Reserve gorgeous venues for your luxury elopement with our editor's recommendations for elopement-friendly ceremony sites, plus three tiers of options for California honeymoon venues.
Sundrenched beaches, spectacular falls, and scenic overlooks make the islands of Hawaii paradisical for vow exchanges. Learn more about the features of the individual isles and find the perfect match for your wedding style.
HAWAII
THE BIG ISLAND | KAUAI
MAUI | OAHU
Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson
THE BIG ISLAND
The largest and most diverse in terms of climate and terrain, the island of Hawaii -- a.k.a., “the Big Island” -- boasts breathtaking falls, active volcanoes, and world-class resorts. The terrain ranges from towering mountains to verdant valleys, offering lush garden settings and prime beachfronts as Big Island elopement locations. The ease of marrying on Hawaii island is conducive to eloping (making it a practical destination as well as a gorgeous one), and with activities ranging from hiking to snorkeling, this island is a top spot for couples who seek adventure as well as romance.
Major Airport: Kona International Airport (KOA)
High Seasons: December - April, July - August, March - April
Low Seasons: May - June, September - November
Time Zone: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST)
Hawaii Tourism Authority/Ron Garnett
POPULAR AREAS & ATTRACTIONS
KOHALA COAST
An array of stunning resorts and ancient landmarks share the 20-mile stretch of red and black lava fields that compose the birthplace of King Kamehameha, which boasts Hapuna Beach State Park, championship golf courses, and world-class hotels and resorts perfect for honeymoons. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)
KONA
World-famous coffee aside, Kona is known for its diverse (white-, black-, and salt-and-pepper sand) beaches, historical sites, and active lava flows. Cliffside, seaside, and garden settings for weddings abound, and luxury resorts offer posh accommodations for couples there to elope.
(Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Kirk Lee Adler)
BIG ISLAND REQUIREMENTS QUICK GUIDE
BLOOD TESTS: None
LOCAL CITIZENSHIP: Not Required
PROOF OF AGE: Required
LOCAL RESIDENCY: Not Required
SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Legal
WAITING PERIOD: None
MARRIAGE LICENSE AGENTS:
Mary Farias - 808.974.6008 – Hilo
Roberta Cho - 808.322-.880 – Kealakekua
Iris Yamauchi - 808.887.8114 – Waimea
ONLINE MARRIAGE LICENSE APPLICATION
Detailed Marriage Requirements for Hawaii >
source: health.hawaii.gov
HILO
Lush with vegetation and other natural attractions, the falls-filled district of Hilo is synonymous with paradise. Ceremony options include acres of botanical gardens and a rainforest pavilion, while honeymoon lodgings are primarily composed of boutique hotels, B&Bs, and the like. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Kirk Lee Adler)
KAUAI
Sundrenched beaches, spectacular falls, and scenic overlooks are so plentiful that the island of Kauai has served as backdrop to decades of films, from South Pacific to Jurassic Park. Sublime weather and breathtaking views make helicopter tours and ziplining popular attractions, while ATV and hiking tours allow ground access to the Garden Isle's natural beauty. Kauai elopement locations include lush plantations and historic estates, plus posh resorts that also fearure exquisite honeymoon accommodations -- the perfect combination for couples looking to elope.
Major Airport: Lihue Airport (LIH)
High Season: December - May
Low Season: June - November
Time Zone: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST)
Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson
POPULAR AREAS & ATTRACTIONS
NAPALI COAST
Located on the north shore, the Napali Coast boasts amazing beaches and epic views (South Pacific’s Bali Hai is part of the legendary landscape). The historic town of Hanalei offers culture and shopping near some of the island’s top resorts, where couples seeking to elope are beautifully accommodated. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)
POIPU
One of the most highly rated beaches in the world is located in Poipu, complete with a five-star resort and spa situated on its glorious beachfront. Acres of lagoons, waterfalls, and powdery sand serve as top elopement spots, and more than one luxe hotel is available for honeymooning. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)
KAUAI REQUIREMENTS QUICK GUIDE
BLOOD TESTS: None
LOCAL CITIZENSHIP: Not Required
PROOF OF AGE: Required
LOCAL RESIDENCY: Not Required
SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Legal
WAITING PERIOD: None
MARRIAGE LICENSE AGENTS:
Jamie Listman - 808.652.4005 – Hanalei
Ellen O'Connell - 808.742.7305 – Poipu
Darlene Kapana - 808.821.6880 – Wailua
ONLINE MARRIAGE LICENSE APPLICATION
source: health.hawaii.gov
WAIMEA CANYON
The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is one of the top natural wonders for which Kauai is famous, featuring 14 miles of canyons, valleys, and hiking trails. Nearby Waimea Town offers plantation cottages on 30 acres where weddings and commitment ceremonies take place in a variety of settings. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)
Sources: County of Kauai; GoHawaii.com; Hawaii Tourism Authority; Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau; Kauai.com
MAUI
A legendary destination for newlyweds, Maui is a matural match for couples wishing to elope and honeymoon in a single, luxurious trip. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking beauty, the island is mercifully short on tourist attractions, leaving days and nights free for fine dining, unwinding, and -- most importantly -- romance. Maui elopement locations range from public beaches and national parks to private estates and five-star resorts, making this island ideal for any style nuptials you desire.
Major Airport: Kahului Airport (OGG)
High Seasons: December - March, June - August
Low Seasons: April - May, September - November
Time Zone: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST)
Hawaii Tourism Authority/Ron Garnett
POPULAR AREAS & ATTRACTIONS
WAILEA
This picturesque resort town -- a veritable hotspot for posh hotels and rental properties -- is famous for its beaches and championship golf courses. More than one five-star property is available to provide all the trappings for an exquisite luxury elopement, plus stunning accommodations for honeymoon to follow.
(Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)
KAPALUA BAY
Featuring breathtaking views of the ocean and the
Hawaiian chain of islands from its three-mile stretch of luxe white sand, this lovely West Maui cove is a gorgeous spot for a wedding ceremony. Nearby resorts offer honeymoon digs for the newly eloped as well as alternative ceremony locations. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Max Wagner)
MAUI REQUIREMENTS QUICK GUIDE
BLOOD TESTS: None
LOCAL CITIZENSHIP: Not Required
PROOF OF AGE: Required
LOCAL RESIDENCY: Not Required
SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Legal
WAITING PERIOD: None
MARRIAGE LICENSE AGENTS:
Linda Albright - 808.875.8459 – Wailea
Sherilynn Takushi - 808.276.6919 – Lahaina
Cynthia Wolfe - 808.875.8459 – Wailuku
ONLINE MARRIAGE LICENSE APPLICATION
source: health.hawaii.gov
HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK
Located on Maui’s East Side, Haleakala National Park blissfully encompasses volcanic landscapes and rustic shrublands, but it’s the bamboo rainforest complete with idyllic waterfalls (and the Pools of ‘Ohe’o) just steps from the beach that lends itself beautifully for the ceremony portion of an elopement. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Ron Dahlquist)
Sources: GoHawaii.com; Hawaii Tourism Authority; Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau; Maui Informaton Guide
OAHU
Home to Honolulu, the capital of the state of Hawaii, Oahu combines the nightlife and conveniences of a modern city with the beauty and atmosphere of a tropical island. Cultural and historical hot spots abound: Iolani Palace and Kawaiahao Church are available for wedding ceremonies, while Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and the Polynesian Cultural Center are popular attractions for honeymooners. Some of the finest resorts in Hawaii are located on the island, and the diverse range of resort areas and beaches provide highly desired elopement locations for Oahu.
Major Airport: Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
High Seasons: January - March, July - August
Low Seasons: April - June, September - December
Time Zone: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST)
Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson
POPULAR AREAS & ATTRACTIONS
WAIKIKI
World famous for its beaches and fabled concentration of hotels and resorts, Waikiki is located on Honolulu's south shore and just a stone's throw away from some of the capital's most famous attractions. Options for entertainment, shopping, and dining are only outnumbered by amazing locations for luxury elopements and honeymoons. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)
NORTH SHORE
Best known as a mecca for surfers, the north shore is home to legenedary beaches and the sleepy plantation-era town of Haleiwa, where couples can amble through a charming arts district and indulge in local fare at relaxed restaurants. A world-class resort offers luxe elopement options, while a plethora of private rentals are available for intimate escapes. (Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson)
KO OLINA
Situated on Oahu's leeward coast, Ko Olina was specifically developed as a resort community that offers upscale hotels, spas, villas, beach clubs, and condominiums against an unspoiled backdrop of island beauty. A winning combination of luxury and solitude, Ko Olina makes a wonderful destination for elopements and post-elopement honeymoons. (Photo: Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau/Linda Ching)
OAHU REQUIREMENTS QUICK GUIDE
BLOOD TESTS: None
LOCAL CITIZENSHIP: Not Required
PROOF OF AGE: Required
LOCAL RESIDENCY: Not Required
SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Legal
WAITING PERIOD: None
MARRIAGE LICENSE AGENTS:
Judith Brown - 808.586.4544 – Honolulu
Sherilynn Luning - 808.586.4544 – McCully/ Waikiki/Wahiawa
Suzanne King - 808.271.7834 – Kailua
ONLINE MARRIAGE LICENSE APPLICATION
source: health.hawaii.gov
