Your Guide to Eloping in Hawaii
~ From Your Hawaii Elopement Photographer
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Eloping in Hawaii: The Essentials
Who Should You Invite?
Elopements are all about intimacy, but you can still invite a select group of loved ones. Decide whether you want your day to be just the two of you or shared with close friends and family. Keep in mind Hawaii’s remote locations may limit guest access, so smaller groups are ideal.What Do You Need to Plan?
While elopements are simpler than traditional weddings, details still matter. Think about securing permits, arranging an officiant, booking a photographer, and planning travel and accommodations. A little preparation goes a long way in creating a stress-free experience.When is the Best Time to Elope?
Hawaii is stunning year-round, but seasons affect weather and crowds. For fewer tourists, consider spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). Time your ceremony for sunrise or sunset to capture the best lighting and the most romantic atmosphere.Where Should You Elope?
Hawaii is filled with picturesque options, from secluded beaches and rugged cliffs to lush jungles and volcanic landscapes. Choose a location that resonates with your vision as a couple, and work with local experts to uncover hidden gems off the beaten path.Why Choose Hawaii?
Hawaii offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and romantic vibes. From exchanging leis to experiencing the aloha spirit, your elopement in Hawaii will feel like a true getaway that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation.How Do You Make Your Day Special?
Customize your elopement with personal touches, like writing your own vows, incorporating Hawaiian traditions, or planning a unique post-ceremony celebration. Whether it’s a private dinner on the beach or a waterfall swim, let your day reflect your love story.
Let’s time travel to the morning of your elopement. You’re about to marry your best friend in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The air smells salty, and the birds are singing just for you.
“It's like Maici had a magic formula that brought our unspoken dreams to life and created the most unforgettable day of our lives.”
You're creating an experience that feels like home in every way, while igniting the thrill of a new and exciting adventure.
You chose Hawaii because it holds a piece of your heart—the vibrant landscapes, the soul-deep connection, the laid-back magic. Even if you’ve never been, it’s like you can feel what it’s like.
Your wedding date. Your anniversary date. Your story to hold and to share.
Your wedding day is so much more than a date on the calendar or a collection of pretty photos—it’s the start of your forever, the moments that will become stories told for generations. It’s a day to pour your heart into, to celebrate your love in a way that feels completely true to who you are. Whether that means an epic adventure, an intimate exchange of vows, or simply soaking in the magic of being together, this day deserves to be everything you’ve ever dreamed of. Because this isn’t just any day—it’s your story, your legacy, and it deserves to be unforgettable.
Elopement Timeline Examples
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12:00 PM | Getting Ready
Begin the day separately in your luxurious suites at Kona Village Rosewood Resort.
The photographer captures candid moments, attire details, vow books, and the beautiful setting of your accommodations.
1:00 PM | First Look & Vow Writing
Share a heartfelt first look at a secluded spot on the resort grounds.
Sit together to write your vows, creating an intimate, reflective moment surrounded by island serenity.
1:45 PM | Helicopter Tour Over the Big Island
Head to a nearby helipad (approximately 20–30 minutes from the resort).
Embark on a jaw-dropping helicopter tour, flying over volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
The round-trip experience, including travel and flight time, will take about 2 hours.
4:00 PM | Return & Pre-Ceremony Moments
Arrive back at Kona Village to freshen up and relax before the ceremony.
The photographer captures the final details as the beach is transformed into a tropical floral paradise.
5:00 PM | Golden Hour Ceremony on the Beach
Exchange your vows as the golden light of sunset bathes the beach in warm hues.
Celebrate with a champagne toast and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the ocean as the sun sets.
5:45 PM | Intimate Couple Portraits at Sunset
Take advantage of the soft, dreamy post-ceremony light for romantic couple portraits.
6:15 PM | Private Chef Dinner & Hawaiian-Themed S’mores
End your day with a private dinner prepared by a chef at your accommodation, followed by Hawaiian-themed s’mores by the fire on the beach.
Enjoy the tranquility of the evening, reflecting on your unforgettable celebration under the stars.
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8:00 AM | Slow Morning
You wake up to a peaceful Hawaiian sunrise at your private estate or Four Seasons suite. I capture the serene moments of coffee on the lanai, breakfast with your favorite foods, and the start of your day.9:30 AM | Getting Ready
While you prepare separately, I’ll document the details—your attire, vow books, and the energy of anticipation.11:00 AM | First Look & Vow Writing
You share your first look in a lush, private garden. Afterward, you sit together to write and exchange vows, soaking in the intimacy of this moment.12:00 PM | Midday Adventure
We head out for an epic helicopter ride over the island or a private sail along the coast. Adventure awaits, and I’ll be there capturing the thrill and joy as it unfolds.2:00 PM | Lunch & Rest
Return for a relaxed lunch at your estate or poolside at the resort. You’ll have time to refresh, relax, and recharge for the rest of the day.4:00 PM | Pre-Ceremony Prep
The beach ceremony setup begins while you finalize the last details of your look. This is the perfect moment to reflect and soak in the excitement.5:30 PM | Golden Hour Ceremony
Exchange vows on a private beach, surrounded by flowers and the golden light of sunset. This is your moment to celebrate your love fully and deeply.6:30 PM | Sunset Portraits
As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll create breathtaking, romantic portraits in the soft, warm glow.7:30 PM | Private Dinner Under the Stars
Enjoy a candlelit dinner prepared by a private chef. Savor every bite as you reflect on your day and the life you’re building together.9:00 PM | Late-Night Firepit & Dessert
End your celebration with Hawaiian-inspired desserts and cozy moments by the firepit. The sound of the waves and the night sky provide the perfect backdrop to close your day. -
Day 1 | Family Celebration Example (4 Hours)
Today is all about sharing this experience with your closest loved ones.3:00 PM | Arrival & Connection
We start the day at your private estate or beachside at your resort. Your family arrives, the laughter flows, and I’ll capture the heartfelt connections and candid moments.4:00 PM | Intimate Ceremony with Family
Exchange vows surrounded by your loved ones. Whether on a private beach or under a tropical canopy, the energy will be magical.5:00 PM | Sunset Family Photos & Toasts
After the ceremony, we’ll capture family portraits in the golden hour light. Then, everyone raises a glass to you during a heartfelt toast at your private dinner setup.6:30 PM | Dinner & Stories
Enjoy a relaxed meal together. This is your time to reflect on your journey, hear stories from loved ones, and soak in the joy of the day.Day 2 | Adventure Day (12 Hours)
This is your day to explore, connect, and celebrate as a couple.7:00 AM | Sunrise ATV Tour or Horseback Riding
We kick off the morning with an adventure at South Point—an ATV tour or a horseback ride along rugged coastlines. The morning light and breathtaking views set the tone for the day.10:00 AM | Breakfast & Relaxation
Return to your estate for a quiet breakfast on the lanai. This is your time to slow down, relax, and recharge.12:00 PM | Midday Excursion to Kūlia Pihana Falls
We head to the falls for an unforgettable experience. Whether you swim, explore, or simply enjoy the serene beauty, I’ll be there to capture every candid, joy-filled moment.3:00 PM | Lunch Picnic in Nature
Share a private picnic surrounded by the island’s lush greenery. It’s intimate, calm, and entirely yours.5:00 PM | Getting Ready for Golden Hour
Back at your estate or resort, you prepare for your golden hour portraits. The excitement builds as the day transitions into its most beautiful light.6:00 PM | Golden Hour Portraits
We chase the sun to capture dreamy, cinematic portraits that tell the story of your connection and adventure.7:00 PM | Private Dinner & Stargazing
End the day with a romantic dinner under the stars, followed by cozy moments around a firepit or stargazing together.
Built with time to adventure and time to relax
How could our elopement possibly last more than 2 hours? What do we do with our day? How do we be intentional?
Your’re not eloping just to "say “I do” and take some photos; it’s the start of an incredible new chapter that deserves to be celebrated fully, intentionally, and wholeheartedly. This is the day you commit your life to the person you love most—why limit it to just a few hours?
A full-day celebration allows you to immerse yourself in every meaningful moment, from the quiet excitement of getting ready to the heartfelt vows, the adventures you share, and the intimate toasts under the stars. It’s about creating space to truly feel the gravity and joy of your commitment, not rushing through it or squeezing it into a schedule that doesn’t honor your story. This is your day, your way—a full day ensures you can embrace it completely and make memories that feel as expansive and limitless as your love.
How Do We Know Which Island to Choose From?
Well, good news! You truly can’t go wrong with any island
Hawaiʻi Island (The Big Island)
The Big Island offers unparalleled diversity, from fiery volcanoes and black sand beaches to lush rainforests and stargazing atop Mauna Kea. If you crave adventure and dramatic landscapes that feel larger than life, this is the island for you.
Maui
Maui is the perfect blend of luxury and nature, with stunning golden beaches, the lush Road to Hana, and unforgettable sunsets from Haleakalā. Known as the "Valley Isle," it’s ideal for couples seeking romance with a touch of exploration.
Oʻahu
Oʻahu combines the energy of city life with the tranquility of paradise, offering world-class surf, rich cultural history, and iconic landmarks like Waikīkī Beach and the lush North Shore. Perfect for couples who want the best of both vibrant experiences and quiet retreats.
Kauaʻi
Known as the "Garden Isle," Kauaʻi enchants with its untamed beauty—soaring emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful beaches. If you’re looking for a secluded, romantic escape surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders, this island feels like a dream come true.
Activities, Accommodations, and Top Rated Restaurants
“There’s no one doing it quite like Maici- the experience she creates and the photos we have are worth more than we could ever put into words.”
How does this work? Our timeline together in 3 simple steps -
I learn about your relationship, the vision you have for your big day and customize a tailored experience to you! We dive into the possibilities for your wedding day via phone, facetime, or coffee.
We connect + I learn about your vision
This is where we intentionally take the time to get to know one another. I get to know you via in depth questionnaires and you get to know your photography process and journey through my helpful guidance and through my literal wedding photography guides I have curated just for you.
Crafted-for-you wedding planning assistance
Savor every present moment of your day
It’s your wedding day! This is where your vision comes to life! Whether it’s your wedding, an elopement, or a personal session, I’ll guide you through every moment with care and creativity, ensuring the experience is seamless and enjoyable.
These aren’t just offerings—they’re my promise to give you the best Hawaii elopement photography and planning experience possible.
