Gay Hawaii

Secluded beaches, romantic waterfalls, misty rainforests, intimate B&B’s…small wonder that Hawaii is a favorite honeymoon destination.  But Hawaii promises more than sweet nothings: it is also a place for outdoor adventure, historical/cultural exploration, and unique night life. 

Whether you like to play on land, in the water, or in the air, you’ll find adventure in Hawaii.  Whether it’s hiking, skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, golfing, horseback riding, or just sauntering along a quiet beach that you enjoy, the rainforests, mountain trails, ski resorts, volcanoes, waterfalls, state parks, fern forests, and sandy shores of Hawaii should keep you busy.  As for getting in (or on) the water: try snorkeling, whale watching, surfing, water skiing, canoeing, windsurfing, boogie boarding, fishing, scuba diving, or a submarine tour.  And when you’ve had enough of land and water, go for a hang-gliding or helicopter tour of the breathtaking landscape! Each island of the Hawaiian archipelago has its own collection of gay and nude beaches—some easy to find and some tucked away. 

Polynesian drumming competitions, professional hula competitions, afternoon luaus, and unique local dialects will remind you that you’re vacationing in a spot with an intriguing cultural history.  Spend some time enjoying the multiple cultural opportunities available on each of the islands: you will find museums, historical societies, monuments, and a myriad of cultural events to pique your curiosity.  Then take some time to chat with residents to learn more about the islands’ diverse culture and history. 

While the state of Hawaii is composed of numerous islands, atolls, and reefs, the eight larger main islands are the ones best known to travelers, and of those, four are popular gay destinations: Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big Island.  The attractions listed above can be found on all of these islands, but keep in mind that each island has its own distinct personality.  Specifically, Oahu, the most populated island and the home Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, has the largest variety of gay venues, and the busiest nightlife.  In addition, “The Gathering Place,” as the island of Oahu is locally known, boasts of the gay beach of Hawaii: the Queen’s Surf, located in the Waikiki neighborhood of Honolulu.  Waikiki is also where you will find many of the gay-friendly bars, restaurants, and accommodations on Oahu.

Kauai, with miles of winding trails, beautiful water falls, and isolated swimming holes where you can cool off from a hard day’s hike with your paramour, is the most tropical of the Hawaiian islands and considered a hikers’ paradise.  It is also the home of the Kalaniki B&B, a clothing optional guesthouse, the gay-owned and operated Mahina Kai Ocean Villa, and several gay beaches. 

Maui has a reputation for being “low-key,” but, depending on what you are looking for, this may be a plus.  There is one gay beach—“Little Beach”—and a local business which performs gay wedding/commitment services.

Finally, the Big Island is the home of Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano.  The island’s west side has a variety of shops, restaurants, accommodations, and tour services.  You will also find there the gay-owned and operated Kalani Oceanside Eco-Resort, which offers thermal springs, a clothing optional dolphin beach, and accommodation options ranging from private cottages to exotic tree houses.    

With a climate moderated by the ocean, the temperature of the various islands usually rests between 60 °F to 80 °F, making Hawaii a paradise get-away all year round.  Plan your lune de miel today!