If you decide to have a Hawaii destination wedding, you will surely want to know the best time for it. When you pick a dreamy location, you need the weather to work in your favor. So, when it comes to the best time to get married in Hawaii, you might think – all year round!
Luckily, that is pretty spot on! We usually enjoy a pretty steady range of temperatures between 75 and 95 degrees throughout the year, and it hardly ever gets hotter or cooler than that.
However, there are definitely some unique weather aspects that only someone living here in Hawaii would truly understand. For example, we have the trade winds that can make those warm days feel a bit more comfortable, and then there are the sudden rain showers that can pop up out of nowhere!
So, let us break down all about the weather in Hawaii, so you can pick the ideal time for your big day!
Summer Weddings (June – August)
If you are dreaming of a summer wedding with sunshine and stunning blue waters, Hawaii is the perfect spot. From June to August, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for beach ceremonies with your toes in the sand and beautiful sunset photos.
Moreover, the ocean is usually calm, and you can expect long days filled with bright skies and fluffy white clouds. It is no wonder this is the most popular Hawaii wedding season!
However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season. With schools out and families on vacation, the islands can get pretty crowded. Hotel and venue prices tend to spike, so it is wise to book everything – venues, vendors, and dinner spots – well in advance.
If you enjoy the lively atmosphere of a busy island and do not mind the extra company, then consider this the best time to get married in Hawaii! Plus, if you are into surfing, summer is prime time for catching waves on the south shore. This means that your wedding can be combined with your honeymoon, and you can enjoy all the features this gorgeous island offers!
Winter Weddings (December – February)
Winter in Hawaii is a bit different from what you might expect elsewhere. Forget about snow and freezing temperatures – here, it is nice and cool! But keep in mind that from December to February, it can get pretty rainy. Some spots, like Oahu’s north shore or Hana on Maui, can be quite soggy. So, if you are dreaming of a sunny beach wedding, having a backup plan is a smart move.
However, the landscape is incredibly lush during this time. And, if you are looking for a more intimate vibe, winter could be the perfect choice with fewer tourists around, giving you quieter beaches and more privacy for your special moment.
Plus, winter is whale-watching season! So, imagine tying the knot with humpback whales breaching in the background. That would definitely make for an unforgettable wedding story!
Lastly, if you are considering a sunrise wedding, winter might just be your best bet. The sun rises around 7-7:30 AM, so you can enjoy the moment without waking up at the crack of dawn.
Spring Weddings (March – May)
Spring is when Hawaii really starts to shine. The weather is amazing, with just the right temperatures. It is warm and mild, plus there is less rain than during winter. The islands come alive with colorful blooms, but keep in mind you might encounter some unexpected showers.
Moreover, March is a fantastic time to find some last-minute deals. As we move into April and May, the rain usually lets up a bit, marking the start of the busy Hawaii wedding season. During this time, you will see waterfalls flowing because of all the rain, but the trails can get pretty muddy, and you might have to deal with mosquitoes, too.
However, you can count on majestic backdrops for your big day, i.e., you do not have to consider only beaches. A waterfall can be the perfect background for a romantic story!
Fall Weddings (September – November)
Believe it or not, October is actually the hottest month in Hawaii. And it does not start cooling down until December. Fall is like Hawaii’s hidden gem – while the summer visitors head home, prices drop, and the weather is still amazing. This time of year is known as shoulder season, which means you get to enjoy fantastic weather without the crowds.
In addition, you will find that venues and vendors are more available in the fall, and there is a good chance you can snag a great deal on places to stay. Plus, the sunsets are absolutely breathtaking, with vibrant pinks and oranges lighting up the sky.
So, if you are considering a laid-back experience, fall is undoubtedly the best time to get married in Hawaii. Just a heads up, November can start to get a bit rainy, so early fall is usually your best bet.
Things to Note Before Deciding When to Get Married in Hawaii
Hawaii comes with lovely weather, but you will want to keep a few things in mind when choosing your wedding date. The wet season, from November to March, can bring some rain, particularly in winter, but showers are usually brief and localized.
On the other hand, summer is the hottest and driest time, perfect for outdoor weddings. But, since the sun can be strong, you will need to stay hydrated, seek shade, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat! Also, humidity can make your hair frizzy, but it does keep your skin glowing.
Regardless of what the best time to get married in Hawaii is, if you have your heart set on a specific date or venue, aim to book 6 to 12 months in advance, especially during peak seasons. For more options and better prices, consider a weekday or off-season wedding. And if spontaneity is your style, last-minute elopements are definitely doable in Hawaii if you are flexible with locations!
As you can see, Hawaii has its advantages all year round, meaning it is up to you to decide what will work for your big day. Whichever time you choose, you can count on amazing features for your wedding, so you will not regret your choice!
If you are ready to plan your dreamy Hawaii destination wedding, fill out the contact form. For more information, check out the Locations and Wedding Packages pages, plus, don’t miss our blog posts!
