Best Places to Elope in Hawaii

I’m so excited you decided to elope in Hawaii. It’s one of the most beautiful places on earth. But now you’re probably wondering where are the best places to elope in Hawaii. That’s where I come in.

I always recommend couples book an elopement photographer (like ME!) that knows all the amazing locations on Hawaii very well and where we can legally go. Hawaii has a lot of restrictions and permits are required for any elopement out in nature. The only time you won’t need a permit is getting married at a venue like Kualoa Ranch.

Deciding on Which Island For Your Elopement

Hawaii has 4 main islands that you can choose from for your elopement.

• Kauai: this is my personal favorite as it’s quieter, has tons of beautiful beaches, EPIC mountain views along the Na Pali Coast, and incredible hikes to enjoy.

• Oahu: this is my second favorite island. It’s a bit busier but you can find quiet areas if you head to the North Shore and the Western Shore. The mountains are incredible here and if you love hiking, it has some of the best hikes you’ll find in Hawaii.

• Maui: one of the most popular islands in Hawaii. It has some beautiful beaches, Haleakala National Park, and the iconic Road to Hana. Haleakala has some of the most unique views that you’ll find and the sunsets are amazing. The Road to Hana is a fun adventure with some incredible beaches, waterfalls, and hikes along the way.

• The Big Island: the Big Island is more rural and quieter. It is known for its waterfalls and volcanic landscapes that make it a very unique island.

Best Places to Elope in Kauai

Kauai is fairly restrictive on where we can legally elope for your wedding. Even with those restrictions there are still some breathtaking locations for your elopement and plenty of activities that we can plan to do on your elopement day.

1. Tunnels (Makua) Beach: this is arguably the most beautiful beach on the entire island. The mountain views as you can see in the photo above will make the perfect backdrop for you as you exchange your vows. It’s also a popular spot to see sea turtles and right next to Ha’ena State Park if you want to go to Ke’e Beach or hike along the Napali Coast.
2. Waimea Canyon: if you’re looking for a more rugged vibe then this is it. Waimea Canyon is described as the Grand Canyon of Hawaii. With beautiful red rocks mixed with green vegetation and red dirt, this is a unique location with tons of places to explore.
3. Hanalei Bay: this is a popular beach location so unfortunately you won’t find a lot of privacy here, but the views are unbelievable! The bay is completely surrounded by mountain views and has a long pier that stretches in the ocean. It’s a breathtaking spot to get married if you don’t mind people being around.
4. The Na Pali Coast: the most iconic feature of the island of Kauai. This rugged and untouched coastline is the main attraction for anyone that comes to Kauai. It’s only accessible by long hikes from Haena State Park or Koke’e State Park. You can take a helicopter tour or a catamaran cruise as well. Say your vows on a boat with the Na Pali coast as your backdrop. Then explore its many locations after you say your “I do’s.”

Best Places To Elope in Oahu

Even though Oahu is a popular island, I highly suggest considering it for your elopement. There’s some incredible mountain locations that will leave you speechless. I also know parts of the island where it’s easy to escape the crowds and have the privacy you’re looking for.

1. Crouching Lion: if you look at the photo above, you will quickly see why this is one of my favorite locations on the island. Wake up early and hike to the top for sunrise. You will most likely have it all to yourself. There’s plenty of places for photos at the top and chances for rainbows in the backdrop over the mountains. This is a moderate hike that will take 45 minutes to reach the top.
2. Makua Beach: this is a lesser known location on the west side with white sand and a mountain backdrop. Hidden away from the crowds, you are more likely to have privacy as you exchange your vows.
3. Kualoa Ranch: although this is definitely more of a wedding venue, it’s a great option if you’re hoping for breathtaking mountain views and wanting an intimate wedding with family and friends. You will most likely recognize these mountains as its the filming location for popular movies and tv shows like Jurassic Park, Lost, Jumanji, 50 First Dates, and many more.
4. Kualoa Regional Park: if you want those iconic mountain peaks but don’t want to have a wedding at Kualoa Ranch, you can go across the road to this beautiful park. It’s a popular location but if you plan for a sunrise wedding during the weekday, there’s a good chance you’ll have a more private ceremony.
5. Olamana Trail: if you’re the more adventurous couple and want to hike out to one of the most beautiful views in all of Oahu, then this is it. It’s a more moderate to difficult hike but if you are an experienced hiker you will have no problem. The views of the three peaks are incredible and you will have mountains as far as you can see.

Best Places to Elope in Maui

Maui’s locations are definitely more limited but the ones you can elope at are so incredible. If you’re looking for a black beach or rugged volcanic landscape then Maui might be for you.

1. Haleakala National Park: like most National Parks, Haleakala has limited areas within the park where you can legally get married at. Then after we can always explore around hiking to take more photos in its breathtaking landscape.
2. Wai’anapanapa State Park: this park is along the Road to Hana and has one of the most beautiful and rugged black beaches you’ll find. There’s some amazing cliffs to explore and be sure to go for a swim in the ocean.
3. Iao Valley State Park: this state park is in central Maui and where you’ll find the lush green mountains. You need to plan ahead to get passes to access the park for hiking as well.
4. Makena Cove (Secret Beach): although this is claimed to be a secret beach, that is far from the truth. The beach has limited parking and can be very busy especially around sunset I found. The best time to go here is for sunrise. My wife and I had it all to ourselves as I took landscape photos and photos of ourselves.
5. Forests: Maui has some of the most beautiful ancient forests I’ve seen. I know a secret location that is magical for photos. However I won’t name its location to help keep its secret.

Best Places to Elope on The Big Island

The Big Island is different from all the other islands with the landscapes it has. You won’t find those grand mountains here. It has more lush green valleys, waterfalls, and volcanic features. It’s less developed as well which can be a bonus as you’re more likely to have privacy for your ceremony.

1. Kulaniapia Falls: a beautiful waterfall where you can legally get married at. After you can jump in for a swim or enjoy paddleboarding.
2. Volcano National Park: if you’re looking for that desolate landscape that feels like you’re on mars, then this is it. There’s many different hikes within the park depending on the adventure you’re looking for.
3. Waipi’o Valley: this is a lush green valley with some beautiful views and old history.

Final Conclusions on the Best Places To Elope In Hawaii

Every island is so different and unique. It comes down to the experience you want from your elopement day and what landscapes speak to you. My two personal favorites however are Kauai for the beaches, mountains, and overall atmosphere. Oahu is a close second for the couples that also love adventure and want to spend time hiking some EPIC mountain trails.

I can always help guide you to give you a more private experience in locations and make sure we get the proper permits. Make sure to reach out to me here so we can start planning your dream Hawaii elopement! As always we will make sure to Leave No Trace to respect the Hawaiian Islands.