Planning a wedding weekend in Hawaii is a dream for many couples, and it’s easy to see why. With stunning landscapes, luxurious venues, and a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, Hawaii is the ideal destination for a full wedding weekend experience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your Hawaii wedding weekend—from choosing the right island to sample itineraries, venues, and the best local vendors.

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Why a Wedding Weekend in Hawaii?

The trend of hosting multi-day wedding celebrations is on the rise, and Hawaii is the perfect destination for it. A wedding weekend allows couples and guests to savor the experience with a range of activities, from beach days and hikes to elegant dinners and, of course, the wedding itself. Hosting a wedding weekend gives everyone more time to connect, enjoy the island’s beauty, and celebrate in a relaxed, luxurious atmosphere.

Hawaii offers four main islands to choose from: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Each one offers something unique, making it easy to craft a wedding weekend that reflects your style and personality.

Getting to Hawaii and Choosing an Island

Hawaii is a well-connected destination, with direct flights from many major cities in the U.S., Canada, and parts of Asia. Most guests will likely fly into Honolulu on Oahu or Kahului on Maui, but flights are available to the other islands as well.

When choosing an island for your wedding weekend, consider the overall vibe you want to create. Are you looking for luxury and nightlife? Oahu might be your top pick. For something more laid-back and nature-focused, Maui or Kauai are great choices, while the Big Island offers both adventure and stunning landscapes.

A Quick Overview of Each Hawaiian Island

• Oahu: Offers a balance of city and nature, with venues like the elegant Halekulani Hotel in Waikiki and the rustic Sunset Ranch on the North Shore.
• Maui: Known for its luxury resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and stunning outdoor venues like Olowalu Plantation House.
• Kauai: Ideal for nature lovers, with lush landscapes and intimate venues like Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens.
• Big Island: Known for its volcanic landscapes and unique venues such as Mauna Lani Auberge Resort and the Fairmont Orchid.

The Guest Experience: What to Expect

A wedding weekend in Hawaii is not just about the wedding day—it’s about creating a memorable experience for your guests. From beachfront welcome parties to island excursions, there’s no shortage of things to do. Plan a range of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring everyone has the chance to relax and explore.

Activities to consider:

• Snorkeling, surfing, or paddle-boarding
• Scenic hikes (like Diamond Head on Oahu or Haleakalā on Maui)
• Private catamaran sunset cruises
• Luau dinner experiences
• Spa days at luxury resorts
• Wedding recovery pool parties
• Welcome cocktail parties

Pro Tip: Ask your venue or planner to create a guest welcome bag with luxury local touches such as Hawaiian coffee, macadamia nuts, or custom leis.

Stylish Welcome Parties

When planning a full wedding weekend in Hawaii, the celebration extends beyond the ceremony itself. A stylish welcome party is a perfect way to set the tone for your wedding festivities. Whether it’s an elegant beachfront cocktail hour or a laid-back gathering at a luxury resort, welcoming your guests with a chic soirée lets everyone relax and enjoy the tropical vibes before the big day. Incorporating local flavors and entertainment like a traditional Hawaiian band or hula dancers can add a memorable cultural touch to the evening.

Wedding Recovery Pool Parties

And don’t forget about the post-wedding recovery pool party. After an evening of celebration, a relaxed poolside brunch or casual day at the resort pool allows everyone to unwind and relive the highlights of the wedding. It’s a fun, informal way to continue the party with your closest family and friends, while enjoying the beautiful Hawaiian sunshine. Whether you opt for poolside cabanas, tropical cocktails, or even an oceanfront villa, this is the perfect way to say goodbye in style.

Venues on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Big Island for your Wedding Weekend

Oahu

• Venue: The Royal Hawaiian Hotel
  Cost: Starting at $20,000 for venue rental.
  Nearby Accommodations: Halekulani Hotel, The Modern Honolulu.
  A classic Waikiki landmark, The Royal Hawaiian combines beachfront luxury with iconic pink architecture, offering a historic backdrop for your wedding.
• Venue: Kualoa Ranch
  Cost: $8,000–$15,000 depending on the space.
  Nearby Accommodations: Turtle Bay Resort.
  If you’re looking for a venue with epic natural beauty, Kualoa Ranch offers breathtaking views of mountains and ocean.

Maui

• Venue: Olowalu Plantation House
  Cost: $7,000 for venue rental.
  Nearby Accommodations: Montage Kapalua Bay, Four Seasons Resort Maui.
  This historic property sits right on the ocean and is ideal for intimate, elegant celebrations.
• Venue: Haiku Mill
  Cost: $10,000–$15,000.
  Nearby Accommodations: Paia Inn, Lumeria Maui.
  Haiku Mill is a romantic and magical venue with European-inspired ruins surrounded by lush greenery.

Kauai

• Venue: Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens
  Cost: $6,500 for venue rental.
  Nearby Accommodations: The St. Regis Princeville Resort.
  A private garden venue with stunning ocean views and beautiful sculptures.
• Venue: National Tropical Botanical Garden
  Cost: $5,000–$8,000 for venue rental.
  Nearby Accommodations: Koa Kea Hotel & Resort.
  For couples looking for a lush and natural setting, this garden venue is picture-perfect.

Big Island

• Venue: Mauna Lani Auberge Resorts Collection
  Cost: $10,000–$12,000 for venue rental.
  Nearby Accommodations: Fairmont Orchid, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.
  A beautiful oceanfront venue with options for both intimate and larger weddings.
• Venue: Fairmont Orchid
  Cost: $8,000–$10,000 for venue rental.
  Nearby Accommodations: Same as venue.
  This luxurious property offers multiple locations for ceremonies and receptions, including beachfront and garden options.

Sample Hawaii Wedding Weekend Itineraries for Each Island

A wedding weekend in Hawaii offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in a multi-day celebration with your closest friends and family. From adventure-packed days to elegant dinners, each island offers unique experiences. Below are sample itineraries tailored to each island to help you plan an unforgettable weekend.

Oahu Wedding Weekend Itinerary

Oahu offers the best of both worlds—lively city experiences and serene natural beauty. It’s perfect for couples looking to create a dynamic wedding weekend with a mix of cultural activities, beach time, and nightlife.

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome Party

• Afternoon: Most guests will likely fly into Honolulu, so arrange for a smooth transfer to their accommodations in Waikiki or the North Shore. Consider booking a beachfront hotel like the Halekulani or The Royal Hawaiian for a blend of history and luxury.
• Evening: Kick off the weekend with a relaxed welcome party at The Royal Hawaiian’s Mai Tai Bar, where guests can sip cocktails with a view of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean. Keep it casual with light bites, island music, and a stunning sunset backdrop.

Day 2: Beach & Rehearsal Dinner

• Morning: Plan a leisurely beach day at Lanikai Beach or Kailua Beach, where guests can enjoy clear waters and soft sands. For those seeking adventure, you can arrange for a private outrigger canoe ride or a group surfing lesson.
• Evening: Host a rehearsal dinner on Oahu’s North Shore at Sunset Ranch. Nestled in the mountains, this secluded venue offers panoramic views of both the coastline and the lush countryside. A family-style dinner with fresh local seafood and farm-to-table dishes can create an intimate, relaxed atmosphere for close friends and family.

Day 3: Wedding Day at Kualoa Ranch

• Morning: Guests can enjoy a quiet morning before the main event. Arrange for a light breakfast and some downtime.
• Afternoon: The wedding ceremony and reception will take place at Kualoa Ranch, a venue known for its breathtaking backdrop of towering mountains and ocean views. This expansive property offers multiple ceremony locations and is perfect for larger guest lists. You can even incorporate a tour of the ranch for guests between the ceremony and reception.
• Evening: Dance the night away under the stars with your reception set up in the Ranch’s Paliku Gardens or Moli’i Gardens.

“Kualoa Ranch is one of those venues that offers both adventure and elegance. You can go from a simple ceremony in the gardens to a dramatic, cliffside view—your guests will never forget it.” – recommends Jayvee from Cherished in Hawaii, a top wedding planner on Oahu.

Maui Wedding Weekend Itinerary

Maui is known for its luxury resorts and lush landscapes, making it ideal for couples who want a mix of elegance and relaxation. Whether it’s an oceanfront wedding or a tropical garden celebration, Maui has a venue and activity for everyone.

Day 1: Arrival & Catamaran Cruise

• Afternoon: After landing in Kahului, your guests will settle into accommodations such as the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea or the Montage Kapalua Bay.
• Evening: Kick off the weekend with a private sunset catamaran cruise along the stunning Maui coastline. Guests can enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while taking in the island views from the water.

Day 2: Hike & Rehearsal Dinner

• Morning: Arrange an optional group hike for your more adventurous guests at Haleakalā National Park. The sunrise from this volcano is unforgettable, and for guests who prefer something less strenuous, you can plan a scenic drive through Hana.
• Evening: For the rehearsal dinner, reserve an outdoor venue at Olowalu Plantation House, one of Maui’s most sought-after wedding venues. Its oceanfront location and charming plantation style make it a dreamy spot for a rehearsal dinner under the stars.

Day 3: Wedding Day at Haiku Mill

• Morning: As your wedding party gets ready, guests can spend the morning exploring nearby Paia or relaxing at the resort.
• Afternoon: Your ceremony and reception will be hosted at Haiku Mill, a magical venue with European-inspired ruins draped in lush greenery and flowers. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic and intimate setting. Guests will be wowed by the natural beauty of the venue, followed by a farm-to-table dinner using local ingredients.

“Haiku Mill is one of those venues that feels like you’re stepping into another world. It’s perfect for couples who want something truly unique and intimate for their wedding.” – says Ana from Contessa & Co., a top planner on Maui.https://www.contessaandco.events/

Kauai Wedding Weekend Itinerary

Kauai, known as the “Garden Island,” is perfect for couples seeking a more relaxed, nature-focused wedding weekend. Kauai’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and secluded beaches provide an unforgettable backdrop.

Day 1: Arrival & Private Luau

• Afternoon: Guests can arrive and check into accommodations such as The St. Regis Princeville Resort or the intimate Koa Kea Hotel & Resort.
• Evening: Welcome your guests with a private luau at Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens. This stunning garden venue is the perfect place to immerse your guests in Hawaiian culture and offer them a taste of the island’s incredible cuisine and entertainment.

Day 2: Explore the Napali Coast & Rehearsal Dinner

• Morning: Plan a group activity for your guests, such as a boat tour of the Napali Coast or a visit to Waimea Canyon for panoramic views of the island.
• Evening: Host your rehearsal dinner at a private beach house along Hanalei Bay. Keep it casual with a seafood feast and cocktails as the sun sets over the water.

Day 3: Wedding Day at Na Aina Kai

• Morning: While your guests enjoy breakfast or a stroll through Hanalei Town, your wedding party can prepare for the big day.
• Afternoon: The ceremony will take place at Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, offering endless opportunities for breathtaking photos and moments of serenity. The vibrant flora and ocean views will create an unforgettable setting for your wedding and reception.

“Kauai is perfect for couples who want to immerse themselves in nature. Na Aina Kai is a beautiful venue that combines the best of the island’s botanical beauty with a stunning oceanfront location.” – recommends Marlene from Mira Mira Events.

Big Island Wedding Weekend Itinerary

The Big Island is known for its diverse landscapes—ranging from black sand beaches to volcanoes. For couples who want to mix adventure with luxury, the Big Island offers endless opportunities to wow your guests.

Day 1: Arrival & Lava Viewing Tour

• Afternoon: Guests will arrive and check into accommodations like the Fairmont Orchid or the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, both of which offer luxurious amenities and stunning views.
• Evening: Kick off the weekend with a helicopter tour over the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime lava viewing experience. Afterward, guests can unwind with a private dinner at the hotel’s beachfront restaurant.

Day 2: Snorkeling & Rehearsal Dinner

• Morning: Plan a snorkeling excursion at Honaunau Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. For guests who prefer a more relaxed day, arrange for spa treatments or poolside relaxation at the resort.
• Evening: Host the rehearsal dinner at the CanoeHouse at Mauna Lani Auberge Resorts, a stunning oceanfront location with impeccable dining. The relaxed, island-inspired menu will be the perfect prelude to the big day.

Day 3: Wedding Day at Mauna Lani

• Morning: Guests can explore the nearby Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park or enjoy the morning at the resort.
• Afternoon: The ceremony and reception will take place at Mauna Lani Auberge, an oceanfront resort with breathtaking views. The venue’s lush gardens and luxury amenities make it an ideal spot for couples who want a relaxed yet refined wedding experience.

“The Big Island offers something truly special—whether it’s exploring the volcanoes or relaxing on black sand beaches, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and elegance.” – explains Kate from Sunshower Weddings, a premiere wedding planner on Big Island.

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These sample itineraries highlight the unique experiences each island has to offer, allowing couples to create a memorable weekend that goes beyond the wedding day itself. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Hawaii has it all.

Choosing Local Hawaii Vendors and Why It Matters

Hiring local vendors is essential when planning a Hawaii wedding weekend. Not only do they understand the local landscape and logistics, but they can also provide insider tips and connections. I always recommend working with a Hawaii-based wedding planner who can help coordinate the details of your weekend.

For photography, choosing a local wedding photographer like myself is beneficial in several ways. I know the best times for lighting, hidden spots for intimate portraits, and can guide you in creating a seamless experience. Plus, you avoid travel fees that non-local photographers might charge. If you’re ready to discuss how I can capture your wedding weekend, I’d love to chat.

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FAQ: Planning a Wedding Weekend in Hawaii

1. What’s the best time of year to host a wedding weekend in Hawaii?
   The best times are typically April to June and September to November for great weather and fewer tourists.
2. How early should I book my vendors for a Hawaii wedding weekend?
   It’s best to book at least 12–18 months in advance, especially for high-demand venues and vendors.
3. What should we include in our guest welcome bags?
   Consider local treats like Hawaiian coffee, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles.
4. Can we have a beach ceremony?
   Yes, but you’ll need a permit. Working with a local planner can ensure you follow all local regulations.
5. What activities should we plan for guests?
   Snorkeling, private boat tours, hikes, or even a traditional luau are all great options.
6. How much does a wedding weekend in Hawaii cost?
   The cost depends on venue, guest count, and activities. A wedding weekend typically ranges from $50,000–$150,000.
7. How do we choose the right island for our wedding weekend?
   Consider the type of experience you want—Oahu for a lively atmosphere, Kauai for intimate nature settings, etc.
8. Can we bring our own photographer?
   You can, but I recommend hiring a local photographer who knows the landscape, lighting, and best photo spots.
9. Are there wedding planners that specialize in wedding weekends?
   Yes, many local planners specialize in creating seamless multi-day celebration
10. What’s the best way to keep our wedding weekend in Hawaii organized?
    Work with a full-service planner and communicate regularly with your guests.