What do you think of first when you hear about a Hawaii beach wedding? Our guess is spectacular sunsets, ocean breezes, beautiful sandy beaches, a blend of tradition and custom-made ceremonies, romance, etc. What more can a couple want? You can just imagine how nature’s canvas will add to having the most stunning photos.
No matter whether you are dreaming of a very intimate ceremony or a larger affair surrounded by your loved ones, don’t forget to have fun while planning your special day. Hawaii’s beaches promise couples unforgettable moments, which is why so many of them decide to crown their love there.
This article offers advice on what to look for when planning your Hawaii beach wedding just as the sun goes down.
Where to Start?
Before getting into the nitty-gritty of planning your big day, take some of the following tips into consideration:
- There are a lot of restrictions about which beaches you can choose for your dream Hawaii beach wedding. There are also rules on the number of guests you can have and how you can set up the beach.
- The state can issue as many permits as are filed for that one beach you have selected. So don’t be surprised if you see several ceremonies happening at the same time as yours across the shoreline at sunset.
- With over 2,000 legal unions taking place each month in Hawaii, and most happening at the same time, don’t expect to reserve a specific spot.
- Finally, don’t expect to have any kind of privacy or space from beachgoers. It’s the price you have to pay to get married in Hawaii.
Choosing the Perfect Spot for a Hawaii Beach Wedding
Each location in Hawaii has its own charm. Take a look at the spectacular rugged cliffs of Kauai, the shores of Maui, and the iconic stretches of Waikiki Beach on Oahu. They are simply made for love unions. So, how do you choose the best beach for a sunset wedding?
The main thing to consider when choosing the beach is its position. We all know on which side the sun sets, so you can’t choose a beach that faces east, like Waimanalo Beach. Expecting a sunset here would end up in disappointment. This is why when choosing the right beach, it’s important to choose one that faces west. Oahu’s North Shore has some stunning sunsets, so don’t forget to consider it.
If you decide on an east-facing beach, then you should organize a sunrise ceremony. So, think completely opposite to what we said above. Sunrise weddings are a good option if you are looking to avoid busy locations. This is the time of the morning when the beaches are empty and peaceful- perfect for an intimate ceremony!
Timing Is Key
When we talk about the timing for a sunset beach ceremony, there are several factors you need to consider. Hawaii is a busy place where tourists roam the islands all year round. So here are some things to help you organize your sunset wedding.
- Weekends and holidays are a big no for a Hawaii beach wedding. If your schedule allows it, choose a weekday when the beaches are significantly less crowded.
- The best time to have a romantic beach wedding in Hawaii is literally any time of the year. The weather in Hawaii is amazing year-round, allowing you to literally plan around your schedule.
- Although it’s not very traditional to have a morning ceremony, this is sometimes the best solution. During this time, beaches are the least busy, and the temperatures are a bit cooler.
- Mid-day ceremonies are a great time to use the light that accents the color of the ocean, flowers, trees, and natural beauty. However, keep in mind that the temperatures can get rather high.
- The golden hour is the most sought-after time of the day for a ceremony. Be sure to check the exact time the sun sets because it changes slightly throughout the year.
Best Beaches for a Sunset Wedding
Depending on your vision and priorities for your romantic Hawaii wedding, we have no doubts you will choose the right beach to exchange your vows. Here are some suggestions for the best beaches in Hawaii for sunset ceremonies.
- Keawakapu Beach is a west-facing beach that is perfectly positioned for sunset unions. Located on the island of Maui, this long stretch of sand has enough space for all couples who want to tie the knot.
- The island of Oahu has many stunning beaches from which you can choose. Check out Paradise Cove Beach, a small sand beach near the Iuau area of the Koólina Resort.
- The Maniniʻōwali Beach in Kua Bay is a perfect location for a sunset romance. It’s a stunning white sand place offering a peaceful setting for a sunset ceremony.
- Anaehoʻomalu Bay—or A-Bay—is a gorgeous beach offering a wonderful sunset view from behind the Kuʻualiʻi Fishpond. It’s a romantic spot to say your “I do” as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Spencer Beach Park is a quiet destination that Native Hawaiians occupied over 200 years ago. It offers spectacular sunset views, and you can also add some history and culture to the romantic moment.
- Anahola Beach on the island of Oahu allows for some of that lush scenery only Hawaii can offer.
Conclusion
Now that you know more about organizing a sunset ceremony, it’s time to turn your dream of a perfect Hawaii beach wedding into reality. There is plenty of sunshine here to go around and accommodate the ceremonies and photography for all couples that have decided to tie the knot on the same day, so no need to worry.
In the end, it all comes down to making several important decisions at once. So before you decide on a location, it may be wise to visit the place and check whether the sunset offers the backdrop you are looking for.
Inquire about our Hawaii wedding minister services and fill out the contact form, or find more inspiration on the blog to get inspired for the perfect setting for your special day. Feel free to visit our “Locations” or “Wedding Packages” pages to discover all of your options. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime amidst the beauty of Hawaii’s shores.
