Second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is an island of infinite romantic temptations and one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations. Stand 10,000 feet above a bed of clouds atop the scenic Haleakala, dive into the cool freshwater through the Wai’anapanapa caves or lie alongside an enchanting stretch of coastline while sipping on a pina colada.
With a population of over 117,500, it is the third most populated and the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands. This serene and breathtaking lush tropical island continues to attract honeymooners from all over the world. With breathtaking clear mountains, beautiful coastal trails, white sandy beaches and marvellous cliffs, Maui has one of the most unforgettable landscapes you will ever come across. With one of the most distinctive eco-systems on earth, Maui has a wide array of both plant and animal species to add to its surreal and tropical appeal.
The Ka’anapali Beach
Maui is filled with exotic and lavish accommodations, eateries, shopping areas, beaches, resorts and sporting activities. There are accommodations to fit every price range. The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui is an all-suite villa resort, known for its honeymoon packages. Luxury penthouses are also a popular option for many honeymoon couples whom are opting for a more romantic and exclusive setting. Other popular luxury hotels are spread out in the Wailea and Kapalua regions.
Haleakala National Park, sunrise watching at visitors center
If you are an athletic couple, the Polo Beach Club is the perfect honeymoon accommodation for you and offers a wide range of sporting activities to choose from including tennis, golf and swimming. It is located close to the Oceanside with spectacular views of white sandy beaches, rainbows and alluring pink and gold sunsets.
If you are both the exploring type, Maui offers a wide range of activities to choose from including hiking, surfing, swimming, sport fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, hang gliding, paragliding and golfing. The Hawaiians are some of the friendliest people in the world, so you can expect nothing less than being treated like royalty.
Wai'anapanapa caves
One of the best ways to explore some of the plush settings that Maui has to offer is by going on a scenic drive along a coastline such as, Seven Sacred Pools, where you will get an amazing view of the lush and tropical greeneries. Another scenic drive that Maui is known for is the Hana Highway, which has over 600 curvy turns, traditional Hawaiian-type bridges and a breathtaking view of waterfalls. This highway can be explored via land or by helicopter. Some of the highlights of the trip to watch out for include Paia Town, Maui Grown Market, the Puohokamoa Stream, Honomanu Bay and the Wailua Valley Lookout.
The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui
Taking a hiking tour is another great way to explore some of the natural sights and trails of Maui including the rainforests, waterfalls, mountains and jungles. The Haleakala Crater has 30 miles of trail to cover in the crater and summit area. You can choose from a fifteen-minute hike to an overnight one depending on your level of comfort. Another great way to explore the Haleakala Crater is by taking a unique downhill bike tour. Other great hikes to choose from include the East Maui Waterfalls and the Hana Waterfalls Hike.
Honomanu Bay
The sunrise at the summit of Haleakala National Park will take you over 10,000 feet above the sea level and is one not to be missed. This can take up to a whole day of driving up the mountain, but the end result will definitely be worth the trip. However, if you really don’t want to spend the entire day driving, you can opt for a mid-day safari at 6500 feet of elevation to enjoy a beautiful and panoramic view of the Central Valley and the West Maui Mountains. This is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience and offers a breathtaking view of Hawaii. Aside from indulging in the views, you can also choose to check out the lush greeneries and wildlife in the surrounding areas or make a stop at the Kula Lodge Restaurant, which is a great place to have breakfast after watching the sunrise.
Hana Waterfalls
The Ka’anapali Beach in West Maui has often been named “America’s Best Beach” and is known for its magical rainbows and white sandy beaches. Ka’anapali is a swimming beach and is recognized for attracting surfers and snorkelers from around the globe. Known as West Maui’s “signature beach” it is easily accessible from most Ka’anapali hotels and accommodations.
Just north of Ka’anapali Beach, the jungle rainforest at Honolua Bay has one of the most distinct and lush landscapes that Maui has to offer. The Bay is also a marine reserve and is known for its huge variety of fish, turtles and eels. It is often known as the Holy Grail for snorkelers and divers.
At night, couples should walk alongside the Oneloa Beach, which provides a private and peaceful setting and offers a beautiful view of Molokai. Oneloa has plenty of exciting activities to choose from including whitewater paddling, golfing, fishing, kayaking and plenty more.
Haleakala National Park
Hana is located on the eastern part of the island and has the best private and secluded setting and black sand beaches. Its untouched landscapes and immense waterfalls make Hana a tropical paradise for everyone who visits. A four-wheel drive and occasional stops are recommended as this drive encompasses over 600 curves and 59 bridges.
If you are the golfing type, Maui has a wide range of open golf resort courses, which are some of the best the world has to offer. You can choose from The Dunes, Ka’anapali, Kapalua or Makena. Each course has distinct ocean and mountain views, layout and bountiful lush greens. Ideal climate conditions, spectacular views and remarkable golf courses makes Maui the perfect golfer’s destination.
Snorkling with sea turtle
And to top it all off, a helicopter ride over the West Maui mountains is a great way to wrap up every honeymoon by taking in a bird’s eye view of the impressive coastlines, mountains, shores, waterfalls, beaches and lush greeneries that this tropical island has to offer.
Whether you are opting for a honeymoon that is intimate, adventurous or luxurious, Maui will undoubtedly leave both of you with an unforgettable and lasting memory of this tropical paradise and make you fall in love all over again.