Where to Get Married in Kauai: Beach, Private Venue, or Resort?
Are you ready to take off on a romantic adventure and exchange your vows in one of the world's most enchanting settings? Kauai, Hawaii, a paradise of lush landscapes and breathtaking vistas, is the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding. But as you begin wedding planning, one of the first and most significant decisions you'll need to make is where to host your wedding.
Kauai offers three primary options for couples: the pristine beaches, a private venue, or a luxurious resort. As a local wedding photographer in Kauai, I’ve seen the unique advantages and considerations of each location. So, in this guide, I’ll walk you through each option, providing you with the insight you need to make the perfect choice for your own special day.
Getting Married on the Beach
Kauai's beaches are legendary for their beauty, and they make an ideal location for small, intimate weddings and elopements. However, there are a few important details to consider.
Pros of a Beach Wedding:
Almost Every Beach is an Option: Kauai boasts an abundance of beautiful beaches, most of which are public, giving you a wide array of choices.
Ideal for Small, Intimate Weddings: If you're planning a small, private ceremony with just your closest family and friends, a beach wedding is perfect.
Picturesque Natural Beauty: Beach weddings offer stunning ocean views and the soothing sound of waves, creating a magical atmosphere.
Cons of a Beach Wedding:
Maximum 30 People: Kauai County law restricts beach weddings to a maximum of 30 people, so if you have a larger guest list, you'll need to look elsewhere.
Arch and Seating Not Allowed: If your vision includes an arch or seating for guests, you'll need to consider other venues, as public beaches don't permit such setups.
Privacy and Seclusion Can't Be Guaranteed: While Kauai's beaches are beautiful, privacy can be a concern as you'll be sharing the natural beauty with other beachgoers.
"Leave No Trace" Rule Applies: While not exactly a “con”, it’s important to keep in mind that Hawaii has a "Leave No Trace" policy to protect its pristine beaches. You must ensure that your wedding doesn't negatively impact the environment.
Is this the right option for you?
If so, I recommend checking out my other blog post about my favorite beaches around Kauai to shoot elopements at.
Getting Married at a Private Venue
Private venues on Kauai offer beautiful settings and often have staff specializing in weddings, however, there are some key points to keep in mind when choosing a private venue for your wedding.
Pros of a Private Wedding Venue:
Gorgeous Venue Options: Private venues on Kauai often feature exquisite settings, including gardens, estates, and oceanfront properties.
Specialized Wedding Staff: Many private venues have staff experienced in hosting weddings, making the planning process smoother.
Unique Designs and Setups: Private venues allow you to create a wedding with your unique vision, including arches, seating, and more.
Potential for Seclusion and Privacy: Unlike public beaches, private venues provide more control over who shares your wedding space.
Cons of a Private Wedding Venue:
Limited Venue Options: While there are some incredible private venues on Kauai, the choices are not as vast as the number of beaches available.
May Require Additional Vendors: You'll likely need to coordinate additional vendors like caterers, florists, and decorators, which can add to the complexity of planning.
Getting Married at a Resort
Kauai's resorts provide a convenient and luxurious option for couples. Here are some key points to consider when looking at wedding resorts in Kauai
Pros of a Wedding Resort:
Block Out Numerous Rooms for Guests: If you have a sizable guest list, resorts allow you to reserve multiple rooms, ensuring your loved ones can stay conveniently on-site.
Simplified Logistics: Hosting your wedding and accommodations at the same location reduces the need for transportation and makes the entire celebration seamless.
Experienced Wedding Planning Teams: Resorts often provide experienced wedding planning teams, making the process smoother and less stressful.
Wide Range of Amenities: From spa treatments to water sports, resorts offer a wide range of amenities, allowing you to create a unique and memorable wedding experience.
Cons of a Wedding Resort:
Possibility of Other Hotel Guests in Ceremony Areas: Depending on the resort's layout, there may be other hotel guests in the same areas where your ceremony or reception takes place.
Limited Venue Exclusivity: Resorts may host multiple events simultaneously, impacting the exclusivity of your wedding.
Is this the right option for you?
If so, I recommend checking out my other blog post about my favorite beaches around Kauai to shoot elopements at.
From the blog: The 10 Best Kauai Wedding Resorts
Each option - the natural elegance of a beach wedding, the seclusion of a private venue, or the convenience of a resort - comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. No matter which one you choose, getting married in Kauai is sure to be an unforgettable memory you’ll cherish for a lifetime!
I would love to answer your questions as you plan your wedding in Hawaii. Please don’t hesitate to email or call. And if you’re looking for a Kauai wedding photographer for your big day, I’d love to connect with you and help build your dream wedding in Kauai!