How to Elope on Oahu
The gateway to the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is akin to Los Angeles, with a thriving food scene, happening nightlife, and plenty of culture—except you’re on an island! For those looking to elope or have a small wedding on Oahu, you should be okay with having other tourists around. Also known as “The Gathering Place,” the island is home to two-thirds of Hawai’i’s population as well as the capital, Honolulu. Oahu is the place that you’re most likely to encounter locals and despite its population of roughly one million, there are still plenty of beaches perfect for an intimate elopement.
Although there are crowds, that also means that there’s a lot to do! When mainlanders tend to think of Hawai’i, it’s often famous Oahu locations that first come to mind, including Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, and the North Shore. As such, if you choose to elope on Oahu, there’s no shortage of fabulous places to stay and eat, as well as fun activities. Known for its epic (and frequent) rainbows, as well as being the setting of the TV series “Lost,” Oahu also offers stunning scenery at every turn.
Thanks to the extensive local knowledge and insight from our team of officiants and photographers, we’ve created this guide for anyone considering eloping on Oahu. Read on to find the perfect beach for your elopement, logistics on getting a Hawaiian marriage certificate, insight on what time of year is best to elope on Oahu, and how much an eloping on Oahu might cost you.
What are the best beaches for a small Oahu wedding?
Looking for privacy? A short drive or walk from your resort? A mix of greenery and white sand? The beauty of having a small wedding on Oahu is that your options are endless—to make things easier, we’ve picked five of our favorite beaches for your big day. For all of these beaches, a permit is required, something we help coordinate as part of our elopement packages.
Typically, beach weddings throughout Hawai’i are limited to 20 people max, although with Covid-19, that number is now six. Also good to note: Most of these locations will require a scenic drive, so we recommend renting a car. You can’t go wrong with a convertible!
Papa’iloa Beach
Once the set of “Lost,” this beach is decently public but there’s always some privacy to be found. Located on the North Shore, there’s a ton of easy parking and access. There’s also a great mix of greenery and beach views. Plus, the sunsets are fantastic.
Hale’iwa Beach
Also on the North Shore, near the charming small town of Hale’iwa, this beach is a bit more heavily trafficked due to its proximity to restaurants and shops, as well as its popularity with sea turtles. Although the reefs are shallow, meaning it’s not great for swimming, the wildlife sightings and views (especially at sunset) make it a lovely wedding spot.
Waialae Beach
Relatively close to Honolulu, you can Uber or Lyft to this location, drive (there’s a small parking lot), or choose to splurge on the neighboring Kahala Hotel & Resort. A stream borders this beach and there are even some small grassy areas perfect for setting-up some chairs for a small wedding. Because of its location and stunning views (there’s a small island with palm trees just offshore), this beach tends to be pretty popular. Avoid the crowds by eloping at sunrise!
Waimanalo Beach
Located on the southeastern shore of Oahu, about a half-hour drive from Honolulu, this is a fantastic beach for intimate sunrise elopements (we don’t recommend it after 11 am). In the heart of cowboy (Paniolo) countryside, there are green knolls and trees, pristine, turquoise waters, and soft, white sand, ideal for eloping barefoot. The parking lot is small here, so it’s not ideal for larger groups.
Yokohama Beach Park
Of the five beaches outlined here, Yokohama is the furthest from Honolulu (about an hour’s drive from Waikiki), making it the most secluded and ideal for an intimate elopement. Tourists rarely head to the west side of the island, despite the incredible beaches, lush greenery, and primo sunsets.