Big Island Weddings

Often a wedding at home can seem daunting. Everyday responsibilities can be a hindrance to planning and creating the perfect wedding ceremony. With so many daily tasks to take care of more attention goes to feeling overwhelmed and stressed than feeling relaxed and anticipating the big day without any worry. A wedding in Hawaii can be the perfect way to enjoy the day of your dreams. When surrounded by such spectacular scenery it’s difficult not to leave your worries behind and focus on the more important things in life.

A Big Island wedding affords a myriad of elements that are easily utilized to personalize your wedding ceremony and celebration. A Hawaii wedding vacation allows both the bride and groom to enjoy their nuptials in a calm and relaxed frame of mind. Not only do sun-kissed stretches of Big Island beaches, incredible views of islands peeking out from the sea and fragrant flower blooms afford tranquility unlike anywhere else, each vista has its own way of adding a certain element of peace to every Big Island wedding.

A wedding that could cost a small fortune at home can come at a surprisingly affordable price on Big Island allowing the savings to be used for a number of other important investments such as a first home or even an extended Hawaii wedding vacation to prolong the island romance. There are numerous magnificent locations perfect for a Big Island wedding, many that can be used for little or no cost. Tropical lagoons, picturesque seaside locations, vivid local gardens, refreshing mountain sides or a backdrop of crystal clear waterfalls are all possible romantic backdrops for a wedding in Hawaii.

The more remote locations such as isolated mountain waterfalls may require a little extra planning. The good news is there are plenty of wedding planners, photographers, caterers and other wedding planning affiliates that will get the job done professionally. With so many things to do on Big Island, you may want to concentrate more on a fulfilling Hawaii wedding vacation than detailed planning. Do-It-Yourself weddings are also entirely possible yet do require much more effort on the wedding party’s side. Either way, the job will get done. Big Island offers plenty of resources for a bride planning her own wedding. Another option is to hire a florist, a photographer and caterer and take care of the Big Island wedding location and all other arrangements on your own. Whatever your preference, the island’s many wedding resources will accommodate.

Near Anaehoomalu Bay, the beach is a stunning location perfect for those who desire a seaside wedding in Hawaii. Big Island beaches, though fewer in number than Kauai, Maui and Oahu, still offer impressive and serene backdrops with the resounding rhythm of waves in the background. Situated along the beautiful Kohala Coast, Anaehoomalu Beach is one of the best on the island and free of charge for a Big Island wedding. It’s flanked by hundreds of swaying palm trees and renowned for amazing sunsets. Once a gathering place for Hawaiian royalty, the beach is now enjoyed by visitors pursuing Hawaii snorkeling adventures, swimming as well as a variety of Hawaii cruises that leave from the area.

Off the path well-traveled, Waipio Valley is another picturesque area perfect for a private outdoor wedding in Hawaii. The ceremony takes place overlooking the lush, sweeping valley. The only downfall is the location can become somewhat windblown and damp so be sure to attentively check the Hawaiian weather forecasts. With an affordable permit, couples can marry inside Volcanoes National Park in the secluded forest looking over Kilauea Volcano. This raw and primordial landscape is one of the most unique on Big Island and offers a paramount element of Hawaiian history exhibiting the birthplace of the islands. Akaka Falls, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Park and Punaluu Black Sand Beach also offer ethereal settings for a Big Island wedding.

With many world class Big Island resorts, private vacation rentals and seaside villas available,a Hawaii wedding vacation unleashes a whole new meaning. Romance and luxury abound as many celebrate their Hawaii honeymoon on the same island where their extraordinary union occurred. The possibilities are endless when it comes to adventure on Big Island. Hawaii tours take visitors to the biggest attractions while visitors interested in scuba diving or snorkeling can discover an underwater world full of unique marine life and stunning coral reefs. Or, stay indoors and enjoy tantalizing Hawaiian cuisine, a wealth of lavish amenities, luxurious surroundings and exceptionally romantic sunsets creating lasting memories in a tropical oasis.

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Traditions

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Marriage License Requirements

Application to marry must be filed with a marriage license agent in the state of Hawaii. Both parties to the marriage must appear in person before the marriage license agent. Proxies are not allowed. Applications may not be mailed in to the agent.

When making your travel arrangements, please plan on a weekday prior to your wedding in order to get your marriage license appointment. The Governor's office is closed weekends and holidays. Outside agents make every effort to help but are often not available on weekends and holidays as well.

The Application Can Be Downloaded And Filled Out In Advance

You may download the application in advance and have most of it filled in by the time you get to your appointment. It will save you time.

The Governor's Office of Information: Kailua-Kona (808) 327-4953

They are open M-F from 8:30 to 11:30 and then from 1:15 - 3:15. It is on a first come, first served basis. You need to appear in person with $60 and a photo ID.

Location of Governor's Office in Kona

They are located at the Kuakini Towers across from McDonalds in Kona on Kuakini Hwy between Hualalai Road and Hanama Place on the 2nd floor, suite #215

Additional Locations for Marriage License

Lei or Lani at Kona Village Resort; North Kona (808) 325-5555 call for appointment
Lynn Kawakami at Honoka'a Hospital; Hamakua Coast (808) 775-7211 call for appointment
Governor's Office of Information; Hilo (808) 974-6262 show up with no appointment

The marriage license is good for 30 days from and including the date of issuance. The license can be used only in the state of Hawaii. It is valid throughout the state. If married before, you must know the month and year your divorce was final. There are no residence, citizenship or blood test requirements.

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Why Big Island?

Ever dreamed about a Romantic Hawaiian Wedding or Second Honeymoon? Well, you can now make it a reality by saying ‘I do’ in this beautiful tropical paradise.

Spectacular Big Island Venues:

One of the most popular and luxurious hotels on the Big Island is undoubtedly the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa. Not only has this hotel been the place for popular royal visits, it combines an exotic ambiance with all modern and contemporary comforts. It promises an outstanding level of service guaranteed to add a special spark to your romantic getaway or honeymoon.

For your wedding ceremony this resort has special wedding venues too. Places like the Bayside Wedding Center, the Crystal Blue Point and Terrace, or for an outdoor ceremony with unrivaled views, choose the exotic Hawaiian lawn. You can contact the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa at (808) 930-4900.

Country Clubs and Resorts:

If you’re a golf fan and you’re looking at a quiet and pleasant way to spend your Hawaiian Honeymoon on the Big Island, consider the Hapuna Beach Hotel and Golf Course. You will find a fine blend of scenic vistas combined with impeccably maintained championship courses. They offer special wedding and honeymoon packages, white sand beaches and golf just steps from the hotel. You can reach Hapuna Beach Hotel at (808) 880-3000.

Intimate Wedding Chapels:

If you plan on having an Exotic Hawaiian Wedding, The Big Island provides you some unforgettable places to conduct wedding ceremonies. Saint Peter’s Church is a little blue colored church that is located in Kona along the famous Ali’i Drive. The embossed glass windows, plenty of sunshine and the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean all add to the charm and romance of your wedding. This place is best suited for all those couples who wish for an intimate and private wedding ceremony. In fact, even to this day, Saint Peter’s Church remains one of the most widely photographed locations on The Big Island. The sheer beauty coupled with natural simplicity make for a great wedding venue. You can contact them toll free at: (888) 328-9239.

Quite Country Inns:

If you love the rustic ambiance of beautiful historic inns, you will love ‘Waterfalls Inn’ Bed and Breakfast. Easily among the best in Hilo Vacation Rentals and located on the banks of the River Wailuku, this 5000 square foot plantation style inn is listed on the Hawaii Historic Register. You can start off your Hawaii honeymoon or romantic vacation with traditional Kona coffee, sumptuous home baked breads, fresh fruit and granola. All of the rooms are equipped with telephone, private baths replete with showers, cable TV, mini refrigerators, as well as WiFi and VCR or DVD. Contact them at: (808) 969-3407

Innovative places to say ‘I do’:

Add a touch of romance to your Hawaiian Vacation or Romantic Getaway by getting married all over again! Here are top locations you don’t want to miss!

Mauna Kea resort: The Third Tee Box located in this resort is undoubtedly one of the most popular wedding spots. Coconut trees, the deep blue sea and a romantic sunset all make for an ideal honeymoon getaway. Phone them at: 1-888-977-4623.
Kona Village resort: An expansive 82 acres of land, black swans gliding on ponds and old-fashioned, rustic settings will add to the charm of your honeymoon. Call them at: 800-367-5290.
Four Seasons Hualalai: White sandy beaches, trade winds that caress your skin, added to the secluded outdoor showers in every room – make for an intimate and Romantic Hawaii Honeymoon. Call them at (808) 325-8000.

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How To Get There

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Get in

By plane

There are two major airports if you are flying into the Big Island, Kona International Airport and Hilo International Airport. There are a few direct flights from the mainland, mostly from California, but it is more common to arrive via Honolulu or Kahului. You should try to get a flight direct from the mainland to Kona to save time waiting (and walking) around the Honolulu airport. There are no direct flights to Hilo from the mainland.

If you can't find a direct flight, consider that Kona's airport is by far busier and requires a lot of time to pass all checkpoints. Hilo's airport has fewer flights, is smaller, so the time between rental drop-off and boarding is much shorter.

Inter-island "hoppers" arrive from all the other islands several times a day. Local flights are available through three main airlines, Hawaiian, Island Air and go! to the two major airports. These airlines provide frequent service between the islands, largely connecting through Honolulu, although there are some direct flights from Kona and Hilo to Kahului Maui. Daily round-trip service is also available between Hilo and Kona. Pacific Wings, provides fun flights in small prop planes between Hilo, Kona and Kamuela. Keep in mind that an inter-island flight could use up almost an entire day, due to the fact that you must pack, check out of hotel, get to the airport, return rental car, go through all the airport procedures, fly, wait for luggage, get rental car, check in, unpack. It's tempting to try and see as many of the islands as you can on one trip, but it's best to spend no less than three nights on an island. In the case of the Big Island, think of the two sides of the island as separate. It takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to drive from Kailua-Kona to Hilo, and about six hours to circle the island.

By boat

Although several cruise ship lines operate in Hawaii, there is currently no dedicated inter-island boat service. Hawaii Superferry, a private company supported by the Hawaii state government, which current runs high-capacity catamaran ferry services between O‘ahu and Maui, plans to open a O‘ahu - Big Island service by 2009.

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Get around

Renting a car is a good way to see the island, however, renting a 4WD is best. Many of the Big Island's finest sights are only accessable by 4WD.

Getting around by local bus, bikes, or on foot work well if you're staying in one area. Many budget travelers are unpleasantly surprised by the lack of public transport on the Big Island. Although there are limited bus services from Hilo to destinations like Volcano or the Kona side, they require reservations, and travel on a minimal set schedule.

If you're thinking about renting a Jeep, Alamo doesn't disable the four wheel drive option in their Jeeps as some other rental agencies do. However, keep in mind that you are violating the rental contract by driving on "unpaved roads" (let alone some of the four wheel drive only roads). As long as you are careful and sensible about it though, you'll be fine. Just keep in mind that you are "on your own" if you get in trouble while violating the rental agreement. If you're going to violate the rental contract by driving on unpaved roads, you have less of a chance of getting stuck if you have the ability to shift to four wheel drive.

Harper Rentals has four wheel drive vehicles that are allowed by contract to drive on unpaved roads. You will pay more for that right.

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Stay safe

Note that even solidified lava flows can still be very dangerous, as there are hidden flows of molten lava with only an overlying thin crust of rock in many places between Pu'u O'o and the shoreline. And of course there's the threat of methane explosions and lava bench collapses, so do not walk to the edge of the lava bench unless the rangers say it is safe to do so.

The usual disclaimers about the more active things to do apply. If you have a tour guide, they often have insurance premiums to be beholden to and as such make them more aware of safety issues. But otherwise the island is mostly remote and help can be far away. Know your physical limits.

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Insider tips

The Big Island is called that for a reason. If you have more than one day to spend, a car is recommended.
Find a nearby coffeehouse and sip Kona coffee direct from the source.
For the fit and fearless (it’s very difficult to reach), check out the green sand beach.

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Best Time To Go

When planning your trip to the Big Island, there are many factors to consider. It is important to know that four large volcanoes divide the island into two halves: the eastern Hilo side which is the windward side of the island, and the western Kona side which is the leeward side of the island. The weather and ocean conditions can be vastly different on each side of the island depending on the time of year. The Big Island is large and diverse, boasting 11 of the world's 13 climate zones. During the winter, the highs will be around 80° and a low in the 60's. During the Summer, highs will be in the mid to upper 80's and a low in the 70's. The ocean temperature in Hawaii reaches a comfortable 80 degrees in mid summer and drops to the low 70's in the winter months. Check out the current Big Island Weather.

If you plan to stay on the Kona side of the island for most of your vacation, weather is not really an issue because the mountains block most of the moist air resulting in very little rain throughout the year, some areas getting less than ten inches a year. Your time in Kona will most likely be dominated by sunshine every single day! Hilo on the other hand is one of the wettest places on Earth, routinely getting over 130 inches of rain a year. You can expect March and April to be the rainiest months, and June to be the driest. For details on each region of the Big Island, check out our Big Island Overview article.

Winter is when the sea swells and the waves are at their peak. Surf conditions also means rougher seas for snorkeling and SCUBA diving in Kona during the winter. During the winter months, hump-back whales travel to Hawaiian waters and whale watching is very popular on both sides of the island. Late spring and early fall are out-of-season times when you can find good travel bargains. Airfare and lodging tend to be more expensive during the "high" season of mid-December to mid-April. If you plan to visit during this period, make your reservations early.

Unless you plan to attend the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival, you should avoid the Hilo area of the Big Island during the week after Easter. The Ironman Championship Triathlon in October each year makes the Kailua-Kona area of the Big Island very busy.

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Climate

Big Island Weather and Climate:

Tourist from around the world visit the Hawaiian Islands for their spectacular beauty and weather. What many people don’t know is that the weather can be so different depending on what Islands you visit. The Big Island has 12 diverse Climatic Zones. From Tropical Rain Forests in Hilo to arid deserts in Kau and snow capped peaks on the 4200 meter high Mauna Kea Mountain. Most of the time you will find the Big Island weather is dry and sunny, so you outdoor activities will not be spoiled.

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Big Island Churches

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Guests Must Do (Things To Do)

Big Island Hawaii is just that, Big! When planning your Hawaii holidays you‘ll likely get many ideas for things to see and do and since the island is so large, your time may well be limited. Careful planning is essential to see the many wonderful Big Island attractions. Though many of the sights are easily accessible and don’t require much planning, there are many Hawaii tours that require prior arrangements as they tend to fill up quickly leaving tourists disappointed. Hawaiian weather is another aspect to consider. Don’t plan for a helicopter tour for the second last day because if it rains, you’re out of luck. Plan well and plan carefully and you’ll enjoy an exciting vacation filled with many fun things to do on the Big island.

Mauna Kea

On Big Island things to do include a visit to Mauna Kea, one of the five magnificent volcanoes that complete the Hawaiian island chain. Big Island attractions at Mauna Kea include exploring Hawaii hiking trails that lead to the summit for the ultimate star gazing experience.

Big Island Luau

On Big Island things to do include a fun trip to one of the island luaus. Set in tropical surroundings, guests enjoy Hawaiian arts and crafts, a pre dinner procession, an incredible feast and the biggest of Big Island attractions, the electrifying luau performance.

Waipio Valley

Along the northern coast of the island Hawaii surfing is popular during the winter months. Aside from riding waves, visitors can head to the beautiful Waipio Valley where lush tropical vegetation, sweeping taro fields, surging waterfalls and one of the black sand Big Island beaches will have you in awe.

Rainbow Falls

Visitors who love waterfalls will love a trip to Rainbow Falls, only a short drive from the main town of Hilo. Things to do on the Big Island at the falls include hike a down to the turquoise pool and a trip behind the falls to explore the hidden cave.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A journey to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must on a list of things to do on the Big Island. The park is the largest of Big Island attractions and offers a look at a phenomenal landscape where Hawaiian history reigns. Here on Big Island things to do include, hiking, cycling, camping, scenic drives and overnight stays at the park’s historic hotel.

Visit Historic Sites

The perfect way to soak up Hawaiian history and culture is by visiting some of the historic sites around the island. Big Island attractions brimmimg with glimpses of the past include the 18th century Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, Parker Ranch founded in 1847 and Mo'okini Heiau, a three tiered stone temple built more than 1500 years ago.

Liliuokalani Garden

A tribute to the once reigning and revered Queen of Hawaii, Liliuokalani Garden offers many things to do on Big Island. It is most often frequented by picnickers, local fishermen, avid plant lovers and families seeking a peaceful afternoon among breathtaking native flowers and plants.

Akaka Falls

A drive north of Hilo brings visitors to stunning Akaka Falls, another of the major Big Island attractions. Akaka Falls and its counterpart, Kahuna Falls, are both easily reached by a Hawaiian rental car. A moderate path leads to both sights with Akaka Falls being the most majestic vision of the two.

Anaehoomalu Bay

Known for spectacular sunsets and fringed by hundreds of towering palms on the Kohala Coast of Big Island things to do include swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing and watching the many green sea turtles that call the bay home.

Big Island Tours

Sometimes there are just certain things that are difficult to do on your own. Like enjoy a helicopter tour! Big Island tours offer a myriad of ways to see the natural beauty of the island. With so many great tours available on Big Island things to do include an airplane or helicopter ride for a breathtaking aerial view, scuba diving trips, snorkeling excursions, submarine rides, horseback riding and much more.

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Wedding Service Providers

Kailua Kona Vacation Rentals

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Big Island Weddings

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