USA
Destination Wedding in Hawaii
Exchange leis and vows in paradise, where volcanic drama meets Polynesian spirit on the world's most celebrated tropical islands.
Start PlanningHighlights
- No passport for US couples
- Year-round tropical paradise
- Rich Hawaiian cultural traditions
- World-famous Maui sunsets
- Diverse venue options
- Honeymoon destination included
Overview
Why Choose Hawaii?
Hawaii occupies a singular place in the destination wedding world—a true tropical paradise that requires no passport for American couples, where the romance of Polynesian culture meets the convenience of domestic travel. Maui, in particular, has earned its reputation as the wedding island, with a landscape that seems designed for celebrations of love. The natural beauty is extraordinary and diverse. The West Side (Ka'anapali, Lahaina) offers golden beaches, calm waters, and legendary sunsets. The South Side (Wailea, Makena) provides luxurious resorts and secluded coves. Upcountry Maui reveals another world entirely—rolling pastures, eucalyptus forests, and cooler mountain air. And everywhere, the colors of Hawaii—the impossible blues of the ocean, the lush greens of tropical foliage, the brilliant hues of plumeria and hibiscus—create a natural palette for celebration. Beyond scenery, Hawaiian weddings offer cultural richness: the exchange of flower leis, traditional Hawaiian blessings, the graceful movements of hula dancers, and the spirit of aloha that turns guests into ohana (family). For couples seeking paradise with simplicity, Hawaii delivers.
Timing
Best Time to Get Married
Hawaii enjoys a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. While beautiful in any season, the dry season from April through October offers the most consistently sunny conditions for outdoor celebrations.
Dry Season
May - October
Minimal rainfall, sunny skies, and temperatures of 27-31°C. Peak conditions for outdoor beach ceremonies. Book premium venues 12+ months ahead.
Shoulder Season
April - May, September - November
Excellent weather with fewer crowds and better availability. Temperatures comfortable at 26-29°C. Ideal balance of conditions and value.
Wet Season
November - March
More frequent showers (though often brief), slightly cooler temperatures (24-27°C). Dramatic waterfalls at their fullest. North Shore surf season.
Winter
December - February
Whale watching season as humpbacks arrive. Occasional rain but rarely all-day. Holiday period brings higher prices and crowds.
Planning Ahead
Legal Requirements
Hawaii offers exceptionally simple marriage requirements for both US and international couples. No waiting period, no blood tests, and no residency requirements make legal ceremonies remarkably straightforward.
Pro Tip
Apply online up to one year in advance, then schedule an in-person appointment with a Marriage License Agent 30-60 days before your ceremony. International couples should request an apostille if needed for home country recognition.
What You'll Need
- Valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license, state ID)
- Marriage license fee: $70 ($65 + $5 portal fee)
- Both parties must be 18 years or older
- If previously married, no documentation required unless within 30 days of divorce
- Applicants under 19 must present certified birth certificate
- License valid for 30 days after issuance
Venues
Popular Venue Types
Beach Venues
Iconic locations like Sugar Beach, Makena Beach, and Ka'anapali Beach offer barefoot ceremonies with Pacific sunsets. Permits required for most public beaches.
Luxury Resorts
World-class properties—Grand Wailea, Four Seasons Maui, Ritz-Carlton Kapalua—offer full-service celebrations with oceanfront terraces, tropical gardens, and exceptional hospitality.
Garden Venues
Lush tropical settings like Haiku Mill and Hotel Wailea provide natural beauty with wind protection and shade from flowing tropical canopy.
Private Estates
Exclusive properties like Olowalu Plantation House offer privacy, historic charm, and panoramic views of ocean and mountains for intimate celebrations.
Upcountry Venues
Mountain venues near Makawao offer cooler temperatures, pastoral views, and rustic elegance distinct from coastal celebrations.
Waterfall Settings
Venues near Maui's famous waterfalls offer dramatic natural backdrops, particularly lush during wet season months.
At a Glance
What Makes It Special
Get Started
Plan Your Hawaii Wedding
Fill out this form and we'll connect you with expert wedding planners in your chosen destination.