The Big Island of Hawaiʻi is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. It is perfect for a romantic getaway. Its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets make it the ideal place to escape with your loved one. Whether looking for a romantic dinner, outdoor adventure, or a peaceful stroll through a botanical garden, the Big Island has something for every couple. In this blog, we’ll explore a 5-day itinerary in Hawaiʻi for couples that is romantic, exciting, and adventurous for you and your partner.
And if you’re looking for other romantic things to do on your vacation, download our free Vacation Guide, where you can get access to a list of great restaurants, attractions, and things to do in Hawaiʻi.
5 Glorious Days in Hawaiʻi for Your Romantic Getaway
Day 1 – Arriving on the Big Island
When you arrive in Kona, check into your accommodations and relax. You should take it easy the first day if you’ve traveled long. Settle in and get to know the area, and grab groceries if you’re staying in a vacation rental.
If you’re on the Kona side of the island, KTA Super Stores is where most people go for groceries. Other options are Safeway or Sack N Save Kona, owned by Foodland. If you want more local options, Hualalai Trading has some small grocery items, and Foodland Farms is great as well!
Visiting one of many gorgeous beaches along the coastline is a perfect way to get out and about without overdoing it. There are a lot of beaches to choose from, but for day one we’d recommend Kikaua Point Park! It’s right near our Hualalai rentals, so you won’t have to go too far on your first day here. Plus, if you’re a Hualalai guest, you can also use the pools there.
Check out the Residents’ Beach House when you’re ready for dinner. It’s the perfect way to unwind after day one and enjoy some top-notch dinner and drinks!
Day 2 – Horseback Riding and Mauna Kea
Start off your second day with something exciting—take a scenic horseback ride! Horseback riding is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty while spending time with your partner. Waipi’o on Horseback offers morning horseback rides, leaving plenty of time for other activities later in the day. We’d suggest booking the 9:30 AM ride so you can fit in everything else we recommend for the day!
After your ride, enjoy lunch at Merriman’s, an award-winning restaurant here in Waimea known for its delicious farm-to-table cuisine. You can enjoy dishes like Hawaiian fish and grass-fed beef while sipping a glass of wine.
You’ll have some time after lunch to explore Waimea town. There are plenty of shops and art galleries to choose from. Waimea Center is home to several clothing and jewelry shops, and you may just find some unique collectibles and souvenirs while you’re at it. Gallery of Great Things is another favorite stop of ours where you can see magnificent works of art and learn about the art community in Waimea and beyond.
Once you’ve shopped til you dropped (or just window shopped!), head over to Mauna Kea for a breathtaking sunset and stargazing experience. Mauna Kea’s summit is at 14,000 ft., the highest point in Hawaiʻi.
Take a moment to picture yourself gazing up at the stars in one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s an incredibly romantic experience with your partner that you won’t soon forget! You can find stargazing tours and have an experienced guide show you the best spots to see your favorite constellations, plus they can provide photographs, too, so you have the photos for years to come.
Day 3 – Volcanoes & Black Sand Beaches!
Ready for an adventure? Day 3 of our itinerary takes you to the famous Volcanoes National Park! It’s an exciting day—but first, let’s make sure you get in a good breakfast before you go.
Stop in for a morning pick-me-up at one of our favorite stops, Papa Kona or Arise Kona Bakery. These local picks will help keep you fueled for your drive to the volcanoes!
Be sure to enjoy the scenic views on your way. It’s a bit of a drive, but these sights make it worth it! You can even stop in at one of Hawai’i’s famous black sand beaches, Punaluu, while you’re on your way. How often do you get a chance to see black sand?! It’s well worth the stop.
Once you’ve made it to the park, there are so many different sights to see and activities to partake in. Check out the lava tube, steam vents walk, and Kilauea overlook!
After such a fun day, you’ll be hungry! Grab dinner at the Kilauea Lodge and Restaurant before starting your drive back. With a strong focus on local ingredients, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some true island-infused fare!
Day 4 – Helicopter and Sunset Dinner Cruises on Your Romantic Getaway
Have you ever thought about seeing Hawaii by helicopter? You can witness cascading waterfalls and rainforests in ways you’ve never seen before. Visit Blue Hawaiian Helicopters for available tour options and private charters. We’d suggest taking an early tour out of Waikaloa (the Big Island Spectacular). They’re about two hours long, so you’ll be out just in time to have lunch!
You’ll probably want to take some time to relax after the action-packed morning and recover before you start any evening activities. Maybe check out the beach or enjoy some lunch at Lava Lava Beach Club to satiate your hunger!
After you’ve gotten in some ample rest, get ready for a wonderful romantic evening. Take a dinner cruise on a catamaran and enjoy the sunset while eating and listening to a historical narration about Kealakekua Bay. You’ll enjoy a Hawaiian-style dinner, a gorgeous evening, and live entertainment. What else could you need?
Day 5 – Explore Beaches, Relax, and Last Romantic Dinner
Start your last day in Hawai’i by going on a Heavenly Kona coffee tour! Learn about the history of coffee in Kona and hear about the significance and rareness of 100% Kona coffee. You can buy some local beans at their gift shop, too, and we can attest that it’s well worth your while.
After your tour, grab food at Ono Home Kitchen, Oz’s Kitchen, or Rebel Kitchen on your way to Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. Here, you can see some of the beautiful flora and fauna native to Hawai’i and learn more about the island’s history. You can also take some time to simply relax and enjoy the beach if you’d like!
For your last big activity here in Hawai’i, head into Kona for a Manta Ray night dive. Diving with manta rays is an activity unique to the Big Island Hawai’i, and one you won’t want to miss!
Let an experienced guide show you the best spots to take a plunge for this exciting adventure here in Kona and swim as one with the manta rays! Kona Ocean Adventures has some of the best offerings, including their Late Night Majestic Manta Ray Tour. You and your partner will love getting to experience this together!
Stay in a Romantic Getaway Vacation Rental
Now that you have an itinerary together, it’s time to book your trip! If you’re looking for a fantastic place to stay while you’re here, we have gorgeous properties on Oʻahu and the Big Island we know you’ll love.
We offer incredible views, convenient locations, and excellent amenities. Check our listings because some properties give you access to perks, like the Four Seasons Hotel, where you can enjoy even more amenities!
Unlike renting a hotel room, our homes are stylish, spacious, unique, and private! You and your partner can make your own traditional Hawaiian meal with your rental’s fully equipped kitchen. Have a romantic, quiet dinner together in the privacy of your home away from home. Our properties are close to markets and shops, so it’s easy to grab anything you need and feel at home on vacation!
Browse our available properties and book a reservation today.