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Hawaii is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world thanks to its stunning natural beauty, romantic atmosphere, and exciting cultural experiences. If you’re planning a wedding in paradise, Hawaii offers gorgeous beaches, dramatic cliffs, lush gardens, historic chapels, elegant resorts, and unique venues to host your special day.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The top places to get married in Hawaii include scenic beaches like Hanalei Bay on Kauai, sunrise cliffside sites like Laie Point on Oahu, lavish resorts like the Four Seasons Maui, historic chapels like Waialua Plantation Chapel on Oahu, and tropical gardens like The Cliffs at Princeville on Kauai.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll highlight the 10 most beautiful and romantic places to get married in the Hawaiian Islands, covering popular options on Oahu, Kauai, Maui, the Big Island, Molokai, and Lanai.
For each location, we’ll share key details like venue capacity, onsite services available, average cost and pricing packages, weather considerations, photography opportunities, and insider tips from local experts to help you plan your dream Hawaii destination wedding.
Romantic Beaches
Hanalei Bay, Kauai
With its sweeping views of emerald mountains, lush taro fields, and half-moon bay, it’s no wonder Hanalei Bay has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The two-mile stretch of powdery white sand and tranquil waters is pure romance.
Take a long walk down the beach at sunset, have a picnic dinner, then cuddle up to watch the stars come out. How’s that for a dream wedding ceremony location? Hanalei Bay blends flawlessly with nature to create picture-perfect scenes.
Wailea Beach, Maui
Is there anything more romantic than an intimate beach wedding at sunset? Wailea Beach on Maui offers incredible views as the sun sinks below the horizon, bathing you and your sweetheart in a warm golden glow as you say “I do.”
This crescent-shaped beach features soft white sand and gentle waves, with the photogenic Molokini Crater islet makes a scenic backdrop. The undeveloped area feels secluded yet is easily accessible, with lots of parking and amenities nearby at the luxury Wailea resort complex.
Polo Beach, Molokai
For a remote, off-the-beaten-path wedding venue, Polo Beach on the Hawaiian island of Molokai is just about as romantic as it gets. Tall sea cliffs tower above this secluded sandy beach, totally untouched by development.
Exchange vows as the waves gently lap the shore, then celebrate into the night with Tiki torches lighting your way. The lack of light pollution here also makes stargazing incredible. And we bet you won’t mind having this ruggedly beautiful 3-mile long beach all to yourselves!
Dramatic Clifftops & Coastlines
Laie Point, Oahu
Boasting spectacular views of the turquoise waters, Laie Point on the northeastern shore of Oahu is one of the most picture-perfect places in Hawaii to say “I do.” This peaceful locale features grassy clifftops overlooking the ocean below, with several outcroppings of rocks along the rugged coastline that make for dramatic photo backdrops.
According to wedding planning sites like The Knot, over 200 couples tie the knot at this site every year due to its incredible scenery.
Laie Point offers multiple ceremony sites to choose from, whether you prefer a cliffside vow exchange or a beachfront gathering. The on-site coordinator can assist with all the details, from floral arrangements to the music. They even provide a backup rain location if needed.
With its seclusion and postcard-worthy vistas, it’s no wonder Laie Point is ranked among the best places for an island elopement or smaller tropical wedding.
Napili Bay, Maui
For a protected sandy cove surrounded by lush vegetation, Napili Bay on west Maui is the prime spot for a barefoot ceremony with the sounds of the surf in the background. Known as one of the best snorkeling beaches on the valley isle, this crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand offers calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming and watching sea turtles in their natural habitat.
According to Hawaii Aloha Travel, Napili Bay is a favorite for destination weddings thanks to its tranquil atmosphere and gorgeous sunsets over the Pacific. The Kapalua Resort nearby also gives couples plenty of accommodation options, from luxury suites to affordable condos.
Whether held on the beach itself or an oceanview lawn, the laidback charm of Napili Bay sets the scene for a relaxed tropical celebration with lots of aloha spirit.
Shipwreck Beach, Kauai
For dramatic seaside nuptials, it doesn’t get much better than Shipwreck Beach on Kauai’s south shore. As the name implies, this shoreline is home to a rusty iron fishing boat lodged in the reef, casting a striking silhouette against the bright blue waters.
The wrecked vessel makes for incredible wedding photos with the bride and groom.
Beyond its photogenic shipwreck vista, Shipwreck Beach stuns with its miles of golden sand backed by emerald cliffs. Palm trees sway along the shore, while waves crashing on the reefs echo in the background.
According to Aloha Bride, this striking spot sees its fair share of elopements and small ceremonies thanks to the spectacular seaside setting. For couples wanting a tropical wedding that looks straight off a postcard, it’s hard to top the wild beauty of Shipwreck Beach.
Lush Botanical Gardens
The Cliffs at Princeville, Kauai
Nestled on a bluff overlooking the crystal blue Pacific Ocean, The Cliffs at Princeville botanical gardens on Kauai’s North Shore offer a lush, tropical backdrop for couples looking for a romantic Hawaiian wedding venue.
Overlooking the stunning Bali Hai cliffs, the gardens feature vibrant exotic flora, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and breathtaking ocean views making it one of Hawaii’s most idyllic places to say “I do.”
The Cliffs gardens have multiple ceremony and reception site options allowing couples flexibility in planning their dream island nuptials. The open-air Pavilion sits amidst lush foliage and provides sweeping ocean vistas through its floor-to-ceiling windows, while the Palm Court with its canopy of tropical greenery and Balinese-inspired décor sets an exotic tone.
For smaller, more intimate affairs, the Terrace offers a sweet, secluded ambiance and lovely garden aesthetics.
In addition to stunning natural scenery, The Cliffs gardens offer first-class catering services and event coordination to ensure a flawless, stress-free wedding experience. Nearby Princeville also provides a wealth of activities for out-of-town guests from world-class golf to helicopter tours of stunning sea cliffs and waterfalls.
For picture-perfect romance, it’s hard to beat a Hawaiian wedding at The Cliffs botanic gardens.
Waimea Valley, Oahu
Couples desiring a wedding steeped in the beauty of native Hawaiian culture will love exchanging vows amidst Waimea Valley’s lush botanical gardens and walking trails on Oahu’s legendary North Shore. Spanning 1,800 acres, this natural paradise contains archeological sites, endangered plants and birds, and the picturesque Waimea Falls as the dazzling backdrop for wedding photos.
Waimea Valley provides several ceremony and reception sites showcasing the gardens’ vibrant flora, from the palm-fringed lawn to the tranquil Guava Grove or under a romantic gazebo adorned with fragrant plumeria blossoms.
The onsite staff handles all setup and breakdown allowing bride, groom, and guests to simply relax and soak up the idyllic island atmosphere.
In addition to serving as an unforgettable wedding venue, Waimea Valley’s rich heritage offers many activities for visitors to learn about ancient Hawaiian culture and traditions. From native plant exhibits to historic hales displaying artifacts and crafts, there are endless sights to explore before and after the main event.
For those seeking an authentic Hawaiian wedding experience on Oahu, Waimea Valley gardens check all the boxes.
Maui Tropical Plantation, Maui
Boasting 60 sprawling acres of vibrant botanical gardens, the Maui Tropical Plantation provides a true Hawaiian paradise setting for weddings of all sizes. Blooming with exotic flowers and plants across numerous open-air venues, couples can customize their ideal romantic backdrop for exchanging vows on the Valley Isle.
Promising 360-degree views showcasing the West Maui Mountains along with the island’s signature sugar cane fields, the Plantation Lawn venue allows for larger guest counts with market lights strung above for evening receptions.
For smaller ceremonies, the charming Gazebo tucked amidst fragrant foliage creates an intimate feel or the vibrant Plantation Gardens surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant hues.
In addition to stunning natural beauty, the Maui Tropical Plantation offers couples one-stop-shop convenience for food, drinks, décor, and coordination handled by their expert onsite team. From rehearsal dinners to day-after brunches, they create a seamless event from start to finish.
The plantation also hosts fascinating tram tours and shops showcasing local artisans for wedding guests to enjoy. For a Maui wedding celebrating the island’s rich botanical landscape, the Maui Tropical Plantation shines as a top choice.
Historic Chapels
Waialua Plantation Chapel, Oahu
Nestled among lush palms along the North Shore of Oahu lies the picturesque Waialua Plantation Chapel. First built in 1921, this tiny wooden church charms couples with its quaint, vintage-style interior featuring vaulted beam ceilings and rows of painted pews framing a simple altar.
Over the years, the chapel has been lovingly maintained and restored, preserving its rich history while providing an intimate, magical setting for weddings.
Highlights of the Waialua Plantation Chapel include:
- Accommodates up to 60 guests
- Vintage 1920s architecture and decor
- Tropical, palm-tree lined grounds for photos
- Nearby Haleiwa town offers shops and restaurants
Offering nostalgic beauty steeped in Hawaiian tradition, it’s no wonder this place continues to be a popular venue for island weddings nearly a century later.
Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, Maui
With its distinctive white steeple rising above coconut palms, Maria Lanakila Catholic Church makes a striking first impression. Established in 1875, it’s one of Maui’s oldest parishes and exudes vintage Hawaiian charm.
Inside, sunlight streams through stained glass windows as vows are exchanged before a simple altar accompanied by the soft sounds of ukulele or acoustic guitar.
What draws couples to this Lahaina house of worship include:
- Seats around 300 guests
- Beautiful interior with vaulted ceiling and choir loft
- Tranquil tropical grounds surrounded by lush foliage
- Rich history – the painted interior was once decorated by parishioners bringing flowers, ferns and vines
From quaint to grand, Maria Lanakila offers a unique, spiritual setting soaked in antiquity and natural beauty in which to tie the knot.
Waiola Church, Maui
With a rich history dating back to 1832, Waiola Church in Lahaina, Maui is one of the oldest still-operating Protestant churches in Hawaii. As the towering steeple comes into view, this charming white church trimmed in green instantly captivates.
Inside, sunlight filters through stained glass, washing over wooden pews and Brazilian walnut floors that surround the altar. Sense the mana (spiritual power) within these walls that have witnessed generations of worshippers over the past two centuries.
Other reasons Waiola Church stands out:
- Accommodates 100 guests
- Stunning stained glass windows from the 1800s
- Tranquil tropical gardens perfect for photos
- Downtown Lahaina location near restaurants/shops
Exchanging vows in this sacred historic landmark imparts a uniquely spiritual, Hawaiian essence on your special day for memories to last a lifetime.
Luxurious Resort Venues
Four Seasons Maui at Wailea
Nestled along the sunny shores of Wailea Beach, the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea offers breathtaking ocean views and luxurious accommodations perfect for a dream island wedding. This AAA Five Diamond resort features stunning venues like the Sunset Terrace, an intimate oceanfront lawn, and the Grand Ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Maui’s natural beauty.
The resort’s coordinators can arrange everything from floral décor to live Hawaiian music for an unforgettable special day.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Oahu
For couples looking for a touch of Disney magic, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa on Oahu creates fantasy-like celebrations filled with Mickey and Minnie appearances, Disney-themed cocktails, and Cinderella coach photo opportunities.
Say your vows right on Waikolohe Valley Beach with the resort’s floral gazebo, then dance the night away at their luxury ballroom or outdoor lawn event spaces. As Disney’s first property in Hawaii, Aulani brings fairy tale romance to life!
Grand Hyatt Kauai
Boasting over 20 acres of tropical gardens and lagoons, the Grand Hyatt Kauai sets a dramatic backdrop for a destination wedding. Exchange vows on their secluded beach under a hand-crafted arbor, then retire to the open-air Grand Lawn for the reception, complete with floating lanterns on the lagoon.
With luxurious suites and 50,000 sq ft of indoor/outdoor event space, couples can customize their Hawaiian celebration however they desire at this premier Poipu resort.
Conclusion
With its stunning scenery, romantic ambience, exciting culture, and world-class amenities and service, Hawaii offers couples endless options for planning an unforgettable island wedding. From secluded beaches to dramatic clifftops to elegant resort venues, you’re sure to find the perfect place to say ‘I do’ with this list of the top 10 most beautiful and romantic places to get married in paradise.