With 11 of the world’s 13 climate zones, the Big Island packs an incredible amount of beauty and adventure into just over 4,000 square miles. As you explore, it genuinely feels like stepping into a completely different landscape every 50 miles. You’ve got the iconic Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, black and green sand beaches, and lush jungle landscapes all in one place. Every town feels laid-back and local, with no buildings taller than the nearest coconut tree. We love this island so much that it’s actually where we chose to live, and once you experience it, you’ll understand why. Keep reading to see why a Big Island elopement gives you one of the most unique and unforgettable wedding experiences out there.
The Ultimate Big Island Elopement Guide
Everything you need to know about planning your adventure elopement on Hawaii's Big Island!
Big Island Elopement Table of Contents
Planning a Big Island elopement is all about adventure, epic views, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Here’s your step-by-step guide to making it happen!
- 7 Steps for an Unforgettable Big Island Elopement
- Why is the Big Island Perfect for an Elopement?
- Geographical Considerations for Your Big Island Elopement
- What are the Best Big Island Elopement Ceremony Locations?
- What are the Permits and Restrictions to Elope on the Big Island?
- Crafting Your Big Island Elopement Day
- Big Island Travel Logistics and Accommodations
- Big Island Elopement Frequently Asked Questions
7 Steps for an Unforgettable Big Island Elopement
- Hire your Big Island elopement photographer
- Choose where to elope on the Big Island
- Get any necessary permits and permissions
- Book your accommodations, flights, and other vendors
- Start planning any experiences you want to include
- Apply for your Hawai’i marriage license
- Elope on the Big Island!
Why is the Big Island Perfect for an Elopement?
The Big Island is the most geologically diverse island in Hawaiʻi. On one side of the island, you’ll find lush jungles and endless greenery, while on the other you’ll get lots of sunshine, especially the Waikoloa region, which gets more sun than anywhere else in the islands!
It also has some of the most unique geological features in the world. You’ve got Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain on Earth, Mauna Loa, the largest mountain, and Kīlauea, the most active volcano. You can even experience both Mauna Loa and Kīlauea in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, one of only two national parks in the state. Add black and green sand beaches, stunning canyons, and powerful waterfalls, and you’ve got endless epic landscapes to explore.
Finally, accommodations on the Big Island can fit any vibe, from luxury resorts to unique jungle Airbnbs. And with only about 12% of Hawaii’s tourists visiting this island, you’ll get a quiet, intimate elopement away from the crowds.
Geographical Considerations for Your Big Island Elopement
The Big Island is by far the largest of all the Hawaiian islands and is more than double all the others combined. Because of that, choosing the right home base is key so you don’t spend your whole trip in the car. The island is generally split into two sides, each with a very different vibe.
The West Side of the Big Island
The west side is the sunnier side, with golden beaches, vibrant blue waters, and plenty of sunshine. The main regions here are Waikoloa, Mauna Lani, and Kailua-Kona, and it’s the more tourist-friendly part of the island. You’ll find high-end hotels like the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, fine dining, and plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach.
The East Side of the Big Island
The east side gets a lot more rain. In fact, Hilo is one of the wettest cities in the United States. That rainfall creates a lush, tropical environment full of life and adventure. This side is also less crowded, giving your elopement a more off-the-beaten-path feel. Accommodations here are a little more unique, with jungle lodges, treehouses, and other memorable stays. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is also on this side, offering incredible geology and landscapes to explore.
Which Side to Choose
Your choice of side depends on the vibe you want for your day. If you’re dreaming of sunshine, beaches, and ending with a fancy meal, the west side is your spot.
If you want a tropical, unique, and adventurous experience, the east side is perfect. We find that many couples choose to elope on the east side and then honeymoon on the west, getting the best of both worlds!
What are the Best Big Island Elopement Ceremony Locations?
Beach Locations
The Big Island is full of incredible beaches perfect for your elopement. For classic golden sand, check out Mauna Kea, one of the most famous beaches on the island, or Makaiwa Bay, which is stunning at sunset and perfect for “trash the dress” photos thanks to its reef-protected waters.
If you want a unique black sand experience, Punaluʻu is one of our favorites. It’s ideal for a sunrise ceremony, when the beach is almost empty, and you can watch the sun rise over the ocean. It’s also just 30 minutes from Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, so you can explore the park afterward.
For something truly one-of-a-kind, try Papakōlea Green Sand Beach. It requires a short hike to reach, but it’s one of only four green sand beaches in the world! It’s an epic spot for adventurous couples looking for something unforgettable.
Jungle Locations
If a lush, jungle vibe is what you’re after, the east side of the island is your best bet. In fact, the Big Island is packed with incredible jungle Airbnbs, letting you fully immerse yourself in Hawaii’s vibrant, green landscapes. We know several hidden jungle spots that make magical, intimate ceremony locations!
Waterfall Locations
Visiting a Waterfall is another stunning and unique way to elope on the Big Island.
Kulaniapia Falls is one of our favorites. At 125 feet tall, it’s impressive and private, so you won’t have to worry about other people disrupting your moment.
There are also several other intimate waterfalls that we love that bring the power and beauty of nature straight into your ceremony.
Cliffside Locations
For breathtaking views, consider a cliffside elopement. The Big Island is full of cliffside elopement locations because, well…it’s an island. Here, you can step out and exchange vows with expansive valleys and the sparkling ocean as your backdrop. If you want epic scenery and unforgettable photos, a Big Island cliffside ceremony is perfect.
Lava Field Locations
For a dramatic, otherworldly experience, lava fields are hard to beat. The jagged, once-molten terrain feels like nowhere else on Earth. We know several lava fields, including one right next to a favorite Airbnb, so you can easily combine your accommodation and ceremony into one seamless adventure!
Ready to start planning your dream Hawaiian elopement? We wrote a blog that breaks down exactly how to make it happen!
What are the Permit and Marriage License Requirements for a Big Island Elopement?
Permits
Where you choose to have your Big Island elopement can affect what permits you need. For example, a ceremony at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park requires a special use permit that costs $150. Some beaches also require permits, known as a Wiki permit. If that feels overwhelming, don’t worry! We handle all the permits so you can focus on enjoying your day.
Marriage License
The process of getting a marriage license in Hawaii is relatively simple.
You’ll need to first fill out your online application, and then visit an agent together with you on the Big Island. During that meeting, make sure to bring a valid ID. There is a $60 application fee and a $5 administration fee that will be required as well. After picking up your license, you have 30 days to get married!
To learn more about the process, visit Hawaii’s Marriage License page.
Other Things to Consider When Crafting Your Big Island Elopement Day
Respecting the Land and Culture
When you elope on the Big Island, it’s especially important to respect the local landscapes, people, and culture. Areas like Waipiʻo Valley and Pololu Valley are especially sensitive to the local communities. While they used to be popular elopement spots, we now make sure to choose other destinations that honor the land and the people who live there.
Weather
The Big Island has some of the most unique weather patterns in Hawaii. While the east side can be wet and rainy, at the same time, the west side can be dry and sunny. As your Big Island elopement photographers, we’ll keep a close eye on the weather and stay in constant communication with you leading up to your day. We’ll also have several backup plans in case we need to adjust your ceremony location or timing.
Adding Adventure to Your Day
There are so many ways to make your Big Island elopement unforgettable! Whether you want a full-on adventure or something more relaxed, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Here are a few ideas to get you inspired:
- Visit one of the many epic waterfalls
- Explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and its popular trails, like Kīlauea Iki Trail
- Take a helicopter ride with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and land at an 800-foot waterfall
- Swim with the turtles on a black sand beach, keeping a respectful distance of at least 10 feet
- Hike the famous Captain Cook Trail to the Captain Cook Monument
- Go ziplining through the jungle and experience the Big Island from a new perspective
- Enjoy horseback riding in Kohala through grassy fields
In addition to these activities above, you can enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets across the island. The east side is ideal for sunrise, while the west side offers the best sunset views. Either way, you’ll get to watch the sun cross the horizon in a way that feels truly magical!
Big Island Travel Logistics and Accommodations
The best airport to fly into on the Big Island is Kona International Airport. It has the most flights and is where most couples arrive for their elopement. If your ceremony is on the other side of the island, the drive is about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Accommodations on the Big Island offer a wide range of experiences. If you want something luxurious and lush, you can have that. There are also incredible Airbnbs to choose from. Whether it’s a tiny home on a lava field, a tropical treehouse near a volcano, or a charming stay on an organic mango farm, there are so many unique options to make your elopement feel truly special!
Guest Accommodations for Your Big Island Elopement
The Big Island is generally more flexible with Airbnbs than other islands, which means you have more freedom to include friends and family without feeling restricted. Compared to the other Hawaiian islands, which have started phasing out Airbnb rentals or restricting them to certain areas, the Big Island has fewer regulations. This means more opportunities to rent a large house where your guests can stay together! That said, it is still important to respect the neighbors and the local community where you’re staying.
Big Island Elopement Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get married the same day on the Big Island in Hawaii?
Yes! Once you pick up your marriage license, you can get married the same day. Just keep in mind that you have 30 days to hold your ceremony, or the license becomes invalid.
What permits are required for a Big Island Beach Elopement?
To elope on a Big Island beach, you need a special beach permit known as a Wiki permit. You don’t need to worry about getting this yourself. We handle all the permits so you can focus on enjoying your day!
What is the best time of day for photos on the Big Island?
Golden hour is generally the best time for photos, around sunrise or sunset. If you want, you can split your elopement, so you have a break in the middle of the day. This not only gives you the best lighting for photos but also lets you relax or take a nap after an early morning!
A Big Island elopement is full of diverse landscapes, intimate moments, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunny beach ceremony or something more off the beaten path, you can find it here.
When you’re ready to start planning, reach out! Not only do we call this island home, but we’ve been photographing Big Island elopements and weddings for years and know all the best locations, important weather considerations, and requirements for planning your elopement here. As your Big Island elopement photographers, we’re your on-demand experts, here to make sure your elopement is a day you’ll remember for the rest of your lives.
