Maui is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. However, its appeal is relaxed in its lush nature and tranquil atmosphere. While Oahu is perfect for picturesque landscapes. Golden beaches, historic landmarks, and stunning skyscrapers characterize the island’s beauty. But choosing between Cabo vs. Cancun honeymoon can be tricky.
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Maui
The second largest among the Hawaiian islands, Maui boasts mesmerizing natural beauty. From its sun-kissed shores and turquoise waters to the sprawling Haleakala National Park and dramatic lava-rock formations, there are plenty of places where you and your new spouse can engage in outdoor activities.
While the island blends Hawaiian traditions with modern amenities, it remains a laid-back paradise where you can enjoy serene moments with your loved one. Its appeal is tethered in its lush nature and tranquil atmosphere.
Oahu
Unlike Maui’s laid-back charm, Oahu boasts a bustling cosmopolitan vibe. It’s the economic and cultural center of the city, as it’s home to the state capital of Honolulu.
Also known as the “Gathering Place,” Oahu is Hawaii’s third-largest island. It’s perfect for couples who want to be fully immersed in the lively Aloha spirit.
It’s also a great island if you want to stay close to luxury shops and arts and entertainment hubs. The most recognizable attraction it has is the world-famous Waikiki Beach.
Beaches
Maui
Maui beaches best embody the island’s relaxed atmosphere.
Wailea Beach has tranquil waters, soft golden sands, and palm trees that dance with the breeze. Kaanapali Beach, meanwhile, is ideal for surfers and sunbathers alike.
There are spots perfect for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, and simply relaxing. Visit Kapalua Bay Beach for a private beach experience. It’s a sheltered, white-sand cove shaped like a crescent.
Maui also has its share of fascinating black-sand beaches. And one of the most popular is the Waianapanapa State Park, set along the Road to Hana. The best activity here is to hike a cave and swim in its natural freshwater pool.
Oahu
Although Oahu has no black sand beaches, it still offers diverse beaches to cater to honeymooners’ preferences. As stated, it’s home to the ever-lively Waikiki Beach.
This tourist spot isn’t just a place for soaking up the sun and dipping in clean waters, but it’s also a space where you and your significant other can shop and dine.
On the North Shore, you can escape Waikiki’s hustle and bustle. It has its own selection of beaches, including Laniakea Beach (a.k.a. Turtle Beach, where you can encounter sea turtles) and Waimea Beach (a popular surfing spot, especially in the winter).
On the windward side of the island, you can explore Kailua and Lanikai Beaches. Lanikai has a desert-island feel, while Kailua has better facilities (It’s also breezier).
Excursions
Maui
One of the must-visit places in Maui is the Haleakala National Park, home to the Haleakala volcano, the world’s largest dormant volcano. You can hike tropical trails and waterfalls and catch the sunrise at the Kapahulu Visitor Center.
If you’re up for a scenic drive, traverse the Road to Hana. It’s a 64-mile highway that takes you through amazing beaches and waterfalls on the island.
If you want to go on a cruise, November to May is a great time to do it. You can go whale watching because this season marks the migration period for humpback whales.
For a day trip, I recommend taking a ferry to Lanai. Depart from Lahaina Maui and arrive at the Manele Harbor. Lanai, the sixth-largest Hawaiian island, offers unique beaches, including the Shipwreck Beach, where you can see World War II shipwrecks.
Oahu
Exciting and steeped-in-history excursions also await you on the island of Oahu. Its beaches are great for snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and sunset cruises.
It’s also where you can find one of the most iconic landmarks of Hawaii: the Diamond Head State Monument. Here, you don’t just get picturesque ocean views. You can also hike and learn more about the state’s military history.
To delve more into this history, visit Pearl Harbor, which also houses the USS Arizona Memorial. Polynesian Cultural Center is another top attraction on the island. It’s set along North Shore and comprises six island villages spotlighting the cultures of Hawaii, New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, and Tonga.
When you head to downtown Honolulu, you will see the Iolani Palace, once a royal residence of Hawaiian rulers.
If you want to try ziplining, horseback riding, or ATV rides, head off to Kualoa Jurrasic Tours. Being the hub for inter-island travel in Hawaii, you can also catch ferries here if you want to go island hopping to Maui, Kauai, or Big Island.
Weather
Hawaii is a great year-round tropical destination. But note that the Hawaiian summer is from June to September when islands like Maui and Oahu see an influx of travelers and honeymooners. During these months, the prices are higher, and the crowd is thicker.
For a good mix of pleasant weather and more affordable rates, visit in May, late September, or early October. It’s best to avoid November to March, a rainy season. Compared to other islands, Oahu tends to get more rainfall.
Both the island’s leeward side is drier than its windward counterpart. On average, Maui’s temperature hovers around 65°F to 88°F. Meanwhile, Oahu sees temperature levels ranging from 65°F to 88°F.
Accessibility
You can fly directly to Maui’s Kahului Airport or Oahu’s Honolulu International Airport. If you’re bundling Oahu and Maui, these airports also offer local flights. Ferries are also available.
While shuttles, taxis, and buses will help you get around both islands, renting a car is the best way to enjoy each island.
Accommodations
Since Oahu and Maui are two of the most touristy islands in Hawaii, they offer plenty of accommodation options for honeymooners.
You can find beachfront luxury resorts and boutique ones in both tropical gems. They also have a selection of adults-only and adults-friendly resorts and hotels for a more secluded stay.
Just take note that Maui properties tend to be larger (they take up more oceanfront space) and pricier. To reduce lodging expenses, consider staying at hostel dorms, oceanfront houses, and bed and breakfasts.
Food and Dining
Maui boasts a culinary world anchored in the state’s traditional dishes and farm-to-table approach to agriculture. If you want to know the taste of Hawaii’s artisanal goat cheeses, this is the island to visit.
Meanwhile, Oahu’s cosmopolitan nature is exemplified in its gastronomic world. You can find restaurants and eateries serving Hawaiian dishes alongside international cuisine, including Chinese and European. Its North Shore is a particularly excellent place to eat fresh shrimp.
As Oahu and Maui are islands on the Pacific Ocean, you can also expect abundant fresh seafood. One of the most popular dishes is Poke, made of raw and marinated fish, rice, vegetables, and sauces. The islands also have a range of Pork dishes—from Kalua (roasted pork butt seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt) to Lau Lau (port wrapped in taro leaf).
Nightlife
Oahu has a bustling nightlife. The best spots to search for bars and clubs are Waikiki, Downtown Honolulu, and Chinatown.
Maui has a generally laid-back vibe, extending well into its night scene. In relatively livelier areas after sundown, including Kihei and Lahaina, most people go home by around 10 o’clock.
Cost
Your budget is a huge deciding factor to consider when going to Hawaii for your romantic getaway. Compared to other US destinations, Hawaii is generally more expensive. And when you compare Maui to Oahu, the former tends to be more expensive. As stated, resorts are typically costlier on this island.
Your Maui honeymoon for one week will cost around $2,000 to $6,000. On Oahu, the budget range is from $2,000 to 4,000.
Culture
When visiting either of them, one of the best cultural experiences is to go to an authentic Luau. This is a festive gathering where you can indulge in traditional music and taste local cuisine.
To be more immersed in the culture, consider booking a Native Hawaiian tour. This activity will let you meet native Polynesians and even learn to make lei, play the ukulele, or dance hula.
You can step back in time when you visit historical landmarks on Maui or Oahu. The former is home to the ʻĪao Valley State Park, Haleki’i-Pihana Heiau State Monument, Bailey House Museum, and the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum.
On the latter, you can find the Bishop Museum, Hānaiakamalama houses, and Washington Place—apart from the previously mentioned Diamond Head, Iolani Palace, and Pearl Harbor.
Language
Throughout Hawaii, the most wildly spoken languages are English, Hawaiian, and Pidgin (or Hawaiian Creole English).
Since the state is also a melting pot of culture, you’ll find people there speaking Tagalog, Ilocano, and Japanese, especially in Honolulu, Oahu.
Safety
If you’re on the fence between a Maui vs. Oahu honeymoon, here’s good news: No matter which island you choose, you’ll be safe. However, note that since Oahu has a more urban feel, you will be more prone to petty crimes like theft or pickpocketing. The key is to keep an eye on your belongings. At nighttime, stay in well-lit and busy areas.
As for excursions, always follow your tour guide during guided tours. If you’re venturing alone, make sure to practice precaution. Be mindful of the weather when swimming on beaches, and follow any warning signs. It’s best to hit the waters where there are lifeguard stations.