The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in Oahu, Hawaii

Mar 13, 2025

bride and groom take wedding portraits outdoors for their destination wedding in Oahu, Hawaii

So, you’re thinking about getting married in Oahu? You’re making an amazing choice! Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement or a full-blown wedding with your closest friends and family, Oahu offers some of the most breathtaking backdrops in the world. And the best part? Planning a destination wedding in Oahu, Hawaii is easier than you think, especially when you have the right team behind you!

Why Oahu, Hawaii is the Perfect Destination for Your Wedding

Oahu isn’t just a beautiful place to get married, it’s a full experience! The island gives you a little bit of everything: golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and luxury resorts. No matter what kind of vibe you want for your wedding, there’s a spot here that will feel like it was made just for you. Plus, with Honolulu International Airport making travel super easy, it’s the perfect balance of “exotic destination” and “not-too-hard-to-get-to” for you and your guests.

And if you’re all about those dreamy, golden-hour wedding photos (trust me, you should be), Oahu delivers some of the most jaw-dropping sunsets you’ll ever see.

couple has a first touch before their destination wedding in oahu hawaii

How to Make It Official: The Legal Side of Getting Married in Oahu

I know paperwork isn’t the most exciting part of wedding planning, but it’s super easy in Hawaii! Here’s the rundown:

You don’t need to be a Hawaii resident to get married here (yay, destination couples!).
You’ll need to apply for a Hawaii marriage license online and pick it up in person once you arrive.
The license costs $65 and is valid for 30 days no waiting period required.
A licensed Hawaii officiant must perform the ceremony.

And that’s it! No long waiting periods, no extra hoops to jump through. You can check the official Hawaii government website for details, but overall, it’s super stress-free.

A couple stands under a flower-decorated arch during an outdoor wedding ceremony, with a scenic view of palm trees and a mountain in the background for a destination wedding in oahu hawaii

When to Have Your Destination Wedding in Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii is beautiful year-round, but if you’re hoping for the perfect balance of weather, crowds, and pricing, there are definitely some key things to consider before picking your wedding date.

Spring & Fall (April–June, September–November)
These months are hands down the best for a destination wedding in Oahu, Hawaii. The weather is warm but not too humid, the trade winds keep things comfortable, and you avoid the peak tourist crowds of summer and winter. Plus, travel and accommodation prices tend to be lower, making it easier for guests to find budget-friendly options.

Summer (June–August)
Summer in Hawaii is gorgeous! There’s long, sunny days, warm ocean temperatures, and picture-perfect beach conditions. But with that comes more tourists, higher accommodation rates, and busier beaches. If you’re set on a summer wedding, consider a weekday ceremony or a sunrise wedding to avoid crowds.

Four women in formal attire pose together outdoors, each holding bouquets of flowers. A palm tree and scenic landscape are visible in the background.

Winter (December–February)
Winter brings slightly cooler temperatures and, on the North Shore, massive waves that make for dramatic ocean backdrops. It’s a great time for couples who love the idea of moody skies and vibrant sunsets, but keep in mind that rain showers are more common, especially in December. If you’re set on a winter wedding, having a backup indoor option is a smart move.

Sunrise vs. Sunset Weddings

Sunrise Ceremonies: If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, private ceremony with no crowds and soft, pastel skies, sunrise is your best bet. The lighting is perfect for photography, and the beaches are practically empty! Just you, the ocean, and your vows.
Sunset Ceremonies: Oahu’s golden-hour glow is next-level gorgeous for wedding portraits. Sunset weddings offer warm, dreamy lighting, but they’re also busier, especially in peak season. If you’re choosing sunset, go for a weekday wedding or a more secluded beach to keep things intimate.

Best Wedding Venues & Locations in Oahu, Hawaii

There are so many amazing places to get married on this island, but here are some of my absolute favorites:

Lanikuhonua

If you’re looking for that private, oceanfront estate feel, Lanikuhonua is your spot. With palm trees, ocean views, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s perfect for couples who want a high-end, intimate wedding. Read about this venue here!

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

Luxury, oceanfront vibes, and five-star service what more could you want?! The Four Seasons is perfect for couples who want a seamless wedding experience with top-tier accommodations for their guests. Read more about this venue here!

Kualoa Ranch

Ever wanted to get married in a real-life Jurassic Park setting? Kualoa Ranch gives you those dramatic mountain-meets-ocean views, and honestly, it’s breathtaking. This spot is a dream for couples who love a little adventure. Read more about this venue here!

Turtle Bay Resort

A North Shore favorite, Turtle Bay offers both beachfront and garden ceremony options. Plus, it’s one of the best spots for catching the sunset!

Waimanalo Beach

If you want a quiet, intimate beach ceremony with soft sand and clear blue water, Waimanalo Beach is a hidden gem. It feels untouched and secluded perfect for a romantic elopement.

A couple in wedding attire kisses outdoors, surrounded by a cheering wedding party dressed in blue and beige. Palm trees and a hill are in the background.

Building the Perfect Destination Wedding Timeline

Planning a wedding from afar can feel overwhelming, but with the right timeline in place, everything will fall into place smoothly. This guide will help you stay on track and make sure nothing gets overlooked so you can fully enjoy your dream wedding in Oahu!

12+ Months Before: Set the Foundation

This is the time to make the biggest decisions that will shape your wedding.

Pick a date & book your venue – If you have your heart set on a specific venue, book ASAP! Popular locations in Oahu, like Lanikuhonua, Four Seasons, and Kualoa Ranch, book out quickly, especially in peak wedding season.
Research travel & accommodations – Look into flight options, hotel blocks, and rental properties for guests. Resorts with wedding packages often include perks like group rates, shuttle services, and honeymoon suites.
Start looking at vendors – Photographers, planners, florists, and caterers in Oahu get booked well in advance. Start reaching out to your favorites to lock them in early. If you’re bringing in vendors from out of state, factor in their travel costs and availability.
Set a budget – Destination weddings come with extra costs like travel fees, permits, and guest accommodations. Having a clear budget from the start will help you prioritize where to splurge and where to save.

9-12 Months Before: Lock in Your Vendors & Send Invitations

Book your photographer & videographer – This is HUGE, don’t wait! Oahu is a hot spot for weddings. Make sure you find someone who understands your vision and can capture the island’s natural beauty. I’d love to be your Oahu wedding photographer! Reach out to me here!
Secure your officiant & wedding planner – A local wedding planner will make a world of difference when coordinating vendors, securing permits, and handling the unexpected.
Plan your guest list – Start finalizing who will be attending so you can coordinate accommodations, transportation, and group activities.
Send out save-the-dates & travel info – Since this is a destination wedding, guests need plenty of notice to plan their trips. Consider sending save-the-dates at the 12-month mark and invitations by 9 months out.

6-9 Months Before: Finalizing Ceremony & Reception Details

Plan out the ceremony details – Think about whether you want a beach ceremony, a garden setting, or an iconic venue. If you’re having a Hawaiian-inspired ceremony, this is the time to incorporate traditional elements like a lei exchange or conch shell blowing.
Book catering, entertainment, and rentals – Whether you’re going for a plated dinner, food trucks, or a tropical buffet, get catering secured early. If you’re hiring a band, DJ, or live musicians (like a ukulele player!), make sure they’re available.
Secure any necessary permits – If you’re having a beach wedding, you’ll need a permit, especially for locations like Lanikai Beach or Waimanalo Beach. Your planner or photographer can help handle this, but be sure to check with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources for details.

Bride in a white wedding dress adjusts her earring while looking out a window.

Man in a white dress shirt and black bow tie adjusting his collar, standing by a window.

3-6 Months Before: Finalizing the Fun Stuff

Finalize your wedding timeline – Work with your planner and photographer to create a smooth-flowing timeline that accounts for everything: getting ready, first look, ceremony, golden hour photos, and reception events.
Plan fun activities for guests – Part of the magic of a destination wedding is making it a full experience! Consider hosting a welcome luau, booking a group snorkeling trip, hiking with guests, or even setting up a casual beach bonfire night.
Book beauty services – Find a local hair and makeup artist who specializes in beach-friendly looks that hold up in humidity and wind.

1 Month Before: Final Touches & Packing Essentials

Pack your bags! – Oahu’s weather is warm year-round, so pack lightweight wedding attire, breezy outfits for casual events, and all the essentials: sunscreen, bug spray, comfortable sandals, and a light cover-up for breezy nights.
Confirm all travel plans – Double-check flights, transportation, accommodations, and reservations for your wedding day vendors.
Create a wedding day emergency kit – Include essentials like bobby pins, blotting paper, band-aids, and even a mini fan for those warm Hawaiian afternoons.

Wedding Week: Soak It All In!

Arrive early to settle in – Give yourself at least 3-4 days before the wedding to adjust, explore, and take in the island’s beauty before the big day.
Have a final walk-through of the venue – If possible, do a quick run-through with your planner, photographer, and key vendors to ensure everything is set.
Relax you made it! – This is your moment. Soak in every detail, from the sound of the waves to the feeling of warm sand beneath your feet. You’ve planned the perfect wedding in paradise—now all that’s left to do is enjoy it!

By following this timeline, you’ll have everything under control while still being able to fully enjoy the planning process. A destination wedding in Oahu is all about celebrating love in one of the most beautiful places in the world, and with the right preparation, it will be a truly unforgettable experience!

couple takes portraits outside of hotel for their destination wedding in Oahu, Hawaii

Hiring the Right Vendors for an Oahu, Hawaii Destination Wedding

A good team of local vendors will make your life 10x easier. Here’s who you’ll want to book early:

Photographer → (Hi, it’s me!) Make sure you hire someone who understands lighting, landscapes, and how to capture those real, unposed moments that make your wedding day feel authentic. See more of my work here!
Wedding Planner → If you don’t want to deal with logistics, a planner is a game-changer. They’ll help with everything from permits to decor setup.
Florist → Hawaiian flowers are next level. Go for local blooms like orchids, plumeria, and hibiscus!
Hair & Makeup → You need someone who knows how to make your look last through heat, wind, and ocean breezes.
Officiant → Find someone who can create a ceremony that feels personal and meaningful.

bride getting ready in a hotel room before her wedding in oahu hawaii

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding in Oahu, Hawaii

Planning a destination wedding might seem like a lot at first, but trust me when you’re standing on a stunning beach with your love, the ocean breeze in your hair, and your favorite people surrounding you, every bit of planning will be worth it. Here’s how to make sure your destination wedding in Oahu, Hawaii is as stress-free as possible:

Plan Early & Be Flexible

Hawaii has a laid-back island pace, which is amazing when you’re relaxing but can be tricky for last-minute wedding planning. Vendors book up quickly, so start reaching out at least 9-12 months in advance for photographers, venues, florists, and planners. And when it comes to small hiccups like a little rain or a slight schedule shift just go with the flow. Embracing the island vibe will make your day even better!

Get the Right Permits
If you’re planning a beach wedding, you may need a Hawaii beach permit for your ceremony, and your photographer might also need a commercial photography permit. A good wedding planner can handle this for you, but if you’re DIY-ing it, check the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) website to make sure you have all the necessary approvals.

Have a Backup Plan for Weather
Even in paradise, Mother Nature does her own thing. Most of the time, Oahu’s rain showers pass quickly, but if you’re getting married in rainier months (December–March), consider an indoor or covered option just in case. Resorts, private estates, and venues like the Four Seasons offer backup locations that are just as beautiful if the weather shifts.

Dress for Comfort
The last thing you want is to be overheated or battling wind-blown hair on your wedding day. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics for your dress and suit (think flowy chiffon, linen, or silk). If you’re having a beach wedding, ditch the heels and go barefoot or opt for cute sandals! Pro tip: Consider updos or braids to keep your hair looking perfect, even in the ocean breeze.

wedding ceremony indoors at a hotel, bride and groom standing at the alter for their ceremony

Think About Sound
The ocean is LOUD, which is great for ambiance but not so great if your guests can’t hear your vows. A small clip-on microphone for your officiant can make a huge difference, especially on windy days.

Plan for a Celebration After the Ceremony
Your wedding day shouldn’t end after the vows! Whether it’s a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant, a private luau, or a laid-back picnic on the sand, planning a celebration (big or small) after your ceremony gives you time to soak in the moment with your favorite people.

Trust Your Photographer & Vendors
This is a big one especially when it comes to photography! Wedding days go by fast, and the best moments are often the ones you don’t plan for. Trust your photographer to capture those candid, emotional moments so you can focus on actually enjoying your day. (And if you want a photographer who’s all about those natural, real moments, you know where to find me!)

Enjoy Every Second
At the end of the day, your Oahu wedding is about celebrating your love in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Whether it’s a big celebration or a quiet elopement, make sure to soak in every moment, laugh a ton, and just be present. The island will take care of the rest.

bride and groom taking wedding portraits on steps

Let’s Make Your Dream Destination Wedding in Oahu, Hawaii Happen!

If you’re ready to turn your dream into reality, I’d love to capture your wedding in paradise. Whether you’re planning a beachfront ceremony or an intimate elopement, I’ll be there every step of the way, documenting all the love, laughter, and incredible views that make Oahu weddings so special. Let’s chat and start planning your perfect day! See more of my work on my Pinterest and book me as your Oahu wedding photographer here!