With its beaches, mountains, waterfalls, clear skies and sparkling seas, Hawaii sets a stunning stage for a wedding proposal. Across the island chain, the natural environment oozes romance. All that’s needed are a little creativity and a ring to seal the deal. Here are five great places to pop the big question in Hawaii.
On a Sunset Sail
Clients can chart a lifetime course together during a cocktail or dinner cruise. A proposal can turn into a party on one of the larger boats out of Honolulu Harbor, complete with live music.
A more intimate experience awaits on a small catamaran ride out of Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore. To add a real sense of place to the proposal, consider booking a sunset ride on a traditional sailing canoe on Kauai, Maui or Hawaii Island.
By a Waterfall
Whether you drive or hike to them, Hawaii’s waterfalls create inspiring backdrops for betrothals.
A short stroll takes couples to 442-foot-high Akaka Falls on Hawaii Island. A one-hour hike leads to the base of Oahu’s 150-foot-tall Manoa Falls. Pull over to the side of the road to view Wailua Falls, a favorite on Kauai, as well as several falls along the Hana Highway on Maui. All provide picturesque locales for pledging your troth.
On the Beach
All of the islands offer mellow seaside strands where couples can commit to each other. My husband proposed to me on Kaimana Beach, a pocket of Waikiki sand with mutual memories and romantic sunsets.
On Maui, the easternmost town of Hana lays claim to deserted Hamoa Beach, a dreamy place to take the plunge. Other secluded lures are Secret Beach on Kauai’s north shore and Mokuleia Beach on Oahu’s North Shore.
On a Mountain Top
TravelAge West’s Contributing Editor at Large Skye Mayring got engaged at the top of Diamond Head crater. Knowing that she loved its dramatic views of Oahu, her now-husband picked the perfect private lookout, away from the crowds, to ask her to marry him. On Maui, the summit of Haleakala Crater offers an equally splendid setting for a proposal. The future feels limitless as couples gaze across its vast expanse.
In the Air
The big question turns into an uplifting experience on a private helicopter tour. Most helicopter companies are willing to customize the trip as well. Clients have been known to write “Will You Marry Me?” in the sand and ask the pilot to fly over the message.
It’s even possible to stop at a remote landing site, where couples can toast their love with champagne. When it comes to a marriage proposal in Hawaii, the sky’s the limit.
