Top 3 Places to Elope in Hawaii — Oahu, Maui, and Kauai!
— Co-Creating An Experience That’s Focused On Your Story —
Aloha, I’m Gabriela!
I am an adventure elopement + intimate wedding photographer, that’s deeply passionate about photography and creating incredible experiences + meaningful memories for my couples.
If you’ve landed here, you’re likely imagining what your day could look like on one of the incredible islands of Hawai’i.
This guide is meant to help alleviate some stress you may be feeling, as you are deciding which island is the right one for you. No matter where you ultimately decide, Hawai’i will guarantee an adventure of a lifetime!
Marriage Licenses + Information
The process to elope in Hawaii very simple, with little to no wait time for your marriage license (you should have it by the time of your appointment, if approved). Here are some requirements to help you start the process…
Must be 18 years or older to apply for a marriage license
Complete an online marriage application form HERE and schedule an appointment with an authorized marriage license agent (Commissioned by the State of Hawaii Department of Health)
You will need to show proof of age such as a birth certificate or driver's license
It’s recommended to pay online the flat fee of $65 prior to the appointment
Both parties need to be present at the appointment in order to obtain a marriage license
The marriage license is good for up to 30 days, and there is no potential for a refund afterward that time
These are not all of the requirements, just the general ones that I recommend, so please make sure to check a Hawai’i state/government official website for all marriage licensing requirements before applying.
How to Elope in Hawaii
As one of the world’s top wedding destinations, Hawaii is also ranked as the most isolated, yet densely populated area globally. Hawaii was a sovereign nation with pure Native Hawaiians populating the islands, but since the 1950’s, the lands have been taken.
Hawaii consists of eight major pacific islands, including Oahu — “The Gathering Place”, Kauai — “The Garden Island”, and Maui — “The Valley Isle”. The official languages of Hawai’i are Hawaiian, Hawai’i-Pidgin English, and English. Hawai’i is also home to over 400 endangered species in the world, and is known as a massive surf hub.
The natural island views will truly leave you in awe. I’m here not only as your photographer, but as your guide. Eloping in Hawai’i is truly a dream — with paradise right at your fingertips. Any location you choose will encapsulate the tropical island feel that Hawai’i embodies!
Be sure to select an island that you connect with. Having been to Hawai’i a few times myself, I have found that each island has its own draws and its own unique characteristics.
THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS
Hawai’i is composed of eight major islands, six of which you can visit — Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii (Big Island), Molokai, and Lanai.
Each islands has its own unique geographical features and beauty.
Where to Elope in Hawaii
This is one of the number one questions I’m asked when it comes to eloping. Here are just a few things to take into consideration as you begin your search…
Find an island that you connect with — in this guide I will cover Oahu, Maui, and Kauai
Book flights and accommodations as soon as possible, because the islands are frequented year round
If the specific location you’ve chosen requires a permit, be sure to apply soon
Let’s alleviate your stress, plan a meaningful experience, and make YOU the focus!
Oahu — “The Gathering Island”
Oahu holds a melting pot of cultures from the east all the way to the west. As the most densely populated island compared to the rest of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu holds almost half of the total population of Hawaii.
The main city of Honolulu is packed with many activities and where visitors often stay. However, if you want to get out of the city and touristy areas, I recommend visiting other parts of the island for your elopement.
Here are three locations to get you started, as you begin your elopement search on the island of Oahu…
The drive through 400 acres of lush greenery and beautiful mountains in the background, attests to the translation of the garden — “a peaceful refuge”.
This botanical garden was initially a buildout by the U.S. Army to provide flood protection for the community of Kane’ohe, but later transitioned with plants from the Philippines, Malaysia, Tropical America, India & Sri Lanka, Melanesia, Polynesia, Hawaii, and Africa.
This ahupua’a (an ancient Hawaiian term for subdivision of land) of Kahana encompases 5,300 acres of land that has the wettest valleys on Oahu. Pre-Western contact, this exact location was home to a flourishing fish and farming community, but is now occupied by 31 Native Hawaiian families that are open to educating anyone wanting to elope on the park grounds, about the Native Hawaiian culture and the efforts being made to preserve it.
If you’re willing to learn more about the Native Hawaiian culture, and elope at a beautiful ancient Hawaiian area, Ahupua’a ‘O Kahana is your unique find! To camp here, there is a $30 fee per night.
With over 4,000 acres of land, and a towering mountain in the background, Kualoa Ranch offers several different spots to elope at!
Fun fact: You can get married at the same spot that the infamous movie, Jumanji, was filmed. Kualoa also offers a wide variety of venues within their estate, from Moli’i Gardens that surrounds Kualoa’s 800-year old ancient Hawaiian fishponds, to the secret location (shores) of Secret Island. Kualoa has it all and more waiting for you to explore.
Maui — “The Valley Isle”
Rated as the “Best Island in the U.S.” by luxury and lifestyle magazine Conde Nast Traveler for over 20 years, Maui is the second largest island and is globally known for its beaches, humpback whales during the winter months, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets in Haleakala.
As opposed to Oahu, Maui is laid-back with only 167,000 residents. This relaxed lifestyle can be seen through the countryside and the abundance of natural locations compared to the city-life in Oahu. If this is more your speed, then Maui is your perfect elopement destination!
Here are three locations to get you started, as you begin your elopement search on the island of Maui…
West Maui
With beautiful rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and coves, West Maui is home to Lahaina, a whaling town known for hosting humpback whale watches.
West Maui is perfect for you if you’re looking for a fusion of luxury resorts by the beach and authentic Maui scenery.
Some special features in this area include the tropical Honolua Bay (two harbors) to snorkel, dive, and surf! You can also elope at the popular Ka'anapali Resort + Beach with beautiful scenery and green, lush forestry along a white, sandy beach.
Sandwiched between Eastern and Western Maui, Central Maui is where the towns of Kahului and Wailuku are located — each with its own contrasting features.
Kahului is the islands hot spot, where you can shop and dine. This is also where Maui’s main airport is located.
Wailuku is home to picturesque small. local shops and a relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can elope at ‘Iao Valley State Park, which overlooks a vast lush, green floor and a mountaintop effected by erosion. Another option would be Ma’alaea Harbor, for a backdrop of anchored boats, among the many native birds that roam the harbor.
East Maui is filled with an overwhelming amount of nature, lush greenery, and remote venues to choose from.
As you head farther east, you’ll stumble upon Hana, a beautiful drive that will take you 52 miles across the northern parts of Maui. This is perfect for a romantic elopement getaway just for the two of you!
Some locations here include Wai’anapanapa State Park — a remote, volcanic coastline that includes unique rock formations, blow holes, and the infamous black sand beach. If you’re looking for more of an adventure, you can hike 1.8 miles through Maui’s popular Pipiwai Trail, which includes bamboo forestry and infamous waterfalls.
Kauai — “The Garden Island”
Kauai is known for being the “Garden Isle” due to its lush greenery and tropical rainforests. It’s also known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, that have drawn filmmakers attention, like the movie Jurassic World.
With the lowest population out of all three islands (72,000), the sacred lands of the island are mostly untouched by visitors, leaving 97% of the island covered in nature. That being said, if you’d like to travel to Kauai for your elopement, be sure to stay in state parks or well-populated areas, (i.e. Kapa’a, Hanalei, Waimea) so as not to get lost or put yourselves in potential danger.
Here are three locations to get you started, as you begin your elopement search on the island of Kauai…
Rainfall is expected often here out of all of the areas on the island, so be sure to prepare for the weather!
One of Kauai’s most prominent beaches, Hanalei Beach, is perfect for an elopement if you’re looking for a beautiful coastline and mountain views in the background.
The Princeville resort and surrounding area is also known for it’s 9,000 acre estate, with the majority of its land by the beach.
Towards the east, you’ll see the scenery transition to a lush rainforest, full of greenery. With mostly sunny/overcast days, the east side brings a mixture of forestry meets the bay/beach.
Some locations here include Lihue, Kapa’a and Wailua, all with similar lush green scenery. These locations would make for a beautiful and simplistic elopement.
South Kauai is known for having the driest and sunniest areas on the island. Some locations here include Kalaheo and Waimea, both recognized for their vast green plains and countryside.
If you’re looking to have an abundance of flat land, with high mountains ranges in the background, South Kauai is for you!
Leave No Trace — Be Mindful of Native Hawaiian Land and Culture
While there is such profound beauty spanning all of the Hawaiian Islands, it is crucial to stay aware and be mindful of the cultural values as soon as you step foot onto Hawaiian soil. As the tourist industry is the state’s main source of income, all are invited and welcomed to come and enjoy these beautiful shores and forestry safely.
However, over the years there has been an overcrowding of visitors at popular scenic points, that has degraded the soil and the land. In Native Hawaiian culture, the land is as crucial as water is to the body, so taking care of the ‘aina (land) is of utmost importance. There have also been many reports of visitors touching endangered species, which is illegal in Hawaii, and could potentially harm the natural habitat.
That being said, I’ve made a list of “Do’s and Don'ts” to keep in mind when you’re visiting any of the islands!
Do:
Interact with the locals and ask them questions to get to know more about the island and Hawaiian culture! (Note: Not every local in Hawai’i is Hawaiian, as it is an ethnicity not a nationality)
Try local snacks and cuisines! (I recommend shaved ice, spam musubis, malasadas ((from Leonard’s Bakery)), Hawaiian Plate Lunch, li-hing mui)
Explore outside of the city and visit the countryside!
Don't:
Enter any place that has a sign saying “kapu” (forbidden entry). Please respect Native Hawaiian land and stay out of sacred grounds.
Touch any endangered species. Just out of Aloha and respect for the animals and state law, you can watch from afar and still enjoy the beautiful land and animals.
Mock or imitate Hawaiian culture if you don’t know the authentic ways! Since the tourist industry in Hawai’i is known for throwing “luau’s” (Hawaiian-themed parties), realize that not everything you see is accurate. So, if you’re unsure if what you’re seeing at tourist venues are authentic, have a conversation with a local Hawaiian.
Overcrowd places that you know are populated. If you have wanted to go to a venue or area that you know is really popular, try to find another area that is less crowded, and can offer the same scenery!
Please keep these Do’s and Don’ts in mind while you enjoy these beautiful islands. To maintain these islands for years to come, we all need to do our part (visitors and locals, alike) to keep everyone safe and to keep these islands beautiful and sustained!
Transportation
One last thing to note: In terms of transportation on all of the islands, there is public transportation available (public buses & bikes). However, they operate mostly within the cities. There are also rideshare services including Taxis, Uber and Lyft if you’re in need of getting from place to place in town. If you’re traveling outside of the city, I would recommend renting a car for easiest travel.
Elopement Photography Packages
Ready to explore all that Hawai’i has to offer for your big day? Here are my elopement photography packages!
Included with each package:
Mini, Half Day, Full/Multi-Day coverage options
Personal planning guidance — help you choose the location, find vendors, and create a timeline
Assistance with permitting and marriage licenses
Personalized online gallery of high-resolution images + printing rights
All fees included!
Couples spend an average of $6000
“I had never hired a photographer before, so everything was new to me and I had no idea what to expect. I was mostly worried about whether or not I would be able to share my ideas about the kind of photographs I wanted and that the photographer would be receptive to feedback/suggestions. You were very friendly and kind. You made us both feel comfortable taking professional pictures for the first time. You guided us, without making us feel like we had no idea what we were doing. ”
Get in touch and let’s start planning your incredible adventure!
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