Congratulations on your engagement! It is time to start the exciting (and stressful) journey of planning your special day and dreaming of having a romantic destination wedding in Hawaii. Let us take some of the stress and questions away. Here are a few things you need to know…
While Hawaii is a popular wedding spot, it is also perhaps the most difficult and unfriendly when it comes to the dream destination weddings that many imagine. It's important to remember that Hawaii is not just a tourist destination but home to a million people.
We receive requests regularly from those hoping to rent a beautiful home to host a small wedding or reception. Unfortunately, most rentals do not allow events of any kind; the laws in Hawaii are hostile to events in private homes, as most are located in residential areas. There are exceptions, but they are very expensive and still require extensive planning.
Rather, an approach that compartmentalizes the events of your big day will work best. You can rent a gorgeous home for an intimate wedding party, arrange a traditional Hawaiian ceremony on the beach, and then hold a reception at a restaurant or hotel. Working with a local wedding planner is key to managing all of these elements.
Hawaii is known for its natural beauty, intimate beaches, nearly perfect year-round weather, and friendly Aloha spirit. The Hawaiian Islands consist of several smaller islets and six major islands that you can visit: Big Island (Hawai'i), Maui, Oahu, Kaua'i, Moloka'i, and Lana'i.
When visiting the Hawaiian Islands, you will have the opportunity to experience different climates, from tropical rainforests or desert areas to cool mountains and sunny beaches, all within a few miles of each other. Whether you are searching for an intimate wedding on the beach or an adventurous wedding in the rainforest with a gorgeous waterfall as your backdrop, the Hawaiian Islands are the perfect destination for a wedding!
The summer season starts from June through the end of August and is the driest season, with temperatures reaching the high 90s and low 80s. Because most public schools offer spring and summer breaks, those traveling with families usually travel to Hawaii during these months. If you do not mind the crowd and are willing to travel during the peak season, this is a gorgeous time of year to be in Hawaii. We suggest that you try to plan this trip in order to get the best deals on airfare.
If you're planning your Hawaiian wedding on a budget, it is best to travel between November and March in the off-season. Once the peak season ends, those able to visit during the off-season will experience lower airfare, gas, and hotel rates, not to mention fewer people on the islands!
Once you have chosen the time of year, you need to pick the island, as each offer something unique.
When deciding between the four central Hawaiian Islands you can visit, the island of Oahu is the most famous, known as the "heart of Hawaii." Oahu, also known as Honolulu or "The Gathering Place," offers a bustling city and laidback surf towns. Here, you will find a variety of beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy.
There is also fantastic shopping, which is great for out-of-town guests! Oahu is the third largest island and home to most of Hawaii's population.
The second largest (but equally as gorgeous) island is Maui, also known as "The Valley Isle." Maui is best known for its famous beaches, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and incredible views of migrating humpback whales. Maui offers four different climate zones and an active Volcano, the Haleakala Crater.
Kauai is known as "The Garden Isle," home to some of the most dramatic views and lush tropical plantations. Here, you will find rich culture, tropical rainforests, rivers, and many waterfalls.
The smaller islands include Kauai, Molokai, and Lanai. Both Molokai and Lanai stay true to their Hawaiian roots by continuing to preserve their land. No matter which of the four major islands you hold your wedding on, visiting these smaller islands will give you a glimpse of Hawaiian history, where you can enjoy the Hawaiian culture and locals.
Finding The Right Venue
Once you have found the time of year and the perfect island for your Hawaiian wedding, you should start thinking about where to host your ceremony and reception.
Like most, you plan to take advantage of the natural beauty from the islands. Between all four islands, there are so many options where you can have an intimate wedding on the beach with a backdrop of the Pacific Ocean or exchange vows in the countryside while dancing under the stars.
While it is common for most brides to investigate the possibility of getting married at a luxury vacation rental, the reality is that most homeowners and city regulations will not allow it. Most of our gorgeous vacation homes are in quiet neighborhoods, where it is understandable why wedding noise would not be welcomed. Instead, book the vacation home for family and friends rather than opting for the expensive hotel block. Weddings are a family celebration; nothing brings family closer than spending quality time in a vacation rental.
Our Favorite Venues
Beach weddings are the most popular on Maui and are often ideal for small, intimate weddings. On Maui, some of our favorite beaches are Secret Cove, Maluaka Beach, Kapalua Bay, Ironwood Beach, and Waianapanapa in Hana (perfect for a sunrise wedding)! Note that you cannot have chairs or alcohol during a beach wedding on Maui, so be sure all your guests will be able to stand.
Although a beach wedding can be beautiful, there are better options for those looking to host a larger wedding with food, drinks, and music.
One is the Olowalu Plantation House.
This oceanfront home was once part of the old Olowalu Sugar Plantation and looks out toward the island of Lāna'I, perfect for weddings at sunset.
Keawalai Church is perfect for exchanging vows in a more traditional setting. Founded in 1832, this historical chapel offers an authentic Maui scene for exchanging vows in front of loved ones!
Happy Planning!
Planning a wedding is complex and stressful, especially if you want a destination wedding. Avoid the stress and hire a local wedding planner; this will allow you time for other wedding tasks. We suggest White Orchid Weddings, which specializes in giving unique island weddings and receptions ranging from simple to lavish!
While you are working on your guest list, your on-island wedding planner can help you meet the vendors, select the flowers, and set up and tour the venue.
When looking for accommodations for your family and guests, leave that to Exotic Estates. We can help you find the best Hawaiian vacation rental close to your wedding venue where you can relax and prepare for your big day in a private villa.
Call our Hawaiian Villa Specialists today to find the ideal accommodations for you and your family to retreat during your wedding festivities!
