By Karen Sprinkles
Serenity permeates virtually every corner of the Hawaiian Islands, where breathtaking tropical
beaches, flickering palm trees, soothing ocean waters and the spirit of aloha seduce visitors from the moment they step off the plane. Inextricably linked to the landscape, the rich cultural traditions of the Hawaiian people are reflected in the gracious hospitality that abounds on each of the six main islands. Whether you are reveling in the many big-city activities of Honolulu, or relaxing in the mystical fern forests of Volcano Village, Hawaii offers a wealth of
romantic options for couples.
Kohala Coast, Big Island
Azure blue waters framed by rugged, black lava fields provide the unparalleled backdrop for tropical romance on the Big Island's Kohala Coast. Home to world-class resorts including Mauna Kea beach Hotel, the Kohala Coast presents some of the finest beaches on Hawaii Island's west side. Refined dining destinations, luxurious spas and unmatched natural beauty compel visitors to relax and unwind in a serene and utterly magnificent setting. For newlyweds, a couple's massage, open-air dining or romantic walk along softly lit, oceanfront pathways never fails to inspire.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Drive
Kohala Coast, Hawaii 96743
(866) 977-4589
princeresortshawaii.com
Waikiki, Oahu
Although hoards of tourists flock to this famous Hawaiian destination, Waikiki Beach always retains its romantic and luxurious charm. The famed 7-mile beach plays host to some of the finest luxury hotels in the world, including the venerable Royal Hawaiian Hotel and the Halekulani Hotel, which fronts one of the most desirable sections of beach in Waikiki. Luxury spas and fine dining are among the many amenities at these world-renowned hotels.
Halekulani
2199 Kalia Road
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
halekulani.com/
(808) 923-2311
The Royal Hawaiian
2259 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 923-7311
royal-hawaiian.com
Volcano Village, Big Island
While a tropical retreat may be most people's idea of a Hawaiian honeymoon, newlyweds should consider one of Hawaii's most unique destinations, Volcano Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. Located near the active Kilauea Volcano, this fern-shrouded area offers plentiful accommodations at bed and breakfast facilities tucked away in dense forests of ohia trees, the blossoms of which are the official flower of the Big Island. The luxurious Kilauea Lodge, with its wood-burning fireplace in the lobby, makes for a cozy setting when it's raining outside, while the covered hot-tub in the lush, misty gardens offers a prelude to romance.
Kilauea Lodge
19-3948 Old Volcano Road
Volcano Village, Hawaii 96785
(808) 967-7367
kilauealodge.com
Wailea, Maui
One of the most desirable and beautiful locations on Maui, the island's southern shore is highlighted by the resort area of Wailea. Here, some of the most acclaimed resorts on the Islands include Four Seasons Resort Maui, which features a host of luxurious amenities including a premier luxury spa and a spectacular swimming pool reserved for guests 18 years and older. Another area resort, the magnificent Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa presents candlelit dining at Wolfgang Puck's notable Spago restaurant, where the glow of tiki torches creates an intimate ambiance.
Four Seasons Resort Maui
3900 Wailea Alanui
Wailea, Maui, 96753
(808) 874-8000
http://www.FourSeasons.com/Maui
Grand Wailea
3850 Wailea Alanui Drive
Wailea, Maui
(800) 888-6100
grandwailea.com
About the Author:
Karen Sprinkles has been a freelance writer since 1988. She's currently the managing editor of a luxury home magazine and has written for regional newspapers and magazines. Sprinkles received the Award of Excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers Association for "The Hawaii Home Book," which reached No. 1 on the Hawaii bestsellers list. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California.
