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5 Adventures for Your Maui Hawaii Honeymoon

September 12, 2011 By

Black Sand beach, Maui

Welcome to paradise honeymooners! You can pretty much do, see, eat, drink whatever you want on your island adventure in Maui… but here are some activities that you should definitely seek out during your Hawaii honeymoon.

1. Take a Ride on a Catamaran

The ocean looks like a big blue crystal from the beach, so while you’re honeymooning, try to plan a boat trip of some kind so that you’re only view isn’t from the shore. There are many boat charters that explore the Pacific, and aren’t too costly if you’re on a budget. Check out SailMaui.com or HulaGirls.com for some great themed excursions, like “Afternoon Sail & Snorkel Coral Gardens” or “Lahaina Champagne Sunset Sail”.  Depending on the time of year, you can opt for a peaceful afternoon of whale watching or HulaGirl’s “Pacific Rim Dinner Cruise”.  Just make sure that if it’s a day trip, you bring sunscreen, sunglasses or a hat—the glare can be harsh!

2. Visit Waterfalls

There is nothing quite like the sound of rushing water in a tropical environment; it’s amazing how the earth seems to come alive. You don’t need to ride a helicopter or take an expensive tour to experience this closeness with nature. Just put on a pair of boots, rent a car, and take a romantic honeymoon adventure together. Check out some of hot spots, right off the highway like Wailua Falls or Upper Waikani Falls. If you are up for a paid tour, and a full day of sightseeing, then check out the Road to Hana Tour, where you can swim in the Ohe`o Stream and Pools. Either way you do it, you’re going to love what you see and never forget the experience.

3. Enjoy a Sunset Honeymoon Dinner

Sounds pretty simple, doesn’t it? Well, we’re not talking about an ocean view while you eat. We recommend getting much closer than that! While it’s one thing to take a snorkeling adventure on board a catamaran, it’s much different and more romantic to enjoy a Hawaii honeymoon dinner cruise. Instead of donning your flippers, try a nice pair of dancing shoes since most Hawaii dinner cruise provide music and a dance floor.  Tom’s Barefoot Tours in particular, includes a full bar, dinner and entertainment. We also agree that this should be the last activity on your Hawaii honeymoon. What better way to remember your experience than burning a permanent image of you and your new spouse aboard a ship, floating between the Hawaiian Islands; a memory suffused with sunset colors!

4. Watch the Sunrise on a Volcano

Haleakala is the world’s largest dormant volcano, so you must take this opportunity to see for yourself the “house of the rising sun.” We encourage you to take a bike tour on the road leading between Haleakala’s base and summit; especially since it’s one of the fastest gains of elevation in the shortest distance in the world. But don’t start feeling crazy and pull a “no hands” move. It’s a truly exhilarating experience that we recommend seeking out. Most Maui hotels and resorts will have more information on the tours available and most likely, the shuttle will pick you up and drop you off in the front.

If you’re up for a challenge, you could bike from the coast to the summit, but most people just enjoy the downhill ride.

5. Tour the Road to Hana

Hana Highway is where the true beauty of Maui’s landscape comes alive with 600 winding turns, 57 one-lane bridges, streams, waterfalls, pools and jungles. You could opt for a guided tour, an unplanned adventure and a map, or one of the many popular guided CDs. Either way, you’re looking at 52 miles of Maui’s northern coastline. The road to Hana will take you off the beaten path of tourist resort areas so that you and your spouse can explore some of Maui’s more remote areas, such as bamboo forests, magnificent waterfalls, and black sand beaches. It’s practically a must-do when you visit Maui!

Tip: If you’re driving, get gas before you leave. There is only one gas station in Hana and it’s very pricey. It takes approximately three hours to drive from one end to the other, but with a few stops along the way, it usually takes more than 5 hours– so plan ahead!

Filed Under: Activities, Explore Hawaii, Nature Preserves, Tours Tagged With: , ,

5 Best Hawaii Honeymoon Destinations

March 23, 2011 By

If you’re looking for the best honeymoon destinations in Hawaii, look no further! Here are five of the top widely sought-after locations for couples expecting a perfectly romantic honeymoon.

1. Hanalei Bay Beach, Kauai

Hanalei means “lei-shaped bay” in Hawaiian, an accurate description of this half moon shaped beach that is considered to be one of the best beaches in Hawaii. If you’re looking to stay here for your honeymoon, consider Hanalei Colony Resort or Legacy Vacations Resort. Both are very close to this popular honeymoon destination and can provide a wide range of amenities.

In regards to activities on the Bay, you have your pick of swimming, kayaking, windsurfing and yacht cruises. If you are a swimmer, check out the Northern part of Hanalei Bay where the water is calmer than other parts of the beach.

2. Waikiki, Oahu

This is perhaps one of the most popular destinations for travelers to Hawaii, since it contains such rich history and is extremely active in terms of both tourist and local life. You can easily find uber-elite hotel options near Waikiki. If you’re up for a night of dancing, drinking and strolling the town then make sure to check out Waikiki Beach Walk; the newest addition to Waikiki night-life, complete with outdoor entertainment centers. It’s a perfect night for that little black dress.

Fun Fact: Waikiki served as a vacation retreat for Hawaiian royalty in the mid-late 1800s.

3. Na Pali Coast, Kauai

If you’re in the mood for something a little more isolated and relaxing, then the Na Pali coast might be just what you need. This fifteen-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the northwest shore of Kauai literally means “the Cliffs” and much of its terrain is inaccessible. The best way to view this gorgeous rocky part of Hawaii, is it board a boat, windsurfer, helicopter…. or hike.  And although you wouldn’t plan your vacation around whale migration patterns, if you’re honeymooning from December to April, you may get in some prime whale-watching time.

We suggest taking a look at Kauai Beach Resort. They all also have some great all-inclusive packages that include the Early Bird Special; book 30 days in advance to qualify for a discount.

4. Molokini

Never heard of it? That’s because Molokini is a small, partially sunken, volcanic crater located 2.5 miles off the coast of Maui. You can’t actually stay here. But it’s one of the best romantic honeymoon destinations in Hawaii. If you and your fiancé are into scuba diving or boating, Molokini should be on your list of activities during your honeymoon. The shape of Molokini protects the neighboring reefs against strong ocean currents and waves, making it a prime location for viewing natural marine wildlife; it also made the list for the Top 10 dive spots in the world.

5. Hamoa Beach at Hotel Hana-Maui

For couples seeking a slower pace, without all the hustle of outdoor activity and planned events, you may want to consider stay at this hotel. Hotel Hana-Maui is the best option for romance and luxury; where you don’t have to lift a finger if you don’t want to. Most amenities are provided by the resort such as snorkeling gear, towels, bikes and umbrellas. If you’re a couple that enjoys light competition, you can check out the tennis courts or golf. Other Hawaiian resorts pale in comparison to Hotel Hana-Maui’s pools and private lounges—but then again, why even bother with the pool when the world renowned Hamoa Beach is at your doorstep?

Filed Under: Honeymoon Tips, Popular Articles, Romantic Attractions

Getting Scholastic with Your Oahu Honeymoon

March 16, 2011 By

The USS Missouri was built in three years and required over 3 million man-days to complete the job.

Oahu is by far the most popular Hawaiian island to visit, and not just because of its namesake The Gathering Place. The history itself is a major attraction to this Hawaiian destination. Oahu’s local history is that of monarchy, beginning with the Ali’i and followed by powerful Kings like Mailikukahi and Kaumualii.

It was also the first Hawaiian island ever discovered by Europeans in 1778 by Captain James Cook and the crew of HMS Resolution. James Cook was later killed on Valentine’s Day at Kealakekua Bay.  As you probably know, it’s also the site of the surprise attack from The Imperial Japanese Navy during World War 2 and the final resting place of the USS Arizona.

If you and your fiancé enjoy leisurely browsing through historical museums to learn more about Hawaii’s pivotal role in American History, then you just may want to think about booking a tour. Chances are, you aren’t staying for more than a couple weeks, and the history is so expansive it would be impossible to do it all and relax.

Here’s a little break-down of some popular tours in Oahu, courtesy Discover Hawaii Tours.

Oahu’s Ultimate Eco Circle Island Tour

This popular Oahu guided tour starts at Pearl Harbor, where you can board a shuttle boat to visit the USS Arizona. Next, it’s on to the Dole’s Pineapple Plantation at the North Shore. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view as the staff tells stories and Hawaiian folktales.  From there, you venture on over to the Polynesian Culture Center, a museum experience that includes a full BBQ lunch buffet.

A Day at Pearl Harbor

This deal is perfect for WW2 history buffs, craving to see first-hand one of the most memorable and tragic events of American history. This includes a complete Pearl Harbor tour featuring USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine, USS Missouri Battleship, Pacific Aviation Museum as well as an exploration of downtown Honolulu.

Oahu Dolphin Swim and Snorkel

Okay, so we know this departs from the historical theme of the previous tours, but this activity is perfect for the honeymooners who are looking for something a little more adventurous and a little less observatory. Your boat leaves before sunrise from Waikiki, and the rest of the day will be spent with music, food, dolphins, swimming & laughter. After the crew guides you towards the local wildlife, don’t be afraid to get close. Dolphins are known for their intelligence, affectionate demeanors and playful spirits. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Filed Under: Activities, Hawaiian Culture, Oahu, Tours Tagged With: ,

Drink Only the Best During Your Honeymoon – Kona Coffee!

March 12, 2011 By
Kona Coffee Plantation

Kona Coffee Plantation

You’re going to Hawaii for your honeymoon, and you love coffee (who doesn’t??) so you must be looking forward to having some delicious Kona coffee!  If you’ve never had Kona coffee, you’re in for a treat; Kona coffee is smooth, a medium dark roast, with balanced flavor, and is absolutely delicious!

You don’t have to actually stay in Kona or even anywhere on the Big Island to enjoy a cup; coffee bars abound throughout the islands.  Let us guide you through the best shops and bars on each island.

Oahu

Island Vintage Coffee – Located in the heart of Honolulu, in the Ala Moana Mall, this shop serves the finest 100% Kona coffee.  You’ll probably be shopping in this mall anyway, so be sure to stop by and partake!

Happy Cake Cafe – Nope, this isn’t a coffee shop per say, but they do sell some yummy Kona coffee!  Try their iced coffee while nibbling on a Happy Cake, a delectable cake made with pineapple, coconut and macadamia nuts – all which sound very “Hawaiian” but it’s actually quite a unique cake-eating experience!

Maui

Hawaiian Village Coffee – Located in Lahaina, there are lots of different varieties of 100% Kona coffee to choose from.  Sip some Kona Peaberry while lounging in their internet cafe.  They of course also serve baked goodies to much on while you browse.

Bad Ass Coffee Company – Yes, this is a chain, but it’s a small chain that serves 100% Kona coffee and that can sometimes be a little hard to find on Maui.  This location is right by the airport, so take advantage after landing or right before heading home – or both!

Kauai

Java Kai – Serving Kona coffee, but lots of other varieties of coffee, food and baked goods as well.  They even serve some deliciosu breakfast!  This is a small chain with about a dozen locations throughout the islands and Southern California.  Located in the quiet town of Hanalei, on the northern coast of Kauai.

The Big Island – Hilo

Hilo Sharks Coffee – Located right in Hilo, this shop not only serves kona coffee, but other Hawaii-grown coffees and even homemade ice cream!

Bayfront Coffee, Kava & Tea – While this shop is more about the kava experience, it’s another option if you want to check out some delicious Kona coffee while in Hilo.

The Big Island – Kona

It almost seems silly listing a Kona coffee shop in Kona when there are so many farms you could visit directly.  Or you could just walk into any coffee shop in Kona and guarantee yourself some 100% Kona coffee!  But we did our research and found a couple that you may want to check out:

Hula Daddy Kona Coffee – Your trip to Kona will not be complete without taking a tour of one of their many Kona coffee farms.  It would be like visiting Napa Valley in California without taking a wine tour!  Hula Daddy is perched atop a hill along Mamalahoa Highway, with out of this world views.  The staff is super friendly and will give you a tour of their coffee growing and roasting process.  And, of course, you’ll need to try their amazing coffee and will likely even buy a pound for yourselves!

Kona Blue Sky Coffee – Yet another coffee plantation that you may want to check out.  They serve some amazing coffee from beans grown right on their plantation on the side of Mt. Hualalai.

Molokai

After lots of research, it seems that we just can’t find any Kona coffee in Molokai!  Honeymooners to Molokai, don’t despair, for this small peaceful island grows its own coffee that you’ll easily be able to sample at restaurants, the airports and of course, coffee shops.

Filed Under: Hawaiian Culture, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, The Big Island, Tours Tagged With: ,

Molokai: A Modern Day Wonderland

February 19, 2011 By

There is nothing more appropriate than two newlyweds bowing out of responsibility, work and daily routines to spend one, two… hell, maybe even three weeks breathing each other in. It’s bonding time. And there is no better place to search for intimacy, than on the island of Molokai. If you want to experience a low-key week where you can get away from everything (including a massive amount of tourists) then book a Molokai Hawaii honeymoon.

As one of Hawaii’s smaller islands, Molokai is home to two active volcanoes. Don’t worry; they haven’t erupted since the 1500s. Not to say it’s never a risk, but if you’re heading to Hawaii then you should be well aware of the environmental factors. The island’s dry west side (Mauna Loa) possesses beautiful white sandy beaches and the east end (East Molokai Volcano) is enveloped in lush vegetation. Choose from a variety of isolated beaches perfect for quality time like Papohaku Beach; it’s beautiful and practically empty of tourists.

If you enjoy ecotourism, you can visit the Kamakou Preserve; a rain forest considered by many as the highlight of the island. This natural water resource is essential to the survival of Molokai. It also contains more than 250 rare Hawaiian plants, of which 219 species are not found anywhere else in the world. As you walk the Kamakou boardwalk around this tropical ecosystem, keep in mind the the extremely rare Oloma`o and Kakawahie (although both are likely extinct).

There are miles of scenic drives that will simply take your breath away, such as the Pali Coast at Kaunakakai which has the highest sea-cliffs in the world.  If you want to see the scenery without the drive, you can take the Molokai Mule Ride in Kalaupapa down an 1800 foot cliff.

And hey, if all of these ideas feel like a little too much and you’d prefer to simply enjoy a romantic, less adventurous, honeymoon—then check out Hotel Molokai, Kainalu Beachfront or The Aloha Beach House. Any one of these hotels (catered to different tastes) will give you a memorable and scenic Hawaii honeymoon.

Filed Under: Islands, Molokai, Romantic Attractions

Valentine’s Day in Honolulu Hawaii: Picture Perfect

February 11, 2011 By

You may have been so busy planning your February wedding that you may have forgotten that you’ll be in Honolulu on the most romantic day of the year – Valentine’s Day! We know your honeymoon is already special and ultra-romantic, or at least that’s what you’re planning on, but taking some extra time and perhaps some extra dough to have a doubly romantic evening on this special day can make your honeymoon all that more exciting.

We’ve looked into lots of different options for Valentine’s Day, and don’t worry, they’re not all for the non-budget-conscious!

Star of Honolulu Valentine’s Dinner (with a show or jazz)

Star of Honolulu is a popular dinner cruising choice for any night you spend on Honolulu, but for Valentine’s Day they make it extra special with a  few different options.  Their least expensive option for about $115 per person includes a three course crab and sirloin steak dinner, Mai Tai, a show, a table with a view and a photo to capture your night’s memories.  Their most elegant dining choice for $200 per person includes a seven course French-style dinner, drinks, live jazz, a private window table and of course a photo.

Get Creative!

For those who simply can’t stand the thought of splurging $400 for one night at sea, think about a sweet, intimate, creative evening lounging on a blanket on a gorgeous Honolulu shore.  Crowded Waikiki is certainly not the only choice on this island!  Perhaps today is the day you decide to rent a car and explore Oahu.  While shopping earlier in the week, invest in a blanket, a bottle of wine and some goodies to snack on.  Drive along Highway 83 (Kamehameha Highway) and stop at any of the numerous beaches on the way.  Try to time it so that you’ll arrive at your sandy locale by sunset; it may be cliche but there is nothing more romantic than sitting with the one you love staring into a gorgeous sunset.  And it really does seem more beautiful in Hawaii!

Michel’s at the Colony Surf

We could write hundreds of articles about places to dine in Honolulu as the list never seems to end, but while we’re on the topic of Valentine’s Day, you may simply be looking for a memorable dinner for that special night.  If so, look no farther than Michel’s.  This is five star dining at its best. You’ll never forget your picture-perfect Valentine’s Day on your honeymoon, seated with a prime view of the sunset, eating possibly the best meal of your life, with live soft music in the background, impeccable service, all while seated with your Valentine.  Just don’t forget to pack your cocktail dress!

If you find that Michel’s is booked, don’t hesitate to use Yelp to find a restaurant that suits you best!

Live like the locals do!

For some unique Valentine’s Day ideas, many of which are geared toward locals, check out this article.  Ideas include hiring a musical valentine, concerts, flower shows, fundraisers and lots more!

Filed Under: Oahu, Romantic Attractions Tagged With: , , ,

Why You Need a Valentine’s Day Get-Away in Hawaii

January 29, 2011 By

What better way to celebrate your marriage, than a romantic Valentine’s Day Hawaiian get-away? If you went to Hawaii for your honeymoon, you’ll have the opportunity to relive your romantic vacation. If you didn’t, then new adventures are right in front of you. You may want to try Hawaiian Get-Away to get last minute deals for the holiday that is soon approaching.

Valentine’s Day commemorates the love and affection that exists between two people, and although a holiday in Hawaii might be that once-in-a-lifetime kind of thing, you’ll want to make the best of this experience if you choose to go.

As one of the most popular destinations for newlyweds, romance is always in the air in the islands.  You can plan lots of time to relax on the beaches and enjoy things like massages and candlelight dinners, but there are also many fun activities that can add to the overall romance.  Here are a couple of ideas to help you begin…

What could be better on your romantic Hawaii honeymoon than to take your bride to one of the pearl factories and let her choose an oyster that may contain a rare pearl in it?  It is such fun to watch the oyster being opened and see what surprise awaits you.  The pearl can then be made into a piece of jewelry of your choice and will become a wonderful memento of your trip.

An authentic Polynesian Luau with incredible food and fun is another favorite for people planning a romantic Hawaii get-away.  The music and laughter combined with the great food that is cooked in the underground oven or pit are a no-miss activity.  Many resorts, as well as the Polynesian Cultural Center, offer an authentic luau experience.

**For more ideas on your romantic Hawaiian Valentine’s Day, visit our Romantic Attractions section.

Valentine’s Day Trivia: In Slovenia, a proverb says that “St Valentine brings the keys of roots,” so on February 14, plants and flowers start to grow.

Filed Under: Romantic Attractions

Maui ‘The Valley Isle’

January 23, 2011 By

Don't overlook the House Befitting Heaven (Halekulani Hotel). This resort has everything you need for a blissful honeymoon.

If you’ve chosen Maui (otherwise known as the Valley Isle) for your honeymoon destination, get ready to experience some of the best beaches in the entire world. In fact, Conde Nast voted Kaanapali Beach the top beach in the United States, while Hawaiian Magazine voted it the best beach for sunsets.  But don’t forget the sun block! Just because you spent a few weeks tanning before your vacation, doesn’t mean you will avoid the harsh rays. And the last thing you want is to be fried and uncomfortable during your honeymoon vacation.

The accommodations in Maui are beautiful, and include notable resorts such as the Ritz Carlton (the only one in Hawaii), Halekulani Hotel and the Kaanapali Beach Resort. This island is also known to be an excellent location for whale watching. The truth is that you will never run out of places to go, and things to see. Here are three activities you should not miss during your Maui honeymoon vacation.

1. Drive Down the Hana Highway

Along Maui’s eastern coastline lies the Hana Highway which stretches 52 miles, beginning in Kahului. This drive takes approximately 2-4 hours depending on how often you stop. This may be a lot, since the coast is littered with scenic hot spots like waterfalls, cliffs, pools and parks. This includes Hotel Hana-Maui (where you can find some cool souvenirs), Hana Beach Park (a great place to swim), Waianapanapa State Park (a black sand beach) and Kanahu Gardens (a National Tropical Botanical Garden). To do it right, set an entire day aside and start early if you can.

Tip: Venture the 10 miles south beyond Hana to see the Pools of Oheo.

2. Take a Trip to Haleakala National Park

This park is aptly named in Hawaiian, ‘House of the Sun’, and is an experience that can’t be missed. It’s the highest point in Maui, and you can literally hike or horse ride above the clouds and experience some of the most amazing scenery Hawaii has to offer.  It includes a large crater, which was once home to an active volcano. The best spot to watch the sunrise is Haleakala Visitor Center, which is settled 9,740 feet high above sea level. But if you are unable to make the sunrise, the closeness to the starry skies after sunset is still a worthy spectacle.

And if hiking isn’t your thing, you can arrange a shuttle to the top and bike down.  Most concierges will provide further information at your hotel/resort of choice.

3. Surf in Lahaina

In Hawaii, surfing is the Sport of Kings and there is no better place to learn than Lahaina. Let the local experts show you all the techniques for catching your first wave. Group lessons are available for around $65/per person, or you can opt for more private lesson, which ranges towards $100/per person.  Check out Outrageous Surf School or Goofy Foot Surf School for more information. But don’t let this opportunity to enjoy the waves pass you by.

Need help deciding which island is right for you? Check out our Islands in a Nutshell

Filed Under: Activities, Islands, Maui

Top 5 Tips for Cruising with the Princess

November 17, 2010 By

One boat. Endless adventure. This is what I learned from my Hawaii honeymoon experience on Princess Cruises.

1.      Rent a car on each island

2.      Get a room with a balcony.  No absolute need for a suite, though.  Just remember that any cabin will be much smaller than most hotel rooms.

3.      Relax!  Sleep in when you want to.  The activities will proceed without you!

4.      Pack nice clothing, including formal wear.  There will be a few formal nights!  (Meaning a tux or nice suit for guys, cocktail dress for ladies.)  Or, you could just stay in on those nights…

5.      Enjoy each other.  This may likely be the best vacation of your lives.

My husband and I were married in October 2009 and knew in advance that we wanted to splurge for our honeymoon. We had no idea when we would have the time or resources to take another vacation like this again.  Hours of following links on the internet led us to the same conclusion: Hawaii or bust.  But as like most adventures, it’s all about the journey… and neither of us had been on a cruise before.

That led us to Princess Cruises, an obvious choice considering both the options and the budget. Even better, the embarkation and disembarkation were in Los Angeles; perfect for us California residents.

Since this was our one and only honeymoon, we agreed on the no holds barred method of financing… well, as much as we could possibly stand anyway.  So that meant a mini-suite with a balcony.  As much as I loved our room, the mini-suite (or any suite) option would not be mandatory for our next cruise.  It was often nice to have the extra room, but honestly we didn’t use that space too often; even our room service we often enjoyed either in bed on on the balcony. Speaking of the balcony, this is a must!  We will never cruise without a room with a balcony…ever. You don’t know what you’d be missing… or maybe you do.  It was thrilling to sit outside on our semi-private deck, playing cards, watching the waves and eating our breakfast, lunch, dinner… or one of the myriad of snacks in between.

Speaking of food, Princess has some fantastic dining options.  Choose between either buffet or sitting down to a meal with a menu that changes daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  There are also a few restaurants when you feel like indulging in filet mignon, lobster tail… and for only $20 each, we were able to eat whatever we desired.  It was definitely worth it!

I have heard horror stories about people who took a cruise and felt obligated to attend each and every activity. But on the Princess, we didn’t feel overwhelmed in the least. Sure, there were activities every hour of the day… but participation wasn’t mandatory and that allowed us to take the time we wanted. Although, the activity that we did partake in almost every night was the aptly named Movies Under the Stars on the top deck, which played on the gigantic screen above the central swimming pool.  The stewards even walked around with blankets, popcorn, chocolate chip cookies and milk!

The magic of feeling free from obligations, relaxing on our balcony and falling asleep on a deck chair lasted for 14 days.  Of course, four of those days were spent visiting four Hawaiian islands: The Big Island, Kauai, Oahu and Maui (in that order).  Princess offers excursions (like guided tours, etc.) that can be purchased ahead of time, even long before you board the ship, but personally I don’t recommend those for honeymooners.

Here’s my recommendation: rent a car and go exploring.  Make your own adventure.  These islands are small; grab a road map, get some advice from the locals, and start driving.  You won’t be disappointed!  Of course, just be sure to get back in time so the ship doesn’t leave without you.

Princess is perfect for honeymooners who want to get a taste of Hawaii without having to choose just one island while also enjoying the luxuries that this cruise has to offer.  A huge perk is the savings: you won’t have to buy a flight to Hawaii!

Filed Under: Activities, Cruises, Cruising 101, Honeymoon Reviews, Honeymoon Tips, Romantic Attractions

Whale Watching in Hawaii

November 5, 2010 By

Kilauea Lighthouse, a beautiful spot to whale watch on Kauai

If you’re planning your Hawaii Honeymoon between the months of December and April, you should know that this is the perfect season to go whale watching! Beginning their journey in Alaska, humpback whales are guided by their instincts to the warmer waters of the Hawaiian Islands—which will remain their home for the winter. During the migration, these humpback whales travel approximately 4,000 miles which is the longest distance of any animal species. In Hawaii, the whales will mate or give birth to their calves. Proving themselves very curious animals, humpback whales are known to put on show during this time.

Whale-watching tours are your best bet for seeing these creatures up close. An experienced boat captain will be able to invite these animals closer, without disrespecting their space. But don’t be surprised if you run into a mother with her calf, who shies away from the attention. The ones that aren’t afraid to approach the boat have been nicknamed ‘friendlies’, and we recommend taking a boat tour to really see these majestic animals up front. A picture just doesn’t do them justice.

However, you can also whale-watch from land. Scope the island for lighthouses or other elevated scenic sights such as Kauai’s Kilauea Lighthouse (to see more great photos from this particular spot, check out our Facebook page). From here, you’ll want to scan the ocean’s surfaces and look for the plumes of water bursting into the air, as the whales come up for air.

Fun whale watching key terms:

Breach: When a whale jumps clear out of the water and lands on its side.

*Interesting Fact: The reason for this activity is still unknown to scientists, although it’s suggested they do this for multiple reasons: for fun, to display aggression, or to dislodge barnacles.

Eye-Spy: The whale pops its head out of the water.

Fluke: A whale’s tail.

The most popular islands for whale-watching are Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. To get you started, check out some of these popular whale-watching options and compare prices.

Kauai’s Whale Watching Tours

Maui’s Whale Watching Tours

The Big Island’s Whale Watching Tours

Filed Under: Activities, Tours Tagged With:
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