In December of ’22, my partner and I embarked on a dreamy babymoon to Honolulu, staying in Waikiki for a magical week of relaxation and adventure. It was simply perfect!

Hawaii is an enchanting destination, boasting beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Waikiki, known for its stunning shoreline and vibrant atmosphere, provided the ideal backdrop for our getaway.

Our babymoon was filled with sun, sand, adventure, and indulgent culinary experiences. From snorkeling with sea turtles to savoring unique dishes and exploring the beauty of Diamond Head, each day brought new and cherished memories. If you’re considering a babymoon or simply a tropical escape, Waikiki has all the ingredients for an unforgettable vacation.

As I find myself reminiscing about those beautiful moments, I can’t help but share our incredible experiences and recommendations for anyone considering a Hawaiian getaway. It’s a win-win as I get to relive my trip and you get some great travel ideas for your next trip!

Our best recommendations—including LOTS of good food while I was eating for two—below!

Where we stayed: Queen Kapiolani Waikiki Beach Hotel

Why we loved it: The Queen Kapiolani proved to be a gem, there were just so many reasons to love this hotel! To start, the location was ideal with a very short walk to the beach. The proximity coupled with the variety of activities offered for guests like lei making and yoga made for …

Right in the lobby is Knots Coffee Roasters, the Hans Hedemann surf school, and a charming snack stand & art store. A few floors up a restaurant called The Deck with good bites, great cocktails & mocktails, and a stunning view of Diamond Head Mountain.

And let’s not forget the rooftop pool with panoramic views of the ocean and Diamond Head—a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. Our stay was nothing short of wonderful!

What we did: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour

Why we loved it: For ocean enthusiasts like us, the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour was a highlight of our trip. Surrounded by the vibrant marine life, the crystal-clear waters of Turtle Canyon provided a magical setting for an unforgettable experience. Snorkeling with sea turtles made this excursion a personal favorite.

(Side note: I LOVED swimming while pregnant! It’s uplifting, making the load a little lighter. Plus I love imagining the soothing effect of underwater sounds on the baby.)

Where we ate: Basalt

Why we loved it: This place doesn’t just provide a meal, but a culinary experience! The menu boasted interesting and unique dishes like this quinoa-crusted shrimp. But the miso black cod stole the show, really blowing us away—it was the best dish from the trip. The flavors were exquisite, making it our favorite dining experience of the entire trip!

What we did: Diamond Head Trail Hike

Why we loved it: Hiking the iconic Diamond Head Trail was a physically rewarding (I felt pretty bad ass doing it 7 months pregnant) and visually breathtaking experience. The panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean from the summit were absolutely worth the effort, made all the more special when a rainbow popped up on the skyline!

What we ate: Momosan

Why we loved it: Momosan offered a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a must-visit. The ambiance and the variety of dishes, each more delicious than the last, left us with a memorable dining experience.

What we did: Honolulu Zoo

Why we loved it: This place was such a pleasant surprise! We could see the zoo from our hotel room, and based off of what we saw we expected it to be small. In reality it had quite a diverse range of animals and a large amount of area to explore! It made for a charming and leisurely day out.

What we ate: Munchwagon

Why we loved it: Munchwagon served up a delectable array of comfort food, offering a perfect blend of flavors. It was a hidden gem that satisfied our cravings and left us wanting more. (We ended up grabbing food here more than once!) It was also posted up close to our hotel!

What we did: Surf lessons with Hans Hedemann Surf School

Why we loved it: Surfing in the gentle Hawaiian waves with the expert guidance of the surf school made for a fun afternoon! My pregnant belly wasn’t about to lay on a surfboard and paddle out, so this was an excursion just for Stephen! He said it was an exhilarating experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, their lessons cater to all skill levels.

What we ate: Cafe Glace

Why we loved it: Cafe Glace provided a sweet escape with its delightful desserts and refreshing beverages. The perfect spot to unwind and treat ourselves after a day of exploring or for a morning acai bowl.

What we did: Paradise Cove Luau

Why we loved it: We experienced an enchanting Paradise Cove Luau—a feast for the senses. From the traditional Hawaiian feast to the captivating cultural performances and hands on activities like traditional bowling and spear throwing, it was a nice representation of Hawaii’s culture (albeit a little touristy).

Hopefully you’ve discovered some fantastic travel ideas for your next trip. Aloha, and may your own Hawaiian adventure be as magical as ours!