Alright, honeymooning on both Oahu and Maui? You've chosen two amazing Hawaiian islands with completely different atmospheres – you're in for a treat!,and wanting to enjoy it all without losing anything in the process, here's my opinion on how many days you should book and what you absolutely cannot miss
For a fantastic first-time honeymoon experience hitting the highlights of both Oahu and Maui, I'd recommend planning for a total of 10 to 14 days. This gives you enough time to explore each island properly and enjoy some relaxing honeymoon moments.
Here's a possible breakdown:
Oahu: 4-6 Days
Oahu is where you'll likely fly into Honolulu, and it offers a fantastic mix of history, culture, bustling city life, and beautiful beaches. Here’s what you should definitely do:
Pearl Harbor: This is a must-visit for a historical and moving experience. Allow at least half a day to explore the memorials and museums.
Waikiki Beach: You simply can't go to Oahu and not spend time on this iconic beach! Learn to surf, relax on the sand, or just people-watch. Take a romantic sunset stroll along the shore.
Diamond Head Hike: For stunning panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline, hike to the summit of Diamond Head Crater. It's a moderately easy hike and so worth the effort. Go early to avoid the heat and crowds.
Iolani Palace: Step back in time and tour the only official residence of royalty in the United States. It's a fascinating look into Hawaii's royal history.
Polynesian Cultural Center: Immerse yourselves in the cultures of the Pacific Islands with interactive villages, demonstrations, a luau with delicious food, and a spectacular evening show. This is a full-day experience.
North Shore (if you have time): Rent a car and drive up to the North Shore, famous for its massive winter waves (November-February) and laid-back surf town vibes. Enjoy shrimp trucks and stunning beaches like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (reservations required): If you love snorkeling, this is a must-do! The bay is teeming with colorful fish. Book your reservations well in advance as they fill up quickly.
Maui: 6-8 Days
Maui is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, romantic atmosphere, and diverse landscapes. You'll definitely want to dedicate more time here for a truly immersive honeymoon experience.
Road to Hana: This is an absolute must-do! Drive along the scenic Hana Highway, stopping at waterfalls, lush rainforests, stunning coastal views, and charming small towns. Allow a full day for this adventure and be prepared for winding roads.
Haleakala National Park: Witness a sunrise or sunset from the summit of the dormant Haleakala volcano. It's an otherworldly experience with incredible views. Dress warmly, as it gets cold at the top! You can also hike within the crater.
Kaanapali Beach: Relax on this beautiful stretch of beach, go swimming, snorkeling, or try paddleboarding. Many resorts are located along this beach, offering easy access to amenities.
Lahaina Town: Explore this historic whaling village with its art galleries, shops, and restaurants. It's a great place for a romantic dinner by the water.
Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Trip to Molokini Crater: Take a boat trip to this partially submerged volcanic crater, a haven for marine life. It's an unforgettable snorkeling or diving experience.
Wailea Beaches: This area boasts some of Maui's most luxurious resorts and stunning, swimmable beaches like Wailea Beach, Polo Beach, and Makena Beach (Big Beach). Perfect for relaxation and romance.
Upcountry Maui: Explore the cooler, greener side of Maui with its charming towns like Makawao and Kula. Visit a lavender farm, a winery, or a coffee plantation for a unique experience.
Attend a Luau: Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian feast with music, hula dancing, and storytelling. Many resorts and venues offer luaus.
Travel Between Islands:
Getting between Oahu and Maui is a quick and easy inter-island flight (about 30-40 minutes). You'll likely fly from Honolulu (HNL) to Kahului (OGG) on Maui. Factor in travel time to and from the airports, as well as security checks.
Our Recommendation:
For your honeymoon to Maui and Oahu, I would personally prefer a 12-day stay, with 4 days in Oahu to cover the main historical and city attractions, and 8 days in Maui to truly absorb the natural beauty and experience a leisurely pace. This provides an optimal balance of sightseeing and relaxation, which is ideal for a honeymoon!
Remember, this is just a suggestion! Feel free to personalize it according to your interests and priorities. If you're history-focused, you may want to spend more days on Oahu. However, if nature and relaxation are your primary objectives, you may prefer to give more days to Maui.
Regardless of how you divide your time, you are sure to have an amazing honeymoon in Hawaii! Make the most of each moment!
