FAQs
The City and the Sea: Oahu Elopements
If you enjoy night life, swanky dinners, North Shore surf vibes, playing in the ocean, and mixing adventure with tamer activities like shopping and dining, Oahu is probably your best bet. You can really get the best of everything on this island!
Is it expensive to elope in Hawaii? ›
The elopement cost in Hawaii is relatively cheap as well, costing (as of the time of this article) $65; a $60 application fee plus a $5 administration fee. For full info, check out the state department for official instructions and laws before you begin the elopement process.
Do you still walk down the aisle for elopement? ›
Walking Down the Aisle
While not all elopements have aisles, there's no reason you cannot arrive to your all-time favorite song or walk down a designated aisle. White has created an aisle out of flower petals on the beach and had brides walk down a mountain trail to their partner.
What is the best island in Hawaii to get married? ›
Oahu and Maui are both wildly popular destinations for tourists, and trendy beaches like Waikiki Beach can see as many as six wedding ceremonies within 50 ft of each other happening at a given time.
Where is the best place to elope in the US? ›
The Best Places to Elope
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
- Central Park, New York City.
- Bogus Basin, Idaho.
- Moab, Utah.
- City Park, New Orleans.
- Tybee Island, Savannah.
- City Hall, San Francisco.
- Balboa Park, San Diego.
Do you need a witness to elope in Hawaii? ›
While the state doesn't require any witnesses, to elope in Hawaii you still need an officiant. You can hire an officiant who specializes in elopements – even if your day involves hiking out to your ceremony location, lots of officiants are up for some adventure!
What to do after eloping in Hawaii? ›
Here are three unconventional plans that you can do as a couple or with your guests!
- Attend a Luau. Treat yourselves to a really fun luau where all of the food and drink are taken care of for you by the staff. ...
- Go on a Tour. ...
- Go Somewhere You've Always Wanted to Try.
Where is the best place to get married in Hawaii? ›
Best places to get married in Hawaii
- Puakea Ranch Big Island. ...
- Kona Beach Bungalows Big Island. ...
- Kukahiko Estate Maui. ...
- Olowalu Plantation House Maui. ...
- Haiku Mill Maui. ...
- The Dillingham Ranch Oahu. ...
- Haiku Gardens Oahu. ...
- Waimea Valley Oahu. Also on the North Shore is Waimea Valley.
Is there a waiting period to get married in Hawaii? ›
There is no waiting period before the ceremony can take place. The license is only valid within the State of Hawaii. If the ceremony is not performed within the 30-day period, the license is null and void.
Do you need witnesses to get married in Hawaii? ›
A marriage in Hawaii is legally recognized all over the globe*, and the only thing a happy couple needs is a marriage license. A witness is not required, so eloping in Hawaii couldn't be easier!
Obtain Your Hawaii Marriage License
Once you are on the island, you will need to appear before a marriage license agent and show your documentation such as proof of age and proof of previously terminated marriages.
What is high elopement risk? ›
Increasing Elopement Risks
Residents who have eloped may be exposed to extreme heat or cold. They may suffer a fall when walking over uneven or unfamiliar territory. Additionally, they may suffer injuries or death as a result of wandering into traffic or bodies of water, or as a result of exposure to inclement weather.
Do you wear a wedding dress if you elope? ›
Can I wear a wedding dress to my elopement? Of course! While some brides may opt to wear a simple slip dress or wedding suit to their elopement, it's also perfectly acceptable to wear a formal floor-length gown—you do you!
What is the best month to get married in Hawaii? ›
The peak wedding season is typically March-August during the “summer”. There is somewhat of a “winter' from October – January which means slightly cooler temperatures and more frequent rain. There is also a peak in tourism in the middle of the summer as well as around the holidays, so the islands are much busier.
Do I need a permit to get married on the beach in Hawaii? ›
Like all the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu requires a permit from the State of Hawaii to marry on a beach. We can apply for and pick up the permit for your event. At the time of writing, a Hawaii beach wedding or vow renewal permit costs $50.
Is it expensive to get married in Hawaii? ›
The price of an average US wedding is close to $30,000 while the average Hawaii destination wedding costs between $9,500 and $15,600…
What is the least popular day to get married? ›
What is the least popular wedding date? The Ides of March, which falls on March 15 every year, is one of the least popular dates to get married on. Another unpopular date is May 13; Friday the 13th, generally, is considered to be an inauspicious day for doing any important things.
What state is the easiest to get married in? ›
The Easiest States to Get Married In #1: Colorado
Colorado law does not require a blood test, witnesses, or a waiting period in order to get married. Furthermore, a couple can self solemnize their own marriage. New to the term?
Why eloping is a good idea? ›
An elopement grants them the freedom to decide how to commit their lives to each other. It creates a magical, intimate way for couples to make their wildest, most romantic dreams about their wedding day come true without asking them to sacrifice a single, intimate moment between the two of them.
How much does it cost to get married at the courthouse in Hawaii? ›
The Legal Age to Marry: 18 years for both applicants. Marriage License Fee: $60.00 (plus $5.00 portal administrative cost). Waiting Period: None.
Walk-ins are accepted at room 101 of the Hawaii Department of Health's (DOH) building at 1250 Punchbowl Street. Arrive on the island and go from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday (excluding holidays).
How can I get married without a wedding? ›
Elopements and civil ceremonies/civil marriages are both legally binding ways to get married without a wedding. With elopements you'll pick up a marriage license from the County Clerk and Recorder and you'll sign it on the day of your elopement and then have it filed after its completed.
What do people do after they elope? ›
Here's what to do after eloping for just you two:
celebrate with your favorite drink (maybe some sparkling water) get matching tattoos. go on an epic adventure like hiking or sky-diving. hop breweries.
How much is an officiant in Hawaii? ›
Officiant Services: Elopements, Venue & Beach Weddings $325.00 + tax.
Can you get married in one day in Hawaii? ›
Both of you must appear in person before a marriage license agent and bring along the required documents such as your proof of age or proof of previously terminated marriages. Marriage licenses are valid 30 days in the State of Hawaii after you are issued approval. After that, there is no waiting period to get married.
Where in Hawaii can you get married? ›
You can be married all year on the sunny side of each of the larger islands. On Oahu that's Waikiki and Ko Olina, Maui's Kaanapali to Wailea shores, Poipu to Waimea on Kauai, and Hawaii Island's Kona coast to Kohala.
Is Hawaii a good place to have a wedding? ›
No matter your wedding theme or the size of your guest list, Hawaii is a magical place to marry. Here are the best Hawaii wedding venues for every style, from Kauai to the Big Island and beyond. The Aloha State is one of the most beautiful places in the country (and honestly, the world) to say 'I do.
Can you get married on Waikiki Beach? ›
One of Hawaii's most scenic stretches of coastline, Waikiki Beach sets the stage for unforgettable sunset ceremonies and romantic wedding receptions.
Can you do a courthouse wedding in Hawaii? ›
Hawaii Civil Marriage provides affordable non-religious marriage ceremonies and civil unions performed by licensed commissioned State of Hawaii Judges.
Can you marry your cousin in Hawaii? ›
According to the NCSL, cousin marriage is legal in: Alabama, Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina (in North Carolina, first-cousin marriage is legal, but double-cousin marriage is prohibited), ...
Maui is the most popular of all the Hawaiian islands for wedding and vow renewal ceremonies, offering expert wedding planning services and a variety of beautiful ceremony sites, including beachfront estates, ocean bluffs, uncrowded beaches, and charming wedding chapels.
Can I marry my friends in Hawaii? ›
Officiate a wedding ceremony Hawaii
You may have a friend or family member who you would like to perform your marriage in Hawaii.
What do you need for a marriage license in Hawaii? ›
Typically, the only legal documentation required is a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. If previously married, proof of original divorce decree or death certificate only needs to be presented if the divorce or death was finalized within 30 days of applying for a marriage license.
Can I get married online? ›
In most areas, even if online marriage isn't a common practice, an online wedding “hosted in” a country where it's legally recognized is legitimate. Since the wedding takes place at a digital venue, it can happen in any state or country where online weddings are legal.
Where do you apply for marriage license? ›
You can apply for your marriage license from the local registry office from where one of you habitually resides. The license is a piece of document stating that both of you are allowed to get married under the Philippine government law.
How do I get married in Kauai courthouse? ›
How to Apply for a Marriage License on Kauai
- The prospective bride and groom must appear together in person before a marriage license agent to apply for a marriage license. ...
- The prospective bride and groom should be prepared to provide the necessary proof of age and present any required written consents and approvals.
How do I get married? ›
- Step 1: Set a Date and Place for Your Wedding. ...
- Step 2: Visit the County Clerk. ...
- Step 3: Get Signatures from Your Officiant and Marriage License Witnesses. ...
- Step 4: The Officiant Turns in the Completed Marriage License to the County.
How many guests can you have at an elopement? ›
Guests. This is one of the biggest contrasts between a traditional wedding and an elopement ceremony. Most traditional weddings have a guest list with 50 to 200+ guests, while an elopement is 20 guests or less. A microwedding is 20-50 guests.
What is elopement behavior? ›
Elopement, also known as wandering or bolting, describes an individual's behavior of leaving an area without permission or supervision. Elopement puts an individual, especially one with autism or related developmental disabilities, at risk for harm.
Which behaviors could lead to elopement? ›
Depression and agitation are two of the most common psychological causes for elopement behavior.
...
Other psychological factors can also cause a resident to elope or wander to alleviate these feelings, such as:
- Lack of self-control.
- An uncontrollable sense of boredom.
- Stress.
- Or anxiety.
Planning your elopement can take at least 3 months to organize your inspiration, budget, and vendors. We advise doing all of your paperwork 2 months away from your elopement day.
Is eloping selfish? ›
When you are choosing to elope, you are not, in fact, being SELFISH. You are practicing SELF-CARE. You are choosing to honor your own needs and feelings. You are making decisions that are right for YOU.
What do I need for an elopement? ›
Without further ado, here's the ultimate elopement checklist:
- Choose a budget. ...
- Select a destination and wedding venue. ...
- Check the law. ...
- Choose a date. ...
- Make travel arrangements (if needed) ...
- Arrange accommodation (if needed) ...
- Plan the ceremony. ...
- Write your vows (if any)
How much should you spend on an elopement dress? ›
Ceremony attire can include dresses, suits, shoes, and any other accessories that you want for your elopement! Wedding dresses for an elopement typically range from $500 - $2,000 if you go to a bridal shop. BHLDN and Daci Gowns are both great shops, offering tons of variety in styles for every budget.
What does bride wear to elope? ›
The ball gown style is often what people think of when they think of classic wedding dresses. These are also a great option for eloping, as they allow for freedom of movement in the legs and maintain the classic wedding look.
What should I wear for an elopement photo? ›
Jumpsuits, tailored suits, colored skirts, and even adding on fun flares like wedding capes etc. can all be great wedding attire choices. As long as you get to adventure along the California coast with your honey, it's a win for this elopement photographer.
Is there a waiting period to get married in Hawaii? ›
There is no waiting period before the ceremony can take place. The license is only valid within the State of Hawaii. If the ceremony is not performed within the 30-day period, the license is null and void.
How hard is it to get married in Hawaii? ›
Marriage License - Hawaii makes obtaining a marriage license incredibly easy. You can apply online from home. Once you arrive in Hawaii, you'll both need to pick up your license at the Department of Health or with a licensing agent. The in-person process takes about 15 minutes.
How long does it take to get a Hawaii marriage license? ›
The Department of Health will mail the official marriage certificate to you. This will be sent to the forwarding address you listed in the online application. You can expect to receive your marriage certificate about 4-6 weeks after your ceremony date.
How much does it cost to get married in Hawaii courthouse? ›
The Legal Age to Marry: 18 years for both applicants. Marriage License Fee: $60.00 (plus $5.00 portal administrative cost). Waiting Period: None. License Validity: 30 Days.
Both of you must appear in person before a marriage license agent and bring along the required documents such as your proof of age or proof of previously terminated marriages. Marriage licenses are valid 30 days in the State of Hawaii after you are issued approval. After that, there is no waiting period to get married.
Do you need a permit to get married on the beach in Hawaii? ›
Like all the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu requires a permit from the State of Hawaii to marry on a beach. We can apply for and pick up the permit for your event. At the time of writing, a Hawaii beach wedding or vow renewal permit costs $50.
Do I need a marriage license to get married in Hawaii? ›
You'll need to get your marriage license from the state; however, be aware that the license is only valid for 30 days so you may have to hold off for awhile, depending on when you plan to travel. Once the license has been issued, there is no waiting period before the marriage can take place.
What is the best month to have a wedding in Hawaii? ›
The peak wedding season is typically March-August during the “summer”. There is somewhat of a “winter' from October – January which means slightly cooler temperatures and more frequent rain. There is also a peak in tourism in the middle of the summer as well as around the holidays, so the islands are much busier.
Do you need a witness to get married in Hawaii? ›
The State of Hawaii does technically require a witness but that witness is the officiant who will be performing the marriage anyway. In fact, when the marriage license is signed, there are only 3 lines for signatures - the couple and the officiant. There are no other required signatures.
Is it cheap to get married in Hawaii? ›
We find that most couples can have a destination Hawaii wedding for around $6000, which includes the wedding, flight, and hotel, an enormous savings over the cost of a traditional wedding, which is currently over $30,000.
Can I use a California marriage license in Hawaii? ›
Is the marriage license valid on all islands of Hawaii? » Yes! Your marriage license will be valid across all of Hawaii. You can absolutely schedule your appointment with a license agent on one island and get married on another.
Is a Hawaii marriage license valid in California? ›
No. If you purchased a marriage license, California law requires you to have a marriage ceremony performed anywhere in the State of California. The ceremony must be performed by a person who is authorized by law to solemnize marriages in California within 90 days from the date the license is issued.
Can you do a courthouse wedding in Hawaii? ›
Hawaii Civil Marriage provides affordable non-religious marriage ceremonies and civil unions performed by licensed commissioned State of Hawaii Judges.
Is it expensive to get married in Hawaii? ›
The price of an average US wedding is close to $30,000 while the average Hawaii destination wedding costs between $9,500 and $15,600…
Elopements and civil ceremonies/civil marriages are both legally binding ways to get married without a wedding. With elopements you'll pick up a marriage license from the County Clerk and Recorder and you'll sign it on the day of your elopement and then have it filed after its completed.
Where do I go to get a marriage license in Hawaii? ›
Walk-ins are accepted at room 101 of the Hawaii Department of Health's (DOH) building at 1250 Punchbowl Street. Arrive on the island and go from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday (excluding holidays).