Plan The Most Romantic Hawaiian Honeymoon

Hawaii and honeymooning are two words that are basically synonymous. Choosing what island to spend your time on will be your challenge but our favourite of the moment is Oahu. Hawaii’s third largest island is home to scores of spectacular sceneries, a wealth of ancient culture and a trove of modern luxuries. Whether it’s secluded romance or endless adventure you are after, Oahu is the island for you.

On the sunny west coast, escape to the five-star Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. Nestled in a pristine lagoon along a rustic coastline with the Waianae mountains providing a lush backdrop, this is the ultimate romantic oasis. Unwind in the adults-only infinity pool overlooking the ocean while enjoying exceptional pool-side amenities.

Pool views at The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. Photography by Carrie MacPherson.

The stellar staff may even surprise you with a tray of frozen grapes. Dine al fresco at one of five options, from the award-winning Chef Michael Mina’s fish house to Noe for upscale Italian cuisine. Treat yourselves to a couple’s massage at the Naupaka Spa & Wellness centre, where all treatments incorporate an element from ancient Hawaiian healing traditions.

The breathtaking open air lobby at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikki Beach.

After a few days of serenity, head to Honolulu, Hawaii’s bustling cosmopolitan capital. Stroll along Kalakaua Avenue, the long stretch of high-end hotels, shops and smart eateries. Settle in at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach for its stunning 8^th-floor infinity pools and equally elevated services. The Ritz is within walking distance to the beach and just steps from Luxury Row, home to the world’s most coveted labels, from Cartier to Saint Laurent. When in Waikiki, you must try your hand at the country’s most popular sport. Learn from the best with lessons at Faith Surf School, run by local surf legend, Tony Moniz. Later on, catch the luau dinner show at the Royal Hawaiian (built in 1927 and famous for its pink facade); an entertaining and traditional feast of food, song, hula dancing and storytelling. Blue Note Hawaii, the world-renowned jazz club, is another romantic option for an intimate evening of dinner and live music.

There is no shortage of romantic escapes in Oaha. Photography courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority.

A day trip to Kualoa Ranch on the island’s east coast is a must for nature lovers and film buffs. This 4,000-acre nature preserve is where Jurassic Park and many other movies were filmed.

Nature lovers must visit Kualoa Ranch on Oahu's east coast. Photography courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority.

Choose your adventure and explore the park by: e-bike, ATV, horseback, jeep, zip-line or trolley. Before leaving Oahu, be sure to take the plunge with Wild Side Specialty Tours, an in-depth ocean experience with certified naturalists and marine biologists for a guided snorkeling tour where you may even swim among wild dolphins and sea turtles. Wrap up your honeymoon with the Pilialoha (beloved) Connection, a new spa treatment for couples at the in-house spa at the Ritz-Carlton Residences. A combination of lomilomi massage, a wild Lehua honey scrub, warm stone placement and a fresh-cut ‘olena (Hawaiian turmeric) ritual to strengthen your root connection with your loved-one. Leaving Oahu, connected, relaxed and ready for the return to reality.

* The Hawaii Department of Transportation has announced beginning September 1, 2020 that all trans-Pacific travellers including Canadians will be allowed to visit Hawaii without having to quarantine, as long as they provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival.