Oahu Elopement Guide
Oahu is known as “the gathering place” for many natives since it’s home to both city life and surf towns. This is the third-largest Hawaiian island, but it’s also the one island that has the most activities to do outside of outdoor activities. Our Oahu elopement guide breaks down everything you need to know when putting your elopement package together.
Not sure you want to elope in Oahu? Check out our Hawaii Elopement Packages to see what the other islands have to offer.
Where to Elope in Oahu
Photo by Eternal Tides Photography
Oahu is the best Hawaiian island for couples who want to elope near modern city life, yet also enjoy the laid-back surf vibes of the island. If you and your partner love food, culture, and nightlife, then Oahu is the place for you both to elope. This island is ideal to elope at a beach resort, a sandy white beach, or a tropical forest.
When it comes to deciding where to elope in Oahu, couples should consider teaming up with an elopement vendor who specializes in Oahu elopements and intimate weddings. This ensures couples pick an elopement location that suits them while also following permit guidelines and avoiding heavy crowds. Oahu is the most populated island, so it’s important to plan ahead.
Teaming up with an experienced Oahu photographer or planner also allows you to elope in spots that are less known by the average tourist who comes to visit Oahu. 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 Oahu, and then team up with a professional to start planning your wedding adventure together.
Check out some of the best places to elope in Oahu. Some of these locations are great for your ceremony or portraits, but it’s important to check in with the location and your vendor to double-check the latest permit updates and regulations.
Ka’ena Point State Park
Ka’ena Point is a gorgeous remote and wild coastline for couples who love to hike together and just explore the open views. Even though this spot is perfect for adventurous couples, there are plenty of accessible spots you can plan with your photographer to enjoy. You’ll be able to enjoy everything from green rolling mountains to rocky beaches and coves.
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is about a mile long, and there are plenty of trails around to also explore. We love this spot for couples who want to maybe explore some trails and then cool off in the crystal clear blue waters of one of the most beautiful beaches in Oahu. Seriously, the sand is super soft here too!
Ahupua’a ‘O Kahana State Park
Ahupua’a ‘O Kahana State Park is PERFECT for adventurous couples. Imagine exploring giant green leaves and winding trails to epic views that feel like they are straight out of a storybook. You can even bring your pet along and plan a glamping trip together during your elopement. When in doubt, there’s even a sandy beach that offers plenty of views and some pretty epic surfing opportunities.
Makapu’u Lookout
Makapuʻu Lookout is definitely a popular lookout in Oahu, BUT the views are pretty breathtaking. You’ll be able to enjoy crystal clear beaches and gorgeous stretches of infinite shoreline. If you’re interested in this spot, then 100% plan a sunrise portrait session during the weekday before the crowds arrive.
Waimanalo Beach
Waimanalo Beach is about half an hour from Honolulu, and its beautiful clear waters and white sand are everything you imagined when you first thought about eloping in Hawaii.
Haleiwa Beach Park
Have you ever seen gorgeous green waters? Haleiwa Beach is known for its beautiful waters and turtles. The views are wonderful here if you are looking for a sunset destination in Oahu.
Yokohama Beach Park
This is the perfect spot for a private elopement ceremony. Tourists, despite Yokohama Beach’s beauty, rarely travel to the west side of Oahu. The hour-long drive from Waikiki, the more popular beach, makes this destination a journey to get to. We think, however, it’s worth the drive for privacy.
Waikiki Beach
This is a popular destination for tourists, but Waikiki Beach can also be fun and lively for your elopement! If you don’t mind crowds, then this place is for you! There are also many great restaurants to hold a small ceremony after you two say, ‘I do’.
Waialea Beach
A lot of people visit this beach on the weekends, but it’s a breathtaking spot to say “I do”. Kahala Hotel & Resort is situated right by Waialea Beach, which makes this spot ideal if you’re worried about where to get ready.
When to Elope in Oahu
Photo by Warren Marshall Photography
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 Oahu will look pretty much the same whether you plan for Summer or December on a clear day.
Because of Hawaii’s warm weather, Oahu’s tourist level is pretty high, especially during the summer months. The summer months in Oahu are the busiest time to visit because so many families are visiting for summer vacation. The 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 in Oahu.
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.
Here’s a breakdown of what each season has to offer:
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Oahu is one of the best times to elope, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful blooming flowers. Temperatures average between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), making it ideal for outdoor ceremonies. Spring also marks the end of the rainy season, so you’ll enjoy mostly sunny days with occasional light showers, especially in March. This season offers great opportunities for beach elopements or lush, green mountain backdrops.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak travel season in Oahu, with warm temperatures averaging 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C) and minimal rainfall. While this is the best time for perfect beach weather, it’s also the busiest, meaning popular spots may be more crowded. Early morning or sunset elopements are ideal to avoid the heat and find more intimate moments. Be mindful of high surf on the South Shore, which can impact beach access, but also makes for some dramatic coastal scenery.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is another fantastic time to elope in Oahu, with temperatures averaging between 72°F to 86°F (22°C to 30°C) and the return of slightly quieter beaches as the summer crowds disperse. This season offers a great balance of warm weather and less crowded venues. September can still feel like summer, while October and November bring slightly cooler breezes. This is a great time for couples looking to enjoy a more relaxed, private elopement experience on the island.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Oahu brings cooler temperatures averaging 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C) and occasional rain showers, particularly on the windward (eastern) side of the island. This season is known for its spectacular surf on the North Shore, attracting surfers from around the world. While the ocean conditions might be rougher, it’s a unique time to elope with the dramatic backdrop of big waves and lush, rain-fed greenery. Consider a sunrise or sunset elopement to capture the softer light and avoid midday crowds.
Oahu 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 it is valid for 30 days once issued. 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. Some locations don’t even allow wedding ceremonies to take place. 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 Oahu
Finding the perfect place to stay in Oahu is essential for your elopement experience, as the island offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront resort with stunning views of Waikiki, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Honolulu, or a secluded vacation rental on the North Shore, Oahu has accommodations that cater to every couple’s dream elopement. Staying in the right location ensures you’re close to the island’s breathtaking beaches, lush mountains, and iconic landmarks, making your stay in Oahu as memorable as your special day.
Check out our favorite places to stay in Oahu:
Check out this oceanfront condo.
Check out this condo near Kuhio Beach Park.
Check out this 2-bedroom cottage.
Check out this oceanfront home.
Check out this condo at KoOlina Beach Club
Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in Oahu.
Vendors For Your Oahu Elopement Package
Photo by Warren Marshall Photography
Hiring a vendor who has experience planning Oahu elopements is essential when looking for an Oahu 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 Eternal Tides Photography
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