Best Places to Get Married in Hawaii: Top Venues for Your Dream Wedding
Hawaii is one of the top destinations for couples looking to tie the knot in a picturesque and memorable setting. With its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and warm aloha spirit, the islands offer a unique backdrop for every type of wedding.
Whether you’re dreaming of a beachfront ceremony or a quaint garden wedding, Hawaii has something for everyone. From Oahu to Maui and beyond, you’ll find an array of enchanting venues that can make your special day extraordinary. Planning your big day in Hawaii ensures you and your guests will be surrounded by natural beauty and the magic of the islands.
1) Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a fantastic spot for your wedding. Known for its beautiful sands and clear blue waters, it’s a dreamy place to say “I do.”
You’ll find many wedding resorts offering great packages. These resorts can handle all the details, allowing you to focus on your big day.
Imagine getting married with a stunning sunset behind you. Waikiki’s beaches provide a picture-perfect backdrop. Your wedding photos will be amazing, and your guests will love the views.
2) Maui Tropical Plantation
Maui Tropical Plantation is a stunning venue for your wedding. The plantation offers breathtaking views and unique settings. You can choose to get married by the peaceful lagoon, in the lush mango orchard, or amid the sweeping farmlands.
The plantation’s natural beauty makes for beautiful photos. It’s a truly memorable place to tie the knot. The combination of tropical plants and serene scenery creates a romantic atmosphere you and your guests will love. For more details, check out Maui Tropical Plantation.
3) Ko Olina Lagoons
Ko Olina Lagoons is a perfect spot for your Hawaiian wedding. Located on the southwest coast of Oahu, it offers stunning views and serene atmospheres.
There are four man-made lagoons, each with crystal-clear water and beautiful beaches. You can have a beach wedding with the waves gently crashing in the background.
The area is also home to luxurious resorts, providing convenient accommodations for you and your guests. The lush gardens and oceanfront chapels add a touch of elegance to your special day.
For more information, visit the Ko Olina Weddings website.
4) Sunset Ranch
Sunset Ranch in Haleiwa, HI is a fantastic option for your wedding. This 30-acre estate offers stunning ocean and mountain views, making it a beautiful backdrop for your big day.
With over six event spaces, including the spacious Sunset Meadow, you have plenty of options to choose from.
Book Sunset Ranch for a personalized and scenic wedding experience. Learn more about Sunset Ranch here.
5) Haiku Mill
If you dream of a wedding that feels like a fairytale, Haiku Mill is perfect for you.
Located on Maui’s north shore, this venue combines Old World Europe with Hawaiian beauty. You will be surrounded by lush botanicals and enchanting relics.
Couples love the romantic vibes and historic charm. Discover more about Haiku Mill’s unique setting here.
6) Four Seasons Resort Lanai
Imagine getting married on a private island. The Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers a secluded venue with sunlit hilltop ballrooms and garden patios.
You and your guests can enjoy adventure activities like boating excursions and 4×4 treks to Keahiakawelo. This makes your wedding day here more than just an event; it’s an experience.
You can also visit a nearby mini pony farm in Upcountry Lanai. The resort even provides a complimentary shuttle to enhance your stay.
7) Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is an ideal place for your wedding if you love nature and stunning views. Located on Oahu, it’s about 22 miles from Waikiki.
This 4,000-acre private nature reserve offers various wedding sites like Palikū Gardens and Mōli’i Gardens. The setting is perfect for couples who want an authentic Hawaiian experience.
For more details, visit the Kualoa Ranch website.
8) Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head State Monument, located near Waikiki, offers a unique backdrop for your wedding with its historic hiking trail and stunning coastal views.
The crater, formed 300,000 years ago, provides dramatic scenery perfect for wedding photos.
Reservations are required for out-of-state visitors since May 12, 2022, so plan ahead for your special day.
9) Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers beautiful wedding spaces that will make your special day unforgettable.
Imagine saying your vows on the Original Third Tee, high on an ancient lava bluff, with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.
For outdoor weddings, you can choose the North Pointe Lawn with its fantastic beach views.
The South Pointe Lawn provides a more intimate setting among coconut palms.
The hotel’s wedding coordinators ensure every detail is perfect for your big day.
10) The Royal Hawaiian
The Royal Hawaiian, also known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” offers a dreamy setting for your wedding. This luxurious resort in Waikiki has been hosting couples since 1927.
You can choose from elegant party rooms or beautiful Oahu beach venues. The Royal Hawaiian provides flexible spaces that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests.
Enjoy stunning sunsets, lush gardens, and the rich history of this iconic location for an unforgettable wedding experience. This venue combines classic charm with modern amenities to make your wedding day special.
Best Wedding Seasons
In Hawaii, each season offers unique benefits for your wedding day. Here’s a look at what you can expect if you tie the knot in summer, winter, spring, or fall.
Summer
Summer in Hawaii means the longest daylight hours, averaging around 13 hours and 23 minutes. This gives you plenty of time for outdoor ceremonies and photos.
Temperatures are warm and range from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for beach weddings.
Popular summer venues include Lanikūhonua Cultural Institute and the beaches of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina on Oahu. Though popular, this season can be busy with tourists. Book early to secure your spot.
Expect occasional rain showers. These are brief and often leave behind stunning rainbows.
Winter
Winter weddings in Hawaii are cooler, with temperatures between 68 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll experience a cozy, comfortable climate.
Winter sunsets are spectacular and happen around 6:00 PM, providing romantic photo opportunities.
The islands are less crowded compared to summer, making it easier to find venues and accommodations. Some favorite winter wedding spots are the Grand Hyatt Kauai with its lush tropical gardens and Haiku Gardens on Oahu.
Rainfall is higher in winter, so consider venues with indoor options, like open-air chapels or covered pavilions.
Spring and Fall
Spring and fall are considered the sweet spots for weddings in Hawaii. The weather is mild, usually ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and you’ll find fewer tourists.
Spring offers vibrant blossoms, creating a colorful backdrop for garden weddings. Haiku Gardens, with its lush greenery and vibrant flowers, is a perfect venue.
Fall provides a pleasant climate and extended daylight hours. You might enjoy beautiful beach ceremonies and receptions. Fall and spring are good if you want outdoor activities for your guests, as they provide a comfortable atmosphere.
In both seasons, prices for travel and accommodations can be more affordable than in the peak summer and winter months, allowing you to allocate your budget toward other wedding elements.
Unique Ceremony Ideas
Hawaii offers magical settings for weddings that can make your special day unforgettable. Consider these unique ceremony ideas to add a touch of flair to your wedding.
Beach Weddings
Beach weddings are iconic in Hawaii. Picture saying your vows with the sound of waves in the background and soft sand under your feet. Locations like Kualoa Ranch offer stunning ocean views along with ample space for your guests.
You might also like Paradise Cove Beach, known for its breathtaking ocean views and tropical sunsets. These spots offer not just stunning vistas but also a relaxing ambiance.
In addition to the natural beauty, many locations provide essential amenities. Look for features like private changing areas and beachside pavilions to make your day run smoothly.
Private Estate Weddings
Private estates provide an elegant, intimate setting for your wedding. One such option is the Lanikūhonua Cultural Institute, which is close to Oahu’s main airport and easily accessible for guests. This venue offers a mix of native Hawaiian charm and modern conveniences.
Another popular choice is the historic Hulihe’e Palace. Built in 1838, it’s perfect for couples seeking both elegance and history. Imagine exchanging vows in a garden surrounded by royal artifacts and lush greenery.
Private estates often come with flexible vendor policies, allowing you to customize every detail to your liking. This gives you the freedom to create a wedding that reflects your personal style.
Cultural Traditions
Incorporating Hawaiian cultural traditions can add a meaningful touch to your ceremony. Consider a hula performance to celebrate your union. This beautiful dance, which tells a story through movement, can be a heartfelt addition to your wedding.
A traditional Hawaiian blessing is another lovely option. An officiant can perform a ceremony that includes chanting, blessings, and the ritual use of ti leaves and sea salt. These ceremonies are not only spiritual but also deeply rooted in Hawaiian history and culture.
Including elements like these can turn a wedding into a unique experience that your guests will remember forever.
Legal Requirements
When planning a wedding in Hawaii, it’s important to be aware of the legal requirements. These include obtaining a marriage license and following residency rules, which are straightforward.
Marriage License
To get married in Hawaii, you need a marriage license. Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. You’ll need to provide valid IDs, like a driver’s license or passport. Each person must also fill out a marriage application form, which can be found online or in person at any of Hawaii’s Department of Health offices.
The application fee is $65, and it must be paid at the time of application. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issue, so plan your wedding date accordingly. No blood tests are required. Once you have the license, a licensed officiant can perform the ceremony. After the ceremony, the officiant will file the license with the state.
For specific details, visit Hawaii’s official marriage page.
Residency Rules
Hawaii is a perfect location for a destination wedding partly because there are no residency requirements. You do not have to be a resident of Hawaii or even the United States to get married there. This makes it easier for couples from different parts of the world to tie the knot in this beautiful state.
You simply need to be physically present in Hawaii to apply for and receive the marriage license. There are no waiting periods or residency duration requirements, which means you can get your license and get married almost immediately. This convenience adds to the appeal of choosing Hawaii for your special day.
Check more details on getting married in Hawaii.
