5 Best Beaches to Get Married on Kauai (+ Planning Tips)
The most common question I hear from couples looking to get married on the island of Kauai is, “Which beach is best for a wedding ceremony?” With so many stunning locations on Kauai to celebrate your special day, it may feel overwhelming to choose the perfect spot. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the perfect beach to navigating the legalities and logistics of getting married on this beautiful island.
Top 5 Beaches for Weddings on Kauai
Kauai’s diverse coastline offers a variety of beautiful beaches for your dream wedding. Each beach on this list has its own energy and style that stands out from the rest. From the rugged cliffs of Hanalei and Tunnels Beach, to the sandy beaches of Waimea, there is something for everyone here on the Garden Isle.
To simplify your Kauai wedding planning, here’s how I chose these five beach wedding locations:
Natural beauty
Unobstructed views
Legally allowed
Easy accessibility
Minimal crowds
Within 15 minutes of a town to celebrate in after
#1: Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is one of Kauai’s most iconic beaches. The east side of the bay by the pier has a wide stretch of beach with no slope all year, and has beautiful scenes of the Hanalei and Ha’ena mountains looking out to the west. The beaches at the center of the bay change throughout the seasons (bigger beach during summer, smaller during winter) and is more susceptible to winter swells, but has gorgeous views in every direction, giving it a lot of variety in photos. Hanalei Bay is one of the biggest beaches on Kauai, so there is always space to spread out and get away from the crowds, so having an intimate ceremony isn’t hard to do. It also has the most parking lots out of any beach on Kauai which is a huge plus. After the ceremony, Hanalei’s nearby dining options and picturesque pier provide perfect spots for post-wedding celebrations and photos.
#2: Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach is renowned for its dramatic mountain backdrop and clear waters, offering a stunning wedding setting. However, accessibility can be challenging. Parking is extremely limited so groups with more than two cars may have a hard time. The ceremony location is also about 200 yards away from the nearest parking lot and the trek is through deep sand so it can be difficult for those with mobility limitations. This beach is best suited for couples seeking a more adventurous wedding, where the journey to the ceremony is as memorable as the event itself. The views are unmatched, making it worth the effort for those willing and able to take on the challenge.
Let’s Create Your Dream Wedding in Kauai!
Whether you choose a bustling beach like Hanalei Bay or a secluded spot like Secret Beach, I’ll help you capture your perfect Kauai wedding day.
Contact me today to book your unforgettable experience.
#3 Shipwreck Beach
Located in Poipu on Kauai’s South Side, Shipwreck Beach is known for its diverse scenery, including sandy shores, rocky coves, and a rugged bluff. The beach’s southern location means it enjoys drier weather, reducing the risk of rain on your wedding day. Shipwreck Beach is a popular choice for couples staying at nearby resorts, such as the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. Although the beach can be crowded, finding a quieter spot for an intimate ceremony is possible, especially during off-peak times.
#4 Secret Beach
For couples seeking a secluded and adventurous wedding location, Secret Beach is an excellent choice. Accessed by a steep and often muddy trail, this beach is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is a pristine, untouched shoreline. Secret Beach’s landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, offering a unique backdrop for each couple’s photos.
However, its exposure to North Shore swells can make it dangerous during winter and spring, so couples should plan accordingly and consult with local experts. My personal rule is that I don’t bring anybody down there if the waves are bigger than 10 feet, and between Thanksgiving and March the odds of that are 50/50. But if you are in the mood for something more adventurous and original then this a must-see!
#5 Waimea Pier
Planning Your Dream Beach Wedding on Kauai
Choosing the Right Time of Year
When planning a beach wedding in Kauai, timing is crucial. The island's weather patterns vary significantly, impacting everything from the ceremony's ambiance to guest comfort. These are the main considerations when choosing a date for your beach wedding on Kauai:
Wet Season (November - May):
This season has notably higher chances of rain, particularly on the North and East sides of the island. If you're planning a wedding during these months, it's wise to have a backup plan, such as a nearby indoor venue or tented area. The South and West sides, including areas like Poipu and Waimea, are typically drier, making them ideal for outdoor ceremonies during this time.
Dry Season (June - October):
The summer months are less rainy, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities and ensuring that your beach wedding proceeds without weather-related interruptions. However, these months are also peak tourist season, so beaches may be more crowded and accommodations and travel may be more expensive.
Learn More About Choosing a Wedding Date
Best Time of Year to Get Married in Kauai
Navigating the Legalities and Logistics
Planning a beach wedding in Kauai involves more than just picking the perfect spot. Understanding the legal requirements and logistics is essential:
Officiants:
Only state-approved “performers” can legally officiate wedding ceremonies in Hawaii. Here are a few wedding officiants in Kauai that I recommend:
Permits and Costs:
A beach use permit is required for all beach weddings in Kauai, issued by the Department of Land & Natural Resources (DLNR). Your officiant typically handles the application process. The cost of a marriage license is $65, while permit fees for the beach wedding are $25 for up to 20 attendees and $35 for more than 20 attendees, with a maximum of 30 attendees allowed on public beaches.
Guest Limits and Setup Restrictions:
Beach weddings in Kauai are limited to 30 people by county law. Public beaches do not permit elaborate setups such as arches or chairs.
For further wedding planning assistance, I recommend this great elopement planning team and this amazing wedding planner depending on the size of your event.
Making the Most of Your Kauai Beach Wedding
Planning a beach wedding in Kauai offers endless possibilities for creating a truly memorable and unique experience. By carefully considering the timing and location of your ceremony, you can ensure that your special day reflects your personal style while embracing the natural beauty of the Garden Isle. Whether you choose a bustling beach like Hanalei Bay or a secluded spot like Secret Beach, your Kauai wedding is sure to be a magical and unforgettable celebration!