Maui for Honeymooners

Few places are as perfect for a honeymoon as Maui. The idyllic beaches, the luminous water, the star-flooded sky—everything down to the swaying palms and gorgeous foliage evokes romance of the highest order. (And this is to say nothing of the island’s collection of impressive restaurants and dreamy resorts.)

Whether you were just married on Maui or are heading to Hawaii’s second-largest island after tying the knot at home, here’s how to have a Maui honeymoon that will live on in your mind and hearts.

Revel in an Epic Sunset Sail

Your first evenings as newlyweds ought to be spent in style—and what better way to do so than gliding on the sea aboard a luxury vessel?

The Kai Kanani has been catering to the freshly-betrothed for over three decades, and, as such, provides some of the best escapades on the island. Their Adventure Sunset Sail marries the aloha spirit with Maui’s greatest sensory delights: Magnificent views of the descending sun, the tantalizing tunes of Maui-made musician Brother Dwight, and The Market’s scrumptious food (think: seared ahi, grilled ribeye, and toasted coconut cookies).

Arrive early to Maluaka Beach—the Kai Kanani’s point of departure—for an afternoon swim before stepping onto the plush catamaran. The hours you’ll spend on the water will be nothing short of divine.

…and an Epic Sunrise

No trip to Maui is complete without paying tribute to the massive shield volcano that comprises three-quarters of the island.

Haleakala—or “House of the Sun”—soars 10,023 feet into the sky, making trips to its summit an exercise in seeing the island from an informed perspective. The behemoth’s 3,000-foot deep depression—as well as its distinctive flora and fauna—render it a pleasure to tour no matter the time of day, but a visit at sunrise is unforgettable. Otherworldly colors paint the sky as Hawaiian chanting—and a sea of onlookers—give the event a momentous, celebratory effect. As it should be: There are few spectacles as staggering as this.

While making the trip on your own is delightful, you can hand over the keys—literally—to the affable folks at Haleakala EcoTours, which will allow you and your new spouse to do little more than kick back, absorb the interpretive tour, and drink in the splendid vistas.

Dive into a Marine Wonderland

Above water and Maui is a sight to behold; dive under the surface of its water and another, possibly even more amazing world unfolds.

Snorkeling spots are ubiquitous around the island—particularly on the leeward side—but nothing beats zipping over to Molokini to see Hawaii’s aquatic wonders. The volcanic caldera (one of three in the world) cradles a bay that brims with ocean animals, from 250 species of fish to live—and colorful—coral. Experience all of this and more with Redline Rafting. Here, 35-foot, customized rafts are used to accommodate small groups of passengers, who are taken to Molokini before heading to the site of the island’s last lava flow.

Dubbed Maui’s Forbidden Coast, this radical coastline is alive with one marvelous sight after another, including underwater grottos, sea cliffs, pristine lava fields, even, at times, spinner dolphins. It blends intimacy with education and thrills—which, come to think of it, is just like marriage.

Capture the Moment!

Take a break between adventure and great meals to capture the excitement of your honeymoon with professional Maui portrait photography. With Karma Hill’s team of talented photographers, you can get beautiful beach shots with turquoise water or amazing sunset shots before dinner without losing much time on your vacation. This is the time to get photos for your Christmas cards or just to share with friends and family.

Dine Under the Spell of Maui’s Top Chefs

Dining any night of the week at The Mill House Restaurant is exceptional (see the photo), but on select weekend nights, Maui Tropical Plantation undergoes a transformation of sorts as the culinary talent at its on-site restaurant hosts Maui Chef’s Table.

Drawing on the freshest seasonal ingredients—including crops that grow mere yards from The Mill House’s kitchen—the chefs create dazzling meals while explaining the stories behind their dishes (and encouraging diners to partake in a lively conversation). Communal tables give the event a dinner-party feel while the grounds—all vibrant Hawaiian flowers and relics from Maui’s sugarcane past—enhance the romance.

Skyrocket Above the Treeline

Bonds are inevitably intensified when you and your partner participate in an exhilarating venture—and Skyline Eco-Adventures is just the outfit to provide you with a safe and electrifying experience.

The winner of frequent accolades, including one of Fodor Travel’s world’s most amazing zip lines, their 5-line zipline on the slopes of Haleakala will leave you breathless. You’ll zoom across immense canyons, through perfumed eucalyptus forests, and above 90-foot drops—all of which will have you and your better half grinning even wider. You’ll also undoubtedly feel great in knowing you’re supporting a company that pays it forward: Skyline Hawai’i contributes a large part of its earnings to nonprofit organizations that directly assist the island.

Get Immersed in Polynesian Culture

Ancestral stories, lavish food, mesmerizing dances—the Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Beach Resort, Marriott Maui is sure to rise to the top of your list of lasting memories.

The location of this acclaimed performance is incredible—a seaside splendor that provides dramatic views of Molokini, Kaho’olawe, and Makena—while the cultural details, from an imu oven to kapa making, will allow you and your darling to step back into ancient Hawaii. Presented by the islands’ premier production company, Tihati, the enchanting event is punctuated by classic luau fare, notable cocktails, and stirring music. (Hello, aphrodisiac.) 

Hike into the Mist

Holding hands and hiking in Maui through a fog-tipped forest epitomizes romance at its finest. The chance to do so abounds across the island—from Hosmer’s Grove to Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area—but we have a soft spot for Waihe’e Ridge Trail. Here, steep ridgelines and lush vegetation lead to a 2,600-foot peak that offers views of West Maui’s verdant valleys and striking coastline. 

Take the Ride of Your Life

Depending on who you’re asking, that maybe marriage itself—but in the literal sense few things are as stunning as the Road to Hana.

The three-hour drive may put undue stress on a holiday that should be marked only by contentment; with this in mind, take a guided tour with Valley Isle Excursions. The venerable company has been giving visitors remarkable trips since their inception two-plus decades ago—and has only grown in superiority.

Their custom cruisers are outfitted for comfort, with extra legroom, expansive viewing windows, climate control, and elevated seats, all of which will enable you and your S.O. to relish the sublime settings. There are many on the way to the island’s remotest outpost, from pools and gardens to gorges (even a state park that boasts a blowhole, an onyx-sand cove, and a sea arch). Slip away from your group to steal a steamy moment with your spouse. Because, really, what’s a Maui honeymoon without a kiss under a waterfall?

These are some really fun things to do if you’re getting hitched. Want more? Here are a few more Maui Honeymoon Activities.