From Page to Paradise: Your Ultimate Guide to the Romantic Hawaiian Locations from My Novels

Aloha, beautiful readers!

Have you ever fallen in love with a book location so deeply that you wanted to pack your bags immediately? If you've read The Aloha Butterfly Kiss or are eagerly awaiting The Heartbeats of Aloha (coming soon!), you know exactly what I'm talking about. The Hawaiian islands have stolen my heart—and hopefully yours too—through the pages of these romantic stories.

Today, I'm taking you on a virtual journey to every swoon-worthy location that inspired the settings in both novels. Whether you're planning your own romantic Hawaiian getaway or just want to daydream about tropical love stories, this guide will transport you straight to paradise.

Maui Magic: Where Love Blooms Like Plumeria

Ka'anapali Beach

Picture this: three miles of pristine golden sand where gentle waves kiss the shore, and every sunset feels like it was painted just for lovers. In my novel, Ka'anapali Beach serves as the backdrop for that heart-stopping "first kiss" moment. The beach's calm waters and iconic Black Rock make it perfect for romantic strolls, snorkeling adventures, or simply watching the world turn golden as the sun dips below the horizon.

Romance Factor: The daily cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock happens at sunset—pure magic for couples.

Lanai Cathedrals

These underwater cathedral-like formations are a snorkeler's dream and a lover's paradise. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life create an otherworldly experience that I couldn't resist weaving into The Aloha Butterfly Kiss. Swimming through these natural cathedrals feels like entering a secret world meant only for two.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park

The dramatic black sand beach and hidden caves of Waiʻanapanapa provide the perfect setting for mysterious romantic encounters. The contrast of the dark volcanic sand against the turquoise ocean creates a mystical atmosphere that's absolutely breathtaking—and yes, it features prominently in one of my favorite scenes!

Molokini & Tako Flats

This crescent-shaped volcanic crater offers some of the clearest snorkeling waters in Hawaii. In my stories, it's where characters dive deep—both literally and metaphorically—into new relationships. The protected marine sanctuary is home to over 250 species of fish, making every underwater moment feel like swimming through an aquarium.

Twin Falls & Road to Hana

The journey along the Road to Hana is an adventure in itself, but Twin Falls holds special significance in The Aloha Butterfly Kiss. These accessible waterfalls offer the perfect spot for a romantic picnic and a refreshing swim.

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for a more intimate experience!

Butterfly Farm

What's more romantic than being surrounded by hundreds of colorful butterflies? This magical location in my first novel represents transformation and new beginnings—themes that run deep throughout the story.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Imagine galloping along pristine shorelines with your love, the ocean breeze in your hair and hoofbeats creating a rhythm that matches your heartbeat. This deleted scene from my novels was too magical not to mention! Several Maui stables offer beach rides that feel straight out of a romance movie—because sometimes love needs the freedom of the open beach and the power of these magnificent animals. Unfortunately, it was in a scene that had to be cut in my first draft due to my word count. Lol. But this is an incredible opportunity if you get to take it!

Wailea Chapel

Nestled in one of Maui's most luxurious resort areas, this chapel has witnessed countless romantic moments both real and fictional. Its elegant architecture and ocean views make it a dreamy spot for declarations of love.

Oahu Adventures: Where Hearts Beat in Harmony

Diamond Head

The iconic volcanic crater offers not just stunning 360-degree views, but also the perfect metaphor for love's journey—challenging but oh-so-worth-it. In The Heartbeats of Aloha, this mountain becomes a crucial part of the backdrop for my characters, which they can see from their hotel, Halekulani.

Manoa Falls

This lush rainforest hike leads to a spectacular 150-foot waterfall. The tropical paradise setting, complete with bamboo forests and exotic plants, creates an enchanting backdrop for romantic revelations. And the walk becomes a pivotal moment for my characters.

Halekulani Hotel

Known as the "House Befitting Heaven," this luxury oceanfront hotel exudes old-world Hawaiian elegance. It's where romance unfolds in my upcoming novel, with its oceanfront dining and legendary hospitality.

Lanikai Beach & Mokulua Islands

Often ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches, Lanikai's powder-soft sand and twin offshore islands (Moku Nui and Moku Iki) create a postcard-perfect setting. The kayak journey to these islands becomes a metaphor for adventure and trust in relationships.

Halona Blowhole & Mermaid Cove

This natural wonder shoots ocean spray high into the air, while the nearby secluded Mermaid Cove (Halona Cove) offers an intimate beach setting. It's famous from movies, but in my novel, it's where characters discover hidden depths in each other.

Byodo-in Temple

This stunning replica of a Japanese temple, nestled in the Valley of the Temples, provides a serene and spiritual setting for quiet moments of reflection and connection.

Pearl Harbor

While known for its historical significance, this location adds depth and gravitas to the love story, reminding characters (and readers) of the importance of cherishing each precious moment together.

Foodie Romance: Dining with Aloha

Leilani's on the Beach (Whaler's Village)

Oceanfront dining doesn't get more romantic than this. Fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and the sound of waves create the perfect atmosphere for intimate conversations and first dates.

Ma'alaea Harbor

Home to the famous taco stand that becomes a special meeting place for my characters. Sometimes the most romantic moments happen over simple, shared meals with sand between your toes.

Mama's Fish House

This legendary oceanfront restaurant in Paia is where romance and incredible cuisine collide. With tables literally on the beach and fresh fish caught daily by local fishermen, it's the kind of place where marriage proposals happen over macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi. Unfortunately it was in a scene that didn't survive the first draft of my novel, but it's a breathtaking location and one that shouldn't be missed!

Planning Your Own Romance Novel-Inspired Trip

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but April-May and September-October offer perfect weather with fewer crowds.

Island Hopping: Ferry between Maui and Lanai, or take inter-island flights to experience both Maui and Oahu.

Romance Tips:

• Book sunset dinners at oceanfront restaurants

• Plan snorkeling adventures for two

• Take helicopter tours for breathtaking aerial views

• Try Horseback riding on the beach

• Stay at resorts that offer couples' spa treatments

  

Ready for Your Hawaiian Love Story?

Whether you're traveling with your real-life romance hero or heroine, or simply escaping into the pages of a good book, these Hawaiian locations offer pure magic. Each beach, waterfall, and sunset holds the promise of adventure, transformation, and maybe—just maybe—true love.

Ready to dive deeper into these romantic Hawaiian adventures?

🌺 PRE-ORDER "The Heartbeats of Aloha" - Available [July 1st, 2025]! Join Luna and Reef as they navigate love between Maui and Oahu in this swoony new romance that will transport you straight to paradise.

📖 Catch Up with "The Aloha Butterfly Kiss" - If you haven't experienced Guin and Locke's butterfly-inducing love story set against Maui's most breathtaking locations, now's the perfect time!

Which book are you most excited about?

• Which book are you most excited about? □ The Aloha Butterfly
• The Heartbeats of Aloha
• Both!

Looking for even more romance travel inspiration? Check out my Etsy shop for additional printable travel planners, book printables, and book-themed accessories perfect for your next adventure!

Mahalo for reading, and may your own love story be as beautiful as a Hawaiian sunset!

Sending love and all the spoons,

Brooke 🥄✍️

P.S. - Have you visited any of these magical Hawaiian locations? I'd love to hear about your own romantic adventures in the comments below! Tag me on social media with #AlohaRomanceTravel and #BrookeGilbertAuthor for a chance to be featured in future posts.

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