Hawaii Fall Honeymoon

sarahdactyI

Hi All!

I've browsed the board and searched for Hawaii trips but I still am overwhelmed by all the options, and haven't seen a lot of posts around our budget. FI and I are itching to do a Hawaii honeymoon because we both have crazy work schedules and this will likely be our last two-week trip for a long time (and it's relatively easier for us to get to the Caribbean) (and we've heard the honeymoon is basically the only time that our employer will consider us really out of reach). We're definite beach bums, and I'm really looking forward to hiking and a few active things. 

So! With that in mind we were thinking Maui and Kauai. 

Wedding is 11/9 so looking for 11/10 and staying probably 10-12 days (we want to be able to rest before going back to work). Looking to keep it around $8,000 (including airfare, which I assume will be absurd because in an ideal world our flight would leave from Houston and return to New York). Is this even possible? I know (or think at least) that Hawaii doesn't have couples- or adults-only resorts, but is there any way to kind of avoid the family crowd? It's our honeymoon after all  

Also, is it worth getting a travel agent? I've never really used one before but I'm wondering if it might be worth it just to have someone pick the hotels. I'm really nervous. Our last trip we took to Florida, we weren't supremely happy with where we ended up  

Thanks in advance

meggiemo

We have also been toying with the idea of a HM in Hawaii. Being that we are so unfamiliar, we are definitely using a travel agent. Also, look for discounts you may be eligible for... AAA? Government employee? These perks can save you lots!

staar987

We went to the Big Island and stayed in Waikoloa-we are here now! I researched a ton of packages and costs. I found a fantastic deal through the hotel we are staying at that included airfare, hotel, and resort fees. We also went to a travel agent who gave me a price for the exact same flights and hotel but it was over $1000 more. She tried to match the price we had found and the company wouldn't allow her. It doesn't hurt to go see travel agent to see what they say but do your research first.

For what it is worth, we haven't really seen a lot of families and the ones that we do see don't bother us. But I imagine that the amount of kids depends on the time of year.

I also suggest bringing a bunch of snack food. We brought some but decided to buy some here. We went to the grocery store and found the prices really high. Like $7 for a box of cereal. Bringing some snack food and eating breakfast in some days has really helped us save a bit.

sarahdactyI

Thanks all