Your Dream Elopement in Hawaii Awaits!
As someone who thrives on capturing authentic love stories amidst breathtaking backdrops, I can tell you that Hawaii isn't just a destination; it's a feeling, a promise, and the perfect canvas for your unique love.
Why Choose Hawaii to Begin With?
Well, It's Pure Magic!
Imagine this: You step onto the white beaches of Hawaii all the while exchanging vows with the sound of gentle waves as your soundtrack, and a backdrop that truly takes your breath away. Hawaii offers an unparalleled blend of dramatic mountain landscapes and world-renowned beaches, making every angle a postcard-perfect moment. From fiery sunsets painting the sky to verdant valleys teeming with life, the islands offer diverse scenery that speaks to every soul. Forget the stress of a big wedding; here, the focus is on you and your love, immersed in nature's most magnificent embrace.
Choosing the Island That's Right for You
Each Hawaiian island has its own distinct personality, waiting to whisper its unique charm to you.
Oahu: The Gathering Place. A vibrant mix of city life and natural beauty, Oahu offers iconic landscapes, such as the Ko’olau Mountains to the beaches of the North Shore, world-class dining, and famous landmarks such as Diamond Head, there’s much to see and do.
Elopement Locations:
Sandy’s Beach: with a the Kokohead crater as your backdrop along with rich lava rock beach the waves crash along the shore as you exchange your vows.
Waimea Valley: A lush botanical garden with a beautiful waterfall, offering a more private, serene setting. Venue fee required.
North Shore: Secret(ish) beach that offers panoramic view of the Pacific.
Secret Cove Ko Olina: Small cove on the west side of Oahu near the Four Seasons and Aulani. Great for sunset and the weather is usually pristine.
Maui: The Valley Isle. Known for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and the majestic Haleakala volcano, Maui offers a balance of adventure and relaxation.
Elopement Locations:
White Rock Beache (Wailea): Picture-perfect golden sands and incredible sunsets.
Kapalua Bay Beach: situated in a bay lined with palm trees and lined with lava rocks extending into the ocean. Great for sunset.
Ironwoods Beach, Kapalua: Rugged cliffs and beautiful ocean views, perfect for a dramatic backdrop.
Kauai: The Garden Isle. If lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs are calling your names, Kauai is your paradise. It's often considered the most "Hawaiian" of the islands, with a more laid-back feel.
Elopement Locations:
Hanalei Bay: A iconic crescent beach backed by towering mountains.
Tunnels Beach: A beach tucked away at the end of the road and usually pretty quite and a great place to exchange your vows.
Shipwreck Beach: Dramatic cliffs and ocean spray for an adventurous feel.
Hawai'i ank Big Island: The Orchid Isle. For those who crave diverse landscapes, from black sand beaches to active volcanoes, the Big Island is a truly unique choice.
Elopement Locations:
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: A dramatic and unique black sand beach, often frequented by sea turtles.
Kikaua Point Beach: Beautiful golden sand, calm waters, and lush coconut trees.
What Time of Year is Best for your Hawaii Elopement
Hawaii boasts beautiful weather year-round, but generally, the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-November) offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. These months typically have less rain and comfortable temperatures. Peak season (mid-December to April) can mean higher prices and more people, while the summer months are popular with families.
- You’ll see fewer tourists so the beaches will probably be less crowded as well.
- Pleasant temperatures and blooming tropical flowers.
- Ideal for privacy and beautiful weather and great sunsets.
- Warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall.
- Peak tourist season; beaches and resorts may be busier.
- Great for sunset ceremonies and ocean activities.
- Usually fewer tourists as schools are back in session.
- Consistently warm weather and stunning sunsets.
- Cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers.
- Big surf season, on the North Shore.
- Still beautiful but may require backup plans for outdoor ceremonies.
How to Obtain Your Marriage License and WIKI Beach Permit
Don't let the logistics intimidate you! Hawai'i makes it relatively straightforward and as your local expert, I'm here to help!
Marriage License:
Apply online at the Hawaii State Department of Health website (emrs.ehawaii.gov) no more than 30 days before your ceremony. The fee is currently $65.
Once in Hawaii, you'll need to appear together in person before an authorized marriage license agent to pick up your license. This must be done before your ceremony and within 30 days of applying online. Bring valid government-issued photo IDs. You can make an appointment to ensure you’re in and out of the Department of health building efficiently.
There's no waiting period, so you can get married immediately after receiving your license.
WIKI Permit (Beach/State Park Permit): If you plan to have your ceremony on a public beach or in a state park, you'll need a permit from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). This is a crucial part of planning your elopement! Your officiant or photographer often assists with this process and ask them if they’re able to assist in obtaining this. The permit fee ranges from $50 to $100. Many popular spots require a permit to legally hold a commercial activity (like a wedding ceremony with vendors) on public land and if it’s not on the DLNR website or the Open Access Website, you can not hold a wedding ceremony there.
While an elopement is significantly more cost-effective than a traditional wedding, it's good to have a realistic idea of what to expect.
Airfares: Varies wildly based on origin, time of year, and how far in advance you book. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 - $1,500+ per person for a round trip from the mainland US.
Hotels/Accommodations: From luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels, prices vary greatly. Budget $300 - $1500+ per night depending on your chosen island, season, and type of accommodation.
Miscellaneous (Food, Activities, Transportation): This will depend on your personal style, but budget at least $100-$300+ per day for meals, exploring, and car rentals.
Overall, a Hawaii elopement can range from $3,000 for a very simple, minimalist approach to $12,000+ for a more luxurious and comprehensive experience, excluding airfare and accommodation.
Building Your Dream Team:
The A-List for Your Elopement
Even with an elopement, a small, talented team will elevate your experience and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Photographer (That's Me!): Your photos are the tangible memories of your time in Hawaii that you'll cherish forever. Invest in a photographer whose style resonates with you and who understands the unique light and landscapes of Hawai'i.
Average Cost: $1,500 - $6,000+ depending on coverage, experience, and packages.
Officiant: A registered Hawaii officiant is required to legally marry you. They'll guide you through your vows and handle the paperwork.
Average Cost: $300 - $600.
Florist: A beautiful bouquet and boutonnière, or even leis, add a touch of local elegance.
Average Cost: $600 - $4000 for a bouquet and boutonnière/leis and ceremony florals such as an arch.
Hair and Makeup Artist: Feel confident and radiant for your photos! A professional artist understands how to work with humidity and ensure your look lasts.
Average Cost: $300 - $800 for bridal hair and makeup.
How Much Will It Cost? A Glimpse into Your Hawaii Elopement Budget
Hawai'i Elopement Timeline Sample
Use this sample for helping you time your elopement. I highly recommend starting your ceremony 90 minutes before sunset. The way you’ll have your ceremony and portraits covered and then head out to a private dinner afterwards. The t
12:00 PM Hair & Makeup begins
1:30 PM Photographer arrives photographs details
2:00 PM Photographer Getting ready photos and last touch-up of makeup
3:00 PM First Look
4:00 PM Leave for Ceremony
4:45 PM arrive at ceremony location
5:00 PM Ceremony
5:30 - 6:15 PM Sunset portraits
7:30 PM Private dinner or celebration
Helicopter Ride:
Soar above dramatic coastlines, hidden waterfalls, and active volcanoes for unparalleled views of the islands. It’s an exhilarating way to see Hawaii from a unique perspective.
Hiking to a Hidden Gem:
Whether it's a coastal trail with panoramic ocean views or a lush rainforest path leading to a secluded waterfall, Hawaii offers hikes for every skill level.
ATV Ride Through Rugged Terrain:
For the adventurous duo, exploring Hawaii's diverse landscapes on an ATV offers an adrenaline rush and incredible photo opportunities. Available on Oahu with Kualoa Ranch or Kauai
Spa Day
sit back and relax with a massage or a couples massage by the sea.
Glide across the pacific waters as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Many sails include dinner and drinks – pure romance!
Sunset Catamaran Sail:
CHARLESTON
location inspiration
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FOLLY BEACH
location inspiration
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Your elopement is more than just a ceremony; it's the start of your grand adventure together! Here are some incredible activities to make your Hawaiian experience even more unforgettable.
Hawai'i for You to Embark On
Five Activites to do in
A FEW OF OUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SHOOTING WEDDINGS AT VALLEYVIEW FARM
FAQ
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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur sit amet quam quam. In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Praesent lacinia dapibus augue at varius. Cras sit amet odio mollis, tincidunt arcu at, dapibus metus. Fusce ut nunc non ligula consectetur blandit. Donec porta elementum eleifend. Maecenas egestas facilisis sollicitudin.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur sit amet quam quam. In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Praesent lacinia dapibus augue at varius. Cras sit amet odio mollis, tincidunt arcu at, dapibus metus. Fusce ut nunc non ligula consectetur blandit. Donec porta elementum eleifend. Maecenas egestas facilisis sollicitudin.
A friendly, fun & highly-experienced artist who will always put you first
As a wedding photographer, my signature romantic style is expressed through timeless dreamy digital and film photographs that capture the natural glow and radiance of your love.
Hawaii Wedding & Portrait Photographer
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A Hawaii elopement can be everything you dream of, intimate, breathtaking, and seamlessly planned. If you're ready to start planning your luxury elopement, I would be honored to guide you every step of the way, from securing permits to assembling your dream vendor team. Inquire about elopement packages today.