Hawaii is calling.
For many Americans this is their one big, lifetime, bucket-listed dream destination. Being a US state, the language, transportation, currency and in some ways the culture is similar to the mainland. Plus, it’s relatively close: Hawaii is a mere 190 million inches away for Los Angeles. That math translates to a simple 6 hour flight to paradise. Recently Southwest Airlines announced that they will begin service to Honolulu. The starting price? $49 (one way, limited time, limited availably, plus taxes and fees-no way you are going this cheap). Regardless of the price, Southwest is doing something special for traveling couples. Alaska Airlines, as well as Delta Airlines, do get honorable mentions for affordable flights. In no uncertain terms, these airlines are placing the dream couple’s trip within your reach. It’s time to go to Hawaii!
Tickets booked?
Let’s work on your plan. Having been to the Islands a number of times, we have posted a few articles that may help. Step one is to pick an Island(s). We took the challenge to describe each island in three words or less:
Oahu: Crowded, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor
Maui: Trendy, Fun, Yum
Hawaii: Volcanos
Kauai: Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful
Molokai: Rustic, quiet, off the grid
Lanai: Golf, small, island life
Let’s start where most trips to the Island start: Oahu. Most of the flights from the mainland arrive at the Oahu airport. Most people are surprised as they circle on final approach at Honolulu. It is a large city. It’s Manhattan with a beach. There are four recommendations we have for you on Oahu: Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay and the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Waikiki
If you are looking to do a sunset heart-hands selfie, be prepared to share the frame with a few dozen fellow sun worshipers. Waikiki is crowded; there is no getting around it. It’s still very special. Major international resorts line the long golden beach. You will never be a stones through from a “watering hole” with umbrella drinks and other liquid libations. With the sun and sand, the recipe for Hawaiian romance is waiting for you. You can rent a surf board, take a catamaran sunset cruise, or plant yourself in the sand and listen to the surf.
Pearl Harbor
Real all about this important historical attraction on in our most recent post: Remembering Pearl Harbor. Pearl Harbor https://1000fights.com/remembering-pearl-harbor/
Hanauma Bay
Located a few miles, but light years away from the hustle and bustle of the city is Hanauma State Park (https://hanaumabaystatepark.com/). Here you can snorkel and see some amazing sea-life. The waters are shallow making snorkeling an absolute perfect adventure. The beach is very inviting and if you time your visit in the early morning and late afternoon, the crowds are not bad. You can rent all of your snorkeling equipment on sight. Parking is a bit of pain, but there is a tram that will take you down and back from the water. The waters are crystal clear; this place is not to be missed.
Polynesian Cultural Center
Our last stop in Oahu, is the Polynesian Cultural Center (https://www.polynesia.com/). This Disneyland-ish park highlights the many cultures and aspects of traditional Polynesian life. It is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to help young Polynesians earn money for higher education. Island cultures throughout the South Pacific are represented. You are able to stroll from village to village learning about dance, tools, culture and dress of these unique island people. It is all very tastefully done. The highlight is the evening show and luau. Reservations are highly recommended.
While we are on the topic of Island dancing, how could we not mention Luci’s Hula lesson with the Grand Master of Hula: https://1000fights.com/luci-learns-to-hula/
Kauai
Perhaps our favorite island in the chain is Kauai. This island is made for lovers. It is called the garden Island for good reason. It is very lush and green. The entire island operates at a much slower pace. You can dive at the many reefs along the north and south shores, take a helicopter ride to waterfall spot, hike into a secret beach, play a round of golf, or do absolutely nothing sitting on the beach.
There are a dozen or so very nice resorts lining the coast. We highly recommend a stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai. It is a paradise. Kauai https://1000fights.com/grandhyattkaaui/
Once you check in, order up a Hawaiian Massage. https://1000fights.com/fighting-couples-hawaiian-secret/
Maui
If you are looking for a cross between the hustle and bustle of Oahu and sleepy Kauai, Maui is the place for you. Maui has an active foodie scene and has a lively nightlife.
It has been a few moons since we have been to Maui. To offer some current perspectives check out these blog posts:
https://www.tripsavvy.com/romantic-things-to-do-on-maui-1861904
Staying Connected
We strongly recommend using a virtual private network (VPN) when using the hotel’s free wifi – the last thing you want is for your banking info or credit card numbers to get stolen by hackers while you’re far away from home. This bestvpn.com/guides/what-is-vpn-beginners-guide/ has a pretty good breakdown of what VPNs do, if you’re not familiar.
We hope that this post helped you find the inspiration to book your couple’s trip to Hawaii. What are you waiting for? Aloha!
We are Mike and Luci.