6 Natural Wonders to See When Honeymooning in Hawai'i

Found on the southeastern tip of the island of O'ahu, about 20 kilometers from the state's capital city, Honolulu, Hanauma Bay is all that remains of a once-powerful volcanic crater. Today, this stunning cove is a popular snorkeling spot. Strap on a mask, grab a waterproof camera and take some selfies with angel fish, yellow tangs and humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, the state fish of Hawaii.

Stretching across more than 27 kilometers of Kauai’s northern shore, the Nāpali Coast is the island’s most famous juncture with the ocean. The occasional waterfall adds to the already dazzling beauty of these jagged green cliffs. You can experience the Nāpali Coast from the Kalalau Trail, but this hike isn’t for the faint of heart. You can also see the coast by boat or enjoy views on the cliffs from the eastern end of Route 560, about 17 kilometers west of the resort town of Princeville.

The short hike to Waimoku Falls — located in the southeastern part of Maui’s Haleakala National Park — is a worthwhile detour along the island’s famous Road to Hana Drive. Follow the Pīpīwai Trail through several bamboo groves and you’ll find yourself staring up at the 122-meter-high falls. Here, water tumbles down over volcanic cliffs into a small pool of water, where you and your new spouse can cool off.

This honeymoon hot spot was formed over thousands of years by volcanic activity — which you can see first-hand Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the southern coast of Hawaiʻi Island. This island chain was formed thousands of years ago from volcanic activity, and the Kīlauea volcano continues to add layers. Nothing will heat up your honeymoon like the sight of lava flowing into the Pacific.

A less fiery view of Hawai'i’s volcanic history can be found at Molokini, a half-moon-shaped islet found about 4 kilometers off the southwest coast of Maui — making it an easy day trip from Maui's resorts. Molokini is all that remains of a violent volcanic eruption that rocked the Pacific around 230,000 years ago. Today, the atoll (and the 31 hectares of ocean floor surrounding it) draws snorkelers and scuba divers, as well as boaters looking for a scenic place to drop anchor.

Although it’s not nearly as large as its Arizona counterpart, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” boasts some memorable scenery. Numerous lookout points offer panoramic views of the 22.5-kilometer-long, 1,100-meter-deep canyon on the northwest side of Kauaʻi. If you’re not up for hiking, hop in the car and follow Waimea Canyon Drive, which cuts through the state park and leads down into the canyon, weaving between the rusty buttes. For a truly memorable experience, book a helicopter tour for two.