When you elope in Hawaii, you can really have it all! From towering green mountains to dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches, the islands are full of jaw-dropping views and epic adventures. But, with so much variety to explore, it’s easy to wonder where to start. Lucky for you, we’ve spent years documenting elopements all across these islands and have all the insider tips on how to elope in Hawaii. In this guide, you’ll learn everything from picking the perfect Hawaiian island for your elopement to planning around weather, budget, and local culture. Let’s dive in!
What is the Best Hawaiian Island for my Elopement?
The very first thing to figure out when planning your Hawaii elopement is which island feels right for you. Each island has its own vibe and style of adventure, giving you a completely different experience depending on where you go. From lush rainforests to dramatic coastlines, picking the right island sets the tone for your whole celebration! Here are the top four Hawaiian islands our couples love most!
Big Island: Incredible Natural Beauty with a Small Town Feel
The Big Island is where we call home, and it’s a place we know like the back of our hands! One important thing to know is that this island is massive. If you combined ALL the other Hawaiian Islands into one puzzle piece and doubled it, it still wouldn’t be as big as the Big Island. It’s also one of the quietest islands on this list which means you have plenty of space for a truly secluded and intimate elopement.
On the Big Island, no buildings rise taller than the coconut trees, so you really have the feeling of being fully immersed in nature. Here you’ll also find private waterfalls, dramatic black sand beaches, a rare green sand beach, and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Add in jungle Airbnbs that are perfect for a one-of-a-kind elopement, and you’ve got a day that’s uniquely your own!
Advantages of Eloping on the Big Island
+ Best black sand beaches in Hawaii! We know 11 of them!
+ With only 12% of Hawaii tourists visiting the Big Island, there are many secluded locations to escape the crowds!
+ The Waikoloa region of the island gets more sunshine than any other area in Hawaii.
+ Located on the southern tip of the island is one of the only green sand beaches in the entire world.
+ The Big Island has the most active volcano (Kilauea), the largest volcano (Mauna Loa), and the tallest volcano (Mauna Kea) on the planet!
Who the Big Island is best for: Couples seeking an intimate elopement surrounded by incredible nature.
To learn more about how to elope on the Big Island of Hawaii, read our complete guide!
Maui: Something for Everyone
Of all the islands couples choose for a Hawaii elopement, Maui is by far the most popular. And it’s easy to see why. You’ve got stunning cliffside locations (like Ironwoods Beach), the island’s top golden sand beach, and Haleakalā National Park, where you can literally stand above the clouds. On certain shores, you can even see three other Hawaiian Islands! There’s truly no shortage of jaw-dropping spots in Maui, making it an obvious choice for couples who want to experience a little bit of everything on their elopement day.
When it comes to accommodations, Maui has whatever vibe you’re looking for. You can enjoy low-key beach towns in South and East Maui, find secluded Airbnbs in the mountainous Upcountry area, or indulge in world-class resorts and fine dining along the western shore.
Advantages of Eloping on Maui
+ Most options for cliffside elopement ceremonies and adventures.
+ Known to have the most and best beaches in Hawaii.
+ Haleakala summit gives you the opportunity to say your vows above the clouds.
+ The Road to Hana has the most accessible waterfalls to explore in all the islands.
+ The red sand beach is a special gem, unlike anywhere else in Hawaii.
Who Maui is best for: Couples seeking a diverse elopement with breathtaking views and a little extra indulgence.
Read our Maui Elopement Guide to see what it’s like to elope on this Hawaiian Island.
Oahu: Mountain Views and Iconic Destinations
Oahu is the perfect mix of stunning nature and city convenience. Everywhere you go, you’re surrounded by epic mountains and hiking trails just waiting to be explored. The beaches are incredible, with golden sand stretching along some of the world’s most famous shores. You can also visit the North Shore to see world-class surfing in action, or head south to Honolulu for luxurious resorts, amazing restaurants, and all the modern comforts you could want. If you’re a Jurassic Park fan, you’ll want to visit Kualoa Ranch to feel like you’re in the movie.
Advantages of Eloping on Oahu
+ Most variety of accessible hiking trails in all of the islands.
+ Very short driving distances to visit a variety of unique landscapes.
+ Nearly every location on the island has an incredible mountain view!
+ The Kaneohe Sandbar is very special to Hawaii, with epic views of Kualoa Ranch.
+ Honolulu has the best nightlife for a post-elopement celebration!
Who Oahu is best for: Couples who want jaw-dropping views and the chance to visit some of Hawaii’s most recognizable spots.
If Oahu feels like your island, check out our elopement guide for everything you need to plan your day!
Kauai: Dramatic Landscapes and Unrivaled Natural Beauty
Stepping foot on Kauai feels like stepping back in time. The island has SO many golden beaches framed by dramatic mountains, especially along the north shore, giving you those epic backdrops right by the water. And then there’s Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, plunging over 3,000 feet and leaving you absolutely breathless. Just like the Big Island, no buildings are taller than the surrounding coconut trees, making Kauai feel like a true escape into a lush, nature-filled paradise.
Advantages of Eloping on Kauai
+ Many of our favorite secluded beaches are on Kauai.
+ Within the center of the island is the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”!
+ Most dramatic landscapes in Hawaii.
+ The Napali Coast has one of the highest-rated hiking trails in the world.
+ Numerous cute towns to stroll, grab a coffee, or try the food trucks.
Who Kauai is best for: Couples ready to go off the beaten path and chase unforgettable landscapes.
Check out our Kauai Elopement Guide for all the details on planning your dream day here!
What are the Legal Requirements & Marriage License Essentials to Elope in Hawaii?
Because of the natural and cultural importance of many Hawaiian landscapes, many locations require a special permit to elope. Don’t worry, though, we’ve got you covered and can handle all the details, making the process smooth and stress-free!
On top of any special permits, you’ll also need a marriage license. Luckily, getting married in Hawaii is a simple, straightforward process!
+ Start by filling out your online application.
+ Plan to visit an agent together within 30 days of your ceremony.
+ Bring a valid ID for both of you.
+ Keep in mind there’s a $60 application fee plus a $5 administration fee.
+ Once you pick up your license, you have 30 days to hold your ceremony.
And that’s it! For a deeper dive into all the requirements, check out Hawaii’s Marriage License page.
Hawaiian Weather and Microclimates
One important thing to know when planning your Hawaii elopement is that each island has its own microclimates, which means the weather can vary a lot depending on where you are. The windward, or eastern, side of the islands tends to see more rain but these sides also tend to have some of the most dramatic scenery. The leeward, or western, side is drier and features more brush landscapes.
For example, on the Big Island, Hilo is one of the wettest cities in the United States, receiving up to 146 inches of rain per year. Meanwhile, Kona and Waikoloa Beach on the same island get just around 9 inches annually!
The Best Time to Elope in Hawaii
Overall, the weather doesn’t change dramatically throughout the year. That means there’s truly no bad time to elope in Hawaii! That said, summers are usually drier, though there is a small chance of a hurricane or a few days of rainy weather. Winters are only slightly cooler and tend to have a slightly higher chance of rain.
If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting during the “shoulder” seasons, typically mid-April to mid-June or mid-September to mid-November. These months usually have fewer families on the islands, and prices for accommodations and rental cars are lower.
What to Know About Rain
Rain is one of the top questions we get. Because Hawaii is tropical, there is always a chance of rain during your elopement. That said, rain can create some magical moments! A light shower often brings BEAUTIFUL rainbows, and we carry clear umbrellas for fun, rainy portraits. Even if it’s not a downpour, a little rain can make your day extra memorable.
It’s still important to have backup locations in case a heavy storm rolls in. We use multiple weather apps to monitor conditions and stay in constant communication with you, leading up to your elopement. We’ll guide you on whether to pivot to another location or embrace the weather as it is.
If there’s a change of plans, the good news is that most islands are small, so traveling to an alternate location is usually easy. Even the Big Island, while larger, is simple to navigate and makes switching locations manageable.
Cultural Sensitivity and Respect For the Land in Hawaii
When you elope in Hawaii, one of the most important things to keep in mind is respecting ʻāina, or the land. Many sites across the islands are sacred to Native Hawaiians, so it’s important to be mindful of cultural significance and choose other locations for your ceremony.
For example, Mauna Kea and Waimea Canyon hold deep meaning for Native Hawaiians and don’t allow ceremonies. Other locations may have fewer restrictions but are still sensitive to the local community, so we make sure to avoid disturbing them. Our goal is always to honor the land, the people, and Hawaiian culture while creating a beautiful, meaningful elopement experience.
How Should I Budget My Hawaiian Elopement?
When planning your Hawaii elopement, the highest costs you’ll likely encounter are
+ Flights
+ Rental Cars
+ Accommodations
+ Food
+ Vendors
Many couples are surprised by how expensive resorts can be, especially if you’re dining out for three meals a day. If you want to save some money and stay somewhere unique, consider a one-of-a-kind Airbnb! These options are usually more affordable and give you the chance to cook a few meals at home.
Local food trucks are also a fun and budget-friendly way to taste authentic cuisine, from shrimp plates to Hawaiian shaved ice. Hawaii is actually known for its food trucks, and there’s a wide variety of styles to try.
In terms of vendors, beyond your photographer, officiant, florist, and hair and makeup artist, you really don’t need anything else! Some couples choose extras, like a small wedding cake for two, but it’s completely optional. When you elope in Hawaii, you can keep your day simple and enjoy all the natural beauty and adventure these islands have to offer.
What Should I Wear to Elope in Hawaii?
What you wear is an important part of your elopement, especially if you’re planning a hike or outdoor adventure.
For dresses, we usually recommend lighter fabrics. They are easier to carry, more comfortable in the Hawaiian heat, not to mention they look amazing blowing in the wind. You don’t have to worry about struggling to get into your dress, either. We’re there to help and will even bring a crochet hook to fasten any tiny buttons!
For suits, think about colors that complement your surroundings. A red rock canyon pairs beautifully with olive green, while a green valley pops nicely against a tan suit. The goal is to feel confident while harmonizing with Hawaii’s incredible scenery.
Shoes are ALL about comfort. Flats or sneakers are perfect for walking on uneven trails or soft sand. High heels are not ideal for outdoor locations.
And while on the topic of attire, if you are curious about a “Trash the Dress” session or want to see what it looks like, check out our blog to learn more about our approach and how it can add some extra fun to your elopement experience!
What Hawaiian Travel & Accommodation Logistics Should I Know About?
Flights
When booking flights to Hawaii, there are a few strategies to make your trip easier. If you’re coming from the West Coast, direct flights to your chosen island are usually simple to find.
If you’re traveling from the Midwest or East Coast, you have a couple of options. You can fly into Oahu and then take a short inter-island flight to your final destination, or you can connect through the West Coast and take a direct flight from there to your island.
Lodging
Hawaii offers a wide range of lodging options! If you have a larger budget and want a luxurious experience, resorts are a great choice. If you’re looking for something unique or off the beaten path, a fun Airbnb can be the perfect fit. The key is choosing a place that aligns with your vision for the day.
Inter-Island Travel
Exploring multiple islands is a fun way to experience more of Hawaii and extend your adventure. In fact, many couples book their honeymoon on a different island from their elopement.
If you’re spending six days or less in Hawaii, we usually recommend sticking to one island to fully enjoy it. For trips of a week or more, island hopping can be a great option, spending a few days on each island.
Booking Timing
We recommend booking flights and accommodations after you’ve decided on your elopement location. This way, you can stay close to your ceremony and minimize travel time on your special day.
Typically, we confirm elopement locations within a couple of weeks of booking. We provide a questionnaire to learn about your preferred activity level and landscape, then use your answers to recommend a few locations that fit your vision perfectly. Then, you can start really digging into your elopement planning!
Sample Hawaiian Elopement Timelines
Your elopement day can be shaped however you want it. That said, most couples choose to exchange vows at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning light. To give you an idea of how your day could flow, we’ve put together sample timelines below based on different amounts of coverage.
Elope in Hawaii: 8 Hour Sunrise Timeline
- 5:00AM – Ryan and Corinne arrive for getting ready
- 5:45AM – Drive to trailhead for morning hike
- 6:00AM – Begin hiking to Location #1
- 6:30AM – Change into wedding attire
- 6:45AM – First Look Moment
- 7:00AM – Sunrise Elopement Ceremony
- 7:15AM – First Dance (we’ll bring our speaker)
- 7:30AM – Pop Champagne
- 8:00AM – Adventure photos around Location #1
- 9:00AM – Hike back to parking area
- 9:30AM – Drive to Location #2
- 10:30AM – Arrive at Location #2 for adventure photos
- 11:00AM – Fly the drone for aerial photos
- 11:30AM – Drive to Location #3
- 12:00PM – Luxury picnic setup on the beach
- 12:30PM – Read letters from family members
- 1:00PM – Finish Session
Elope in Hawaii: 6 Hour Sunrise Timeline
- 5:30AM – Begin hiking trail with Corinne and Ryan to Location #1
- 6:00AM – Change into wedding attire
- 6:15AM – First Look Moment
- 6:30AM – Sunrise Elopement Ceremony
- 6:45AM – First Dance (we’ll bring our speaker)
- 7:00AM – Pop Champagne
- 7:30AM – Adventure photos around Location #1
- 9:00AM – Begin hiking trail back to parking area
- 9:30AM – Drive to Location #2
- 10:00AM – Adventure photos at Location #2
- 11:00AM – Fly the drone for aerial photos
- 11:30AM – Finish Session
Elope in Hawaii: 4 Hour Sunrise Timeline
- 5:30AM – Begin hiking trail with Corinne and Ryan
- 6:00AM – Change into wedding attire
- 6:15AM – First Look Moment
- 6:30AM – Sunrise Elopement Ceremony
- 6:45AM – First Dance (we’ll bring our speaker)
- 7:00AM – Pop Champagne
- 7:30AM – Adventure photos! (cliffs, jungle, mountain, or beach)
- 9:00AM – Begin hiking trail back to parking area
- 9:30AM – Finish Session
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Elope in Hawaii
Should I include guests in my Hawaiian elopement?
Having guests at your elopement can be special, but it can also make things a bit more complicated, especially if you want an intimate adventure for your day. Because of this, most couples choose to elope just the two of them. Still, if you are thinking about including family in your Hawaii elopement, we have a full blog post on how to make that work!
Can I bring my dog with me to elope in Hawaii?
For most couples (especially those traveling from the mainland), it’s best to leave pets at home. Bringing a dog when you elope in Hawaii can be tricky because of state regulations, and many beaches do not allow dogs.
Do I need a permit to elope on the beach?
Yes, most beaches in Hawaii require a special permit, often called a Wiki permit. As your Hawaii elopement photographers, we’ll handle obtaining the permit so you can focus on enjoying your day without added stress!
Now that you have a better sense of how to elope in Hawaii, we hope your excitement is building and your inspiration is flowing! And the good news is that you don’t have to plan this alone. We’re not just your photographers. We’re your adventure guides and on-the-ground experts, here to make sure your elopement is a day you will remember for the rest of your lives!
To dive deeper and see what it’s like to elope on each island, check out our island-specific guides.