Number four in our series of Hawaii Beaches to get married on is a small beach tucked away in Ko’Olina called Secret Beach. Head west on the H1 and out of the hubbub of Waikiki, keep going past HNL, past Pearl City and Waikele there’s Ko’Olina. And nestled in-between Lanikuhonua Cultural Institute and the JW Marriott Resort and Spa there’s lagoon number one. A short walk behind the resort, this oasis is a fabulous place to exchange vows especially at sunset.
My favorite spot is at the far end of the of the beach where the sandy part of the beach meets the rocks. This area is worth the walk as at is doesn’t attract as many people who come to watch the sunset which never disappoints. I love this area as it offers fabulous photo options within a 100 feet of each other. It has sandy beach, lava rock and the greenery creating multiple options for your images. I recommend wearing comfortable flat shoes for I usually ask my couples to get up on the rocky area.
Parking is adjacent to the Marriott and is you decide to exchange your vows around sunset, I recommend getting here a bit early as it is limited. If you’re staying at either the Marriott or Aulani, it’s just a short walk from either resort.
Make sure all your guests are capable of the walk out to the beach as the pathway ends at the hotel, it gets a bit rocky and the sand is heavy.
This area is has become popular for not only weddings but for family portraits and engagement sessions as well and to reiterate get there a bit early to stake your claim to your spot. You’ll need a “right of entry permit” for this beach and your officiant or wedding planner can help you obtain one.
Jeannemarie is Hawaii’s Premier Destination wedding photographer. She is based out of Honolulu and Wailea and is available to travel to any of our amazing Hawaiian Islands to photograph your special day!
