There’s no island quite like the Big Island. It’s the largest and most diverse of all the Hawaiian Islands, which means there’s no shortage of incredible places to say “I do.” If you’re searching for the best places to get married on the Big Island, you’re in the right place.
While Hawaii is famous for its golden sand beaches, that’s only scratching the surface of what you’ll find here. The Big Island is home to dramatic ocean cliffs, lush rainforests, black lava fields that feel like another planet, and even snow-capped mountains during the winter (yes, you read that right). No matter what kind of backdrop you’re dreaming of, chances are you’ll find it here.
Of course, all that variety comes with one important thing to keep in mind: this island is HUGE. At over 4,000 square miles, getting from one side of the island to the other takes a little more planning than it does on Maui or Oahu. But that’s exactly what makes the Big Island so special. Every region has its own personality, landscapes, and vibe, giving you the freedom to choose a location that feels like you instead of settling for the same views everyone else has.
That’s one of the biggest reasons we chose to call this island home. We’ve spent years exploring every corner of it, and we’re so stoked to share our favorite places to get married on the Big Island, plus the tips that’ll help you narrow down the perfect spot for your adventure.
The Best Places to Get Married on the Big Island
One of the best things about getting married on the Big Island is just how much variety there is. Whether you’re dreaming of an adventurous hike, a secluded waterfall, or an easy-access beach ceremony, the best places to get married on the Big Island really come down to the kind of experience you’re hoping to have.
Here’s a quick look at some of our favorite spots before we dive into each one in more detail!
| The best place to get married for… | Ideal spots |
| Adventurous couples | Lava fields and jungles |
| Celebrations with older guests | Golden and black sand beaches |
| A private, intimate experience | Botanical gardens or Kulaniapia Falls |
| Short hikes | Waterfalls and jungle trails |
| Epic sunrises or sunsets | Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the beaches |
What Makes Getting Married on the Big Island so Unique?
Tons of Natural Diversity
Honestly, there really is no place like the Big Island. It’s home to 11 of the world’s 13 climate zones, which means you’ll find more natural diversity here than almost anywhere else. You can go from black lava fields to lush rainforest to golden sand beaches all in a single day.
It’s also home to some pretty iconic natural features. There’s Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its underwater base, along with Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, which you can experience in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, one of just two national parks in the state. Add in the beaches, jungle landscapes, and everything in between, and you start to see why this island feels like it has it all. If you’re looking for a specific backdrop, the Big Island probably has it!
No Big City Skylines
Another unique thing about the Big Island is that no buildings are allowed to be taller than the coconut trees. So you won’t find the big city skylines or towering resorts that other islands have. Instead, everything feels open, quiet, and connected to nature.
That said, you can still shape the kind of experience you want. Kona offers that sunny resort feel with great restaurants and beaches, while Hilo is much quieter, with lush landscapes and some really unique stays like jungle Airbnbs.
Easy Access to Incredible Views
One of the best parts, though, is how many incredible wedding locations are actually easy to access. From beaches to lava fields to jungle backdrops, a lot of spots require little to no hiking, which is AMAZING if you’re including guests with mobility considerations or just want a more relaxed wedding day overall.
To learn more about what it looks like to get married here, check out our blog on how to elope on the Big Island!
The Best Beaches to Get Married on the Big Island
Okay, now we’re getting into the fun part! And there’s no better way to start our list of the best places to get married on the Big Island than with the beaches. It’s one of the most iconic things about Hawaii, and it’s probably what comes to mind first when you think of having your ceremony here. Here are some of our absolute favorites.
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach
Looking for something really unique? Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is one of only FOUR green sand beaches in the entire world. It gets its color from olivine crystals in the surrounding lava rock, which gives the sand that soft green tint you won’t find hardly anywhere else. It does require a bit of a hike in, but trust us, it’s one of those experiences that feels completely worth it once you arrive.
If you want to see what it actually looks like to get married here, check out this hiking elopement to Green Sands Beach on the Big Island.
Black Sand Beaches
If you’re dreaming of a black sand beach wedding on the Big Island, you’re in luck because there are some INCREDIBLE options here.
One of our favorites is Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Located on the eastern side of the island, it’s especially beautiful at sunrise when the light comes up over the ocean. It also tends to be quieter in the early morning, which makes the whole experience feel more intimate. You will need a Wiki Permit to have your ceremony here, but it’s simple to obtain and only costs $20.
Another favorite is Kīholo State Park Reserve. This spot has a really cool mix of black sand beach and lava rock formations, which gives it a more rugged, diverse feel. It’s on the western side of the island, so sunset is where it really shines. Because it’s a state park, you’ll also need a Special Use Permit through the Hawaii Film Office, and it should be submitted at least 45 days before your ceremony.
We also want to mention a couple of black sand beaches where weddings are no longer permitted, specifically Pololū Beach and Waipiʻo Beach. These are sensitive to local communities, and it’s important to respect that. Even though weddings aren’t permitted on these beaches, don’t worry – there are so many other beautiful locations on the island that make amazing ceremony spots without impacting these areas.
Golden Sand Beaches
Along with the unique green and black sand beaches, the Big Island also has some absolutely beautiful golden sand beaches that make for classic, dreamy ceremony backdrops.
If you’re staying near Kona, Kukio Beach is a great option. It’s close to the Four Seasons Hualālai area and surrounded by ironwoods, mesquite trees, and palms, which adds a really soft, tropical feel to the landscape. There are also tide pools nearby that are fun to explore if you want to spend more time there.
In the Waikoloa area, Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) is known for its wide shoreline and absolutely magical sunsets. The water is usually calm and shallow here, which also makes it a great spot for a trash the dress session if you want to get in the ocean afterward!
There’s also Kaunaʻoa Beach, often called Mauna Kea Beach, which is one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the island. It’s over a quarter mile long with clear turquoise water, but parking is limited, so you’ll want to arrive early to snag a spot.
The good news is that for all of these beaches, you typically just need a Wiki Permit for your ceremony, which keeps the logistics pretty simple overall.
The Best Volcano and Lava Locations to Get Married on the Big Island
Beyond the beaches, the Big Island is also home to some of the most jaw-dropping volcanic landscapes you’ll ever see. The thing is, this island is still very much alive, which means you can actually experience lava fields, craters, and even active volcanic activity in certain areas. It’s a wild and unforgettable experience.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is one of just two national parks in the entire state, and it’s easily one of the most unique places to get married on the Big Island. It’s home to two active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, along with massive lava fields and ever-changing landscapes that feel otherworldly. And if timing lines up, you might even catch volcanic activity in the distance. YES, it really can be that epic!
Just know that you’ll want to be very mindful of park rules while you’re here. Always follow posted signage and closures for safety. Also, since this is a national park, ceremonies are limited and require a $150 special use permit, and you’ll need to stick to designated locations.
The good news is that even if your ceremony isn’t inside the park, you’re still free to explore and take photos in many areas, which gives you a lot more flexibility for your elopement day.
If you want a deeper breakdown, check out our guide on how to plan a Volcanoes National Park wedding.
Lava Fields
Outside of the national park, there are still plenty of incredible lava field locations across the island. Along the Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway on the western side, you’ll find dramatic stretches of lava rock that meet the ocean. It’s a landscape that you really need to see to believe.
Near Pāhoa on the eastern side, you’ll find even more lava fields, along with some really unique stays. Let us give you an example. One of our favorite spots we’ve seen is a tiny home literally built ON A LAVA FIELD. It does not get more Big Island than that, and it makes the whole experience feel like something you’ll remember forever.
Scenic Crater Locations
Most of the Big Island’s iconic crater views are inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, but they’re so incredible that they deserve their own section. Halemaʻumaʻu Crater sits at the summit of Kīlauea and, according to Hawaiian tradition, is home to Pele, the goddess of volcanoes and fire. It’s still active, which means that on rare occasions, you may even witness volcanic activity in the distance.
If you want something you can actually hike into, Kīlauea Iki Crater is an unforgettable experience. Walking across the crater floor feels surreal, like stepping onto another planet. There really is nothing else like it anywhere else.
If you’re thinking about including a crater location in your wedding day, we honestly think that they make better adventure session locations rather than ceremony spots. While there are a few approved overlook areas for ceremonies, keeping them as part of your portraits gives you way more flexibility and makes the logistics a lot easier overall.
The Best Waterfalls to Get Married on the Big Island
Because the Big Island gets A TON of rainfall in certain areas, it’s home to some pretty incredible waterfalls. If you’re dreaming of water, jungle, and that lush Hawaii feeling, this island absolutely delivers. Here are some of our favorite waterfall locations for an elopement.
ʻAkaka Falls State Park
ʻAkaka Falls State Park is located just north of Hilo and is home to ʻAkaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall that drops into a lush, tropical gorge. It’s relatively easy to access via a 0.4-mile paved loop trail, but there are multiple steps along the way, so it’s good to keep that in mind when planning your visit, especially if you have elderly guests or those with mobility considerations. Because it’s one of the more well-known waterfalls on the island, it can also get busy during the day. If you want a quieter experience, going early in the morning on a weekday is your best bet.
Rainbow Falls
Located in Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls is another iconic Big Island waterfall and one of the most accessible ceremony-adjacent spots on the island. This 80-foot waterfall flows over a lava cave, which adds a really interesting geological element to the scenery.
Still, the best part is right in the name. On sunny mornings, you can actually see rainbows forming in the mist of the falls, which is super magical to see. It’s also just a short walk from the parking area, making it one of the easiest waterfall viewpoints to access. Like all state parks, you’ll need a special use permit if you’re planning to have your ceremony here.
Kulaniapia Falls
A lot of the waterfalls on the Big Island are popular and well-visited, but if you’re looking for something more private and intentional, Kulaniapia Falls is such a special option. It’s a private waterfall, which means you can have your ceremony with a 100-foot waterfall right behind you without the crowds. Just you, your partner, your guests, and the sound of rushing water all around you.
The Best Garden and Jungle Elopement Locations to Get Married on the Big Island
To round out the best places to get married on the Big Island, let’s head to the lush, green side of the island. Beyond the beaches and lava fields, there are some seriously incredible garden and jungle locations that feel quiet, immersive, and full of life. Here are a few of our top spots.
Onomea Bay Trail
Onomea Bay Trail, just north of Hilo, is a short but beautiful trail that gives you a mix of jungle views and coastal scenery all in one place. At just about half a mile, it’s relatively accessible, but we still recommend wearing flats or sturdy shoes since the path is unpaved and can be uneven in spots. Since it’s so close to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, it’s also a great addition to your day if you’re planning to explore multiple locations.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Speaking of the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, this is one of the most lush and peaceful ceremony settings on the island. It’s home to over 2,500 species of plants, including native Hawaiian flora as well as international species from places like Madagascar! As you move through the gardens, you also get sweeping views of Onomea Bay and the Hāmākua Coast, which adds another layer of beauty to the experience.
If you’re interested in hosting your ceremony or taking photos here, you’ll need to reach out directly to the botanical garden for permission and details.
Kalopa State Recreation Area
Kalopa State Recreation Area is located about 40 miles north of Hilo and feels like a quiet, tucked-away forest escape. There are several short trails under a mile, making it easy to explore without committing to a long hike. Because this area gets a good amount of rainfall, it has those moody, lush forest vibes that feel especially magical in softer light.
It’s also more remote, which means you have a better chance of finding solitude compared to some of the more popular spots. If you want to fully lean into the experience, there are even cabins available for rent so you can stay right in the middle of the forest. Like other state-managed parks, a special use permit is required for ceremonies.
Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
On the western side of the island, you’ll find the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary. It’s super special since less than 1% of all forests on Earth are cloud forests, and this is the only cloud forest sanctuary in the entire state of Hawaii!
Conditions here can shift throughout the day. Mornings and afternoons are often clearer, while midday tends to bring in mist and light rain. The dry season, especially December through February, is typically more predictable for visits.
If you’re interested in getting married or taking photos here, it’s best to reach out directly to the sanctuary to learn more about availability and permissions.
If you want to see what a jungle-focused celebration can look like, check out this Big Island adventure elopement session for more inspiration.
The Best Time of Year to Get Married on the Big Island
Choosing where to get married on the Big Island is just one part of the equation. When choosing your location, it’s also helpful to think about timing and weather as you start planning your day.
The thing is, the Big Island actually has pretty consistent weather year-round. Since it sits closer to the equator, the seasons don’t shift as dramatically as they do on the mainland. A much bigger factor is where on the island you’re getting married. The Big Island has many microclimates, each with its own weather patterns, which means your experience can look completely different depending on the area you choose.
The Leeward Side of the Big Island
The west, or leeward side of the Big Island, is typically dry and sunny most of the time. It only gets around 10 inches of rain per year, which makes it a great option if you’re dreaming of golden sand beaches, coconut trees, and lots of clear blue skies.
This side of the island is where you’ll usually find that classic “sunny Hawaii” feel.
The Windward Side of the Big Island
The east, or windward side, is a lot more lush and green compared to the leeward side. It can receive up to 200 inches of rain per year, which is exactly what creates those dense rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and moody, layered landscapes.
This side of the island feels more rugged and adventurous, with crashing waves, misty valleys, and deep green scenery that feels almost cinematic when the clouds roll in.
Weather Considerations
Because the Big Island is a tropical environment, the weather can change from day to day, and sometimes even hour to hour.
As your Big Island elopement photographers, we keep a close eye on conditions leading up to your day and stay in constant communication with you so you always know what’s going on. We also build in backup options so we can adjust timing or location if needed without adding stress to your day.
The good news is that because the island has so many microclimates, we can almost always pivot to a location with great weather. And if weather is a top priority for you, the flexibility here actually works in your favor. With the right planning, you can usually find exactly the kind of conditions you’re hoping for.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Get Married on the Big Island
Do you need permits to get married on Big Island beaches?
Yes, if you’re getting married on a beach on the Big Island, you’ll likely need a permit. Luckily, it’s usually pretty straightforward. Most beaches require either a Wiki Permit or a special use permit through the Hawaii Film Office.
When you work with us, you won’t need to worry about permits at all. We handle the entire process, including applying for and paying for the permits, so you can stay focused on the fun part of your day instead of the logistics!
Can you legally elope at Pololu Beach and Waipio Beach?
If you’re thinking about Pololū or Waipiʻo beaches, we generally recommend choosing a different location for your ceremony.
These places are incredibly beautiful, but they’re also culturally and environmentally sensitive areas for local communities. To respect the land and the people who care for it, we suggest exploring other nearby options instead. In fact, there are plenty of equally stunning locations on the island, and we can help you find one that feels just right!
Which side of the island has better weather?
It really depends on the vibe you’re going for.
The west side of the Big Island is much drier and sunnier, so if you’re dreaming of blue skies, golden beaches, and classic Hawaii sunshine, that’s usually your best bet.
The east side is wetter, but that’s exactly what creates those lush jungles, dramatic waterfalls, and moody, misty landscapes that feel super cinematic and adventurous.
How long should couples stay on the Big Island?
We recommend staying at least 4 to 5 days on the Big Island. That gives you enough time to slow down, explore different parts of the island, and actually soak everything in without feeling rushed. It also gives you some flexibility in case of travel delays or if you need to shift plans slightly around your wedding day.
Are helicopters allowed for Big Island weddings?
Yes! And if you’re thinking about adding a helicopter experience to your day, we love working with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, who can take you to some pretty incredible locations.
Let us give you an example. They can fly you along the coastline and land near an 800-FOOT waterfall on a remote peninsula, where you can actually use the landscape as your ceremony backdrop. It’s one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the island!
Can tourists get married in Hawaii?
Yup, absolutely. You do not need to be a Hawaii resident to get married here, and there’s no residency or citizenship requirement.
All you need to do is complete the online application, meet with a marriage license agent in person with a valid ID, and pay the $60 application fee and $5 administrative fee. There’s no waiting period, and no witnesses required. Just an officiant to perform the ceremony.
Your license is valid for 30 days, and for more details, you can check out Hawaii’s Marriage License page.
There you have it, the best places to get married on the Big Island. As you can see, this island is full of incredible variety, from beaches and lava fields to waterfalls and lush jungle landscapes. If you’re looking for a specific vibe, there’s a very good chance you’ll find it here.
If you want to go deeper, check out our Big Island elopement guide. And when you’re ready to start planning, we’re here. We’re so pumped to help you create an epic wedding experience on the Big Island!