America’s ‘Aloha State’ witnessed increased growth from the couples segment out of Australia in 2017, with just over one third of travellers to Hawai’i falling within that visitor category, according to data collated by Hawai’i Tourism Oceania. The ‘couples’ market was five percentage points ahead of Hawai’i’s ‘other family or friends & family’ (28.7%) and ‘family with children’ segments (22.3%).
Hawai’i Tourism Oceania country manager Australia, Giselle Radulovic said the US island state offered something for every type of couple. “With six different islands to explore, couples can choose to kick back on O’ahu’s Waikiki Beach, hike across lava fields on the Island of Hawai’i, discover Maui’s farm to table foodie scene or enjoy the natural beauty of lush Kaua’i,” she said. That as well as boasting the service and amenities of a US destination, all in a tropical setting unique to Hawaii.
After Oah’u, Hawaii’s second most frequently visited island by Australian couples is Maui, which so happens to be the most popular Hawaiian Island for destination weddings too, Radulovic said. The picturesque seaside resort community of Wailea is a great option for couples. “It exudes a sense of privacy, serenity and freedom spread across an area three times the size of Waikiki”.
Couples visiting the area are spoilt for choice when it comes to romantic hotels and resort options. The exquisite Hotel Wailea, part of the Relais & Chateaux collection, is Hawai’i’s only adults-only resort. The resort features 72 luxurious one-bedroom suites spread across 15 acres, and it offers guests a variety of complimentary activities throughout the week. Other properties on Mau’i that are geared towards couples as boutique “adults-preferred” accommodation include The Plantation Inn and Hoolio House B&B, Radulovic suggested.
On Kaua’i’s sunny south coast there’s the popular Plantation B&B Inn, while on Hawai’i the intimate Island Goode’s ticks the boxes for newlyweds, honeymooners and partners.
There are great options for luxury properties on O’ahu. “Halekulani and The Royal Hawaiian which overlook Waikiki Beach are stand-outs for couples,” Radulovic added.
For couples considering tying the knot or eloping, most Hawai’i resorts & hotels are well equipped to host ceremonies and receptions. And being a state of the US, those in the LGBT community are also ableto marry in Hawai’i.
