zone—we recommend snuggling in bed and ordering room service to help ease the transition. 

No matter which island you choose for your Hawai‘i honeymoon destination, there will be plenty to do, with each day being different from the next. And, of course, you’ll want to make sure to leave plenty of time to focus on your new spouse and your new status as a married couple. Be careful not to overbook your days and leave plenty of time for sipping mai tais poolside and digging your toes into the sand while watching the sunset. 

If your trip includes a visit to one or more islands, be sure to extend the time accordingly. Maui and Lānaʻi are the easiest islands to visit together, as there is a small ferry (for people only, no cars) between the two. It’s easy to extend a stay at one of Lānaʻi luxury resorts or just go visit for the day to check out the Lāna’i Cat Sanctuary and the newly reopened Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Centre.

READ MORE: The Best Hotels on Maui, According to our Editors

To island-hop between the other islands you’ll have to book a flight, which can certainly add to the cost of your trip (keep an eye out for sales—when one airline offers a sale, the others usually follow suit). It’s certainly worth it, though, to add on a quick trip and see one of the other islands. Flights are short and sweet and Southwest Airlines doesn’t charge bag fees, which helps for quicker excursions.

What Are the Best Months to Honeymoon in Hawaiʻi?

Though Hawai‘i is located in the tropics, temperatures drop a bit in winter months. If your plans mostly include swimming, you’ll find the water a bit colder—albeit still very comfortable—on all coastlines, however there are still plenty of warm days from November to January. And the winter season does offer some unbeatable memories, including whale watching and the opportunity to see snow on top of dormant volcanoes. Whale watching season in Hawai‘i runs from November to May.

The summer, however, sees throngs of visitors enjoying their vacations from school and work. The sheer number of people can be a bit overwhelming and not necessarily conducive to romantic relaxation. This leaves a handful of months that sit right in that sweet spot of great temperatures, smaller crowds, and memorable activities that won’t get rained out. The best months to visit for your Hawai‘i honeymoon, when there aren’t a lot of other visitors and the weather is great, are March and April in the spring and September, October and November—before Thanksgiving in the fall.

READ MORE: 12 Reasons Why Summer Is the Best Time to Travel to Hawaiʻi

No matter where you choose to visit, your budget, or your length of stay, your Hawai‘i honeymoon will be even more memorable if you and your spouse spend some time giving back together. Check out the new Mālama Hawai‘i program for volunteer opportunities, and you may even save some money on your hotel.

READ MORE: 11 Date Ideas for Romance in Hawaiʻi

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to surf in Hawaiʻi, or maybe you’re a traveling surfer who’s just looking to catch a few waves on vacation, this is the episode for you. From telling you where to paddle out and discussing the importance of taking lessons, Cat and Kevin cover a wide range of topics that’ll appeal to anyone thinking about getting their feet wet in warm Hawaiian waters.

READ MORE: 4 Oahu Surf Spots Perfect for Beginners

Got questions or comments for us? You can email us at media@hawaiimagazine.com. Follow us on social media @hawaiimagazine, and be sure to subscribe to our channel on SoundCloud, iTunes or Spotify. Also, be sure to check out our Shopify for HAWAIʻI Magazine products. 

What It Is

An annual celebration of the heritage, culture and history of Kona coffee, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival has a legacy spanning more than fifty years, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience the unique flavors and traditions of this special product. Dubbed as the oldest food festival in the state, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival returns this year with more than 40 events throughout ten days: including farm tours, cultural activities, barista training, latte art competitions, pageants and a popular lantern parade.

When and Where:

The 52^nd Kona Coffee Cultural Festival will take place from Friday, Nov. 3 through Sunday, Nov. 12 at multiple venues including the Historic Hōlualoa Village, King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, Hale Halawai County Pavilion, Coconut Grove Marketplace, Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, Makae‘o Pavilion and many more.  

Its History

A hule performance at the festival’s multicultural showcase.
Photo: Courtesy of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

The festival’s origins date back to Hilo in 1970, when the local chamber of commerce joined a small group of Kona business folk to discuss putting together a community event that would attract visitors to the Kona coast during the fall season. The group settled on making the festival about Kona’s iconic agricultural product: coffee.  

In the early years, the festival was a weekend event. By 1978, the coffee celebration had grown to five days and in 1989, the organizers wanted to honor the many cultures that make up Kona’s heritage, and expanded the name to into its current form, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. It was in the early 1990s when the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival secured its place as a ten-day celebration of all things Kona and coffee.

Many of those early events are still part of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, including the UCC Hawaiʻi Miss Kona Coffee Scholarship Pageant, the lei contest, lantern parade, KTA Super Stores Recipe Contest, the prestigious Kona Coffee Cupping Competition and the Kona Coffee Farm tours.

Valerie Corcoran, festival president, says, “The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival inspires hope as we celebrate the rich heritage and exceptional quality of Kona coffee showcased through the many events spread out over the ten days. The story of the hard work of local farmers has been told for nearly 200 years, as Kona’s famous coffee continues to cultivate friendship shared over a cup of coffee. This festival is vital for our community, fostering support for farmers and preserving the cultural legacy of Kona coffee for generations to come.”

Throughout the years, the festival has won multiple awards and recognitions, including The International Festivals & Events Association’s IFEA Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards; the Media Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Award’s Agriculture Tourism Destination Award; and the coveted Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau’s Kahili Award. 

What’s New This Year

Attendees can go on coffee farm tours during the festival.
Photo: Courtesy of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

This year, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival launched Café Bingo, where participants can discover hidden gems and local treasures found at various Kona coffee cafés. The concept is simple: visit four Kona café partners between Nov. 3 through Nov. 12. Take a photo of a unique café experience, such as savoring a signature drink, snapping a creative piece of signage or coffee shot or discovering an unexpected piece of café trivia wearing a festival button. Tag the café and the festival on Instagram and hashtag #konacoffeeculturalfestival, with a slide show of the four locations you visited and automatically be entered to win a prize package worth $500. 

Here’s the list of Café Bingo participants:

• Bikini Bottom Café
• Café Florian
• Green Flash Coffee
• Island Corner Café
• Kaya’s Organic Café
• Kona Coffee & Tea Café
• Kona Heaven
• Kona Mountain Coffee
• Menehune Coffee Company
• Peaberry and Galette Coffee Shop
• UCC Hawaiʻi Kona Coffee Estate
• White Nēnē Coffee Roasters & Mobile Café

How Much It Costs

Festival buttons gives you free access to most events and special rates for ticketed events. They only cost $5 and can be located at multiple locations throughout West Hawai‘i, and also at all festival events. Keiki (kids) ages five and under enter for free.

Farm Tours: 

The following farms have put together special tours for the festival. Each tour is free with a festival button, except for UCC Hawaiʻi Kona, which is $5.

Daily, from Sunday, Nov. 5 through Friday, Nov. 10

• Greenwell Farms: Seed to Cup Farm Tour, 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
• Island Sun Coffee: Farming Kona Coffee with Diversified Crops, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Daily, Monday, Nov. 6 through Friday, Nov. 10

• Buddha’s Cup: Tasting Coffee Like Fine Wine, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Hala Tree Coffee: Transparency in Kona Coffee Farming, 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
• UCC Hawaiʻi Kona Coffee Picking & Farm Experience, 10 a.m., $5 with a festival button

Tips:

1. The festival can be divided into three parts: the festival’s opening weekend, the weekdays and the finale weekend. Take a look at the event schedule online to see how you can plan your visit. 
2. Purchase tickets via Alaska Airlines by Tuesday, Nov. 14 for travel to Kona between Wednesday, Nov. 1 through Tuesday, Nov. 14 for a 5% discount. For more information, click here.  
3. The most popular events are the Lantern Parade, Holualoa Coffee and Art Stroll, UCC Hawaiʻi Miss Kona Coffee Scholarship Competition, the Grand Finale: A Taste of Kona and KTA Super Stores Recipe Contest. 
4. If you’re interested in volunteering with event set up, execution and breakdown, traffic control, clean up and more, email jkadooka@twc.com.

For more information, visit konacoffeefest.com.

Starting on Nov. 1, all of West Maui—except for historic Lahaina—will reopen to tourism, according to Maui Mayor Richard Bissen.

This speeds up the city’s initial plan of reopening the area in phases, which began on Oct. 6, two months after the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than century ravaged Lahaina and killed at least 99 people.

Bissen said he made the move after discussions with his Lahaina advisory team, the Red Cross and other partners. Housing for displaced wildfire survivors will not be affected.

Courtesy of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority

West Maui has about 11,000 hotel rooms—half of the total rooms on the entire island—and this area has long been popular with visitors to the Valley Isle. The return of visitors will kickstart an economy still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and now the August wildfires.

“No one in Hawai‘i will ever forget the tragedy that our friends, families, loved ones, and colleagues in Lahaina are enduring,” said Daniel Nāho‘opi‘i, chief administrative officer of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. “The response from residents statewide and by people around the world to support Maui’s recovery has been incredible and inspiring. Now is the time for people everywhere to show their support for Maui by booking trips, making restaurant reservations, and frequenting Maui’s retail stores and attractions that support workers and their families.”

If you’re planning to travel to West Maui, here’s what you should do:

• Check with individual accommodations, activities and businesses in West Maui to see if they’re open and what are their hours of operations.
• The rest of Maui—which includes Hāna, Wailea, Wailuku and Upcountry Maui—are open. Consider staying in a hotel or B&B in these areas.
• Support local businesses. When you’re planning on where to eat, grab coffee or buy souvenirs, patronize a shop or eatery that’s locally owned.
• Consider volunteering or donating to an organization that’s helping Maui victims, including the Maui Food Bank, Maui Humane Society or to the Maui Strong Fund.
• Be kind, show empathy and be patient. Businesses have had to cut hours and staff. Service might be slower than you remember—or would like. But the island and its people have been recovering from a devastating loss. Show kindness.

For travel updates to Maui, visit here.