Known for its beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, Honolulu on the island of O’ahu is already an inherently romantic destination. The capital of Hawaii beckons couples with its lush natural scenery, sunset views, and array of activities.
| Activity | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sunset Stroll on Waikiki Beach | Romantic beach walk during sunset with stunning ocean views. |
| Couples Massage | Pamper yourselves with a relaxing couples massage at luxury resorts. |
| Helicopter Tour | Thrilling helicopter ride for bird’s-eye views of Honolulu. |
| Hawaiian Luau | Immerse in Polynesian culture with hula dancing and Hawaiian cuisine. |
| Manoa Falls Trail Hike | Romantic hike through lush rainforest to a 100-foot waterfall. |
| Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay | Discover marine life while snorkeling in crystal clear waters. |
| Sunset from Diamond Head Lookout | Watch the sunset from the iconic Diamond Head crater. |
| Historic Chinatown Exploration | Wander through vibrant Chinatown district with art and treats. |
| Candlelight Tour of Iolani Palace | Unique tour of the historic royal residence in candlelight. |
| Picnic at Kapiolani Park | Enjoy a romantic picnic with scenic views of Diamond Head. |
| Whale Watching at Makapu’u Lookout | Spot humpback whales together between November and April. |
| Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art | Explore Islamic art and culture at a museum with coastal views. |
From peaceful walks on the beach to exciting ocean adventures, Honolulu offers many romantic things for couples to experience together.
Take a Sunset Stroll on Waikiki Beach
Name and Location: Waikiki Beach, located on the south shore of Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, is world-famous for its golden sands and scenic sunsets.
History and Significance: Waikiki has been a popular beach destination since the early 20th century. It’s known for its historical significance in Hawaiian surfing culture.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach, witnessing breathtaking sunsets with views of Diamond Head in the distance. The area is also bustling with shops and restaurants.
Visitor Information: The beach is accessible all year round, with no entry fee. It’s advisable to arrive early to find parking and enjoy the beach before sunset.
As one of the most famous beaches in the world, the stunning stretch of sand at Waikiki Beach sets the mood with its gentle waves, alluring sunsets, and charming backdrop of the Waikiki shoreline. During the special time of day when the sun dips into the ocean, take a barefoot stroll with your sweetheart along the beach. Soak up the color-splashed skies over the sea at dusk during this peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful experience.
Indulge in a Couples Massage
Name and Location: Couples massages are offered at various luxury spas and resorts across Hawaii, particularly in tourist areas like Waikiki, Maui, and Kauai.
History and Significance: Massage therapy is an integral part of traditional Hawaiian healing practices. Today, it’s a popular way for couples to relax and reconnect.
What to Expect: Expect a tranquil environment with professional therapists offering a range of massage styles, from traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi to Swedish and deep tissue massages.
Visitor Information: Advance booking is recommended. Check specific spa offerings and prices, as they can vary. Many spas also offer additional amenities like saunas and hot tubs.
Pamper yourselves with a relaxing and romantic couples massage at a luxury oceanfront resort like Halekulani or the Kahala Hotel & Resort. You’ll both emerge feeling refreshed and blissful after an hour of indulgent massage techniques and aromatic essential oils. Many spas in Honolulu also offer couples-focused treatments and amenities like soaking tubs for two.
See the City from a Helicopter
Name and Location: Helicopter tours are available in several Hawaiian locations, including Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, offering aerial views of the islands’ landscapes.
History and Significance: Helicopter tours provide a unique perspective on Hawaii’s geography and have become a popular way to see the islands’ natural wonders, including volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines.
What to Expect: Expect breathtaking views of the city, coastlines, mountains, and possibly even active volcanoes. Tours often include commentary on the geography and history of the sights.
Visitor Information: Tours vary in length and price. Booking in advance is recommended. Weight restrictions apply, and weather conditions can affect availability.
Soar high above O’ahu together on a thrilling helicopter tour to see Honolulu and the island from an incredible bird’s eye perspective. The exhilarating ride in a comfortable helicopter with floor-to-ceiling windows showcases iconic spots like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head crater, Manoa Falls, and the verdant mountains in dramatic fashion. After touching back down, you may even receive a special souvenir photo from your aerial adventure.
Attend a Hawaiian Luau
Name and Location: Luaus are traditional Hawaiian parties or feasts that are popular throughout the Hawaiian Islands, especially in tourist areas like Waikiki, Maui, and Kauai.
History and Significance: Luaus have a rich history in Hawaiian culture, traditionally celebrating significant life events. Today, they are a celebration of Hawaiian heritage and hospitality.
What to Expect: A luau typically includes a buffet of Hawaiian dishes like Kalua pig, poi, and haupia, along with live music, hula dancing, and sometimes fire dancing.
Visitor Information: Reservations are usually required. Prices and experiences vary, so it’s advisable to research and choose one that suits your preferences. Dress is casual, and luaus are typically family-friendly.
Immerse yourselves into local Polynesian culture by attending an authentic Hawaiian luau, many of which offer stunning sunset beach backdrops. These celebrations feature beloved island traditions like powerful hula dancing, melodic music, lavish spreads of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, and more. Often, couples are invited to learn traditional Hawaiian dance steps too. Embrace together as you take part in beloved parts of Hawaiian heritage.
Hike to Manoa Falls Trail
Name and Location: Manoa Falls Trail is located in the Manoa Valley on Oahu, a short drive from downtown Honolulu.
History and Significance: The trail leads through a lush Hawaiian rainforest, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystem.
What to Expect: This 1.6-mile round-trip hike is considered moderately easy, leading to the beautiful 150-foot Manoa Falls. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Visitor Information: Parking is available near the trailhead for a fee. It’s advisable to go early to avoid crowds and bring water and bug repellent.
Journey through towering bamboo forests and jungle-like terrain on this romantic Hawaii hike appropriate for beginners. Escape into nature together as you walk through lush rainforest covered in bright green ferns, giant elephant ear plants, and fragrant wild ginger. The rewarding payoff is viewing the incredible 100-foot waterfall at the end of the trail. Stay awhile resting on the large rocks at the base of the falls and taking in your special surroundings.
Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
Name and Location: Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve and marine life conservation area located on the southeast coast of Oahu.
History and Significance: Formed within a volcanic cone, Hanauma Bay is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life, making it a popular snorkeling destination.
What to Expect: Visitors can expect clear waters and the chance to see a variety of colorful fish and marine life. Snorkeling equipment can be rented on-site.
Visitor Information: The bay is closed on Tuesdays to allow fish feeding. There’s an entrance fee and parking fee. Visitors are required to watch an educational video before entering.
Discover colorful schools of tropical fish and sea turtles swimming right by you as you float gently through the beautifully calm waters of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Snorkeling gear allows you to peer directly into the underwater world that makes Hanauma Bay one of Oahu’s most treasured spots. Few things feel more romantic than drifting quietly together through crystal clear waters teeming with incredible sea life in every direction.
Watch the Sunset from Diamond Head Lookout
Name and Location: Diamond Head Lookout is part of the Diamond Head State Monument, located on the eastern edge of Waikiki’s coastline in Oahu.
History and Significance: Diamond Head is a volcanic tuff cone and a famous Hawaiian landmark. The summit offers panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.
What to Expect: The hike to the lookout is moderately challenging, with steep stairs and tunnels. The reward is a breathtaking view, especially at sunset.
Visitor Information: There’s an entrance fee for the state monument. The hike takes about 1.5-2 hours round-trip. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
One of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks is the dramatic green crater of Diamond Head, which provides perhaps the most stunning vantage point for watching the sunset with your significant other. At dusk, make the 0.8-mile trek up to the summit together. Upon reaching the very top, sit romantically together on a bench overlooking the sprawling city and take in a sweeping panorama of sea and sky ablaze in golden hour.
Wander through Historic Chinatown
Name and Location: Historic Chinatown is located in downtown Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, and is known for its vibrant cultural scene.
History and Significance: Established in the 19th century, Chinatown in Honolulu is one of the oldest Chinatowns in the United States. It played a significant role in the history and development of Honolulu.
What to Expect: Visitors can expect a unique blend of historic and modern influences, with traditional markets, art galleries, specialty shops, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
Visitor Information: Chinatown is easily accessible by public transportation and is best explored on foot. It’s advisable to be mindful of personal belongings as with any busy urban area.
In Honolulu’s charming historic Chinatown district, couples can spend hours getting happily lost wandering the vibrant area hand-in-hand. Tour an old Chinese temple, buy fragrant spices and teas, explore Jack London-era buildings, visit art galleries showcasing local talent, and try tasty treats from bakeries, markets, and hole-in-the-wall eateries around every corner in this atmospheric neighborhood.
See Iolani Palace by Candlelight
Name and Location: Iolani Palace is located in downtown Honolulu and is a national historic landmark and the only royal palace in the United States.
History and Significance: Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, Iolani Palace was the residence of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs and is a symbol of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s former sovereignty.
What to Expect: Seeing the palace by candlelight offers a unique and intimate experience. Visitors can explore the rich history and elegant interiors of the palace, often accompanied by Hawaiian music.
Visitor Information: Candlelight tours are offered on special occasions and may require advance reservations. Check the palace’s website for schedule and ticket information.
For an incredibly unique romantic experience, join one of the special candlelight tours offered at the historic Iolani Palace, America’s only official royal residence. As you walk through the grandeur of the regal palace filled with flickering candles, costumed interpreters share stories about the palace’s intriguing history. Wandering the ornate rooms full of period décor in atmospheric low light feels like stepping back in time with your beloved.
Picnic at Kapiolani Park
Name and Location: Kapiolani Park is located at the east end of Waikiki in Honolulu and is the largest and oldest public park in Hawaii.
History and Significance: Established in 1877 and named after Queen Kapiolani, the park is an important cultural and historical landmark, hosting various events and concerts.
What to Expect: The park offers large open spaces perfect for picnicking, jogging, and relaxing. It’s also home to the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Shell, an outdoor concert venue.
Visitor Information: The park is open daily and free to the public. Facilities like restrooms and picnic areas are available. It’s a popular spot, especially on weekends.
Pick up some locally-made artisan treats and fresh, tropical local fruits before heading over to spacious, palm tree-dotted Kapiolani Park. Find a nice grassy spot underneath a sprawling banyan tree and take time together to leisurely picnic surrounded by this scenic urban oasis with its views of Diamond Head and Waikiki in the distance, adding to the romance. If you visit on Sundays, stick around for live Hawaiian music at Kapiolani Bandstand.
Whale Watch from Makapu’u Lookout
Name and Location: Makapu’u Lookout is located on the eastern tip of Oahu, offering stunning coastal views and a prime spot for whale watching.
History and Significance: The lookout is part of the Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the island’s rugged coastline.
What to Expect: During the winter months, visitors can spot humpback whales migrating through the ocean waters. The lookout also offers views of the Makapu’u Lighthouse.
Visitor Information: The lookout is accessible by car, with a parking lot available. Binoculars are recommended for a better view of the whales.
Between November and April, majestic humpback whales make their annual return to the warm Hawaiian waters near O’ahu. Journey out east together to stunning Makapu’u Lookout to try glimpsing these incredible creatures from high up on the cliffs as pods breach the surface. Watching in awe for whale spouts on the horizon feels like a special shared experience. You may even spot mothers swimming closely alongside their calves on their oceanic journey.
Stroll through Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art
Name and Location: The Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design is located in Honolulu, near Diamond Head.
History and Significance: Shangri La was originally the home of heiress Doris Duke and is now a center for learning about the global cultures of Islamic art and design.
What to Expect: Visitors can expect to see an extensive collection of Islamic art, textiles, and architectural features, along with stunning views of the ocean and gardens.
Visitor Information: Advance reservations are required for tours, which are the only way to access the museum. Check their website for tour schedules and ticket information.
Discover Islamic art and culture together at this special museum tucked into the beautiful hillside greenery above the sea. During guided tours of tobacco heiress Doris Duke’s former Hawaii estate that is now Shangri La museum, admire intricate Islamic architectural details and view rare, exquisite works of art with your darling in the intimate coastal setting she called her sanctuary. Wander hand-in-hand through Islamic-inspired gardens overlooking the dazzling Pacific too.
Honolulu exudes romance through its tropical setting, wealth of outdoor activities for couples, world-renowned sights to share, and ample opportunities for peaceful intimate moments together surrounded by island beauty. Reconnect one-on-one as you create treasured memories exploring O’ahu.