In Hawaiian, the word aloha has various meanings, and although you will probably hear it most often used as a greeting or farewell, it also means “love.” So what better place than Hawaii to celebrate romance, love, and the aloha spirit around the most romantic day of the year?
Guests of the Outrigger Reef on the Beach of Outrigger Waikiki can take advantage of a free vow renewal ceremony, offered on a first-come, first-served basis. See details here. (Oahu)
Hawaii Prince Hotels have special romance packages for the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Big Island) or Hapuna Prince Hotel (Big Island) or the Hawaii Prince Hotel (Oahu) which come with extras such as champagne, chocolates, and a car rental. Details for all three can be found here.
Holualoa Inn is featuring a Special Romance Package for two, including chilled champagne, rose petals on your bed, and fresh tropical flowers and chocolates delivered in your room. You can even book a couples massage for two in their Hale Luana outdoor pavilion. For details and to book, click here. (Big Island)
Since romance is often wherever you find it, you can also find the latest hotel deals over on our deals page. Bookmark the list, as it changes frequently. Bring along your own bottle of champagne, and voila! It’s Valentine’s Day your way.
Going out for a romantic dinner is often a popular way to spend Valentine’s Day. This year, the holiday falls on a Monday, so it’s wise to call ahead to be sure your favorite restaurant will be open on Valentine’s Day and to make sure they still have reservations available. Because of the timing, many restaurants will offer special menus for the entire weekend leading up to February 14th, so this may be an option if you’d prefer to dine out on a weekend evening.
Another tip: Because reservations to the most popular restaurants can often be taken far in advance, you may also want to consider a romantic breakfast, brunch, or lunch instead. OpenTable.com has a great list of Hawaii restaurants with openings and/or special menus for the holiday.
The Honolulu Weekly has put together this great list of special menus and Valentine’s Day themed events.
Hawaii Events Online has a few listings for happenings for Valentine’s day on Oahu, including concerts by Na Leo Pilimehana and Babyface or dinner at Wolfgang Steakhouse in Waikiki.
On Friday, February 18th, Brasserie Du Vin is hosting a Valentine’s-themed beer dinner. You can find details here.
The Honolulu Weekly has a great roundup of Valentine’s Day 2011 events here.
On Oahu, you can order custom gift baskets from Red Pineapple with delivery to your hotel or vacation rental. One of the most popular options is a basket of made in Hawaii goodies (with or without wine) but baskets can be made to order for your gift occasion or budget.
Still trying to come up with something original? Well if you’re in Honolulu, you’re in luck… How about a singing valentine from a Barbershop Quartet?
Hawaii has a reputation for being pricey, and if you’re here celebrating your honeymoon, anniversary, or blossoming romance, sometimes you don’t mind the splurge. Here are a few ways to find the romance you’re craving, without breaking the bank.