The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Milford Sound

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Romantic Adventure Activities

Treat your loved one to some of the most sublime views of New Zealand (and arguably the world) with one of the romantic scenic adventures of Milford Sound.

Scenic Flights

A scenic flight is an intimate experience that’s bound to take your breath away. No other activity captures the majesty of the fiord and its surrounding mountains, waterfalls and glaciers quite like a helicopter or fixed-wing flight. If you’re making your own way to Milford Sound, Milford Sound Helicopters can handle the rest, offering spectacular scenic flights from the Milford Sound Airport. Alternatively, there are a ton of flights from Queenstown and Te Anau that swap the lengthy drive for staggering aerial views of the Fiordland National Park.

Scenic Walks from the Milford Road

For something more “down-to-earth”, so to speak, enjoy a more independent experience walking the trails together. There are countless walks to be done on the Milford Road between Milford Sound and Te Anau. Choose from short romantic walks on the shores of the Lake Gunn Nature Walk to half-day hikes with dramatic scenery like the Key Summit Track. Learn about these hikes and much more in the 10 Best Walks in Milford Sound Walks and the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Milford Sound.

Kayaking in Milford Sound

And for more active couples who want to get out on the water of the famous fiord, team up in a double sea kayak and join Rosco’s Milford Kayaks for a spectacularly scenic trip. Get closer to the action, whether it’s the seals or paddling under a waterfall, on one of their kayak tours. The most popular choice is the “Sunrise Classic” tour, gliding across the inky black water of the fiord at the calmest and most peaceful time of the day.

For more inspiration for your romantic trip to Milford Sound, check out the 5 Most Romantic Things to Do in Milford Sound.

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Romantic All-Weather Activities

Receiving an annual rainfall of 6,412 mm (252 in), Milford Sound is one of the wettest places on earth. Chances are, you’ll have no choice but to do a wet-weather activity on your romantic getaway to Milford Sound.

Milford Sound Cruises

Some are surprised to find that taking a cruise of Milford Sound is an excellent thing to do on a rainy day! It’s not only a relaxing way to soak in the scenery of Sinbad Gully, Mitre Peak, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls, but it’s also a fun way to soak in the stream of temporary waterfalls that appear in wet weather! All of the cruises that run throughout the daytime offer the same deal: lasting about two hours to check out the same attractions. Compare your options in the 10 Best Cruises in Milford Sound. We recommend catching a cruise in the morning or late afternoon for the quietest cruises, should you want to set a more romantic tone.

Overnight Milford Sound Cruises

Overnight cruises are also an option, ideal to see Milford Sound in usually ever-changing weather, as well as to do a bit of stargazing. RealNZ offers a spectacular overnight cruise and Fiordland Discovery offers multi-day cruises, both with three-course dinners and breakfast included, as well as the use of kayaks and tender excursions to explore the nooks and crannies of Milford Sound. Learn more about them in the 10 Best Accommodations in Milford Sound.

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Romantic Dining in Milford Sound

Don’t expect to come to Milford Sound to spend every night of your romantic getaway indulging in a restaurant date night. You’re lucky enough to have at least one more endearing restaurant in the area!

Pio Pio Restaurant of the Milford Sound Lodge has seasonal menus showcasing New Zealand and Fiordland cuisine, such as Fiordland venison, New Zealand-farmed salmon and even superfood salads.

As mentioned, the overnight cruises of RealNZ and Fiordland Discovery have their own dining experience. The RealNZ cruise with a three-course buffet dinner, while Fiordland Discovery offers three-course fine dining dinners.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Honeymoon or Romantic Getaway to Milford Sound

And for all those trip-planning details, here are some FAQs to help you plan an unforgettable honeymoon or romantic getaway to Milford Sound.

What is the best time of year to visit Milford Sound for a romantic getaway?

The best time for a romantic visit to Milford Sound is during the summer months of December through February when the weather is warmest and the days are longest. This period allows for the full enjoyment of cruises, kayaking and other outdoor activities. However, for couples who prefer solitude and don’t mind cooler weather, the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer fewer crowds and the waterfalls are often at their most spectacular after rainfall. Check out When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand? for more on the subject.

Are there romantic accommodations in Milford Sound?

While options directly in Milford Sound are limited due to its protected status, nearby areas such as Te Anau offer a range of romantic accommodations, from luxury lodges and boutique hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. For a truly unique experience, consider staying in one of the overnight cruise boats in Milford Sound itself, allowing you to wake up to the serene beauty of the fiord – see the 10 Best Accommodations in Milford Sound.

Can we experience a private tour of Milford Sound?

Yes, private tours of Milford Sound are available and offer an intimate and personalised way to experience the area’s natural beauty. Options include private scenic flights, helicopter tours with glacier landings, private boat charters, and private tours of the Milford Road. These exclusive experiences can make your romantic getaway even more special, providing privacy and unforgettable views. See the 5 Best Luxury Experiences in Milford Sound for more on the subject.

How can we make our romantic trip to Milford Sound unforgettable?

To make your trip truly unforgettable, consider adding these touches:

• Book a sunrise or sunset cruise for spectacular light and a romantic ambience.
• Arrange a surprise scenic flight for breathtaking aerial views of Fiordland.
• Include a champagne picnic as part of a helicopter tour to a remote alpine location.

More information on the latter suggestions are explained in the 10 Best Scenic Flights to Milford Sound.