Big Island Elopement Guide
Big Island doesn’t get its name for no reason. This is the largest island and filled with endless possibilities when it comes to planning your elopement. Covered in diverse terrains from sandy beaches to lush rainforests and epic volcanoes, there’s something for every couple on this island. Our Big Island elopement guide breaks down everything you need to know when putting your elopement package together. We go over the best places to elope, when to plan your wedding adventure, permits, and more.
Not sure you want to elope in Big Island? Check out our Hawaii Elopement Packages to see what the other islands have to offer.
Places to Elope in Big Island
Being the largest of the Hawaiian islands, Big Island has extensive options for couples who love waterfalls, tropical greenery, and active volcanoes! The largest active volcano, Kilauea, can be found on this island. If you love beaches, then you will have multiple sand beaches to visit with white, black, and even green sand!
When it comes to deciding where to elope in Big Island, couples should consider teaming up with an elopement vendor who specializes in Big Island elopements and intimate weddings. This ensures couples pick an elopement location that suits them while also following permit guidelines and avoiding heavy crowds. Big Island is one of the most populated islands, so it’s important to plan ahead.
Teaming up with an experienced Big Island photographer or planner also allows you to elope in spots that are less known by the average tourist who comes to visit Big Island. This island has a ton of private locations you can elope at, but these are often accompanied by resort and spa packages. So if you want a more adventurous experience, then ask the locals where you can say “I do”.
In order to protect our lands and leave no trace, we will not be discussing these secret locations. Our best advice is to browse through our favorite places to elope within Big Island, and then team up with a professional to start planning your wedding adventure together.
Hilo Bay
If you love surfing and quiet towns, then Hilo Bay is your destination. This location can be gorgeous and intimate on one of its many stunning beaches. Since this is a very local spot, you will have an authentic Hawaiian experience.
Pololu Valley
Photo by Ann Ferguson Photography
Pololu Valley is a great option to consider for your elopement. One of the most impressive valleys in this region, couples can enjoy the greenery all around them. There are also some amazing views from Pololu Valley’s lookout cliffs and a gorgeous black sand beach you can lounge around at the end of your wedding day.
Pine Trees Beach
Beaches in Hawaii are beyond spectacular. If you’re looking for a beach with plenty of sand, black rocks, and scenic trees, then Pine Trees Beach is for you. You can find an intimate spot on this beach and exchange your vows with a stunning view.
Waimea
While planning your Big Island elopement package, you may realize that you want something other than a beach ceremony. Hawaii also has plenty of green hills covered in misty fog. Waimea is a great option for you if you are looking for something a little different.
Kiholo
This black sand destination is surrounded by sea turtles and stunning blue waters. Kiholo has a little bit of everything, such as wildlife, tide pools, and rock formations. You can also find a mini-island at the heart of the bay made of lava rock, perfect for some epic pictures.
Captain Cook Bay
For adventurous and romantic couples, we suggest checking out Captain Cook Bay. There are plenty of water activities to do here to celebrate your marriage, including swimming with dolphins and kayaking!
Puako
On the Big Island’s Kohala Coast is a small oceanfront community, Pukao. This is a secluded little community known for its clear blue waters and awesome snorkeling! If rain is your concern, then this area is perfect for you since this is the driest area on the Big Island, receiving about 10 inches of rain per year.
Small Wedding Venues on the Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a diverse range of intimate venues, perfect for a small wedding surrounded by the island. From lush gardens to cozy beachfront estates, these venues are perfect when planning your elopement with your closest family and friends.
Holualoa Inn
Via Holualoa Inn
Holualoa Inn is a peaceful, boutique inn nestled on a 30-acre coffee estate overlooking the Kona Coast. This venue combines lush tropical gardens, different outdoor ceremony spaces, and scenic ocean views.
The inn can accommodate smaller gatherings in its cozy, rustic setting. We love the property’s terrace and rooftop gazebo for an intimate reception.
Hawaii Island Retreat
Via Hawaii Island Retreat
For an eco-friendly yet luxurious experience, Hawaii Island Retreat offers a secluded sanctuary on the Kohala Coast. The retreat’s oceanfront location and rich gardens create a romantic ambiance.
With open-air pavilions and beautifully designed indoor spaces, this venue makes you feel like you’re already on your honeymoon. The retreat’s wellness focus means you can also enjoy spa treatments, yoga classes, and nature walks!
Waimea Plantation Estate
Via Waimea Plantation Cottages
If you’re looking for a unique venue, the Waimea Plantation Estate has beautiful gardens and historic charm. Nestled in the hills of Waimea, this location provides open lawns and vintage Hawaiian plantation cottages.
The estate’s expansive views of the surrounding mountains and coastline are the perfect backdrop for any small wedding. This venue is also suitable for adding Hawaiian traditions to your ceremony, with easy access to local florists and vendors specializing in lei making.
The Kona Beach Bungalows
Via Kona Beach Bungalows
For a beachfront experience, the Kona Beach Bungalows offers a cozy setting with ocean views. The property includes multiple bungalows for your wedding party and guests, along with an open-air lanai overlooking the ocean, where you can hold the ceremony.
Imagine exchanging vows with the ocean waves as your backdrop, followed by an intimate reception by the beach. This venue is ideal if you want the comfort of a private home with the luxury of a resort setting.
Anna Ranch Heritage Center
Photo by Jacob Luna
Located in Waimea, Anna Ranch Heritage Center is a charming, historic venue with green lawns and flower gardens. This venue has a rich history and offers indoor and outdoor spaces for a small wedding. Perfect for those who want a countryside feel with a touch of Hawaiian history.
Remember to confirm any permit requirements and consider consulting local vendors familiar with the unique logistics of Big Island weddings.
When to Elope on Big Island
Deciding when to elope in Big Island is actually not so tricky. Hawaii is gorgeous year-round, and the weather is always nice and sunny. During the winter months (November-February), the islands do see more rain than in other months. However, beach weddings in Big Island will look pretty much the same whether you plan for Summer or December on a clear day. We personally suggest April, May, August, September, and October for your Big Island Elopement.
The Big Island has mild, tropical weather year-round, but some seasons are more ideal:
- Winter (December to February): Pleasant temperatures and less humidity, but beaches can be busy.
- Spring (March to May): Fewer crowds, beautiful weather, and many flowers in bloom.
- Summer (June to August): Warmer temperatures with a chance of tropical showers, especially in lush regions like Hilo.
- Fall (September to November): One of the least crowded times and ideal weather for beaches and sightseeing.
Stressing about crowds? Talk this over with your elopement team. They may suggest eloping during the weekday or planning a sunrise ceremony.
Big Island Wedding License, LNT, and Permits
Photo by Ann Ferguson Photography
Thinking about making it official at one of Hawaii’s most popular islands? Here’s what you need to know about wedding licenses in Big island.
If you’re trying to obtain a marriage license in Big Island to make it official, you don’t need to be a resident of Hawaii or a U.S. citizen to marry. All you need is a state-issued I.D and pay your license fee ($60).
To elope in Hawaii, all you need is to make sure you have your officiant, marriage license, and location permit, which is usually provided by the photographer or planner.
Does My Elopement Location Require a Permit?
Hawaii is very strict when it comes to permits for any type of ceremony. The rule of thumb to remember is anywhere you would like to elope in Hawaii, which isn’t a private venue, will most likely require a permit. You’ll also want to make sure the location you’re interested in allows both wedding ceremonies (no matter how big or small) and wedding portraits.
This shouldn’t stress you out at all though. A lot of times, your officiant, photographer, or planner will help guide you through the permit process. If you’re not sure what the right answer is regarding permits and regulations, then ask your elopement vendor.
Please note that photographers need permits for every location they go to in Hawaii. Photographers can obtain this permit through the Hawaii Film Office and/or County Film Offices. If a wedding is taking place off the beach (ex. a State Park), then in addition to commercial film permits, a Special Use Permit is also needed for the wedding ceremony.
If you don’t go with the planner, then you will need liability insurance to obtain the permit. For beach elopements, keep in mind no arches are allowed. It is illegal to get married on a beach in Hawaii or anywhere in Hawaii without a proper permit. It’s also important to double-check if the location you’re interested in is still a location you can visit to have your ceremony or take your portraits.
Leaving No Trace During Your Elopement
Hawaii, like other places to elope, is HUGE on leave no trace (LNT) when planning your wedding adventure. Leave No Trace during your wedding essentially means exactly what it sounds like, leaving the location exactly how you found it. Be considerate of regulations surrounding wedding decorations and bridal bouquets, staying on the trail, and bringing any food or champagne.
Marriage License
Getting married in Hawaii is easy. Here’s what to know:
- Start by filling out the marriage license application on Hawaii’s Department of Health website.
- Once on the Big Island, visit a marriage license agent. Both of you need to be present and bring a valid ID.
- The marriage license fee is $65.
- You can use your license immediately and it’s valid for up to 30 days.
Vendors For Your Big Island Elopement Package
Photo by Ann Ferguson Photography
Hiring a vendor who has experience planning Big island elopements is essential when looking for a Big Island package for your adventure. Not only will these vendors be great resources for you to bounce ideas with, but they will also suggest remote ceremony locations and trails not many people know about.
Explore our featured vendors below:
Places to Stay on Big Island
Don’t forget to pick an epic spot to stay during your Big Island wedding adventure. Some options include:
- Luxury Resorts: Resorts like the Four Seasons Hualalai or Fairmont Orchid offer top-tier amenities, private beach access, and spas.
- Seaside Bungalows: For a cozy stay with ocean views, consider beachside bungalows near Kona or Kohala.
- Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals in Hilo and Volcano Village provide a peaceful, secluded atmosphere close to nature.
Check out some other places to stay below:
Check out this oceanfront Condo walking distance to Punaluu Beach.
Check out this waterfall estate on Big Island.
Check out this condo by the beach.
Check out this cottage by Captain Cook.
Let’s keep planning your adventure on Big Island.
Photo by Ann Ferguson Photography
Looking for Somewhere Else to Elope?
Check out these places to elopeFree Cash Registry
From dream honeymoons to the foundation of your future home, let your guests, friends, or family contribute to what truly matters to you.
