How to Elope in Kauai in 2026
There’s nothing more romantic than getting married in Hawaii, and while every island in that state is gorgeous, there’s something particularly beautiful and enchanting about Kauai. The island is often referred to as the “Garden Isle” — and for good reason! The entire island is a paradise of breathtaking natural beauty and incredible wildlife.
Imagine exchanging your vows while standing on one of Kauai’s many towering cliffs, overlooking a vast and awe-inspiring landscape! This island always offers something new to explore and something truly wonderful to discover around every corner. There’s so much to do and see in Kauai that it can sometimes be hard to know where to start when you’re planning an elopement in Kauai!
If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed at the prospect of immersing yourself in this incredible island, don’t worry at all because I’ve got your back! This comprehensive Kauai elopement guide has all the information you’ll need to plan the most unforgettable Kauai elopement you can imagine.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to elope in Kauai.
How To Get To Kauai
By Plane:
To get to Kauai you’ll need to fly into Līhuʻe Airport (LIH), Kauai’s only commercial airport. The airport is pretty centrally located, so you won’t have to travel too far after you land.
By Car:
For getting around Kauai, you’ll definitely want to rent a car. A standard sedan will get you most places, however there are a few off-roading spots for more secluded landscapes. If you choose a location like this, I recommend getting a 4WD high clearance vehicle like a Jeep.
Pro Tip: Download offline Google Maps directions on your phone so that even when you lose service, you can still receive navigation. As beautiful as the scenery is, getting lost probably isn’t on your to-do list!
The Best Time Of Year To Elope In Kauai
Choosing the best time of year to elope in Kauai depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. Luckily, Kauai’s tropical climate means warm temperatures year-round, but each season has its own unique charm!
Spring (March to May):
In the spring, Kauai is beautifully lush and warm. The winter rains have brought on a full-scale springtime bloom that turns the entire island into a breathtaking panoply of gorgeous, colorful landscapes.
There are a bit more rainy days in the springtime than the rest of the year. The good news is that if it does happen to rain, you can look forward to some vibrant rainbows sticking around when the sun comes out again — a perfect backdrop to some truly unique and once-in-a-lifetime elopement photos!
Summer (June to August):
A summer elopement in Kauai is ideal if you’re looking for long, sunny days in a tranquil, mild climate. It’s a great time of year for a beach ceremony, and the warm weather means you’ll have ideal conditions for adventurous water activities like snorkeling or even scuba diving.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that summer is Kauai’s peak tourist season, so you might find yourself competing with some crowds for some of the most popular spots. Don’t necessarily let that stop you, though. You can still avoid the crowds with some creative planning, such as a sunrise or sunset elopement ceremony!
Fall (September to November):
In the fall, the weather in Kauai remains warm and delightful, but many of the summer crowds have thinned out — you truly get the best of both worlds! It’s a particularly great time of year for stunning sunsets and gorgeous golden-hour photos.
Just be aware that November can mark the start of the rainy season, so having a backup plan for wet weather is a good idea.
Winter (December to February):
Winter is Kauai’s rainy season, so it’s a perfect time of year for an elopement if you’re dreaming of eloping while the island is at its most lush and vibrant. Winter is also prime time for whale watching, which can add a magical touch to your day!
The Best Elopement Spots In Kauai
While Kauai has no shortage of unforgettable elopement spots, each awe-inspiring and stunningly beautiful in its own way, there are a few locations that every couple planning a Kauai adventure elopement should consider. Here are the most legendary elopement spots in Kauai:
Waimea Canyon is often called “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and it’s definitely a nickname this place totally deserved.
The landscape here is absolutely stunning, filled with panoramic views of vibrant red cliffs and lush green valleys. The majestic natural beauty of Waimea Canyon makes it hands down one of the top Kauai locations for breathtaking photos! Any couple who feels the call of the wilderness deep in their soul owes it to themselves to check this place out.
Tunnels Beach is one of the crown jewels of Kauai’s North Shore. This secluded, idyllic beach is a perfect spot for an intimate elopement. Its pristine golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, ringed by a majestic range of lush mountains make Tunnel Beach the perfect spot for the most romantic beachfront elopements in Kauai.
Tunnels Beach is also a world-famous scuba and snorkeling spot — the natural lava tunnels that give the beach its name create a unique underwater ecosystem, and couples who are craving adventure should definitely take the opportunity to explore it up close!
Shipwreck Beach, located on Kauai’s sunny South Shore, is legendary for its amazing waves. Locals consider it one of the best surfing spots in Kauai. Shipwreck Beach offers more than just killer waves, though. Couples who really want to immerse themselves in Kauai’s natural beauty should definitely check out the amazing hiking trails at this spot.
For couples who love adventure, you can even hike up the bluff for breathtaking panoramic views and epic photo opportunities. Whether you’re planning a sunrise ceremony or a sunset celebration, Shipwreck Beach brings beauty, romance, and a touch of excitement!
The Nā Pali Coast is hands down one of the most breathtaking Kauai wedding venues. With its iconic emerald cliffs, hidden beaches, and stunning ocean views, this legendary coastline feels like a portal into a dream world.
One of the best ways to take in the scenery of the Nā Pali Coast is from the sky! Helicopter tours are incredibly popular here, and for good reason! Getting a bird’s eye view of this incredible environment is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
There are also some unforgettable boat tours available that let you venture out into the gorgeous turquoise water.
For couples looking to venture off the beaten path, Secret Beach is one of the best elopement venues in Kauai. This beach is unusually secluded, making it the perfect spot for an intimate elopement ceremony.
It’s also unusually beautiful. The lush greenery and rugged cliffs surrounding the beach create a magical, intimate atmosphere that feels like your own private paradise. It’s ideal for couples looking to escape the crowds and celebrate their love in a peaceful, picturesque setting.
Whether you’re exchanging vows at sunset or exploring the shoreline for beautiful Kauai elopement photo ops, Secret Beach is a truly unforgettable location.
How To Get An Elopement Permit For Your Kauai Elopement
Kauai is very strict when it comes to permits. A good rule of thumb is that any location not on private property will require a permit. Most couples will need two types of permits for their elopement day:
a ceremony permit, and
a commercial use permit (for photography).
If you plan to hold your ceremony outside of a private venue—on public land—you’ll need a permit for the specific location where you exchange vows. Ceremonies held in state parks require a Special Use Permit. While there are pre-approved ceremony locations available, many of them are fairly limited and not particularly scenic. Because of this, I generally advise couples to avoid holding their ceremony on public lands whenever possible. You can view more about Kauai State Park permitting here.
The easiest and most straightforward option for a Kauaʻi elopement ceremony is the beach. Beach permitting is simple and affordable, requiring only a Wiki Beach Permit, which costs just $20. This permit can be used for any unencumbered shoreline, which includes most public beaches on Kauai. Because of the low cost, flexibility, and ease of approval, this is my top recommendation for Kauai elopements.
If none of the approved ceremony locations align with your vision, another option is to separate the legal and personal aspects of your day. You can legally marry at an approved location, then hold a commitment ceremony elsewhere—allowing you to exchange vows in a location that feels meaningful to you, as long as commercial photography is permitted there.
The second permit you’ll need to account for is the Commercial Use Permit. This permit is required for any location where professional photography takes place during your elopement day. The fee is $110 per location, and a separate permit is required for each site you plan to visit. It’s also important to note that not all locations on Kauaʻi allow commercial use, so planning ahead is essential.
Pro Tip: All of my photography packages include permit assistance! If any of this information is confusing, reach out!
How To Get A Hawaii Marriage License
To get a marriage license in Hawaii, the process is simple and very elopement-friendly. You’ll start by completing the online marriage license application through the State of Hawaii. After submitting the application and paying the fee ($65 total), you’ll receive a confirmation email.
Once you arrive on the island, both partners must appear together in person to meet with a licensed marriage agent to verify your IDs and finalize the license. Marriage agents are available throughout Hawaii, including on Kauai, and meetings are typically quick and easy to schedule.
There is no waiting period, so you can legally marry the same day you pick up your license. That said, for a more relaxed experience, I recommend completing the in-person meeting at least one day before your ceremony. Marriage licenses in Hawaii are valid for 30 days from issuance and can be used anywhere in the state.
You will need a Hawaii-licensed officiant to legally marry, and no witnesses are required, making this an ideal setup for elopements.
Just So You Know: I am an ordained officiant and can legally sign on your marriage certificate in most U.S. states. Certain states may require additional paperwork and/or processing fees but I’m happy to help! However, if you would like an actual celebrant to verbally walk you through a ceremony, I know some great people who can do that for you.
Where To Stay For Your Kauai Elopement
Princeville & Hanalei
Poipu
Kapa’a
Pro Tip: If you are planning to be having guests at any point of the day for either a ceremony, intimate dinner, or reception, be sure to get an event-friendly rental! Not all vacation rentals are event friendly and nothing would be worse than getting kicked out by your host mid elopement experience! For all my tips on finding an event-friendly rental, view my blog on how to plan your Airbnb elopement.
Kauai Elopement Activity Ideas
Eloping on Kauai is about slowing down, connecting with nature, and letting the island set the pace. With lush cliffs, turquoise water, and golden beaches, Kauaʻi offers endless ways to turn your elopement into a meaningful, experience-driven celebration.
Take a private boat charter along the Na Pali Coast
Go surfing
Watch the sun set at the beach
Share a picnic at Waimea Canyon
See Kauai from above in a helicopter
Enjoy a poke bowl
Hire a private chef to cook at your bnb
Hike along the ridges of the Na Pali Coast in Kokeʻe State Park
Take a sail boat out on the water at sunset
Kauai Elopement Timeline Examples
Not sure exactly how much time you need for your dream Kauai elopement? Here are a few timeline examples to help you get a feel for what might be the best fit!
8 Hour Elopement
12:00pm Sally Arrives at Airbnb for Getting Ready Photos
1:45pm First Look at Bnb
2:00pm Drive to Boat Harbor
3:30pm Private Na Pali Boat Tour
5:00pm Ceremony Along Coast
6:30pm Jump Off the Boat + Swim!
7:00 pm Boat Returns to Harbor
8:00pm Photography Coverage Ends
12 Hour Elopement
8:00am Sally Arrives at Airbnb for Getting Ready Photos
9:45am First Look at Bnb
10:00am Head to Waimea Canyon for Ceremony
11:30am Begin Hike
12:30pm Ceremony with Family/Friends and photos
2:00pm Hike Back to Parking
3:00pm Drive to Cliff Overlook
3:30pm Cliffside Picnic, Private Vows, + Photos
5:00pm Drive to Airbnb
6:30pm Private Chef Dinner / Toasts / Cake Cutting
8:00pm Photography Coverage Ends
Kauai Elopement Packages
I’m much more than a photographer, I’m someone who is super passionate about supporting couples on their big day, from scouting hidden gems for the ideal location, stress-free planning, and of course capturing raw, authentic moments. As a photographer specializing in adventure elopements, you’ll be in safe hands. So, are you ready to say yes to Kauai?! More information on my packages below:
Packages
4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or 2 Day elopement photography
Photography on digital, film, and drone (where permitted)
A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
Personalized elopement location recommendation list
Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
Custom-built-for-you elopement timeline
Assistance to help you with permits and licenses
90+ page elopement planning guide with my best tips & tricks
Optional complimentary officiant services
Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
5-7 day sneak peeks
Travel fees to anywhere in the United States are already included
Starting at $5,000
Video Add-Ons
For an extra special, immersive reminder of your special day, I now offer the following options for video add ons to your elopement packages:
Documentary style highlight reel
Super 8 film
Ceremony recording
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
CHECK OUT MY FREE ELOPEMENT PLANNING GUIDE & CHECKLIST!
This freebie gives you a step-by-step guide on exactly how to plan your dream adventure elopement.
