11 Date Ideas for Romance in Hawaiʻi

It’s no wonder why Hawaiʻi is considered one of the most romantic places on the planet. Stunning sunsets, secluded beaches, luxurious resorts and intimate restaurants that make you feel extra special—the Islands offer the perfect backdrop for romance.

The rest, though, is up to you.

1. Cuddle at Sunrise on Haleakalā, Maui

Sunrise is unforgettable above the clouds of Halekalā National Park in Maui.
Photo: Getty Images

There’s nothing more romantic than watching the sunrise together—and it’s even more memorable from Haleakalā National Park on Maui. The view from the top of the 10,023-foot dormant volcano top is spectacular, and the temperatures can dip to low 40s, so cuddling is mandatory. (You have to make online reservations.)

2. Stroll on the Secluded Pāpōhaku Beach, Molokaʻi

Pāpōhaku Beach on Molokaʻi.
Photo: Getty Images

Molokaʻi is just 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point and its natural beauty is virtual untouched. Here, you can enjoy secluded beaches, empty hiking trails and quiet evenings. The island is also home to the largest white-sand beach in the state. Pāpōhaku Beach is sprawling and deserted—the perfect place to spend some quality time alone.

3. Dine in Style in Waikīkī

Wine and dine your Valentine at Mugen in Waikīkī.
Photo: Courtesy of ESPACIO The Jewel of Wakīkī

There’s no shortage of romantic restaurants in Hawaiʻi, from luxurious oceanfront dining to cozy bistros with great wine lists. But if you’re looking to really impress your date, book a reservation at Mugen, the signature restaurant at the luxe ESPACIO in Waikīkī. The exclusive boutique hotel—each suite spans over 2,200 square feet—is the ultimate couples getaway, with a hot sauna, a chef’s grade kitchen and a balcony overlooking the Pacific Ocean outfitted with a private Jacuzzi for romantic relaxation. The French-Japanese-inspired restaurant is intimate, with just 36 seats, and offers a decadent nine-course tasting menu with dishes that are as delicious as they are gorgeous. It also boasts a rare collection of wines, many of which are exclusive to the restaurant.

4. Cozy Up at an Adults-Only Resort, Maui

 

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Hotel Wailea is an adults-only resort on Maui—the only one in Hawaiʻi, actually. And yes, no kids allowed! This Relais & Châteaux resort boasts 180-degree unobstructed ocean views, 15 acres of Zen-inspired landscaped grounds and poolside cabanas where you can sip hand-crafted cocktails and relax. Couples can indulge in soothing massages, paddle a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe, learn to surf with a private instructor and dine in the ultra-private Treehouse suspended over the Wailea coastline amongst mango trees. Talk about romantic!

5. Hike through an Enchanted Forest, Kauaʻi

Wai Koa Loop Trail is a beautiful walk on Kauaʻi.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

Even if you’re not really into hiking, the Wai Koa Loop Trail on Kauaʻi’s north shore feels more like a walk through an enchanted forest. You’ll wander along a well-defined path on a working farm on 500 private acres and through the largest mahogany forest in the U.S. At the end is the historic Kīlauea Stone Dam, with a secluded swimming hole and places to picnic.

6. Drink Wine on a Ranch, Maui

The vineyards at ʻUlupalakua Ranch.
Photo: Courtesy of MauiWine

Most visitors—even locals—don’t realize Maui has a thriving vineyard and winery on the slopes of Haleakalā. Open since 1974 and located in Kula, MauiWine produces wines made from estate-grown grapes, pineapple and raspberries. Its farm grows six grape varietals, thriving on the fertile volcanic soil and crisp mountain air. Make reservations at the King’s Cottage and enjoy wine by the glass, wine flights, wine cocktails and small bites in the cottage that was built in the 1870s for King Kalākaua.

7. Stargaze at a Volcano, Hawaiʻi Island

See the Milky Way over the Halema’uma’u lava lake on Kīlauea volcano in dark night skies.
Photo: Courtesy of the National Park Service/Janice Wei

Watch an eruption under starry skies at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (which is open 24 hours) on Hawaiʻi Island. Kīlauea began erupting again in January and the lava lake in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater is spectacular, especially at night.

8. Picnic at Sunset at Hanalei Bay, Kauaʻi

Hanalei Bay, Kauaʻi.
Photo: Getty Images/HaizhanZheng

Pack a picnic and head to Hanalei Bay just before sunset. This popular Kauaʻi beach is runs nearly 2 miles long, with lush mountains as its background. There’s plenty of room to find a secluded spot. Bring blankets and get cozy; it can get chilly after the sun goes down.

9. Dine on a Sunset Dinner Cruise, Hawaiʻi Island

 

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Body Glove Cruises offer a three-hour sunset dinner cruise to Kealakekua Bay on Hawaiʻi Island, traveling 12 miles down the Kona coastline. Drink cocktails while listening to a guide share stories and the history of this area. Dine onboard—a recent menu featured Kona coffee-braised short ribs and Thai coconut curry with Hāmākua-grown sweet potatoes—and enjoy the sunset on the way back.

10. Get Massages Together by the Ocean, Hawaiʻi Island

 

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The Fairmont Orchid on Hawaiʻi Island boasts an award-winning spa without walls. (It’s literally called the Spa Without Walls.) Meaning many of its treatments, from facials to massages, are done outdoors—next to a waterfall or at the ocean’s edge. Listen to the waves as you enjoy a relaxing massage in one of the hotel’s outdoor hale (huts). You’ll feel rejuvenated and restored—and ready for romance.

11. Walk through a Lavender Farm, Maui

Aliʻi Kula Lavender farm in Upcountry Maui.
Photo: David Croxford

The stunning 13.5-acre Aliʻi Kula Lavender farm in Upcountry Maui is the perfect date spot—you can walk hand-in-hand through the soothing scents of lavender. It’s a gorgeous backdrop for photos, too.