Why You Should Elope On Kauai
If you and your fiancé are considering eloping in Hawaii then it probably means a couple things. The first would be that you’ve started the planning process for a larger wedding and you have decided to escape and elope. The second would be for logistical reasons as large events in the wake of COVID-19 are hard to plan. The third, and most common, is that you’re a couple who loves travel and adventure, and can’t imagine having to say your vows in front of 300 people so you’d rather invest in a Kauai elopement/honeymoon combo spent exploring and relaxing.
There are a ton of great reasons for eloping in Hawaii, so we’ll start there. Then let’s see why Kauai specifically would be a great island to elope on.
Why Hawaii
The Scenery
The scenery in Hawaii is truly stunning! There’s no other way to put it. Not only do each of the Hawaiian Islands have their own set of unique diversities when it comes to topography, but each Island is also unique in it’s own right. Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island all have gorgeous backdrops for eloping and it really boils down to what type of scenery and activities you’re interested in while you honeymoon.
The Marriage License
The marriage license process is relatively easy in Hawaii, and I explain how you can get one in another one of my blog posts. Each island has it’s own unique set of rules for obtaining (or picking up) your marriage license. Many great elopement planners can help you get it easily, or a couple google searches will get you the information you need.
The Culture
In Hawaii, ohana means “family” and this is exactly how everyone on the islands always makes you feel. Warm, inviting and eager to share their beautiful cultures and traditions with everyone who is lucky enough to visit such a beautiful place. Visitors come for the beaches, and stay for the people.
The Simplicity
No private venues, no caterers, no stress. Eloping means you only have to make arrangements for you and your fiancé (and some family/friends if you choose). I would likely be the only vendor you would work with, along with maybe a local makeup artist and florist. With less than 8 people, you can easily have a private elopement ceremony on any beach around Kauai without a permit.
Why Kauai?
So those are some great reasons to elope to Hawaii in general, but what if you’re looking for something more off the beaten path? Something more set in nature? Something more private and intimate? Something more adventurous? Well then you’re gonna want to take a better look at what Kauai has to offer.
Smallest of the major islands
This is a bonus for a couple reasons. First, it makes getting around easy. Second, and more importantly, it has the least amount of high-rises of any island, truly giving you that “old Hawaii” feel that you just can’t get anywhere else.
Lots of variety of locations
Between Tunnels Beach, Secrets, Poipu, and Waimea Canyon, the range of options is incredible, and depending on where you’re staying there’s always a great place within 15 minutes of your rental.
Peaceful and quite
I touched on this earlier, but Kauai is the least developed of any of the major islands. It has the least amount of people, the least amount of cement, and there’s only one building on island that’s over 3 stories. Kauai is the epitome of the “aloha spirit” and time definitely moves slower here. So if you’re looking to unwind and enjoy nature on your stay in Hawaii, then Kauai is for you.
Lots of beauty to soak in during your stay
From day trips down the Na Pali Coast, to rigorous hikes to the base of mount Wai’ale’ale, to helicopter rides around the island, to lazy evening watching sunsets from your beach chair, you can enjoy nature in whatever form works for you.
And finally I would recommend spending a good portion of your budget on a great elopement photographer. I know this sounds like another plug for my services but it really is important that you find someone you not only trust with documenting and capturing your perfect elopement, but also someone who makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Eloping on any of Hawaii’s beautiful islands will be nothing short of amazing, and I highly recommend eloping for those looking for a low-key, adventurous, or budget-conscious method of celebrating your love. For those looking for a unique Hawaii elopement, I would highly recommend the island of Kauai for its beauty, culture, and aloha spirit. If you’re looking for more information on how to elope on Kauai, please check out my previous blog post. Please don’t hesitate to email or call. And if you’re looking for a Hawaii wedding photographer for your elopement, I’d love to connect with you to help build your dream elopement in Hawaii!