Enjoying the sunrise in Hilo Hawaii. You can see gorgeous views of the ocean

21 Romantic Things to Do in Hawaii Right Now (2023)

Visiting Hawaii is a dream for many travelers, but it can be hard to plan since there are so many different things that you’ll likely want to see and do.

We’ve put together a list of the best romantic things to do in Hawaii that are perfect for couples. From helicopter rides and sunset cruises to special activities like spa treatments and dining at top restaurants, we have something for every couple visiting this beautiful island state!

Whether you’re planning your honeymoon or anniversary trip or just want a relaxing getaway with your significant other, these romance ideas will help you create memories that last forever!

We want you all to have a great time on your vacation together. The last thing we want is for either of you to get bored or run out of romantic ideas before the trip ends.

Before we begin, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

Romantic Things to Do in Hawaii: FAQs

Which Hawaiian Island is the most romantic?

We think that Maui is the most romantic Hawaiian island. If you’re looking for a fantastic vacation, this island destination will not disappoint.

Why’s that?

It’s known to be laid-back and has tons of romantic things to do! It offers stunning beaches, breathtaking mountains, and has tons of great restaurants and luxury resorts. Not to mention it’s the most popular island for weddings!

If you’re looking to have a perfect getaway, Maui is definitely the place for you. It has everything that’s needed to make your honeymoon unforgettable!

If you want to learn more about the main differences between the Hawaiian Islands, be sure to check out our other articles on Oahu vs. Maui and The Big Island vs. Maui.

Visiting the Green Sand Beach while staying on the Big Island
Green Sand Beach, one of the best things to do on the Big Island

What is the prettiest Hawaiian Island?

This depends on what you’re looking for on your Hawaiian vacation. For instance, Maui is great for honeymoons and babymoons. Oahu is great for people who prefer a large city and those that want to visit historical sites such as Pearl Harbor.

Visiting the Waipio Valley lookout. You get to see a spectacular view of the mountains and the ocean. A top romantic thing to do on the Big Island
Waipio Valley, Big Island

The Big Island is very diverse and great for people who love volcanoes, and Kauai is great for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What romantic things should I try while in Hawaii?

We have tons of great ideas for you! There’s anything from helicopter rides over volcanic mountains to relaxing spa treatments. You can also go on a romantic sunset cruise, explore the island by ATV or enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the top restaurants in Hawaii.

We’ll take a deeper dive into things to do further down in this article.

Photo of me at Kailua Beach in Oahu. Enjoying the spectacular view of Chinamans hat
View of Chinaman’s Hat from Kualoa Regional Park

No matter what you choose, we’re sure you and your partner will have a fantastic time!

Where is the best place to honeymoon in Hawaii?

As we mentioned before, Maui is a great place for honeymoons. Maui has it all, from stunning beaches and lush jungles to luxurious resorts and world-class restaurants! It has everything you need to make your honeymoon unforgettable.

If you’re looking for a fantastic honeymoon destination, look no further than Maui. Be sure to rent a car while in Maui to make the best use of your time.

Now that we’ve answered some questions, let’s get started on our list of the best romantic things to do in Hawaii!

Top Romantic Things to Do in Hawaii

Private Helicopter Ride

Take a helicopter ride over the stunning Hawaiian landscape if you’re looking for a truly unique and romantic experience. You’ll get to see the islands’ beauty from a whole new perspective, and it’s definitely an experience you’ll never forget!

Hawaii is so beautiful, but it’s even more pretty from above! If you and your partner are nature lovers, we think this is the perfect romantic thing to do in Hawaii for you. Our personal favorite would be a helicopter tour over waterfalls and volcanoes.

Mountain views of Napali coast in Kauai from a helicopter. This is a top romantic activity to do while in Hawaii

All Hawaiian Islands should be able to provide spectacular helicopter tours, but our personal favorites for this activity were the islands of Kauai and Maui.

Both islands have tons of breathtaking waterfalls and natural attractions that will make anyone fall in love with nature.

You can see some of the best waterfalls from the helicopter in Maui, and you can view Waimea Canyon from the air in Kauai!

Relaxing Spa Treatments

As we mentioned earlier, Maui is the most popular place for weddings in Hawaii.

There are a lot of resorts on this exotic island, and many of them have world-class spas that offer a wide range of treatments. From couples massages to pedicures and everything in between, you’re sure to find a treatment that will relax and rejuvenate you both.

If you’re looking for a relaxing and romantic experience, be sure to check out the spa treatments at one of Maui’s many resorts. You won’t regret it! Ahh, nothing can beat a couples massage in Hawaii…

A couple enjoying a romantic massage in Hawaii

It’s honestly one of the most relaxing things you’ll ever experience, and it comes highly recommended.

There are tons of spas throughout Hawaii that offer a variety of wellness treatments for both men and women. Book an appointment, kick off your shoes, and enjoy a little “us” time!

We both got massages at the Grand Wailea Spa in Maui and it was one of the best massages we’ve ever had. The spa is breathtaking, and the staff is incredibly friendly.

A Romantic Sunset or Sunset Cruise

If you’re looking to relax and escape from your busy life, then a romantic sunset is exactly what you need. Watching the sun go down on the beach with your partner is one of life’s most beautiful things.

You can sit back, relax and enjoy each other’s company while watching the sun slowly go down. It doesn’t get more romantic than this!

Anaeho'omalu Bay has one of the best sunsets on the Big Island

Our favorite thing to do at night was snuggling up on the beach with a warm blanket watching the sunset.

There are tons of romantic beaches in Hawaii; just make sure you pick a beach with fantastic sunset views.

See also: 10 Best Places to Watch the Sunset on the Big Island

Another great way to enjoy a romantic evening in Hawaii is by taking a sunset cruise. You’ll get to relax and take in the beauty of the island as the sun sets behind it (depending on where your cruise stops to watch). It’s a perfect way to end a day of exploring or just to relax and spend some time with your loved one.

Watch the Sunrise From the Beach

Watching the sunrise from an exotic beach can be astounding. There are so many breathtaking beaches in Hawaii, and each one has its own unique charm. From black sand beaches to perfect white sand, the options are endless. If you are in Oahu, be sure to check out Lanikai Pillbox or Beach and Kailua Beach.

You and your partner can spend the morning together walking on the beach, watching sea turtles, or just sitting back and enjoying the views. The sunrises in Hawaii are something you’ll never forget!

Watching the sunrise at Pololu Valley you can see gorgeous mountain views. Definitely a top romantic thing to do in Hawaii

We loved watching the sunrise from Lanikai Beach on Oahu or from the Lanikai Pillbox. This was definitely one of the best sunrises we have ever seen.

We watched the sunrise on top of the Lanikai pillbox in Oahu. From here, you can see the Mokes and Lanikai beach.
Sunrise at Lanikai Pillbox

If you are on the Big Island of Hawaii, be sure to check out the sunrises on the Hilo side. Hilo is on the east side and offers the best sunrises on the Big Island.

Private Chef Dinner on the Beach

We’ve already mentioned how amazing Hawaii’s beaches are. What better way to enjoy them than with a freshly cooked meal and your partner by your side?

A private dinner will be set on the beach, and you’ll get to eat while enjoying fantastic views of Hawaii’s coast. It doesn’t get much better than this!

Enjoying a romantic couples dinner in Hawaii

You can choose from various menus that will tantalize your taste buds. From fresh seafood to juicy steaks, you’re sure to find something to your liking.

Dinner at a Romantic Restaurant

No trip to Hawaii is complete without trying out some of its amazing cuisines. What could be more romantic than dinner at one of the top restaurants in Hawaii?

No matter what you choose, we’re sure your meal will be nothing short of amazing. Because after all, who can resist a romantic candlelit dinner?

Picnic on the Beach

When watching the sunrise is not enough, how about taking it to the next level with a romantic picnic on the beach?

A picnic on the beach has everything you need for a fantastic date. You get to relax, enjoy your favorite snacks and drinks, take in all of Hawaii’s beauty and spend some quality time together.

Romantic picnic set up on the beach in Hawaii.

We had a picnic on the beach at Waikiki Beach. It was such a wonderful time and we enjoyed every minute of it.

Doing this for your honeymoon is also another great idea. Even if you are spending your honeymoon in a different place, doing a picnic on the beach can still be a lot of fun!

Stargaze

Even if you don’t enjoy stargazing that much, trust us—Hawaii is the perfect place for it! It’s one of those things you have to experience at least once in your life.

Due to its remoteness and limited light pollution, Hawaii has some of the best night skies in the world. All you have to do is choose a perfect location and sit back with your partner.

Amazing views of the stars on top of Mauna Kea on the Island of Hawaii
Night Sky View from Mauna Kea

The views are breathtaking and the experience is fantastic and relaxing, so why not try something new?
We love stargazing at Oahu’s North Shore, Mauna Kea (Big Island), and Haleakala in Maui.

Take an ATV Tour

Exploring the beautiful islands of Hawaii together is one of our favorite things to do. What better way to do it than with an ATV tour?!

You and your partner will get to explore Hawaii’s lush jungles, exotic landscapes, and even hidden waterfalls. It doesn’t get much better than this!

ATV tours are a great way to explore the island and have fun and excitement while doing it.

Go to a Luau

A luau is always a good idea! It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in Hawaii’s culture.

Luaus are usually held in the evening, so it’s the perfect way to end a romantic day. You both can enjoy traditional Hawaiian music and dances, as well as some amazing food.

Fire dance show at a luau in Hawaii. A luau is a fun activity for couples to try out

We highly recommend checking out one of these authentic events during your stay in Hawaii—you won’t regret it! If you are in Oahu, check out the luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center. It’s one of the best luaus on Oahu, and you won’t regret it.

We went to a luau on the Big Island of Hawaii and Maui, and it was a fantastic experience. We would definitely recommend doing this if you are in Hawaii!

Drive Around the Island

One of our favorite things to do in Hawaii is to just drive around and check out the fantastic scenery. And what could be more romantic than doing it with your partner?!

There are so many beautiful places to see on different islands, and we guarantee you’ll never get tired of them. We love doing this on the island of Kauai, where you can drive to some cool places like the Waimea Canyon or the Napali Coast.

A scenic drive on the Big Island of Hawaii. This is saddle road and a top activity for romantic drives in Hawaii
Saddle Road Big Island

If you are on Maui, be sure to check out the Haleakala National Park. It’s one of the most beautiful places on the island and is surely worth visiting! Don’t forget the famous Road to Hana as well.

If you are on the Big Island, Saddle Road is a scenic drive that you should check out.

Go Snorkeling

If you are looking for some exhilarating (and somewhat adventurous) activities to do in Hawaii, then go snorkeling somewhere beautiful like Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Molokini Crater on Maui, or Two Step Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii.

These places are famous for their excellent snorkeling, and you definitely won’t be disappointed.

You can see some incredible marine life, and if you’re lucky you might even spot a sea turtle!
We had a fantastic time snorkeling at these locations and can’t wait to go back!

See also: Turtle Beach Oahu: Everything You need to know about Laniakea Beach

Visit a Farmer’s Market

If you want to take in some of the true Hawaiian spirit, visiting a local farmer’s market is definitely worth it. Farmer’s markets happen all over the island and feature fresh produce and unique goods.

You can try some delicious food while checking out all the cool stalls and shops, but make sure to bring your appetite!

Colorful fresh produce stand at a farmers market in Hawaii. We visit the farmers market to enjoy some quality time with each other.

We love going to farmer’s markets in Hawaii because you get to eat fresh food while supporting local businesses!

Chocolate Tasting

If you are looking for a unique and romantic experience, why not try a chocolate tasting?

Hawaii is home to some of the best chocolate in the world, and you can find some fantastic shops that offer tastings.

You and your partner can sample different types of chocolate and learn about all the different flavors. It’s definitely a fun and tasty experience!

Go Sailing

Sailing is a very romantic activity, and what could be more beautiful than doing it in Hawaii?
There are many unique places to sail to, including the Napali Coast on Kauai and Lanai.

You can even do some snorkeling during your trip! It’s a fantastic way to see some of Hawaii’s most beautiful places.

Amazing sunset while enjoying a couples sailing tour in Hawaii

We went sailing on the island of Maui and it was such a fun and unique experience. We would definitely recommend going sailing if you are in Hawaii!

Swimming at Waterfalls

Who doesn’t love swimming at a waterfall?

Hawaii is full of impressive waterfalls. No matter which island you visit, there will be some incredible waterfalls to check out.

Me and my partner enjoying the gorgeous waterfall view at Wailua Falls. This is one of my favorite waterfalls in Maui.
Wailua Falls in Maui

You and your partner will have so much fun exploring all the different waterfalls the island has to offer. And if it’s a hot day, it’ll be great to cool off in the water!

See also: The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2021 (The Ultimate Buying Guide)

If you are on Maui, check out some of the waterfalls on the Road to Hana. There you’ll find some of the best waterfalls in Maui.

We enjoyed spectacular views of Waimoku Falls in Maui. Definitely a romantic and top thing to do while in Hawaii
Waimoku Falls, Maui

If you are in Honolulu, I recommend a waterfall hike in Oahu or try hiking one of the best hikes in Oahu. They are some of the best on the island! Dont forget to add the Diamond Head hike to your list as well. If you are on Hawaii Island, don’t forget to check out some of the best waterfalls to visit on the Big Island.

Whale Watching

Whale watching is a must-do activity in Hawaii!

The island is home to humpback whales, which migrate from Alaska to Hawaii every year to escape the harsh winters. These winters cause the humpback’s food source to become scarce.

Whale watching in Maui. A picture of a whale migration

You can go whale watching from the shore or on a boat—both are great options. Our favorite place to whale watch is none other than Maui.

Go Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the islands and get up close and personal with some of Hawaii’s fantastic wildlife.

There are kayaking tours all over the different islands, so you can find one that best suits your interests.
You might even be lucky enough to see sea turtles or dolphins while kayaking!

If you are in Oahu, be sure to check out our list of the top places to Kayak in Oahu.

Wine Tasting

Hawaii has a burgeoning wine industry, and you can taste some amazing wines at wineries all over the islands.

There are even tours you can take to visit local wineries and learn all about the process.
Be sure to try some delicious local food while taking in the beautiful views too, of course!

Romantic wine tasting tour in Hawaii.

There are many different types of wine on offer, so be sure to sample as many as you can!

Visit the Botanical Gardens

Botanical gardens are a great place to take in all of the beauty Hawaii offers.

There are many different gardens located all over the islands, and they offer a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees. If you are in Honolulu, be sure to check out our list of top botanical gardens to visit while in Oahu.

Gorgeous view of Mountains at the botanical garden in Oahu
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens, Oahu

You can also find some beautiful gardens that focus on Hawaiian plants and culture. It’s a great way to get out in the sun and take in the beauty of Hawaii.

Go Horseback Riding

When you’re in Hawaii, why not go horseback riding?! Horseback riding is a great way to take in spectacular scenery while also enjoying a fun activity.

There are many different places to go horseback riding in Hawaii, regardless of which island you pick.

The Wrap Up: Top Romantic Things to Do in Hawaii

There you have it, 21 romantic things to do in Hawaii. Hawaii is a beautiful place to spend your honeymoon, babymoon, anniversary, or any other special time with your loved one.

The islands have so much beauty and culture that it’s hard not to fall in love. As we mentioned earlier, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world and offers some fantastic opportunities for adventure.

If you and your partner love to explore and try new things, then an adventure is definitely the thing for you!

Whether you want to explore natural wonders like waterfalls and mountains or enjoy a lovely picnic, Hawaii will not disappoint. You can hike through the rainforest, do a waterfall hike in Oahu, or a waterfall hike in Maui. There’s something for everyone, and we promise you’ll have a blast!

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Hawaii, we hope this post was helpful for you!

Until next time, Aloha!

RELATED ARTICLES:

Queens Bath Kauai

Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit