The Big Island isn’t just big—it’s epic.
It’s lava flows and starlit skies. Black sand under your feet and waterfalls around the bend. You could start the day on a beach and end it 13,000 feet above sea level watching the Milky Way. If you’re looking for a wedding day that feels adventurous, a little bit wild, and totally unforgettable, the Big Island might be your perfect match.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your elopement on Hawaii’s largest (and most dramatically diverse) island.
TL;DR: Guide breaks down everything about eloping on the Big Island, if you’re looking for more info on another Hawaii island make sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Hawaii!
Why Elope on the Big Island?
Diverse landscapes
Beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, lava fields, mountaintops—and sometimes all in the same day.
Fewer crowds
The Big Island has way more space and way fewer tourists. That means more privacy, more variety, and more chill.
Natural wonder
From glowing lava and black sand to waterfalls and telescopes on Mauna Kea—the island is constantly reminding you how wild and alive the Earth is.
Adventure built in
You can hike through rainforest, chase waterfalls, swim in the ocean, and stargaze from 13,000 feet. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure dream elopement.
Best Places to Elope on the Big Island
Waipio Valley
Lush, sacred, and cinematic. Think waterfalls, black sand beaches, and towering cliffs.
Best accessed with a 4WD or local shuttle. This valley holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning—respect the land and double-check access rules before visiting.
Mauna Kea Summit
If eloping above the clouds sounds like your thing, this is it. Post-ceremony portraits at golden hour? Unreal. Stargazing under the Milky Way? Even better.
Important: You’ll need to acclimate to the altitude, use a 4WD vehicle, and be extremely mindful of the cultural significance. This is sacred land.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Vivid black sand, tall palms, and maybe even a sleepy sea turtle in the background. It’s easily accessible and offers that bold, dramatic look with minimal hiking.
Akaka Falls State Park
A paved loop trail through misty rainforest leads to a 442-foot waterfall. It’s straight-up movie magic.
Permits are required for ceremonies, but it’s worth it for couples who want that jungle + waterfall combo without a long trek.
Need to read up on how to get your marriage license in Hawaii? Did you homework, read it quick here and come back!
When to Elope on the Big Island
Best Months: March through May and September through November — these months bring mild weather, fewer crowds, and prime conditions for adventure.
Avoid: Peak summer (it’s hot + busy) and the December holiday season (also $$$).
Pro Tip: Volcano conditions and visibility change often. Check daily safety + access reports if you want lava views or summit stops.
Marriage License + Permit Details
License: Apply online, then pick it up in person once you’re on the island. The fee is $60. Easy.
Read up on how to get your marriage license in Hawaii here!
Permits: If you’re holding your ceremony on state land (most beaches, parks, and trails), you’ll need a permit. Mauna Kea and other sacred sites have stricter rules.
Bonus: When you book with me, I handle all the red tape—you just show up and enjoy the day.
Sample Big Island Elopement Timeline
8:00 AM – Coffee + getting ready at your Airbnb
10:00 AM – First look + portraits at Akaka Falls
12:00 PM – Midday break / picnic lunch + beach chill
3:00 PM – Vow ceremony at Waipio Valley overlook or black sand beach
5:30 PM – Golden hour portraits at Punalu’u
7:30 PM – Drive up to Mauna Kea for stargazing + a quiet celebration under the cosmos
More Posts to binge on Hawaii:
- https://jamietobinphotography.com/hawaii-elopement-how-to-guide/
- https://lnt.org/
- https://jamietobinphotography.myflodesk.com/freeelopementguide
Ready to Make the Big Island Yours?
If you want to feel tiny in the best possible way, elope on the Big Island. The scale of the place is humbling. The energy is grounded. The views? Absolutely bananas.
This is the kind of place where you can get married on a cliff, hug a palm tree, eat poke with your bare hands, and fall asleep under a sky so starry it doesn’t look real.
Let’s turn this wild, unforgettable daydream into a real-life love story. [Reach out here] and let’s start planning your Big Island elopement—your way, your vibe, your adventure.
