Kauai Elopement Guide
Kauai is one of the most romantic islands to plan your elopement. It’s also the greenest of the Hawaiian islands and is covered with forest and mountain ranges (talk about picturesque). From their amazing crystal clear beaches to dramatic cliffs with epic views, there is so much for couples to explore here. Our Kauai elopement guide breaks down everything you need to know when putting your elopement package together.
Not sure you want to elope in Kauai? Check out our Hawaii Elopement Packages to see what the other islands have to offer.
Where to Elope in Kauai
Photo by Eternal Tides Photography
Kauai is the best Hawaiian island for hikers to explore together. When it comes to deciding where to elope in Kauai, couples should consider teaming up with an elopement vendor who specializes in Kauai elopements and intimate weddings. This ensures couples pick an elopement location that suits them while also following permit guidelines and avoiding heavy crowds. For example, not all locations, such as state parks and beaches, will allow wedding ceremonies.
Teaming up with an experienced Kauai photographer or planner also allows you to elope in spots that are less known by the average tourist who comes to visit Kauai.
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 in Kauai, and then team up with a professional to start planning your wedding adventure together.
Here are some of our favorite locations to start your elopement planning:
Hanalei Bay
Kauai is pretty epic because you can get majestic mountains in the background of blue ocean waters. Hanalei is set in between mountains and requires a beach wedding permit if you’re interested in having your ceremony here. If you don’t want a beach wedding, there are also other views you can enjoy during your ceremony, including waterfalls. This location is also great for couples who love to surf or just love watching dolphins and sailboats in the distance.
Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach is perfect for couples who love snorkeling or scuba diving together. The beach itself is within a crescent-shaped bay and surrounded by palms and ironwood trees. This makes this beach pretty amazing since you have lush greenery and mountains in the background of your photos.
North Shore Falls
Imagine being surrounded by gorgeous greenery and having access to a private waterfall. A site fee comes with North Shore Falls, but it’s ideal for your Hawaii elopement dream.
Kokee State Park
Kokee State Park is gorgeous to explore and is covered in forests, wildflowers, and hiking trails to explore. It’s over 4,000 feet above sea level, and some trails even lead to views of Waimea Canyon. If you’re interested in taking your portraits here, or seeing if you can have your ceremony here, then definitely team up with a professional in the area to secure all the permits and regulations you need to know.
Puu Poa Beach
Located near two resorts, Puu Poa Beach is perfect to transition into your honeymoon. The mountains of the bay line the shore and the sun sets perfectly into the water here.
When to Elope in Kauai
Photo by Photography by Keri Cooper
Deciding when to elope in Kauai 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 Kauai will look pretty much the same whether you plan for Summer or December on a clear day.
Because of Hawaii’s warm weather, Kauai’s tourist level is pretty high, especially during the summer months. The summer months in Kauai are the busiest time to visit because so many families are visiting for summer vacation. Winter months can also bring more crowds because people are visiting for the warmer weather. If you want to avoid crowds, then we suggest planning your wedding in September-November or April-May.
If you’re stressing about crowds, then talk it over with your elopement team. They may suggest eloping during the weekday or planning a sunrise ceremony.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is an excellent time to elope in Kauai, with mild temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) and fewer crowds. The island is lush and vibrant with blooming flowers, making it an ideal backdrop for your special day.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the warmest and driest time of year, with temperatures averaging 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). It’s perfect for outdoor elopements but can be more crowded, so consider planning a sunrise or sunset ceremony to avoid the heat and visitors.
Fall (September to November)
Fall offers a quieter time on the island, with comfortable temperatures around 70°F to 82°F (21°C to 28°C). Rain is more frequent, but the island’s beauty during this season is unparalleled, with lush greenery and fewer tourists.
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings cooler temperatures (65°F to 78°F or 18°C to 26°C) and occasional rain showers, especially on the North Shore. It’s an excellent time for couples looking for a more private and serene experience, but be mindful of potential weather disruptions.
Kauai Wedding License and Permits
To get legally married in Kauai, you must obtain a Hawaii marriage license. Both partners need to appear in person at a Hawaii Marriage License Agent’s office and bring valid photo IDs.
There is no waiting period or residency requirement, making it convenient for destination elopements.
The license fee is $65, and once issued, it is valid for 30 days. After your ceremony, your officiant will file the marriage certificate with the state, making your marriage official.
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.
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.
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.
Places to Stay in Kauai
When planning your elopement in Kauai, finding the perfect place to stay is key to making your adventure truly unforgettable. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals nestled in lush tropical settings, Kauai offers a variety of accommodations that suit every couple’s style and budget. Whether you’re dreaming of waking up to ocean views, staying in a private bungalow surrounded by nature, or enjoying the amenities of a world-class resort, Kauai’s diverse lodging options will enhance your romantic getaway and keep you close to the island’s most beautiful elopement spots.
Check out our favorite places to stay in Kauai.
Check out this North Shore townhome.
Check out this 2-bedroom home near the beach.
Check out this oceanfront condo.
Check out this 5-bedroom home close to the beach.
Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in Kauai.
Vendors For Your Kauai Elopement Package
Hiring a vendor who has experience planning Kauai elopements is essential when looking for a Kauai 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.
Photo by Photography by Keri Cooper
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