The Best Places to Elope in Hawaii in 2025

Hawaii is probably one of the best places to elope which can easily double as a honeymoon destination. With its diverse islands filled with beaches, hotels, and parks to explore, Hawaii is at the top of our list. But where in Hawaii should you elope? This guide highlights the top places to elope in Hawaii across the Hawaiian Islands, with insights into iconic spots, permit requirements, and the best times to visit.

Ready to start planning your epic adventure in Hawaii? Team up with one of our Hawaii elopement vendors below. 

Kauai

Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is the epitome of tropical paradise with its verdant landscapes. Kauai is one of the most romantic islands for an elopement. Its dramatic cliffs, valleys, and beaches provide breathtaking backdrops for your special day.

There’s also a ton of options, which is a major plus in our book. Whether you want to exchange vows on a quiet beach, surrounded by towering mountains, or among tropical greenery, Kauai has it all for your adventure. We also love the island’s slower pace which makes it ideal for couples who want to take things slow.

Hanalei Bay

Photo by Keri Cooper

A quiet beach surrounded by green mountains, Hanalei Bay is perfect for a relaxing and intimate elopement.

• Iconic Spots: The Hanalei Pier and the mountain backdrop create a serene and photogenic location.
• Permit Requirements: A beach permit is required from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).
• Best Time: Sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer visitors.

North Shore Region

Photo by Keri Cooper

Famous for its beaches and dramatic mountain backdrops, the North Shore has a good amount of options to “wow” you and your partner.

• Iconic Spots: Tunnels Beach offers dramatic views of Bali Hai, while Anini Beach provides calm, shallow waters.
• Permit Requirements: Beach permits are required for most locations.
• Best Time: Mornings for Tunnels Beach; late afternoon for Anini Beach. It all depends on the location. Remember to ask your photographer what they recommend!

South Shore Region

Photo by Keri Cooper

Home to sunny beaches like Poipu, the South Shore is perfect for couples looking for beautiful weather and golden sand.

• Iconic Spots: Poipu Beach is sunny and ideal for intimate ceremonies. Shipwreck Beach provides a more rugged backdrop with cliffs.
• Permit Requirements: Beach permits are required.
• Best Time: Mid-morning or late afternoon for the most “ideal” weather.

Maui

Maui is known for its golden beaches, lush greenery, and dramatic landscapes, making it a perfect spot for an elopement. You can choose from secluded beaches, stunning cliffs, or even the summit of a volcano for your ceremony! Talk about epic.

Maui also offers a mix of luxury and adventure, with plenty of options for activities and relaxation before and after your big day. Whether you want a sunrise ceremony on Haleakalā or a quiet moment at a hidden cove, Maui has the perfect balance of adventure and romance.

Makena Cove (Secret Beach)

Photo by Pascal Debrunner

Makena Beach is a secluded spot that has turquoise waters and lava rock formations, a cool feature for your ceremony.

• Iconic Spots: The lava rock formations and turquoise waters frame a picture-perfect setting.
• Permit Requirements: DLNR beach permits are required for all ceremonies.
• Best Time: Sunrise or early morning to avoid crowds.

Haleakalā National Park

Photo by Jeff King

Known as the “House of the Sun,” Haleakalā will make you feel like you stepped onto another world. This surreal setting is so perfect for sunrise elopements above the clouds.

• Iconic Spots: The summit for sunrise ceremonies or the lush Kipahulu District near the Seven Sacred Pools.
• Permit Requirements: A Special Use Permit is required for weddings in the park.
• Best Time: Sunrise at the summit; mid-morning in Kipahulu.

Makaluapuna Point (Dragon’s Teeth)

Makaluapuna Point’s dramatic lava rock formation is an unforgettable location with striking ocean views.

• Iconic Spots: The jagged lava rock formations contrast beautifully with the blue ocean.
• Permit Requirements: No permits are required unless setting up a large gathering. However, please double-check prior to planning.
• Best Time: Early mornings for fewer visitors.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park

Photo by Tyke Jones

Home to Maui’s famous black sand beach, Waiʻanapanapa is both beautiful and intimate for an unforgettable ceremony.

• Iconic Spots: The black sand beach and lava caves offer a unique and dramatic setting.
• Permit Requirements: A state park permit is required.
• Best Time: Mornings for cooler temperatures and the best lighting.

Iao Valley State Park

Photo by Rich Hay

With its lush greenery and towering peaks, Iao Valley offers a beautiful and historic backdrop for a ceremony.

• Iconic Spots: The Iao Needle and lush tropical surroundings provide a serene atmosphere.
• Permit Requirements: A state park permit may be required for ceremonies.
• Best Time: Early mornings for fewer crowds and cooler weather.

Oahu

Oahu is a favorite for elopements because it combines natural beauty with urban convenience. From soft sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs, the island offers diverse settings for your ceremony. Oahu is also home to many iconic locations, such as Lanikai Beach and Kualoa Ranch, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.

Lanikai Beach

Photo by john ko

Famous for its calm turquoise waters and soft white sand, Lanikai Beach is perfect for a romantic sunrise elopement.

• Iconic Spots: The Mokulua Islands offshore provide a stunning backdrop. Ideal for early morning ceremonies due to its east-facing orientation.
• Permit Requirements: A beach permit is required from the Hawaii DLNR.
• Best Time: Sunrise for fewer crowds and the golden morning light.

Makapuu Lookout

Photo by Justin Wilkens

Makapuu offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs, creating a dramatic and romantic setting.

• Iconic Spots: The cliffside offers panoramic ocean views with the Makapuu Lighthouse in the distance.
• Permit Requirements: Permits may be needed for gatherings. Check with the DLNR.
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.

Kahana Bay

Kahana Bay is nestled between lush mountains and the ocean, which is perfect for couples seeking a serene and secluded beach.

• Iconic Spots: Surrounded by lush mountains and bordered by a quiet beach, this location feels intimate and secluded.
• Permit Requirements: Obtain a permit for ceremonies.
• Best Time: Mid-morning to early afternoon when the bay is illuminated by natural light.

Waimea Valley

Photo by Mir Ali

A botanical haven with lush gardens and a picturesque waterfall, Waimea Valley is ideal for couples wanting a tropical jungle vibe.

• Iconic Spots: The waterfall area or botanical garden pathways create enchanting ceremony settings.
• Permit Requirements: Waimea Valley requires reservations for weddings; their team handles permits.
• Best Time: Year-round, with afternoons offering the best lighting.

Kaena Point State Park

Kaena Point offers an adventurous vibe, with stunning views of the ocean and native wildlife in a protected natural reserve.

• Iconic Spots: The westernmost tip of Oahu offers incredible ocean views.
• Permit Requirements: A permit may be required for gatherings.
• Best Time: Sunset for dramatic lighting and fewer hikers.

Kualoa Ranch

Photo by Maricarmen Maffioli

Famous for its cinematic landscapes, Kualoa Ranch provides a variety of scenic locations, including the iconic Mokoliʻi Island (Chinaman’s Hat) view.

• Iconic Spots: Choose from several venues, including Secret Island Beach or the Paliku Gardens overlooking lush valleys.
• Permit Requirements: Permits and coordination are handled directly by Kualoa Ranch. Learn more here.
• Best Time: Late afternoons for soft light or mornings for stunning mountain views.

Waialae Beach Park

Photo by Maricarmen Maffioli

Located on Oahu’s south shore, Waialae is a tranquil beach park that features swaying palm trees, golden sand, and views of the calm ocean.

• Iconic Spots: The palm-lined beach and small offshore island (accessible at low tide) provide stunning backdrops.
• Permit Requirements: A beach permit is required for ceremonies.
• Best Time: Morning for soft lighting and fewer crowds or late afternoon for a warm, golden glow.

Big Island (Hawaiʻi Island)

The Big Island offers a diverse range of landscapes, from black sand beaches to lush waterfalls. The island offers unique backdrops like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Akaka Falls, perfect for adventurous couples. With its quieter atmosphere, the Big Island is perfect for those looking for a romantic escape without the bigger crowds of Oahu or Maui.

Check out this traditional Hawaiian elopement ceremony on Big Island. 

Hapuna Beach State Park

One of the island’s largest white sand beaches, Hapuna Beach is both easily accessible and stunning.

• Iconic Spots: The long stretch of white sand provides ample room for a secluded ceremony.
• Permit Requirements: Permits are required for beach ceremonies.
• Best Time: Early morning to avoid crowds.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Photo by Khang Wah

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park features lava fields, volcanic craters, and rainforests, offering dramatic backdrops for adventurous couples.

• Iconic Spots: The Kīlauea Iki Crater and Thurston Lava Tube offer striking backdrops.
• Permit Requirements: A Special Use Permit is required for ceremonies.
• Best Time: Mornings or evenings for cooler temperatures and dramatic lighting.

Akaka Falls State Park

Photo by Sarah Sheedy

Akaka Falls is epic with its 442-foot waterfall surrounded by tropical greenery. This spot is perfect if you’ve been dreaming of a Hawaii waterfall wedding ceremony.

• Iconic Spots: The main viewing platform provides views of the 442-foot waterfall.
• Permit Requirements: A state park permit is required.
• Best Time: Late morning for the best natural light.

Waiulua Bay

Photo by Maricarmen Maffioli

Located on the island’s Kohala Coast, Waiulua Bay is a hidden gem with a peaceful shoreline, calm waters, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for intimate ceremonies.

• Iconic Spots: The beachfront and coconut-lined shoreline offer picturesque settings, especially at sunset.
• Permit Requirements: A beach permit is required for ceremonies.
• Best Time: Early morning for soft light or sunset for a romantic golden-hour glow.

State Beach Parks

The Big Island’s many state beach parks offer a variety of options, from the black sands of Punaluʻu Beach to the pristine shores of Maniniʻowali Beach (Kua Bay).

• Iconic Spots: Punaluʻu Beach (black sand) and Maniniʻowali Beach (Kua Bay) offer unique and photogenic settings.
• Permit Requirements: Beach permits are required.
• Best Time: Early mornings for cooler weather and fewer visitors.

Permits for Elopements in Hawaii

Photo by Keri Cooper

Most public locations in Hawaii require a Special Use Permit for elopements or wedding ceremonies.

• Beach Permits: All beach weddings require a permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). These permits ensure the event adheres to Hawaii’s conservation laws.
• Park Permits: State and national parks have specific permit requirements. Apply through the respective park’s website or office.
• Private Venues: Locations like Kualoa Ranch or Waimea Valley handle permits internally when you book their venue.

No matter where you decide to elope in Hawaii, please make sure to practice leave no trace principles to continue to protect these lands for future visitors and couples who want to elope.

Elopement Vendors in Hawaii

Hawaii has a ton of places to elope, but hiring a local vendor who can help you document and plan your elopement is essential. Work with local vendors and follow permit guidelines to ensure your Hawaiian elopement is both unforgettable and environmentally responsible. Check out our featured elopement vendors below.