Are you looking for the best island to elope in Hawaii? Each Hawaiian island has something special to offer, and the best choice depends on your wedding vision, guest needs (if you are inviting guests), and personal preferences. Whether you choose the vibrant energy of Oahu, the luxurious romance of Maui, or the adventures that await on Kauai, your Hawaiian elopement is sure to be unforgettable.
With six major islands to choose from, each offering its own unique charm and landscapes, it’s essential to find the one that best aligns with your wedding vision. Here’s a guide to help couples from the mainland United States pick the perfect Hawaiian island for their big day.
Hawaii has six major islands, but these four are the ones that couples should choose from for their elopement day:
Lanai and Molokai are the other two major Hawaiian islands, but they are more expensive to visit and somewhat private islands that few tourists are able to visit. Planning a wedding on these islands is a challenge, so it is better to choose one of the four more popular islands for visitors listed above.
How to Choose the Best Hawaiian Island for Your Wedding or Elopement
Choosing an island for your elopement has different factors to consider than if you were choosing an island for your traditional wedding. Here's how eloping changes your considerations for island choice:
Intimacy Over Accessibility: Without guests to accommodate, couples can focus entirely on the island that speaks to their hearts rather than worrying about ease of travel for others.
Flexibility: Elopements allow couples to venture to more remote or adventurous locations, like a cliffside overlooking the ocean or a hidden waterfall.
Focus on Personal Preferences: With fewer logistics to manage, couples can prioritize what they want—whether that’s luxury, adventure, seclusion, or cultural immersion.
Big Island: The Island of Hawaii
Best For: Couples looking for diversity in landscapes and adventure who want their elopement to feel epic and unique.
Highlights:
Offers everything from black sand beaches to volcanic landscapes.
Unique venues like lava rock coastlines and luxury resorts in Kona or Kohala.
Activities for adventurous guests, such as snorkeling with manta rays or exploring Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
My favorite elopement spot(s) on the Big Island:
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park coastline
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
Kohala coast beaches
Considerations:
The island’s size means longer travel times between attractions.
Perfect for couples who want a wedding weekend packed with exploration.
The Big Island’s vast landscapes mean you’re more likely to find a location that feels like it’s just yours.
Why It’s Great for Elopements:
The Big Island offers unparalleled diversity. You can say “I do” on a black or green sand beach, at the edge of a volcanic crater, or in the middle of a lush rainforest.
Kauai: The Garden Isle
Best For: Couples who love nature and seek a serene, tropical vibe.
Highlights:
Lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls.
Unique venues such as botanical gardens or private estates overlooking the Na Pali Coast.
A laid-back atmosphere ideal for quiet and intimate ceremonies.
Kalalau Trail
Poipu Beach
My favorite elopement spot(s) on Kauai:
Waimea Canyon
Hāʻena State Park
Considerations:
Kauai receives more rainfall than other islands, particularly on the north shore.
Best for couples who value privacy and natural beauty over nightlife.
Kauai’s remote locations mean you’ll have breathtaking photos and a true escape from the hustle of daily life.
Why It’s Great for Elopements:
Kauai is ideal for couples craving privacy and connection to nature. Picture your ceremony in a secluded spot along the Nā Pali Coast, by a hidden waterfall, or on a lush, tropical beach.
Maui: The Valley Isle
Best For: Couples dreaming of luxury, romance, and stunning landscapes.
Highlights:
Renowned for its upscale resorts and world-class beaches, like Wailea and Kaanapali.
Breathtaking venues along the scenic Road to Hana.
The option to say “I do” with Haleakalā’s sunrise or sunset as your backdrop.
My favorite elopement spot(s) on Maui:
Haleakalā National Park (both at the summit and on the west coast)
Spots along the Road to Hana
Considerations:
Maui is popular among honeymooners and can be pricey during peak seasons.
The wildfires in 2023 caused a lot of damage near Lahaina, it will take awhile for the area to rebuild. Tourists are welcome back on Maui as of 2025, but should be considerate of the area.
Why It’s Great for Elopements:
Maui’s luxurious resorts and jaw-dropping natural scenery make it perfect for couples wanting a dreamy, romantic setting. Elope on a serene beach in Wailea, atop Haleakalā for a sunrise ceremony, or by a cascading waterfall on the Road to Hana.
Oahu: The Heart of Hawaii
Best For: Couples seeking convenience, vibrant culture, and iconic locations. Couples who want both adventure and ease.
Highlights:
Home to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach.
Easy access to a variety of wedding venues, from luxury resorts to historic sites like Kualoa Ranch.
A bustling nightlife and a wide range of dining options.
My favorite elopement spot(s) on Maui:
Kualoa Regional Park
Ka’a’awa Beach
Considerations:
Oahu is the busiest island, so expect more crowds, especially in tourist hotspots.
Ideal for larger weddings with guests who want plenty of activities.
Since it’s the most accessible island, it’s ideal for couples with limited travel time or those who might want a low-key elopement with a small group of loved ones.
Why It’s Great for Elopements:
Oahu’s mix of city life and nature means you can elope with a backdrop of Waikiki’s golden sands or venture to secluded spots like the Makapu‘u Lookout.
Key Factors to Consider
Guest Experience:
If you have many guests traveling, consider accessibility. Oahu has the most direct flights and the greatest variety of accommodations.
Wedding Style:
For luxury and ease, Maui and Oahu offer high-end resorts.
For a more rustic, nature-inspired wedding, Kauai or the Big Island may be better fits.
Activities:
Think about what you and your guests want to do. For nightlife and entertainment, Oahu is best, while adventure-seekers may prefer the Big Island.
Check out my list of Hawaiian elopement day activities here!
Budget:
Each island has options for various budgets, but Oahu and Maui tend to be pricier.
Think about what matters most to you as a couple—whether it’s the scenery, activities, or the overall vibe of the island. Each Hawaiian island has its own magic, and your elopement can be tailored to create the perfect beginning to your forever.
After you have chosen your island, book travel and accommodations.
Here are the major airports to fly into on each island:
Big Island - Kailua-Kona or Hilo
Kauai - Lihue
Maui - Kahului
Oahu - Honolulu
Travel tips
If you find a cheap trans-atlantic to any Hawaiian island that isn't the one you are trying to get to, short island-hopping flights through Hawaiian airlines are usually very affordable and can get you to your desired island destination.
Book travel and accommodations early. Secure flights and accommodations well in advance, especially if your wedding is during peak season.
I am an expert traveler and can recommend flights and hotels or airbnbs for your trip to Hawaii. Just ask!
Looking for more tips for getting married in Hawaii?
Hire a photographer to capture your day
If you hire me as your photographer, I can help you choose other vendors, location scout for your ceremony and portraits, and plan your elopement day timeline.
I can also help you with permits!
Still deciding? Reach out for personalized advice to make your dream wedding a reality!
