Have A Romantic Vacation In Hawaii
Walk Along The Beach
With breathtaking views and hundreds of miles of pristine coastline, a romantic walk along the beach is one of the oldest forms of island romance. The most popular stroll favored by couples is at Waikiki Beach, with dramatic views of the iconic Diamond Head crater in the distance. Others may prefer a spot away from the crowds and beachfront resorts, such as Sunset Beach on Oahu's North Shore, Hanalei Bay on Kaui, Makalawena Beach on the big island and Maui's Makena Beach. Other recommendations include watching the sun disappear into the waters at Kaanapali Beach, Kailua Beach and Waikoloa Beach.
Related: Travel Guide For Honolulu's Waikiki
Dine Under The Stars
Couples can always enjoy an intimate candlelit dinner in a restaurant, but imagine having a private oceanfront dinner with breathtaking ocean views beneath a starlit sky. Several Hawaiian hotels offer captivating experience for couples, with a gourmet meal and wine pairings and perhaps a solo musician and lei greeting. Among the hotels offering a Dine Under the Stars package are the Sheraton in Maui and Kona, the Four Seasons Hualalai, Fairmont Kea Lani and the Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki Beach.
Because the Hawaiian Islands are one of the world's most romantic destinations, local hotels offer a variety of romance packages to meet anyone's taste. Room amenities such as rose petals trailing to the bed, floating candles in the bathroom, chocolate truffles and a bottle of wine can all make for a passionate and unforgettable stay in Hawaii. The Moana Surfrider, Wailea Beach Marriott, the Fairmont Orchid and Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel are among the luxury hotels offering romantic vacation packages, which may also include a relaxing beachside couple's massage. The following morning, couples can enjoy a romantic breakfast in bed, then perhaps a chance to do some shopping for one another.
Head Out To The Ocean
Snorkeling with turtles, a two-person kayak or even parasailing and surfing are all part of romantic Hawaiian activities to be enjoyed on or below the radiantly blue waters of Hawaii. Best of all, these types of recreation can be found at several locations throughout the islands and typically at very reasonable costs. What's more, the water temperature in Oahu, Maui and Kaui all average from the high 70s to low 80s year round, making for a very refreshing way to cool off from the always present humidity. Of all the forms of water recreation, perhaps the most rewarding experience is either snorkeling or scuba diving to glide with colorful tropical fish, sea turtles and other exotic marine life. Top choices for snorkeling include Hanauma Bay and Shark's Cove in Oahu, Kapalua Bay, Kaanapali Beach and Molokini Crater in Maui and Kahaluu Beach on the Big Island.
Take A Nature Hike
One of the best ways to discover the remarkable beauty of the Hawaiian Islands is to embark upon a nature hike. With the tropical climate, colorful flowers and fauna amid magical rainforests and punctuated with scores of waterfalls, Hawaii is truly an island paradise to behold. Among the best places to explore are Twin Falls and Waimoku Falls along the Road to Hana, Kalalau Trail on Kaui's Napali Coast and Koko Crater Trail, Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail and Waimea Falls on Oahu. On the Big Island of Hawaii, couples have the unique chance to hike amongst active volcanoes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or enjoy the incredible grandeur of one of Hawaii's most popular waterfalls at Akaka Falls State Park.
Randy Yagi is a freelance writer covering all things San Francisco. In 2012, he was awarded a Media Fellowship from Stanford University. His work can be found on Examiner.com Examiner.com.