One of the many things that I love about my job as a wedding photographer is knowing that one day, years after your wedding, you will sit on your couch, dust your old wedding album, flip through the pages, and see the magical photos that I took for your wedding day. I hope that when those days come in the future, you will not just remember the joyful moments of being with the person you love the most, but also the magic that was brought by the place you chose to witness your expression of love. 

In my many years of immortalizing wedding days, I’ve been lucky enough to catch some truly magical moments, and I can say that there’s something special about tying the knot with the ocean as your backdrop—it’s as if the sea itself bears witness to the vows, while everyone is faintly hearing the calm waves in the background. 

I could not stress enough the importance of choosing the right venue for your special day. This choice goes beyond mere convenience; it’s about selecting a location that connects with your love story, one that you’ll look back on and instantly recall the joy and love you felt. I’ve handpicked these top 5 oceanfront wedding venues on Oahu, hoping one of these will be the perfect venue for your wedding. I can assure you that these spots aren’t just breathtaking; they’re places where every detail works together to create your perfect day.

Loulu Palm

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Loulu Palm is an enchanting oceanfront venue perfect for your wedding. The property began as an idea in 2007 and has blossomed into a beautiful retreat, featuring a vintage Hawaiian home, a lush expansive lawn, and a secluded beach, all amidst turquoise waters and tropical mountains.

The venue, originally known as Waiale’e or “rippling water,” offers a peaceful ambiance with the sounds of the ocean. Nearby, the coral reefs and tide pools around the small island of Kukaimanini are home to vibrant marine life, adding to the charm and wonder of the location. Under the starry sky, far from city lights, Loulu Palm provides a majestic setting where magical memories are made.

• Website: Loulu Palm
• Phone: +1 800-880-7256
• Email: aloha@loulupalm.com

Sea Life Park Hawaii

Sea Life Park Hawaii offers a unique oceanfront wedding venue on Waimanalo’s picturesque coast, with the majestic Ko’olau Mountain Range as its backdrop. This venue combines natural beauty with the excitement of wildlife, featuring multiple outdoor event spaces like the Meadows, Beachboy Lanai, and Seaside Gardens, each offering stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and local fauna, including dolphins and sea lions. The newly added St. Catalina Chapel provides an intimate setting with breathtaking views, perfect for ceremonies and receptions. Sea Life Park is ideal for couples looking for a venue that offers both natural beauty and a touch of Hawaiian charm.

• Website: Sea Life Park Hawaii
• Phone: 808-259-2500

Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve

Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve offers a dramatically beautiful and versatile wedding venue located on Oahu’s windward coast. Spread across 4,000 acres, this nature reserve features several unique sites such as Paliku Gardens, Moli’i Gardens, and Secret Island, each offering its distinct charm and breathtaking views. Known for its significant cultural and historical importance, as well as being the filming location for famous movies (like Jurassic Park!), Kualoa Ranch provides a truly iconic Hawaiian backdrop for weddings. Paliku Gardens, for example, boasts a large, open lawn surrounded by lush tropical flora, perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions with its covered pavilion and convenient amenities like a partial kitchen and ample parking.

• Website: Kualoa Ranch
• Phone: 808-237-7321
• Email: reservation@kualoa.com

Lanikuhonua

Lanikuhonua, translating to “where heaven meets the earth,” is a serene and exquisite oceanfront venue located in Kapolei, Oahu. The property spans 11 acres, with lush, natural settings perfect for both intimate and grand weddings. With three distinct venues onsite—Ani Ani Ku, Ka’ula, and Ha’alea—each offers unique features like open pavilions and expansive lawns, accommodating up to 1,000 guests. This venue provides a picturesque backdrop for your wedding, with the sun setting over the Pacific, ensuring a memorable and romantic experience.

• Website: Lanikuhonua
• Email: lanikuhonua@jamescampbell.com
• Phone: (808) 674-3360

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, offers a tropical paradise with a twist for adventure, perfect for a destination wedding in Ko Olina, Hawaii. The resort provides a wide range of venue options, from intimate beach settings to grand ballrooms, accommodating various event sizes and styles. Guests can enjoy stunning ocean views, white sandy beaches, and lush landscapes. Aulani’s unique combination of Disney magic and authentic Hawaiian ambiance makes it a memorable location for both ceremonies and receptions.

• Website: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
• Phone: (866) 443-4763

Choosing where to get married is a huge decision—after all, it’s the scene where your future starts. This one-day event is going to be the first page of your long love story and something that you will treasure forever. The venues that I have shared with you are more than just special places, they’re where unforgettable memories come to life and every photo taken is a beautiful testament to your love story. 

As you plan your big day, think about these stunning oceanfront venues not just for their beauty, but for the unique stories and experiences they can offer. Whichever you choose, it’s bound to be the kind of place that feels just right for the beginning of your happily ever after.

Want more inspo? Check out my Oahu Wedding Venues for the Modern Couple.