7 Days in Hawaii: The Ultimate Itinerary for a Dream Vacation

Discover the ultimate Hawaii itinerary for 7 days, packed with adventure and relaxation. Leave your footprints in the sand of Oahu and Maui – a complete Itinerary with PRO-TIPS included.

Aloha, fellow travelers!

I’ve been island-hopping in Hawaii with my boyfriend for years now, and we simply can’t get enough of the romance, adventure, and relaxation that Oahu and Maui have to offer. So take it from pro-Hawaiian travelers, for the perfect honeymoon visit Oahu and Maui together. Combining these two paradise islands will give you the ultimate honeymoon experience you’ve been dreaming of. So sit back, relax and let me share our expertise on how to make this trip unforgettable.

Now, I understand the pressure of planning a perfect honeymoon – it’s your chance to create lifelong memories with your partner while exploring someplace new together. But fear not! By following this comprehensive itinerary packed with dining suggestions and renting tips from our personal experiences in Oahu and Maui, you can leave those worries behind and focus on making every moment count.

Throughout our numerous escapes to these breathtaking islands, we’ve discovered countless adventures around every corner: sandy world-class beaches perfect for hand-in-hand strolls, enchanting sunsets begging for stolen kisses, tantalizing high-end dining experiences waiting to be savored… even thrilling rainforest hikes leading to mesmerizing waterfalls! And now we’re sharing all these treasures with you!

Warning: Side effects may include relentless daydreaming about returning long after your honeymoon has ended – don’t say we didn’t warn you!

So grab a pen or open up your notes app because it’s time to dive into the heart-and-soul Hawaiian escape that is Oahu and Maui – let’s get started on creating an unforgettable journey just for the two of you!

Pro Tip: Oahu to Maui (island hopping tip):

Book ahead an early morning non-stop flight from Honolulu to Kahului – a 40-minute flight ranging from $60 to $200 (round trip), depending on your preferences.

Pro Tip: (best order to travel in)

After landing in Honolulu let Waikiki be your center on the Island. From there travel the west leeward coast of Oahu. Take a short flight to Maui and travel the eastern coastline through Paia to Hana. This is the most beautiful drive in Hawaii. Stop in South Maui, before heading back to Honolulu.

Day 1: (Oahu) afternoon in Waikiki

After landing in Honolulu (Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)) pick up your rental car first. The airport has over 10 rental companies settled across from terminal 2. If you are at a farther terminal, there are rental car shuttle pick-up points that will take you there quickly.

After, head to your hotel in Waikiki and check-in. After a short rest, you can rest by the pool OR:

Start with: Waikiki beach (soak up the sun and take your first swim)

Head to Kapiolani Beach which spans several ocean-front miles. The beach has a huge green park and a wide sandy beach. It’s perfect for enjoying the shade or taking a swim. The ocean is gentle here with almost no wave action and there is a lifeguard on duty. There is street parking but the walk is beautiful along ocean-side city sidewalks.

Don’t miss: rent snorkeling equipment for the week

If you plan to snorkel multiple times and wish to use the same equipment regardless of where you go, renting for the whole week is the best idea. This will save you money and time.

Check out: Snorkel Bob’s Oahu (buy or rent), 1 800 Snorkel or Surf in the City Waikiki

End with: a sunset view and romantic dinner

Get back to the hotel and dress up for some cocktails and dinner by the beach (while enjoying the sunset). Or have a Waikiki beach picnic and sunset before heading back to the hotel. If you are looking to eat in a restaurant, book your dinner online ahead of time (usually a few days in advance).

Best fine-dining with a view option: Michel’s at the Colony Surf, DECK, La Vie, or Beachhouse at the Moana

Best takeaway options: Marugame Udon, Maguro Brothers Hawaii Waikiki, Royal Lobster, or Paia Fish Market Waikiki

Day 2: (Oahu) All the attractions of Honolulu

Honolulu is lively and has lots to offer, start early and use the day to do a variety of different activities.

Start with: Manoa Falls Trail Hike (Easy hike to the best waterfall on Oahu)

This is a beautiful morning hike and only 1.6 miles round-trip. In fact, it’s so beautiful you might have seen it featured in both the series Lost and Jurassic park. It will take you about 45 minutes each way if you take it slow and enjoy the botanical plants and birds. At the end of the trail is an impressive 150 ft. waterfall. This is a good place to have breakfast in peace.

Pro-tip: Try malasadas and coffee from famous Leonard’s Bakery, they have many food trucks, so little to no waiting

Don’t miss: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Best couples snorkeling in Hawaii)

This is the most beautiful place to snorkel in Hawaii and is suitable for all skill levels with shallow and deeper tide pools. The preserve is home to over 400 species of fish, and many unique corals and is a breeding ground for green turtles. Whether you decide to snorkel, or just walk and swim the waters you are guaranteed to see endless marine life. The park limits visitors to 1.000 per day.

How to prepare: The park hours are 6:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. The entry fee is $25.00 per person. Reservations are required so book well ahead on the Honolulu parks & Recreation website. Bring a lunch and a small cooler with non-alcoholic drinks for lunch. There is a small snack bar.

End with: Traditional outdoor Luau (Waikiki Starlight Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village)

You can’t come to Hawaii and not experience a traditional Luau. Hilton does it best. The luau lasts about 3 hours starting at 5:30 p.m. and they have leis, live music, hula lessons, dinner, and, a dance and fire show. All this happened at sunset and under the stars of the oceanfront lagoon.

Pro-tip: To save money and still get the perfect experience, get the Golden Circle Seating package and book online in advance.

Day 3: (Oahu) Check out the west leeward coast

The leeward coast is famous for its beaches, hiking, and botanical gardens. After a busy day in Honolulu and Waikiki, this is a perfect getaway for a quieter atmosphere and some additional privacy. Enjoy a great hike for extra alone time.

Start with: Ko Olina Lagoons (2 miles of lagoons with white-sand beaches)

Ko Olina is a section of beautiful sand beaches with natural and manmade lagoons only 17 miles from Honolulu. The lagoons are public and offer beautiful swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Here you can also try stand-up paddling or canoeing. There is also a waterpark Wet ‘n Wild Hawaii, which is worth a visit.

Don’t miss: Swim with Dolphins in the Wild

The west (leeward) coast is the best place on the island to do dolphin-watching tours or swim with the dolphins. Check out Ko Olina Ocean Adventures boat tour agency or drive up to Oahu Dolphin Divers in Waianae. Both offer a dolphin and turtle snorkeling tour and boat ride. The tours usually last 3-4 hours and are guided by a professional.

End with: The Maili pillbox sunset hike

If you wish to hike near Ko Olina choose the Maili Pillbox located in Waianae. It’s a 2-mile round-trip hike up to World War 2 bunkers and a 15-minute drive from the lagoons. The view is amazing and perfect for watching the sunset and having a picnic. Plan a 2-hour trip, because it takes an average of 1 hour to complete the trail and 1 hour for the sunset and picnic.

Pro-tip: Always have a flashlight with you when hiking, even when you don’t plan on walking in the dark (situations change).

Day 4: (Maui) Explore Central and Upcountry Maui

Upon arriving on the island of Maui, explore the nearby authentic activities like food tours and some Zipline adventure. The central and upcountry area of Maui is rich in arts and farming. The selected activities are all near the airport and each other, so you have time to do them even if you are later getting in than you planned.

Start with: Maui Pineapple tours

Less than 10 miles from the airport is the Maui Pineapple tour at the Maui Gold Plantation. Choose a tour at 9:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. depending on your flight. The tour last about 1.5 hours and is more fun than it sounds. The staff is friendly and excited, you learn about how pineapples are grown and harvested, how to pick a good pineapple, and taste some juicy samples from the plantation. At the end of the tour, you get a free pack for the airport pineapple to take with you.

Don’t miss: NorthShore Zipline Co (zip lines running through giant eucalyptus trees)

If you are still waiting to check in at your hotel or looking for an exciting but safe activity, check out the NorthShore Zipline Co. It’s less than 4 miles away from the Maui Pineapple tour and a great stop for 2-3 hours. They have 7 different zip lines that are worth multiple rides and have an unsurpassed view of the Pacific Ocean and Maui’s green North Shore. The guides are well trained and helpful, so don’t be afraid. 

End with: Maui Arts & Cultural Center (live music and art exhibits in an outdoor venue)

This will be the highlight of your day and an authentic Hawaiian cultural experience. The center attracts world-famous musicians, theaters, and comedians. They also have two beautiful outdoor venues (Community Events Lawn and Yokouchi Pavilion) with free events including local musicians. While there make sure to check out Schaefer International Gallery which is a 4,100-square-foot museum-quality gallery.

Day 5: (Maui) Historic road to Hana (6 things to do and see before arriving in Hana)

The Road to Hana is known as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. This is a way to see authentic Hawaii and escape the heat. You will encounter plush forests, breathtaking waterfalls, stunning beaches, and swimming holes. The drive with stops should take 6 to 7 hours. The drive back without stops is under 3 hours.

You can do the below-listed activities as you cruise the historic road to Hana. Stop at your favorites or do them all. I would do at least 3 – 4 and grab some food on the way. For great food on the go check out the best food trucks like Da Fish Shack (fish and chips, tacos, and fish burgers), or Nana’s Snack Shack (acai bowls, frozen bananas, and taro burgers).

1. Paia Town

The Historical Town of Paia has a bohemian funky style and plenty of opportunities for shopping, eating local food, and visiting galleries. Paia is the personification of Hawaii’s small-town appeal.

2. Twin Falls (mile marker 2)

Twin falls hike is an easy 1-mile roundtrip. You can park by Wailele Farm. The closer of the two waterfalls is great for some climbing and cliff jumping into the swimming hole. It’s also a place to rest and swim around. Nice picture-taking opportunities in the swimming hole.

3. Waikamoi Ridge Trail (mile marker 9.5)

This is a 1-mile round trip trail. It’s an easy, well-maintained trail with a picnic area on top. It’s also a laid-back non-tourist stop for some privacy and quiet among beautiful vegetation and bamboos. This is a good place to eat in the quiet forest and stretch your legs before moving on.

4. Upper Waikani Falls (mile marker 19)

This is a must-visit. The three bears are three waterfalls perfect for taking pictures, swimming, and standing under the falls. Park a little ways past the falls on the road then walk back. You can take a short hike down the road and swim.

5. Pua’a Kaa State Wayside Park (mile marker 22)

This is another smaller waterfall and swimming hole. The short trail starts right across from the bathrooms. The park stretches out on 5 acres, which is a great place to walk around enjoy a snack, and swim. It is safe and usually less crowded than some destinations.

6. Kahanu Garden (mile marker 31)

Kahanu Garden is one of five locations of the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG). Take the self-guided tour, which takes about 1 hour to complete. You can stay longer. The gardens have diverse plants, and archaeological and cultural features, including a thatched canoe house.

Pro-tip: I recommend spending the night in Hana, before heading to South Maui early the next day. South Maui has some of the best beaches in the world, so prepare. If you choose to drive back to Kahului (about 3 hours back), your morning drive to South Maui’s Kihei is about 25 minutes from Kahului Airport.

Day 6: (Maui) South Side (Most beautiful beaches in the world)

This side of Maui is much drier and sunnier than the rest of the island. It has many sandy beaches with beautiful views of islands Lānaʻi, Molokini, and Kahoʻolawe.

Start with: Makena Beach aka Oneloa Beach

Also known as Big Beach, this is a must-see. It’s a beautiful, long, wide, undeveloped sandy beach with vast views and a huge shore break. There are often waves here, so it’s a nice spot to watch surfers from the beach. For those looking to swim, there are multiple lifeguards on duty.

Don’t miss: One’uli Black Sand Beach

Part of Makena State Park, One’uli (also called Naupaka Beach) is a black sand beach worth snorkeling. Because the ocean floor here is mostly lava, it’s not the best place to swim, but perfect to catch some sea life. There is a perfect coral reef just past the water entry point. This is also a great place to spot green turtles.

End with: La Perouse Bay & Lava Fields

La Perouse Bay is one of the only spots on Maui where you can go to see lava fields. These are the leftover traces of old lava flows. You can drive to La Perouse Bay and there is no hike involved (if you’re already tired for the day). Here you will see 2-miles of jagged, black lava fields really depicting reality and the power of nature. Most of the time wild goats are passing in the area.

Pro-tip: you are only 30-45 minutes away from Kahului, so stay longer and enjoy a nice dinner before heading back. I recommend Coconut’s Fish Café for tacos, sandwiches, and pasta or Ohana Seafood Bar and Grill for a global menu and some cocktails.

Day 7: (Oahu) Sneak in more activities in Honolulu

On your last day of the trip, I recommend flying back to Honolulu and exploring the region. It’s the perfect time to see what you missed and get ready for your flight home.

Start with: See Art at the Honolulu Museum of Art

This is a great place to visit after breakfast. It has an enormous collection of over 50,000 unique items. The museum also houses a large collection of Asian art. The collection of paintings, sculptures, and graphics spans from ancient times to modern and has many well-known painters on display. It’s a great 2-hour activity to feed the soul and get away from the sun (or rain).

Don’t miss: Soak up the Nature at the Moanalua Gardens

Take a relaxing walk and some snacks at this 26-acre park and get some shade. The park is nicely spread out and has open grounds so you don’t feel crowded. There are many beautiful flowers and trees to see. The highlights are the koi pond, taro patch, bridges over the winding stream, and the huge shade-giving monkey pod tree. If you are lucky you can also catch a Hula show here.

End with: Relax During a Couples Massage at Lava Massage & Day Spa

This is a perfect activity before heading home. It’s a time to reflect and sum up your honeymoon adventure. The couples massage offered at Lava Massage & Day Spa is romantic and relaxing. Two options both partners will love are the Couples Massage + Hot Stone which lasts 75 minutes and the couples COCO package at 100 minutes. The COCO package is my personal favorite and includes a full body massage, a mini facial, and a 10-minute Lilikoi sugar foot scrub.

Pro-tip: Lava Massage & Day Spa works until 9 p.m. so schedule the massage a little before or after sunset at the nearest beaches (check out – Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Beach Park or Kahanamoku Beach). Make reservations before you take your trip.

Conclusion:

What better way to spend your honeymoon than visiting the two most beautiful Hawaiian Islands? Oahu and Maui have everything – each couple could want. For adventurous couples, there are many great hikes, botanical gardens, and beaches. For those looking to relax there are great fine dining and spa options as well. Whether you like to enjoy a sunrise overlooking the ocean or dance the night away, this trip will not disappoint.

Pick and choose, or do the entire itinerary, and you won’t be disappointed with the picks.

Good luck and share my article with your friends, please.

FAQ

Is Hawaii a good place for a honeymoon?

Yes, Hawaii is the most exotic U.S: destination for a honeymoon, with sand beaches, jungle-like gardens, and Hawaiian hospitality. It provides many romantic date opportunities like sunset dinners at the beach, fine dining, couples tours and tasting, snorkeling, and hiking. There are many ways to spend your honeymoon including travel between several islands, resort honeymoons, or taking a rent-a-car and driving around the island exploring together.

When should I book my honeymoon in Hawaii?

In order to assure all the activities, flights, and hotels you want on your honeymoon vacation, it’s best to book 8 to 12 months ahead of time. This way you will be able to experience all the activities you have planned, and won’t be disappointed. Try to avoid the rainy season for your honeymoon, with December being the rainiest month on the islands.

What island is best for a honeymoon in Hawaii?

The best way to experience Hawaii and spend your honeymoon is to visit Oahu and Maui together. With a cheap and fast flight between islands, visiting these two amazing islands is a must. Both islands are unique and have so much to offer individually including the best beaches, hikes, resorts, and boat tours. If you can visit both in one trip, it will be the perfect honeymoon guaranteed. 

Last Updated on April 6, 2023 by Brigitte