19 Romantic Things to Do on the Big Island Hawaii

1. Sunset Dinner Cruise

A romantic sunset dinner cruise from Kona is the perfect way to enjoy a night out with your special someone. With breathtaking views of the Kona coast and the possibility of catching glimpses of marine life like dolphins and whales, you and your partner can take in the beauty of Hawaii while enjoying an intimate evening at sea.

On the Body Glove sunset dinner cruise, the experience starts with a welcome cocktail and pupus (appetizers). When you reach Kealakekua Bay, a delicious full dinner is served along with ambient live music as you watch the sun dip into horizon. As night falls, you’ll be able to admire the stars twinkling above, making it a truly magical moment for two.

There’s no better way to spend an evening together than this epitome of a Hawaiian night out!

🌅 Check Availability for Your Romantic Sunset Dinner Cruise Here!

2. Mauna Kea Stargazing

Speaking of twinkling stars, for a romantic experience that will leave you both in awe, go stargazing up on Mauna Kea.

Located at an elevation of over 13,000 feet, this dormant volcano is considered one of the best places in the world for viewing stars and galaxies. With its clear atmosphere and lack of light pollution, it’s no wonder why so many couples come here to watch the night sky together.

Drive yourself up to 9,000ft to the Visitor Center parking lot, or close to the summit at 13,000ft if you have 4WD.

Dress warmly as temperatures average in the 40s F. This is a chance to cuddle under a blanket together and drinking a warm beverage that you packed as you view the celestial bodies above you.

If you want to take the hassle out of driving yourself up the mountain and want a professional to lead the way, take a stargazing tour instead and experience a guided night under the stars!

With Epic Tours, join James, an experienced Analog-Astronaut and ancient Polynesian navigator, as he takes you to some of the most picturesque spots for viewing deep space. With his knowledge and expertise, you’ll be able to view live details of galaxies and nebulas through a light-sensitive camera/scope.

With James’ pro Astro-Photography skills, he will get photos with the best angles of both of you and the Milky Way in the background.

Get ready for a night filled with awe-inspiring views and romantic moments under the stars!

*Also be aware of altitude sickness. I am a relatively healthy person and still got struck by it.

🌠 Check Availability for Your Romantic Stargazing Tour Here!

3. Soar in a Helicopter Tour

What Bachelor/Bachelorette episode doesn’t have a romantic helicopter date in some exotic location? Recreate similar scenarios by taking your own helicopter tour on the Big Island.

Wear headsets to stay in communication with each other as you point out stunning aerial views over the island from the Kohala Coast to the Hamakua Coast, from the top of Mauna Kea’s volcano summit to Kilauea’s Caldera, and over lush rainforests and dry desert plains.

You’re sure to have a special, romantic experience that will undoubtedly create lasting memories for years to come.

🚁 Check Availability for Your Romantic Helicopter Tour Here!

4. Attend an Entertaining Luau

Nothing could be more romantic than taking your special someone to a Hawaiian luau. Not only is it a fun and entertaining experience, but you can also learn more about the culture and history of Hawaii.

From the vibrant hula dancing to the delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone at a luau. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to get dressed up in festive attire and take some gorgeous photos together!

Attending a luau is sure to be an entertaining evening!

🌺 Check Availability for Your Romantic Luau Here!

5. Luxury Private Boat Charter

If you’re looking for a romantic and unique experience on the Big Island, why not splurge by booking a private tour like a luxury private boat charter? Having a boat all to yourselves is an amazing way to explore some of the most beautiful parts of Hawaii.

Depart out of Kailua-Kona into the crystal blue ocean with just you and your significant other and your personal boat captain taking you wherever your heart desires!

From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to relaxing onboard with your favorite beverage and taking in phenomenal views, a private charter is customizable to every couple’s needs and dreams!

⛵ Check Availability for Your Romantic Luxury Private Boat Charter Here!

➡️ Check out these Places to Stay for Couples on the Big Island!

6. Take an Adventure Tour

Sharing an adrenaline-filled experience is one way couples can build memories together and bond closer together.

The Big Island is a paradise for thrill-seekers and adventurers. From skydiving to snorkeling with manta rays, there are countless activities to choose from so you can find an exhilarating memory just right for the two of you.

Book an adventure tour and get ready for some exciting exploration!

Night Snorkel With Manta Rays

Experience a truly magical evening snorkeling with manta rays off the coast of the Big Island! The warm, tropical waters are illuminated with boogie boards shining blue lights to attract plankton which attract these majestic creatures. As you float in water, watch in awe as these graceful giants gracefully swoop around you with mouths open wide as they gather their dinner. It’s an experience like no other – one that will stay with you for years to come (def one of my Big Island memory highlights!).

🤿 Check Availability for Your Thrilling Manta Ray Snorkel Here!

Ziplining Over Waterfalls

Experience an exciting romantic adventure together with a ziplining excursion over the stunning waterfalls of the Big Island! Ziplining is a thrilling way to explore the island from a unique perspective, and it’s sure to make for an amazing date that your special someone will never forget. Soar above lush rainforests, get up close and personal with cascading waterfalls, and take in breathtaking views of Hawaii’s natural beauty – all while feeling the adrenaline rush that comes with zipping through canopies at high speeds!

🌴 Check Availability for Your Exciting Ziplining Tour Here!

Whale Watching on a Zodiac Raft

Hold on to your hats as you embark on a thrilling journey with your loved one on a whale watching tour in a zodiac raft. This high-speed boat ride will take you out into the open ocean FAST, where you can witness the beauty of majestic whales swimming in their natural habitat. While federal laws don’t allow you to approach these behemoths within 100ft, don’t be surprised if the whales approach the raft themselves!

🐋 Check Availability for Your Thrilling Whale Watching Tour Here!

Drive Backcountry ATVs Tour

Take in the beauty and adventure of the Big Island with an ATV tour! From rolling grassy ranch lands to rugged coastlines, you’ll be able to explore some of Hawaii’s most stunning landscapes on this thrilling ride. There are plenty of photo ops along the way for you to capture your incredible journey together!

🌴 Check Availability for Your Exciting ATV Tour Here!

Private Hike to Hidden Tidal Pools

For couples looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience on the Big Island, a private hike to tidal pools is the perfect activity! Your private guide takes you on a magical journey on an abandoned public access  road through a thick, jungley terrain and along spectacular coastal trails, with plenty of stops to take in breathtaking views. And at the end of your adventure lies a series of crystal-clear tide pools, one with a blowhole shooting water 75ft in the air. This is NOT a touristy location, you may be the only people enjoying the pristine tide pools.

🌊 Check Availability for Your Private Hike to Tide Pools Here!

7. Book a Private Photography Session

Consider freezing romantic moments in time by booking a private photography session on one of the Big Island’s stunning beaches. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or just wanting to have some beautiful photos taken together, this is an excellent option to create a personalized souvenir of your romantic tropical getaway.

You’ll get professional portraits taken with breathtaking backdrops of white sand shores and crystal blue waters, creating treasured memories that will last a lifetime. So make your Hawaiian holiday extra special by booking a private photography session today!

📸 Check Availability for Your Private Romantic Photography Session Here!

8. Lei Greeting at Airport

Everyone imagines landing in Hawaii and getting greeted with a warm “Aloha” and a flowery lei to start off the trip right. Well, you can book this romantic experience yourself and make it happen with your special someone!

A Hawaiian-style lei greeting at the Kona Airport is a wonderful way to make you and your significant other feel extra special right away. Your loved one will be delighted when they see a local waiting with beautiful flower wreaths in their honor.

What better way to kick off an unforgettable romantic trip to the Big Island?

🌺 Check Availability for Your Romantic Lei Greeting Here!

9. Collaborate and Solve Puzzles

Collaborating as a team and solving puzzles together is a great relationship-building activity for couples.

Scavenger Hunt

For a unique and exciting way to explore the Big Island, why not try a scavenger hunt? This fun activity is an excellent opportunity to work together as a team while discovering new places around Hawaii.

Receive carefully curated and customized clues via your virtual, but live interacting host, through your smartphone app and send photos, videos & audio files back as answers.

🕵️‍♂️ Check Availability for Your Romantic Scavenger Hunt Here!

Escape Room

Another puzzle game to solve together is an escape room. You and your partner are are “locked” in a room designed per theme you have chosen and find clues that have been deliberately placed above, behind, under, inside, outside, and upside-down the room. Time is a’tickin’; solve the range of puzzles to escape before time runs out!

It’s an exciting and immersive game that is sure to bring you closer together while having loads of fun!

This is also a great activity to do if it’s raining!

🧩 Check Availability for Your Romantic Escape Room Here!

10. Relax at a Couples Massage

The Big Island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and stunning views. But it’s also home to some of the best spas in the world, offering a variety of treatments perfect for couples looking to relax and reconnect.

Treat yourselves to a romantic couples massage that can help you both unwind after a day of adventuring around the island. From luxurious hotel spa resorts with hot tubs and steam rooms to cozy beach-side cabanas, there are plenty of options available on the Big Island for a soothing couples’ massage experience.

🌺 Check Availability for Your Romantic Couples Massage Here!

11. Take a Class Together

Another romantic thing to do on the Big Island is to learn a new skill together by taking a class. A lot of resorts will offer free lei making and hula classes to its guests, but there are many more options to choose from on the island.

From the popular classes like hula and ukulele lessons to more specialized activities such as cooking or tiki carving classes, there are plenty of options available to hone your skills in a fun atmosphere.

Tiki Carving Class

A tiki carving class offers an immersive look at this centuries-old tradition and gives participants the opportunity to create their own unique piece of Hawaiian art. You will be guided by a 4th generation Master Carver as they teach you the proper technique and skills to carve your own tiki figure. You’ll be able to take home your personal work of art as a memento of your trip.

🗿 Check Availability for Your Tiki Carving Class Here!

Private Surf Lesson

When you take a group surfing lesson you are dependent on waiting your turn to catch a wave so may not have many tries before the lesson is over (I speak from experience!). Taking a private surf lesson for the two of you will ensure you both get maximum time with the instructor and a better chance of mastering the art of riding the waves.

🏄‍♀️ Check Availability for Your Private Surf Lesson Here!

Ukulele Lesson

The musical sounds of Hawaii are incomplete without notes ringing from a ukulele. From the comforts of a local’s home overlooking the ocean on the lanai, learn about the origins of the ukulele and then how to strum this small stringed instrument. Learn the basics or brush up on your skills in this hands-on class.

🎶 Check Availability for Your Ukulele Lesson Here!

Farm-to-Table Cooking Class

Another unique opportunity at Kulaniapia Inn is to take a cooking class. Get ready to experience farm-to-table dining like never before, guided by passionate local farmers. You and your group will collaborate in the process of harvesting fresh produce from the fields, then come together to prepare a delectable meal with whatever is currently in season!

You’ll construct a delicious and unique lunch that will also provide you with the skills to confidently prepare scrumptious recipes of your own in no time.

An incredible opportunity for an intimate and authentic cooking experience awaits!

🥗 Check Availability for Your Farm-to-Table Cooking Class Here!

12. Fancy Night Out With Dinner and Drinks

Nothing says romance like a fancy dinner with ocean views and delicious food and drinks. On the Big Island of Hawaii, couples can experience a delectable romantic evening at one of its many stunning beachfront restaurants watching a golden sunset. From luxurious fine dining to cozy bistros, there are plenty of options for a memorable night out with your special someone.

Enjoy breathtaking views as you savor fresh island cuisine, sip special cocktails or beer, and indulge in some sweet treats for dessert. With so many different venues to choose from on the Big Island, it’s easy to find that perfect spot where you can relax and enjoy each other’s company while taking in beautiful sunsets over the ocean.

Make sure to book ahead if possible so you don’t miss out on these incredible experiences!

Fancy Night Out Options:

• Ulu Ocean Grill – located on the Four Season’s property, this classy restaurant sources its food locally and beyond with the beach steps away to watch the sunset.

• Brown’s Beach House – listen to ocean waves at this oceanfront, AAA Four Diamond restaurant in the Fairmont Orchid serving locally grown produce and fresh seafood with live Hawaiian music performed nightly.

• Canoe House – watch the sun set beneath the ocean’s horizon while savoring Japanese-inspired dishes while sitting on the patio or under the atmospheric exposed wooden beams.

• Merriman’s – undoubtedly the fanciest option on the island with farm-to-table ingredients and a preset, multicourse meal priced per person. No beach view, but it’s the classiest restaurant around.

13. Hike Quiet Trails in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-do while on the Big Island, but it’s not what you would call a “romantic destination”…unless you make it one!

The park is full of trails, many of which the general public don’t hike so much. Take one of these trails and you’ll feel like you have the whole park to yourselves, allowing you to make out under the ohia trees, set up a picnic amongst lava rocks, or just hold hands while enjoying the many variety of birds that flutter through the park.

Some ideas for quieter hikes might include:

• Waldron Ledge Trail – access is behind the Volcano House with intimate, peek-a-boo views of the crater
• Old Crater Rim Drive – when Kilauea is erupting, the viewing area for lava is at Keanakako’i Overlook off of Old Crater Rim Drive. Early evening, this trail is bustling with people BUT if you arrive just before sunrise, there will only be a handful of people and the glow of the morning sun sets a romantic beginning to the day.
• Ka’u Desert Trail – with just a pullout for parking off of Hwy 11, you’ll know right away whether other people are on the trail or not. Walk a deserty trail in search of footprints frozen in time in the lava rocks. One is encased in glass under a covered pavilion.
• Kipukapuaulu Trail – if you want a more shaded trail, up Mauna Loa Rd you’ll find a lush kipuka (an “island” surrounded by lava) hike known for bird watching and has a lava tube halfway through the trail.
• Kahuku Unit – about 40miles south, but still considered part of the National Park, the Kahuku Unit is full of trail systems with various terrains and views. It is an extensive park but has minimal traffic; you may not see another hiker the entire time you are there.

14. Stroll Beaches Without the People

When you think of Hawaii, you think of a romantic stroll, hand in hand with your loved one, walking barefoot along pristine white beaches with aqua waves lapping under your toes.

But, you and everyone else who comes to the islands has the same idea.

Hapuna State Beach, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Green Sand Beach, and Kua Bay Beach are popular, tourist-packed beaches on the Big Island. But there are other shorelines to discover with a lot less people and just as much beauty.

The first rule of thumb if you want a beach all to yourselves is to arrive as early in the day as possible. Most tourists like to sleep in and are still in bed at sunrise, but this is the perfect time to wander the sands in peace and most likely alone while the sky lights up with glowing pastel pinks, purples, and oranges.

Here are some beaches that will take a little more effort to get to, but that means that there will be hardly any other people there.

• Makalawena Beach – Down an extremely rut-filled gravel road is the parking lot for Kekaha Kai State Beach and from there less than a mile’s hike over a lava field. But at the end you’ll find Makalawena Beach, a Hawaii-perfect white sand beach with two coves to choose your own isolated space.
• Kawa Bay Beach – just south of Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is another black sand beach that hides along Hwy 11. You may or may not see cars pulled off on the shoulder by a yellow gate, but if you take that trail a short distance, you’ll encounter a long stretch of black sand beach at Kawa Bay that mostly only locals hang out at.
• Honomolino Beach – while this beach can be busy with locals on the weekends, if you visit Honomolino Beach during the weekdays you will likely have this paradise cove to yourself. The hike will take about 20+ minutes through kiawe trees, a path that gets covered during high tide, and some rocky lava terrain. But the end is worth it as you have an isolated black sand bay lined with palm trees and often dolphins playing nearby.

Looking to pop the question? Check out
💞 15 Romantic Proposal Ideas on the Big Island!

15. Hike and Swim a Picturesque Waterfall

Dreaming of an Instagram-worthy romantic swim under a waterfall? There are many waterfalls on the Big Island, some of them more accessible than others and most of them not swimmable.

However, here are a couple of spots that are open for swimming and surprisingly do not have many people.

• Wailuku Falls – upstream from the very popular Rainbow Falls, Wailuku Falls is often overlooked but can be seen from Waianuenue Ave bridge. Park along the shoulder just after crossing it and there is a small trail leading towards the falls. It is a short hike and bit jungley, but you can access the bottom and the top of the waterfall and carefully enjoy a dip in the stream with hardly a soul in sight.
• Six Tons – while this is a waterfall that flows through a manmade cave, there is a nice deep pool to swim in next to it. People will stop along the white bridge for pictures as they drive along the Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive, but don’t expect anyone to join you in the swim. Follow the path downstream to arrive on top of a “secret” unmarked waterfall.
• Kulaniapia Falls – this is a private waterfall owned by the Kulaniapia Inn. While access is free for staying guests, you can buy yourself a guest pass for the day to swim, paddle, and climb beneath this impressive cascading water. Book your reservation here! https://www.viator.com/tours/Big-Island-of-Hawaii/Kulaniapia-Falls-Daypass-Activity-Discount/d669-63238P3

*Always use caution when swimming in Hawaiian streams. Flash floods can happen at anytime, especially after heavy rainfalls.

16. Catch a Flick at a Movie Theater

A night at the movies can be a perfect romantic outing for couples. With the lights dimmed and sound cranked up, it’s easy to forget about the outside world and get lost in each other’s company while enjoying an action-packed thriller or a heartwarming comedy.

Waikoloa Luxury Cinemas is an upgraded movie theater experience. Live music plays in the foyer with tables set up for full dining options. Or order your meal and full-bar adult beverages prior to the movie to be delivered to your comfortable, reserved loveseats.

Enjoy a relaxing romantic evening together by watching a Hollywood blockbuster film and escaping reality.

17. Shop for Fine Jewelry

Shopping for fine jewelry is a great way to treat your significant other on the Big Island. Find a dazzling piece that will make your tropical vacation even more memorable. Whether you’re looking for an engagement ring or just a romantic gift, there are plenty of options available on the Big Island.

You can find multiple shops to choose from in Waikoloa at the Queen’s Marketplace or Kings Shops or in Kona at the Kona Inn Shopping Village.

Maui Divers and Pearl Factory offer a Pick-a-Pearl option where you can open an oyster in the store for your own surprise pearl. Pick your mounting to create a one-of-a-kind jewelry.

In Hilo, stop at Kanahele Jewelry for Hawaiian-inspired, ornate jewelry. Talk to them about getting something custom created for you.

It may not be for all people, but a toe ring at Aloha Toe Rings is a unique option; my personal favorite option. Michael and I went into the store with zero expectations, I tried a toe ring on for fun, and he saw how happy it made me, so he bought it for me. Still one of my favorite pieces of jewelry.

From local stores with unique handmade pieces to luxury boutiques offering designer collections, you are sure to find something perfect that reflects your love and commitment to each other.

18. Make a Marriage Proposal

A romantic proposal is one of the most memorable and exciting moments for any couple. Whether it’s on a beach, at a waterfall, or in the middle of a jungle, there are plenty of ways to make your marriage proposal extra special on the Big Island.

You can create a once-in-a-lifetime moment that will live in infamy like booking a private helicopter tour or reserving an exclusive dinner with panoramic views of an ocean sunset.

With its incredible landscapes and unique experiences, the Big Island is definitely an ideal place for popping the big question.

19. Renew Your Wedding Vows

If you are already married and want to do something special for your anniversary, why not consider renewing your wedding vows on the Big Island?

Check out companies like Aloha Fun Weddings to book an exclusive beach ceremony package on the Big Island, providing the perfect backdrop for a meaningful and romantic vow renewal. There are plenty of options available to make this day extra special, like fresh flower leis, beautiful bouquets, a conch shell blowing, a ti leaf and lava rock ceremony, and a professional photographer.