Best Locations to Elope in Kauai, Hawaii

So, you are getting married and are considering Kauai?! First of all, Congrats!! Now, picture this: an intimate wedding, surrounded by lush gardens, beautiful beaches, and dramatic canyons. Where else could you find such an idyllic setting than Kauai, Hawaii? We’ve put together this mini guide on a couple of locations that I think should be on your list! We share locations on the North Shore, South Shore, and West Shore - each with its unique charm and beauty! We also go over the best time to elope and the permits you might need for your elopement.

North Shore

Hanalei Bay and Limahuli Garden and Preserve

Kauai's North Shore is a paradise on Earth! the stunning Hanalei Bay and the beautiful Limahuli Garden and Preserve are located here! Imagine standing on the sands of Hanalei Bay, with a backdrop of stunning mountains, as you say your vows. Something you need to know is that this beach is one of the busiest on this side and it’s also home to many sea turtles! You might get to see some! If you're a nature lover, Limahuli Garden and Preserve or Princeville Botanical Garden is a dream come true! With a lush, green backdrop and a variety of plants. Although they don’t offer weddings at this particular location, you can inquire to have photos taken at the site!

The ideal time to elope at these locations is during the summer season, from April to October when the chance of rainfall is at its lowest! You can secure the necessary permits from Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources. Once the ceremony is over, why not try some of the North Shore's best food, like the Dolphin Fish Market, and explore the local art galleries? The North Shore is more than just a wedding location; there are many activities you can do after your wedding ceremony.

South Shore

Shipwrecks Beach

If you've always dreamt of a dramatic coastline with towering cliffs for your big day, then Shipwrecks Beach on the South Shore is your perfect spot! Trust me! This beautiful beach provides such a romantic backdrop for your amazing wedding ceremony. Shipwrecks has tons of trails and cliffs and plenty of spots to find quiet and private locations for a ceremony. The best weather conditions are during the summer months, from April to October, making your wedding day even more memorable. Don't forget to get your permit from the Hawaii State Government portal!

After your wedding day, you can enjoy a romantic meal at the Beach House Restaurant. For a truly luxurious experience, consider starting your married life at the luxurious Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa! Also, Shipwrecks Beach is just steps away from this Resort!

West Shore

Waimea Canyon, Koke’e, and Polihale State Park

On the West Shore of Kauai, you'll find two breathtaking elopement locations: the stunning Waimea Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific", and the secluded Polihale State Park. Waimea Canyon offers a dramatic and unique backdrop for your wedding, showcasing the grandeur of nature. This will provide an amazing backdrop for your elopement ceremony! In contrast, Polihale State Park offers tranquility and privacy, which is perfect for an intimate ceremony. this road is best accessed with all-wheel drive or 4x4 but not required.

To avoid the summer heat, the best time to elope here is during the winter months, from November to March. Just remember to secure your special use permit. For a peaceful retreat, consider staying at the charming Waimea Plantation Cottages. After the ceremony, why not treat yourself to a hearty meal at the Shrimp Station, where the food is as unforgettable as the location itself.

Brittney Couture | Hawaii Elopement Photographer

Kauai, Hawaii, with its beautiful landscapes, is a dream come true for couples planning an elopement! If you are planning your Kauai elopement, don’t hesitate to reach out! We would love to capture your day in the most authentic way possible. These are just a couple of our favorite locations, if you are considering Kauai, we can help you choose a location that best suits the vibe you are looking for and we have a lot of recommendations on where to stay, eat, and things to do!! If you want to learn more about us, click here! Can’t wait to hear from you!