Getting ready for a Valentine’s Day getaway on Hawai‘i Island? Make sure you have your date itinerary sorted out before you go. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic night on the water, indulging in a little me time, or celebrating with friends and family, nothing will make you fall in love with the Islands faster than looking across the water at a pink, purple, and orange sky. To make sure you don’t miss a moment, we asked our friend over in Waimea where to find the best 5 romantic sunset dinner spots on Hawai‘i Island. We even threw in a few gift ideas for those of you who are still looking.
Best 5 Romantic Sunset Dinner Spots On Hawai‘i Island
1. Copper Bar at Mauna Kea Resort - $$
As far as the best places to watch the sunset go, the iconic Copper Bar is hard to beat. Located within the Mauna Kea Resort, it’s known for its locally sourced ingredients, tropical cocktails, and sweeping views of the ocean. The menu features a variety of fresh-catch sushi, seafood, flatbreads, and steak dishes, as well as traditional Hawaiian fare. Copper Bar is open for lunch and dinner and takes reservations via OpenTable. Dress in your best resort casual attire and get ready to enjoy some live music and hula dancing (footwear and coverups are required). We suggest trying their classic Mauna Kea Mule when you go.
2. Napua at the Mauna Lani Beach Club - $$$
Napua is located within the Mauna Lani Resort and is a go-to place on Hawai‘i Island. The family-owned restaurant blends a resort-level service with Hawaiian roots to deliver an oceanfront experience unlike any other. If you’re looking for a true taste of the island spirit, you’ll be happy to hear every item on their menu is sourced sustainably from local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen. The best part? This family-owned gem is tucked into an island cove for optimal sunset views. Book your reservations through Resi in advance, this intimate spot tends to book up. P.S. The menu is on the smaller side, but you can’t go wrong with the local catch.
3. Lava Lava Beach Club - $$
For a Valentine’s Day Dinner right on the beach in Hawai‘i, head to Lava Lava Beach Club at the legendary Waikōloa Resort. The atmosphere here is a little more casual and relaxed than some of the other options on this list, with a focus on tropical cocktails and local seafood. Sink your feet into the sand, relax by the firepits, and listen to live music while you look out across Anaeho‘omalu Bay. Lava Lava is first come, first seated—so show up early. You can even enjoy a walk on the beach while you wait for your table or book a cottage for a longer stay.
4. CanoeHouse at Mauna Lani - $$$$
Located on the sparkling Kohala Coast, CanoeHouse is a breathtaking choice for your Valentine’s Day sunset. It's known for its upscale dining experience, with a focus on “Japanese-inspired dishes crafted mindfully with diverse ingredients.” The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, with beautiful views, outdoor space, and spectacular service. As far as dress code is concerned, CanoeHouse is the most elevated option on this list, so we’d recommend breaking out your nicest pair of leather sandals or loafers. The combination of live music and a soft ocean breeze make it a top-notch atmosphere for a romantic dinner. In short, go ahead and make that reservation (they only accept them 24 hours in advance).
5. Mauna Kea Summit
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s no romantic dining experience on Hawai‘i Island quite like a sunset picnic at the summit of Mauna Kea. The dormant volcano stands at an elevation of 13,796 feet above sea level, making it the highest point in the state of Hawai‘i (and the most epic place to watch the sunset). Take a look at the radar and conditions before heading up to make sure the road is open, and the weather isn’t too windy. It can get cold at the summit, so we’d also recommend packing layers. Please remember that this is a sacred site in Hawaiian culture, and there are protocols to be followed before visiting the summit.
Make it Even More Memorable
We rounded up a few Valentine’s Day gifts to give to your significant other (or yourself). There’s a style to match every outing on your Hawai‘i Island itinerary. Not to mention, they’ll last much longer than roses and chocolates.
Gifts for Him
Golf Day
- Wai‘alae : His clean and classic leather style.
- Manele : His breezier look for casual days.
- Kā‘anapali : His go-to for lateral stability.
Town Day
- ‘Ilikai : Super premium sandals to elevate his look.
- Tuahine: Waterproof full-grain leather that he can wear anywhere.
Excursion Day
- Kūkulu: Water-ready sandals with enough support for a full day of exploration.
- Ulele: The only sandal he needs for a day by, on, or in the water.
- Maha: Sandals with a little more cushion for the post-adventure recovery.
- Maha ‘Olu: A puffy slide that will hug his feet in comfort.
- Holo: Breathable sneakers that won’t weight him down.
Gifts for Her
Golf Day
- Wailea: Her clean and classic leather style.
- Kawela: Her breezier look for casual days.
Town Day
- Mi‘i: Woven leather mules that she’ll want to wear everywhere.
- Kāmola: Boho slides for the effortless and easygoing girl.
- Waiau: Strappy and elegant sandals for dinners on the town.
- Huawai: An understated sandal she can wear with every outfit.
Excursion Day
- Huia: The perfect sneaker for low-key hikes.
- Hila: Puffy and water-friendly sandals that will hug her feet in comfort.
- Puawe: Her everyday beach sandal lined with soft jersey knit.
