Image by Keani Bakula
Hawaii is a dream destination for many couples looking to combine their wedding with a tropical getaway. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unparalleled beauty, it’s no wonder that Hawaii is a top choice for couples seeking a memorable and picturesque wedding experience.
There’s a lot that goes into wedding planning, especially if you’re hosting a destination celebration, which is why we’re breaking down everything you need to know about having a spectacular Hawaiian wedding—from choosing the right island and understanding local customs to savoring delicious island cuisine and ensuring legal requirements are met.
Choosing the Perfect Island for Your Hawaii Wedding
Oahu
Known as “The Gathering Place,” Oahu is the most populated island and home to Honolulu, the state capital. It’s a perfect blend of city life and natural beauty. Waikiki Beach, famous for its iconic views and bustling atmosphere, is ideal for a lively wedding. For a more serene setting, consider the North Shore, with its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe.
While there, explore historic sites like Pearl Harbor, hike to Diamond Head for panoramic views, or enjoy shopping and dining in Honolulu.
Maui
Often dubbed “The Valley Isle,” Maui is renowned for its luxury resorts, stunning beaches, and scenic drives. Wailea offers high-end resorts and beautiful beaches, while Kaanapali is known for its picturesque coastline.
Some can’t-be-missed highlights include driving the Road to Hana for breathtaking views, visiting Haleakalā National Park for sunrise or sunset, and enjoying whale watching during the winter months.
Kauai
Kauai is the oldest and most lush island, offering dramatic landscapes and a more tranquil experience. The Na Pali Coast provides stunning backdrops, while botanical gardens like Limahuli Garden & Preserve offer a serene setting. Hanalei Bay is also a popular choice for its natural beauty.
Spend your downtime exploring Waimea Canyon, taking a boat tour along the Na Pali Coast, or enjoy the countless hiking trails that offer breathtaking views.
Big Island (Hawaii)
The Big Island is known for its volcanic terrain, black sand beaches, and lush rainforests. Kona offers beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, while Hilo is known for its lush scenery and waterfalls. Consider incorporating views of the Kilauea volcano for a dramatic backdrop.
Thanks to its extremely diverse landscapes, Hawaii offers a wide variety of things to do, including visiting Volcanoes National Park, exploring the black sand beaches of Punalu’u, and taking a stargazing tour at Mauna Kea.
Lanai
Lanai is an exclusive and luxurious island known for its high-end resorts and pristine beaches. Resorts like Four Seasons provide luxurious settings with stunning ocean views. While you’re enjoying the island to yourself, be sure to explore Lanai City, visit the Garden of the Gods, and enjoy activities like snorkeling and off-road adventures.
Image by Seeking Films Photography
Hawaii Wedding Vendor Highlights
Photographers
Review: “Roy is the perfect wedding photographer. On top of capturing the wonderful moments, he was great at getting everyone comfortable, extremely patient, courteous, and great at not taking away the moment. He was also great before the big day at understanding our needs and capturing the moments that were important to us. During our engagement session and at the actual wedding, Roy knew exactly what the best shots were, leveraging our venue and day’s unique environments, and captured our day better than we could have imagined. We are happy to be a reference for him whenever needed.”
Review: “Our wedding photos were stunning. Each one was so artistic and captured both the magnitude and intimacy of the day. We loved them so much that four years later, I still want to write Lauren a glowing review!”
Review: “Jenna Lee is absolutely amazing!! My now wife and I traveled from Indiana to Hawaii to elope, and we wanted a photographer who could capture us as the goofy, loving couple we are. She, by far, exceeded our expectations. Our photos turned out beautifully, and she caught very organic moments that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. We talked and shared our experiences with life. She has such a big heart, and she put her all into our photos. I can not thank her enough for the most gorgeous photos!”
Review: “Derek is an amazing photographer who helped capture our most precious and intimate moments. We worked with him exclusively for our engagement photos and later for our wedding three years later. Through the pandemic and with our wedding being rescheduled so many times–Derek stayed by our side. The results of the photos were phenomenal. He has a way of making all of us feel at ease, and that’s reflected in the pictures. We’re so grateful to have had Derek and his team be a part of our love journey. It truly made capturing the precious moments that much more enjoyable. We’re forever grateful. The pictures are vibrant and delicate at the same time. It exudes the emotions of the day and truly encapsulates the love we have for each other.”
Review: “Randi was absolutely wonderful to work with. My husband and I had never been to Hawaii before, and she was so helpful and patient while helping us plan our perfect day. Not only did she help us pick a gorgeous setting for our ceremony and pictures, but she also helped us find an officiant, someone to do my hair and makeup, a florist, and even a spot for dinner with our families. Also, she made us feel very comfortable in front of the camera by letting us just be ourselves and just embrace our newlywed bliss. All of our photos are absolutely stunning, and I truly love every single one of them. I cannot stop showing them to my friends and family. If you have the opportunity to book Randi, do not hesitate to do so. I promise you will not be disappointed.”
Officiant
Review: “Ashlee was honestly everything we could’ve hoped for in an officiant. Not only was she our officiant, but she really was an open-minded sounding board for all of our ideas and was so experienced. She really helped take the edge off for us with her easy going and personable demeanor. You can really tell how much she cares about each of the couples she works with. If you are looking for an officiant with the best energy, she is your gal. I honestly cant say enough good things about her! 100/10”
Local Customs and Traditions
Incorporating Hawaiian customs can make your wedding deeply meaningful and culturally rich. If this is something you’re interested in, these are a couple of things you can include:
Lei Ceremony
The lei ceremony is a cherished Hawaiian tradition where the bride and groom exchange floral garlands as a symbol of love, respect, and the spirit of aloha. Leis can be crafted from various flowers, such as plumeria, orchids, or even seashells.
Hawaiian Blessings
A Hawaiian blessing, or oli, involves chants and rituals to honor the land and the couple. This can be performed by a local kahuna (priest) or cultural practitioner. This blessing can provide a spiritual and cultural connection to Hawaii, integrating traditional practices into your wedding ceremony.
Koa Wood Decor
Koa wood is a valuable native Hawaiian material often used in furniture and crafts. Incorporating koa wood into your wedding décor–such as in centerpieces or table settings–honors local craftsmanship and traditions. Consider making custom koa wood items, such as engraved plaques or decorative pieces, to add a personal touch to your wedding.
Image by Emma Quinn
Navigating Legal Requirements
Marriage License
You can obtain a marriage license from any Hawaii state marriage license office. Both parties must be present, and you don’t need to be a resident of Hawaii. Hawaii also has no waiting period, so you can marry immediately once you have your license.
Both parties must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. If previously married, you’ll need to provide the date of dissolution of the last marriage.
Officiant Requirements
Your officiant must be authorized to perform weddings in Hawaii. This includes religious leaders, judges, or registered officiants through the State of Hawaii. Make sure your chosen officiant is legally recognized to perform the ceremony.
Image by Sunny Golden Photography
Local Cuisine and Drinks
Poke
Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish, often tuna, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. It’s typically served over rice and can be customized with various toppings. Serve it as a fresh and light appetizer or part of a seafood-focused dinner.
Kalua Pig
Kalua pig is traditionally cooked in an imu, an underground oven, which gives it a distinctive smoky flavor. The pork is tender and flavorful, making it a popular choice for a traditional Hawaiian feast–it is usually the main star of a luau, after all.
Loco Moco
Loco moco is a comforting dish that features a hamburger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg, and smothered in gravy. It’s a hearty and satisfying option for a casual reception. It tends to be enjoyed for breakfast, so if you’re having a brunch wedding, this can be a great menu item to include.
Shaved Ice
No matter what island you visit, you’ll find countless shaved ice stands. It’s a delicious treat that helps you keep cool and is easy to personalize. To include the sweet treat on your big day, consider bringing in a shaved ice truck to enjoy while your guests are dancing the night away.
Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a classic Hawaiian cocktail made with rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and a combination of fruit juices. It’s a tropical favorite that pairs well with the island setting, making it the perfect choice as a signature cocktail.
Image by Derek Wong
Entertainment and Activities
Hawaiian Luau
Embrace the Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau featuring hula dancers, fire performers, and a meal of island delicacies. It’s a vibrant way to celebrate and share the local culture while keeping your guests entertained during the reception.
Live Island Music
Set the mood with live Hawaiian music. Whether it’s the soothing sounds of slack-key guitar or lively ukulele tunes, local musicians can provide the perfect soundtrack for your special day.
Sunset Cruise
If your wedding is smaller, treat your guests to a romantic sunset cruise. It’s a spectacular way to soak in the breathtaking views and celebrate your union with the ocean as your backdrop. It makes for the perfect cocktail hour while your vendors prepare your space for your reception.
DIY Bars
Engage your guests with interactive Hawaiian workshops like lei-making or traditional Hawaiian crafts. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding festivities, and their crafts make for a great wedding favor.
Image by Derek Wong
Weather Considerations
Hawaii’s tropical climate is generally favorable, but it’s important to be prepared. The rainy season typically runs from November to March and varies based on the islands. For example, Kauai is known to be one of the rainiest places on Earth, whereas The Big Island is usually dry and sunny. While showers are often brief, it’s wise to have a backup plan for outdoor events.
Of course, the islands are also very sunny, so it’s crucial to ensure that you and your guests stay hydrated, especially if your wedding is outdoors. Provide plenty of water and shade options, and encourage guests to use sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
Practical Tips for Planning
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable wedding experience, consider the following practical tips:
- Booking – Book flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates and availability. Look for packages that include both travel and lodging for added convenience.
- Guest Accommodations – Consider arranging group rates or blocks of rooms at nearby hotels for your guests to simplify travel arrangements.
- Choosing Vendors – Collaborate with local vendors who are familiar with the island’s unique logistics and venues. Their expertise will be invaluable, especially if you’re not a local yourself.
- Scheduling – If you have guests traveling from different time zones, plan your wedding schedule with their comfort in mind. Allow time for acclimatization and consider time zone differences when scheduling events.
- Communication – Keep guests informed about the itinerary and any time zone changes to avoid confusion. You can do this easily on your invites or your wedding website.
By embracing local customs and carefully planning every detail, you can create a wedding experience that reflects the spirit of Hawaii and celebrates your love in a truly unforgettable way. If you’re looking to host a beach wedding and are concerned about logistics, don’t fret. We’re breaking down everything you need to know! And, of course, check out our vetted directory of high-quality wedding vendors in Hawaii to ensure your wedding is the day of your dreams!
Image by Derek Wong
.jpg "Photographers")
