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Top 25 Hawaii Wedding Locations

Imagine exchanging vows with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, the scent of plumeria in the air, a Hawaii wedding is the epitome of paradise for countless couples. This comprehensive guide unveils the top 25 Hawaii wedding locations, offering inspiration for every style and vision, from intimate elopements to grand celebrations.


Why Choose Hawaii for Your Wedding?


From the golden, sandy beaches of Maui to the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Big Island, the lush rainforests of Kauai, and the vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, Hawaii provides an endless array of breathtaking backdrops for your special day.

Beyond the scenery, each island offers diverse experiences. Whether you crave adventurous exploration, serene relaxation, or opulent luxury, there's an island perfectly suited to your post-wedding desires and your guests' vacation preferences for your ideal hawaii wedding location. You can combine your wedding and honeymoon seamlessly, and your guests will appreciate turning their trip into a memorable vacation. Plus, with consistent beautiful weather year-round, you can almost guarantee sunshine and warm breezes for your special day.


For more information on the logistics of planning your dream destination wedding in Hawaii, click here 


Navigating Hawaii's Wedding Islands: A Brief Overview



Hawaii is an archipelago of distinct personalities, each offering a unique flavor for your wedding:


  • Oahu: The Gathering Place: Dynamic, iconic, and incredibly diverse, Oahu offers everything from vibrant city chic in Honolulu to secluded beach havens and the famous North Shore surf vibes.

  • Maui: The Valley Isle: Renowned for romance, luxurious resorts, spectacular sunsets, and some of the world's most beautiful beaches, it’s a favorite for elegant celebrations.

  • Kauai: The Garden Isle: Lush, dramatic, and adventurous, Kauai is perfect for nature lovers seeking a tranquil or adventurous wedding amidst verdant landscapes and majestic cliffs.

  • The Big Island: The Orchid Isle: Offers unique volcanic landscapes, dramatic black sand beaches, and expansive luxury resorts on pristine coastlines for a truly diverse experience.

  • Lanai: The Private Isle: Exclusive, secluded, and ultra-luxurious, Lanai is the ultimate choice for couples seeking intimate privacy and unparalleled pampering.



Top 25 Hawaii Wedding Locations: Your Dream Venue Awaits


With so many incredible places to say "I do," finding your perfect Hawaiian wedding location is an exciting adventure. Here are our top picks, for the best wedding locations in Hawaii​, designed to inspire your paradise celebration:


Oahu: Cultural Landmarks & Vibrant City Life


  1. The Kahala Hotel & Resort (Honolulu): A classic luxury oceanfront resort known for its elegant ambiance and secluded feel, just minutes from Waikiki but a world away. Perfect for a sophisticated affair.

  2. Secret Island at Kualoa Ranch (Kaaawa): Offers a breathtakingly private, pristine white sand beach with the iconic Mokoli'i Island (Chinaman's Hat) as your dramatic backdrop. Ideal for truly unique ceremonies.

  3. Lanikuhonua Cultural Institute (Kapolei): An expansive oceanfront estate featuring vast, manicured lawns and regal elegance on Oahu's west side. A grand and flexible outdoor venue.

  4. Queen Kapiolani Hotel (Waikiki, Oahu): An iconic choice for a vibrant and classic Hawaiian wedding, the Queen Kapiolani Hotel offers a unique blend of retro-chic charm and modern elegance. With unparalleled Diamond Head views from its rooftop deck, diverse indoor/outdoor event spaces, and steps away from Waikiki Beach, a wedding here provides an unforgettable celebration in the heart of paradise.

  5. Sunset Ranch Hawaii (Haleiwa, North Shore): This sprawling ranch offers panoramic mountain and ocean views from its elevated perch. Combines rustic charm with breathtaking vistas.

  6. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa (Waikiki): Known as the "First Lady of Waikiki," this historic resort offers grand, beachfront elegance right on the famous Waikiki Beach. Timeless and iconic.

  7. The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort (Waikiki): The instantly recognizable "Pink Palace" provides an ambiance of timeless romance and beachfront grandeur, a truly iconic Hawaiian experience.

  8. Hale Koa Hotel (Waikiki): A military-friendly resort boasting beautiful beach access, lush tropical gardens, and diverse event spaces.

  9. Waimea Valley (Haleiwa, North Shore): A sacred botanical garden offering unique ceremony locations amidst waterfalls, ancient Hawaiian sites, and lush tropical greenery for a natural, serene wedding.


Maui: A Romantic & Luxurious Escape


  1. Honua Kai Resort & Spa (Ka'anapali): A modern, spacious beachfront resort offering stunning ocean views and contemporary architecture, ideal for stylish, larger gatherings.

  2. Merriman's Kapalua (Kapalua): Renowned for its unparalleled oceanfront dining deck and legendary sunsets, this venue is perfect for an intimate, culinary-focused celebration with a spectacular backdrop.

  3. Olowalu Plantation House (Lahaina): A historic, private oceanfront estate featuring expansive lawns, majestic trees, and authentic rustic charm. It's a truly iconic and sought-after Maui venue.

  4. Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux (Wailea): An exquisite adult-only, luxury retreat offering panoramic ocean views from its elevated perch. Ideal for sophisticated and intimate celebrations.

  5. Haiku Mill (Haiku): A unique, historic sugar mill ruin beautifully transformed into a lush, fairytale garden venue. Its enchanting atmosphere makes for utterly magical weddings.

  6. The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui (Wailea): An all-suite, luxury beachfront resort providing an elegant and spacious setting for both intimate gatherings and grand affairs, complete with stunning pools and gardens.

  7. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa (Ka'anapali): This sprawling oceanfront resort boasts lush gardens, cascading waterfalls, and diverse ceremony and reception sites to suit any vision.

  8. Sugar Beach Events (Kihei): A dedicated oceanfront wedding venue with a private beachfront for intimate ceremonies and an elegant, air-conditioned ballroom for receptions.


Kauai: Lush, Tropical Escapes 


Source: Premier Kauai
Source: Premier Kauai
  1. Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park (Kilauea): A truly unique venue with diverse, sprawling gardens and artistic sculptures offering endless, beautiful backdrops for varied celebrations.

  2. Princeville Resort Kauai (Princeville): A luxury North Shore resort perched on a cliff, boasting dramatic views of Hanalei Bay and the lush Napali Coast. Perfect for a breathtaking ceremony.

  3. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa (Poipu): A sprawling South Shore resort boasting beautiful beachfront access, lush lagoons, and tropical charm, with diverse ceremony locations.


The Big Island: Classic Hawaiian Charm


Source: Planet Ware
Source: Planet Ware
  1. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection (Kohala Coast): A historic gem on the Big Island, offering one of Hawaii's most iconic white sand beaches and a timeless sense of understated luxury.

  2. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (Kohala Coast): The pinnacle of luxury on the Big Island, providing secluded oceanfront beauty, impeccable service, and bespoke experiences for the most discerning couples.

  3. Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii (Kohala Coast): An elegant beachfront resort known for its serene lagoons, picturesque waterfalls, and stunning ocean views, creating a tranquil wedding setting.

  4. Westin Hapuna Beach Resort (Kohala Coast): A stunning choice for a modern and elegant beach wedding, the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort offers expansive oceanfront lawns and a pristine white sand beach. With sophisticated resort amenities and breathtaking Pacific views, a celebration here promises unforgettable luxury and natural beauty on the Big Island.


Lanai: The Ultimate Exclusivity 


Source: Iconic Life
Source: Iconic Life
  1. Four Seasons Resort Lanai (Lanai City): The ultimate ultra-luxury, secluded resort on a pristine private island, offering unparalleled privacy, bespoke experiences, and breathtaking natural beauty.



Choosing Your Perfect Hawaiian Wedding Spot


With 25 incredible options, selecting your perfect Hawaii wedding location involves a few key considerations. First, carefully consider your guest count and their travel accessibility; some islands offer easier connections or more resort options than others. Your budget will naturally guide your choices, as Hawaii presents a spectrum from charmingly intimate to exquisitely luxurious experiences. Finally, envision your desired ambiance – whether you crave vibrant nightlife and bustling activity, serene solitude and relaxation, or adventurous exploration through diverse landscapes. 

Dream of a stunning Hawaii wedding? Let our expert Hawaii destination wedding planning services make it happen. We'll meticulously bring your vision to life for an unforgettable, seamless celebration. Contact us for a consultation!




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Kristine Smith Designs is a full-service wedding planning company in San Diego that also offers partial wedding planning and wedding floral design services.

Owner and CEO Kristine is dedicated to helping couples bring their wedding day dreams to life.

©2021 by Kristine Smith Designs. Powered by Mango Digital. Photos used with permission from Victoria Perez Photo, Carmen Lopez Photography, Dominique Jones Photography, Indigo West Photo, and Photos by Robyn.

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