The Ultimate Guide to Honeymooning in Maui

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Photo: Natalie Watson Photography

Here's everything you need to know about the Pacific Ocean hotspot.

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Natalie Watson Photography

Maui, Hawaii's second-largest island, is known for diverse topography, white-sand beaches, and an incredible food culture, which is exactly why so many couples choose to visit the locale for their honeymoons. If you're thinking about booking a flight to one of the Pacific's most sought-out islands after your big day, consider this your guide to enjoying all the area has to offer.

First and foremost, it's important to remember that travel guidelines are ever-changing in our current climate, but Maui is one of the safest spots you can travel to right now. As of February 2022, Fully-vaccinated visitors from the U.S. must provide proof of vaccination ahead of their trip in order to bypass testing and quarantine rules, while all others must test out of quarantine in order to enjoy the island. And there's a great deal to enjoy: With next-level accommodations, incredible restaurants, and both picture-perfect beaches and volcanic terrain, there's something here for every couple, regardless of your vacation style.

Are you both daring adventurers? Road to Hana, a 64-mile drive through rain forest and volcanic turf, is the day trip for you. Are you all about incredible food? The island is home to so many restaurants that are guaranteed to appeal. Is your main goal pure relaxation? With beaches and infinity pools that go on for, well, infinity, you're sure to find something (or nothing at all) to do. And if you need a little help finding your bliss, our property picks have incredible spas that can help you release some of that tension that built up during the wedding-planning process.

Whether you're in the planning stages or just getting excited about your Maui trip, let the following guide get you in the honeymoon (or an anniversary getaway!) state of mind.

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Stay: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Four Seasons Maui at Wailea, Resort Overview
Courtesy of Four Seasons Maui at Wailea

You'll enjoy top-notch service from the very first moment you arrive at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with a fresh, beautiful lei before being whisked into the open-air lobby. There, you'll get your first look at the famed Wailea Beach just beyond the property's pool and lush grounds. Does the hotel look familiar? It was the setting of HBO's The White Lotus, and the real thing is somehow even more beautiful than the small screen made it appear. All rooms exude quiet luxury, but guests staying on the Club Floor are treated to additional amenities, including a dedicated concierge team, contintenal breakfast daily, afternoon tea, and pre- and post-dinner cocktails—if you're thinking about upgrading yourselves for your honeymoon, it's absolutely worth it.

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Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, Resort Overview
Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

If you're looking to visit Maui's upcountry, head west to Kapalua and stay at the luxurious The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. A recently-renovated pool and new lobby, access to world-class golf courses, and pristine beaches will keep you busy throughout your stay. And if you need to unwind, the gorgeous spa, complete with an ultra-relaxing outdoor hot tub where you can unwind pre- and post-treatment, will help you find your zen, guaranteed.

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Eat: Mama's Fish House

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Courtesy of Mama's Fish House

If you're lucky enough to snag a reservation at Mama's Fish House, don't miss it. And if you're not? Put yourself on the waitlist and cross your fingers—spots do open up, but your best bet is to try for a few different days and to be flexible on time. Whenever you go, you're guaranteed an incredible meal. Located on Maui's North Shore, the view is nearly as good as the food, which is always incredibly fresh and creatively prepared.

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Eat: Ferraro's Bar e Ristorante

Ferraro's Restaurant, Four Seasons Maui at Wailea
Courtesy of Four Seasons Maui at Wailea

There's no shortage of romance at Ferraro's Bar e Ristorante, the oceanfront spot serving up epic Italian cuisine that's located within the Four Seasons Maui, Wailea. Start with the al forno "Puccia" bread or stone fruit and burrata salad, then move on to the housemade pasta. While the tiramisu is always a winner, it's the rice pudding crème brûlée that's not to be missed!

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Eat: Maui Brewing Company

maui brewing co interior seating area
Courtesy of Maui Brewing Company

Located in the heart of Kihei, Maui Brewing Company's headquarters is the perfect stop during a day of adventure. Whether you choose to pair your Bikini Blonde, Pau Hana, or Pineapple Mana with the Harvester pizza, guava BBQ pork sliders, or fish tacos, you can't go wrong. The entire menu (drinks and food) is extremely fresh and delicious.

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Eat: Merriman's

Merriman's Restaurant, Kapalua
Courtesy of Merriman's

Chef Peter Merriman, pioneer of the "farm to table" dining concept, is the brain's behind the menu at his eponymous eatery in Kapalua, and this dining experience is one honeymooners shouldn't miss. Choose from a pre-fixe menu—of which 90% of the ingredients are locally-grown or -caught—and settle in with one of the restaurant's signature cocktails (the Merriman's Mai Tai is not to be missed!). Pro tip: Choose a reservation time shortly before sunset for an unbelievable view—those seated along the water will be treated to a truly once in a lifetime experience.

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Eat: Monkeypod Kitchen

Moneypod Kitchen Maui Food
Courtesy of Monkeypod Kitchen

Couldn't get a reservation at Merriman's or were staying on the other side of the island? Visit Monkeypod Kitchen, Peter Merriman's more casual outpost in Wailea. The entire menu is mouthwateringly delicious, but whatever you do, be sure to save room for the banana pie.

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Do: Embark on the Road to Hana

hawaii experience overhead view of lush green coast line
Courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority

Does a 64-mile drive through rain forests and volcanic terrain sound like your idea of adventure? The journey is incredible (you'll be treated to some of the most stunning views you'll see throughout your entire trip), but it's not for the faint of heart. There are 600 hairpin turns and 45-plus one-lane covered bridges, so careful driving is key. Before you head out on the road, download the GyPSy Guide roadtrip app for a virtual tour that offers tips, facts about local culture, and route suggestions. It's important to make sure that you're only stopping on private property or parking along roadways. Wai'ānapanapa State Park, home to a breathtaking black sand beach, is not to be missed (but do read up on the reservation policy before visiting).

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Do: Watch the Sunrise at Haelakalā Summit

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Sure, a 4 a.m. wakeup call might not be your idea of the perfect honeymoon activity, but stick with us here: Book a tour with Valley Isle Excursions, which will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to the active volcano's summit at 10,023 feet. It's cold upon arrival, but you'll bundle up in provided jackets and forget all about the chill as the sunlight spreads across the crater.

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Do: Go on a Zip Lining Adventure

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If you're spending time on Maui's western coast, you can't miss Kapalua Zip Lines. With over 5,350 feet of zip lines to glide across, you'll be treated to epic views of the lush, tropical locale. Plus, it's Maui's only dual zip line course, which means you and your sweetheart can cruise together.

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Do: Enjoy a Luau

Guests Enjoying Luau in Maui
Courtesy of Grand Wailea Maui

Book a table at Grand Wailea's Aha'aina luau, which takes place adjacent to Wailea Beach at sunset. The view is stunning, and it's an experience to remember: You'll enjoy a traditional luau, complete with the cultural stories of Honua'ula, a three-course family-style shared only with your private table, an open bar, and crafts.

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Do: Go Snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Arches

Sea Turtle Swimming at Molokini Crater
Courtesy of Molokini Snorkeling

Visit Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic crater that's located roughly three miles off Maui's southern shore, and Turtle arches for a day to remember: Book a snorkel excursion with Molokini Snorkeling enjoy a few hours of guided exploration. It's the perfect opportunity to see colorful fish, local coral, and even swim with sea turtles!

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Do: Take an Outrigger Canoe Lesson

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Outrigger canoeing is the team sport of Hawaii and is deeply important to the people of these beautiful islands. If you have the chance to try it, it's a not-to-miss activity. Guests at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea can enjoy complimentary lessons, during which they'll learn about Maui and the nearby islands, the history of outrigger canoeing, and get to see sea life including turtles, reef fish, and, if you're very lucky, a humpback whale.

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Do: Lei Po'o Workshop

Lei Po'o Workshop in Hawaii
Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua via Facebook

Learn how to make your own Lei Po'o, or Hawaiian flower crown, with help from the experts—at the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, you can arrange a class with the experts from Kula Roses, a family-owned business located in Maui's Upcountry. Rose Pi'ilani Bailey, a third-generation lei maker, will guide you through the process and teach you all about the tradition.

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