Wedding: Honeymoon: Destination: Hawaii
WHERE TO STAY: In Waikiki, the Halekulani Hotel (halekulani.com) on Waikiki is so set up for honeymooners, there’s even a Vera Wang suite. Pool staff comes around regularly with ice water, cold washcloths and ice cream; afterward you may find your room awash in champagne on ice and strewn rose petals. On the Big Island, the Mauna Lani Bay’s (maunalani.com) rooms wrap around a giant atrium where a pond is populated by koi and sea turtles. The covered cabanas on the beach are lovely, private spaces, and the spa demands multiple visits for lomi lomi massages in an outdoor thatched hut. In Kauai, hire Pure Kauai (purekauai.com) to set you up with a private house rental on the North Shore (ask about the Secret Beach Cottage overlooking Secret Beach with its personal concierge).
WHAT TO PACK: Think casual. You may need one semi-nice ensemble for your fanciest dinner reservation. (A Hawaiian shirt will do for him.) Flip-flops and sandals are fine for almost every occasion, although men should bring a pair of closed-toe shoes (preferred at some restaurants). Sweaters and sweatshirts are good for cool nights.
BEST TIMES TO GO: High season is mid-December through mid-April; the islands are less crowded mid-April to mid-June and September to mid-December — and these off-season periods actually have reliably good weather and lower rates. The specifics of wet and dry seasons vary widely from island to island and even within the islands’ regions: the highest point of Kauai is the wettest spot on Earth; Waimea Canyon, a few miles away, is almost a desert.
NEWLYWED NEWS: The current economy means plenty of deals. Inquire at your chosen hotel before booking.
GETTING THERE: Flying time from Philly is about six hours to L.A. and another five to Honolulu. Flights between islands are quick and cheap.
