Why Kauai Is the Perfect Honeymoon Destination for Nature Lovers

With its luxury resorts and romantic restaurants, Maui may be the most obvious honeymoon destination in the Aloha State, but Kauai—the least developed of the Hawaiian islands—retains a wild sense of adventure. The Garden Isle brims with lush rainforests, gushing waterfalls, mighty mountains, and pristine beaches. And all this untamed natural beauty makes a Kauai honeymoon ripe for exploration. Meaning endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscape that has long inspired filmmakers, photographers, and vacationers.

First, you’ll need to select a base camp. If you ask us, it’s a no brainer. Stay at Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences, the first luxury lodging to open on the island in over a decade. The 450-acre property offers a variety of activities guaranteed to delight outdoorsy types, from private guided treks to treehouse yoga sessions. Couples also have access to cruiser bikes, organic farm tour, and agri-education classes. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Ocean Course at Hokuala. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, it boasts the longest stretch of seaside holes in all of the Aloha State.

Over 70% of Kauai is inaccessible by land. The best way to get a bird’s-eye view of awe-inspiring sights like Manawaiopuna Falls, Waimea Canyon, and the Na Pali Coast? Book an aerial expedition through Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.

Fans of Steven Spielberg's dinosaur-centric science fiction franchise will certainly geek out over Manawaiopuna Falls. The 122-meter-tall cascades appeared in several Jurassic Park scenes. So, yea, it has major star power. And the big-screen magic doesn’t end there. Did you know more than 60 motion pictures have been shot on location in Kauai?

Opt for a guided movie tour or rent a car and scope out your favorite legendary backdrops. Many folks credit the 1958 musical South Pacific with putting the Garden Isle on the map. Check out the verdant twin peaks of Bali Ha'i, Lumahai Beach, and Hanalei Bay.

It should come as no surprise that Kauai is a paradise for aquatic pursuits, whether you want to try kiteboarding or just frolic in the turquoise tides. Famed for its clear waters and coral reefs, Tunnels Beach—which you might recognize from Body Heat—is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Surfers seek out the epic swells on the north shore, while fishing charters depart from Nawiliwili Harbor. Of course, the dramatic sea caves of the Na Pali Coast are a must-see for any visitor. Soak in the spellbinding panoramas from a zodiac boat or consider a tricep-torching kayak excursion.

Back on land, you’ll find tons of many storied hiking trails and scenic drives. Thrillseekers can head to Princeville Ranch for ziplining. The 2,500-acre playground also provides 4x4 off-road outings and horseback riding.