17 Best Places Like Hawaii to Consider for Your Honeymoon

Best honeymoon destinations similar to Hawaii

1 French Polynesia

What better place to start than with French Polynesia? One of the best places to visit like Hawaii, French Polynesia is considered to be Hawaii’s sophisticated sister.

It delivers the same volcanic drama, lush mountains, warm lagoons and Polynesian culture, but with a quieter, more exclusive feel, making it perfect for a luxury honeymoon. 

Like Hawaii, the islands (there are more than 100) are blessed with breathtaking scenery, vibrant marine life and endless opportunities for romance and adventure. But French Polynesia also offers a real sense of seclusion and intimacy. 

Bora Bora embodies this beautifully. Its iconic lagoon circles the majestic Mount Otemanu, creating one of the most photogenic destinations on the planet. 

Overwater villas are the signature experience in Bora Bora, giving you direct access to warm, crystal-clear water, along with the privacy and indulgence that honeymoon dreams are made of! Think champagne breakfasts delivered by canoe, private decks for sunset dips and uninterrupted views from your bed 😍

Beyond Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti offer their own blend of romance and adventure, including waterfalls, black-sand beaches, volcanic peaks, incredible hiking opportunities and world-class snorkelling. 

Compared with Hawaii, French Polynesia should be less crowded, too – making it ideal if you want a more refined, ultra-relaxing escape.

Where to stay: Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

2 Madeira, Portugal

You might think it would be hard to find places like Hawaii in Europe, but if that’s the case, you probably don’t know much about Madeira! 

This enchanting Portuguese island is a fantastic alternative for couples seeking dramatic volcanic scenery, warm weather, a wild coastline and a refined sense of luxury. 

It’s not a classic beach destination in the traditional sense, but Madeira offers beautiful coastal spots for sunbathing and swimming, including the golden-sand beaches of neighbouring island, Porto Santo, which is a short ferry ride away. 

If you’re craving adventure, Madeira is also unmatched. Its network of levada trails winds through emerald forests, waterfalls and mountain ridges, offering world-class hiking.

You’ll be able to paraglide above dramatic cliffs, explore volcanic caves, canyon through lush ravines or head out on the ocean for dolphin and whale watching. Simply driving around the island feels like an adventure, too, with winding coastal roads, endless viewpoints and charming villages.

There are countless luxury hotels on the island, too, many with infinity pools, oceanfront spas, Michelin-starred restaurants and suites designed for romantic downtime.

Plus, Portugal is known for being highly affordable, so if you’re on the hunt for places like Hawaii but cheaper, look no further!

Where to stay: Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina

3 Cook Islands

Dazzling turquoise waters, striking volcanic peaks and warm Polynesian spirit… That’s what you get over on the Cook Islands. 

As a fantastic Hawaii alternative for honeymooners, this South Pacific archipelago provides a wonderfully slow, more intimate pace that feels a lot more untouched. It gives that “Hawaii before the crowds” feeling, which we love!

The main island of Rarotonga is perfect for both adventure and relaxation. Its jungle-covered interior, dramatic peaks and looping coastal road make it easy to explore by scooter or e-bike.

You’ll also find a stunning lagoon where you can snorkel with colourful fish, go kayaking or take a romantic glass-bottom boat cruise. 

Luxury resorts and boutique hideaways line the beachfront, offering private villas, outdoor showers and the most serene, toes-in-the-sand atmosphere.

Aitutaki in the Cook Islands is often described as one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. Its impossibly blue water and scattered islets create the perfect backdrop for paddleboarding or secluded beach picnics. 

Many couples come here specifically for the overwater bungalows. It’s a laid-back tropical paradise, tailor-made for honeymooners!

Where to stay: Little Polynesian Resort

4 Bali, Indonesia

Few places are as mesmerising or memorable as Bali. This is a honeymoon destination that’s one of our favourites… It perfectly combines tropical beauty, cultural richness and luxury indulgence, making it a compelling alternative for couples seeking a Hawaii-like escape in Asia. 

Known as the “Island of the Gods”, Bali is decked out with rice terraces, volcanoes, jungles and golden beaches framed by the Indian Ocean.

For beach lovers, the southern coast is dotted with luxurious resorts and pristine stretches of sand, from Seminyak’s stylish beach clubs to the quieter, more intimate shores of Nusa Dua and Jimbaran. Couples can relax with private cabanas, sunset cocktails and traditional Balinese spa treatments.

Ubud is the perfect spot for lovers of culture and people watching. You’ll be able to sip delicious coffee in modern cafes, explore maze-like markets and take in some traditional architecture. There are endless temples, rice paddies and artisan villages to visit, too. 

If you want adventure like you’d find in Hawaii, you could also go surfing, take a guided sunrise trek up Mount Batur, hike waterfalls, go white-water rafting or try some world-famous diving. There are so many things to do in Bali!

Luxury in Bali is everywhere, too, from infinity pools perched on cliffs, to romantic resorts tucked into the jungle. Trust me when we say a trip to Bali is never a bad idea!

Where to stay: Camaya Bali

5 Fiji

There’s a reason why Fiji is one of the most popular honeymoon spots in the world. It’s a classic tropical paradise, and a dream substitute if you want the romance, luxury and natural beauty of Hawaii, but with an added sense of seclusion. 

With more than 300 islands, Fiji offers everything from palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, to lush jungles and lively coral reefs.

Luxury resorts are scattered across the islands, offering beachfront accommodation, candlelit beach dining and romantic spa experiences.

You can also enjoy tons of romantic experiences in Fiji like sunset cruises, horseback riding, or simply unwinding in your villa while listening to the gentle lap of waves.

Fiji boasts world-class snorkelling and scuba diving, too, as well as island-hopping, kayaking, paddleboarding and guided rainforest treks. Like you would in Hawaii, you’ll also find plenty of cultural experiences in Fiji.

With its combination of turquoise waters, powdery beaches and luxury indulgence, Fiji is the perfect tropical escape for couples who want adventure, romance and unparalleled natural beauty in one unforgettable package.

Where to stay: Nanuku Resort Fiji

6 Reunion Island

Few people seem to know about Reunion Island and that’s ultimately a very good thing! Reunion Island is a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean and it is truly spectacular. 

Like Hawaii, this island is rich in volcanoes, rainforests, waterfalls and rugged coastlines, offering a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-track experience than typical tropical islands. 

While Reunion’s beaches are smaller and often volcanic, they provide intimate spots for sunbathing, swimming and romantic sunsets. Luxury lodges and boutique hotels dot the island, too, many with unobstructed cliffside views. 

If you like the idea of Hawaii for adventure, Reunion is hard to beat. You can hike across the active Piton de la Fournaise volcano, explore the island’s cirques and rainforest trails, canyon through waterfalls, paraglide over dramatic cliffs, or dive into coral reefs teeming with marine life. 

Helicopter tours and 4×4 excursions are also a great way to experience the island!

If you’re after a tropical escape that delivers gorgeous scenery, endless opportunities for adventure, plenty of privacy and chances for indulgence, Reunion could well be your perfect Hawaii alternative.

Where to stay: Palm Hotel & Spa

7 St. Lucia

Few places do natural beauty and luxurious experiences quite like St. Lucia. Similarly to Hawaii, this Caribbean destination is basically a picture-postcard come to life. The Piton mountains provide all the Instagrammable backdrops you could wish for! 

For an unforgettable honeymoon, St Lucia hits every note: dramatic scenery, quiet pockets of paradise and a slow island vibe. There’s a reason why it’s one of the most romantic islands in the Caribbean – it feels intimate and tailor-made for couples.

If you honeymoon here, you could spend your days alternating between relaxing and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. There’s loads you can see and do, like visiting volcanic mud baths, hiking through rainforests, sailing along the coast or snorkelling in ridiculously clear waters. 

You’ll also find the softest white sand and calm turquoise waters, as well as luxury resorts kitted out with private plunge pools, ocean views, world-class spas and butlers.

Where to stay: Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

8 Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju Island in South Korea is an unexpected alternative to Hawaii, but it’s a brilliant choice if you’re after a mix of natural beauty, adventure and luxury. It’s a fresh, sophisticated option that we think needs your full consideration!

Jeju’s beaches are quieter than typical tropical islands, offering serene spots for sunbathing, swimming and sunset strolls.

Luxury resorts and boutique hotels offer private villas, ocean-view suites, fine dining and indulgent spa treatments, inspired by the island’s natural elements. 

Like in Hawaii, adventure and exploration are central to a Jeju honeymoon. You could hike up Hallasan, South Korea’s highest mountain, trek through lava tubes and volcanic craters, visit waterfalls and scenic coastal paths, or take a horseback ride across flowering meadows. 

The island also offers cultural experiences, including tea plantations, local markets and heritage museums so it’s perfect if you want a mix of things to see, do and experience. It’s different but we know it’s still the honeymoon of a lifetime!

Where to stay: JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

9 Seychelles

The Seychelles is a quintessential tropical paradise and when it comes to islands like Hawaii, it’s up there with the best of them! 

This archipelago lies in the Indian Ocean and is renowned for its white-sand beaches, aquamarine waters and boulder-strewn coastline, all of which add up to picture-perfect scenery at every turn.

Luxury resorts and boutique hideaways are scattered across the islands, often tucked into secluded bays or atop cliffs with panoramic ocean views. You can expect everything from sunset cocktails, private beach picnics and starlit dinners that make every moment feel effortlessly romantic.

Like in Hawaii, adventure is a big part of the Seychelles experience. You could snorkel or dive amongst rich coral reefs, sail between the islands, hike gorgeous trails through tropical forests, or discover untouched waterfalls.

You could also try an excursion to the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai on Praslin, or the remote atolls of the Outer Islands. It’s a dream place to visit if you love nature and want a secluded honeymoon experience.

Where to stay: Six Senses Zil Pasyon

10 Zanzibar, Tanzania

With its pristine strips of sand, warm ocean waters and rich culture, Zanzibar is a great Hawaii alternative if you want tropical beauty and luxury in one unforgettable package. 

Zanzibar lies off the coast of Tanzania and offers a honeymoon experience that is both relaxing and immersive. You could even pair it with a safari on the mainland for the ultimate multi-centre trip!

Snorkelling and diving, unforgettable sailing excursions and kite surfing are all possible in Zanzibar. You could also explore historic Stone Town, spice plantations and vibrant markets, or venture into tropical forests to spot rare wildlife and secluded waterfalls.

Like Hawaii there’s gorgeous accommodation across Zanzibar, and many hotels and resorts provide direct beach access. You’ll get ultimate privacy while soaking up the sun, or watching spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean. 

If you’re searching for a romantic destination like Hawaii that truly feels like paradise on earth, then trust us, you can’t go too far wrong with Zanzibar!

Where to stay: Zuri Zanzibar

11 Palawan, Philippines

If you’re seeking places like Hawaii but cheaper, then Palawan might just be for you! This destination is ideal for those in search of a tropical paradise with a much more affordable price tag – it’s perfect if you want your luxury budget to stretch even further!

Like Hawaii, Palawan is known for its incredible scenery. Here, you’ll find picture-perfect turquoise lagoons, towering limestone cliffs and hidden beaches that are just as pretty as Hawaii’s dramatic backdrops.

There’s the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in Palawan, too. From world-class snorkelling and scuba diving, to kayaking through lagoons, island-hopping tours and hikes through lush jungles.

Luxury resorts and private villas are found across the region, too. Many of them come with direct access to pristine beaches or secluded coves.

You’ll also find hotels with infinity pools, wellness centres, bespoke excursions and romantic add-ons, like candlelit dinners by the water and sunset cruises. It’s without a doubt a dream honeymoon destination!

Where to stay: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort

12 The Whitsundays, Australia

Australia is so vast and diverse that you could spend an entire year exploring it. But the Whitsundays has to be one of our favourite areas and is a brilliant pick for your honeymoon. 

Just off the coast of Queensland, these beautiful islands give Hawaii a run for its money. Picture sun-soaked beaches, aquamarine waters and luxurious beachfront villas! 

The archipelago is formed from 74 islands around the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll be able to snorkel or dive among the iconic reef, sail between secluded islands, kayak through calm lagoons and explore hidden beaches. 

If all you want to do is relax, Whitehaven Beach, with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, is one of the world’s prettiest beaches. 

You’ll also get amazing places to stay in this region with luxury resorts, private island retreats and boutique lodges. It’s a brilliant Hawaii alternative if you want luxury accommodation, breathtaking landscapes and endless outdoor activities.

Where to stay: The Sundays

13 Mauritius

Want all-inclusive luxury? Mauritius has you covered! This spectacular tropical destination is a perfect alternative to Hawaii if you want to be treated like royalty. 

Located in the Indian Ocean, the island boasts powdery white beaches, turquoise waters and beautiful natural landmarks, like mountains, waterfalls and sugarcane fields.

It’s no wonder it’s one of Africa’s best honeymoon destinations. It perfectly blends luxury, adventure and breathtaking scenery and feels like newlywed paradise.

Whether you book a boutique hotel or a bigger luxury resort, you can enjoy sunrise breakfasts by the ocean, sunset cocktails on secluded terraces and bespoke excursions, ensuring every moment feels intimate and tailor-made. 

As you’d expect from a Hawaii alternative, adventure is never far away in Mauritius. From snorkelling and diving, to kayaking, hiking, rainforest treks, sailing, helicopter tours and scenic drives to waterfalls and viewpoints, there’s something for every type of couple.

Where to stay: Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa

14 The Azores, Portugal

There are only a few places like Hawaii in Europe and the Azores is one of them. This Portuguese archipelago is a stunning and unexpected option, and one that we love for a honeymoon with a difference!

Located in the mid-Atlantic, the nine islands combine dramatic mountains with crater lakes, waterfalls and coastal cliffs for off-the-beaten-track adventure.

You won’t find traditional tropical beaches, but its black- and green-sands, natural swimming pools and sheltered bays are ideal for sunbathing. 

In the Azores, it’s possible to stay in luxury hotels and boutique accommodations, such as historic manor houses or cliffside resorts, so you can expect gourmet dining, spa experiences and brilliant day trips if you choose this destination. 

Like Hawaii, adventure is everywhere in the Azores. Imagine hiking through volcanic craters, exploring hidden lagoons, kayaking along rugged coastlines, whale- and dolphin-watching, or cycling through scenic countryside. 

Hot springs and geothermal pools can be found, too. We recommend hiring a car so you can explore every inch of the islands at your own pace.

Where to stay: Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort

15 Dominica

Dominica is often called the “Nature Island of the Caribbean” so it’s a gorgeous choice for a Hawaii-style honeymoon. 

The island mixes lush landscapes with adventure and romance – it’s a destination that’s defined by its dramatic volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, rivers, waterfalls and steaming geothermal springs. 

Dominica is unparalleled when it comes to things to do. You could hike the world-famous Boiling Lake trail, canyon through waterfalls, snorkel or dive among exotic reefs, kayak along pristine rivers, or explore hidden coves and volcanic hot springs. 

Like Hawaii there’s so much beauty in Dominica. The island’s rugged landscapes and relative seclusion make every excursion feel like a private adventure!

Across Dominica there are also plenty of luxury, all-inclusive resorts, private villas and eco-lodges to choose from so you’ll find the perfect place for your dream honeymoon.

Where to stay: InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa by IHG

16 Puerto Rico

For honeymooners seeking a Hawaii alternative that delivers romance, indulgence and unforgettable experiences, Puerto Rico is it!

Puerto Rico is an enticing honeymoon spot with sun-drenched beaches, lush rainforests and dramatic coastal cliffs. Honeymoons here are all about hiking through the misty El Yunque rainforest, exploring hidden waterfalls, paddling bioluminescent bays, snorkelling coral reefs and surfing some of the Caribbean’s best waves. 

We recommend hiring a car or booking guided excursions if you want to see the best of Puerto Rico. Scenic drives along coastal roads and mountain trails lead to secluded beaches, charming villages and the most breathtaking viewpoints. 

Luxury resorts and boutique hotels line the island’s beaches, too, offering private suites, ocean-view terraces, infinity pools and romantic spa sessions. You’ll be able to enjoy candlelit dinners on the sand and sunset cocktails overlooking the sea. It’s pure heaven!

Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach and Golf Resort

17 U.S. Virgin Islands

If you’re looking for places like Hawaii in the US, then your options don’t get much better than the U.S. Virgin Islands. As a premium Hawaii alternative for honeymooners, this Caribbean archipelago has sun-soaked beaches, picture-perfect waters and gorgeous accommodations. 

The Virgin Islands are known for their iconic resorts and boutique hotels, where couples can live in the lap of luxury. Think sunrise breakfasts on the sand, sunset sailing and intimate dinners under the stars.

However, the islands offer a mix of dramatic coastlines, lush hills and secluded bays, creating a perfect balance of romance, adventure and relaxation similar to what you’d find in Hawaii.

There are plenty of opportunities for adventure. You could sail between the islands, hike trails through Virgin Islands National Park, or kayak along serene bays. For those seeking a cultural touch, you’ll also find historic towns, sugar plantation ruins and local markets.

If you’re in search of complete indulgence and romance in one tropical destination, then we know these islands will deliver!

Where to stay: Buoy Haus Beach Resort St Thomas Autograph Collection

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