When to Elope in Hawaii for couples planning an epic adventure elopement.
So you’re thinking about eloping in Hawaii but you’re not sure what month will give you the vibe you’re dreaming of? This guide is made for you.
As a destination elopement photographer, I’ve captured love stories all across the islands—and let me tell you, there’s no bad time to elope in Hawaii. But depending on your ideal vision (sun-drenched cliffs, hidden jungle waterfalls, warm tropical rain, or quiet golden-hour beaches), some months are better than others.
Let’s break it down month-by-month, so you can confidently pick the perfect time for your elopement in paradise.
📌 Quick Answer: The best months to elope in Hawaii are April to June and September to early November. These shoulder seasons bring great weather, fewer tourists, dreamy light, and better vendor availability.
Keep reading for a month-by-month breakdown of Hawaii’s seasons, weather patterns, elopement vibes, and insider ideas to match your vision.
When to Elope in Hawaii, based on each month
This section is about to get long, so feel free to scroll to the month you were imagining!
January – Tropical Winter, High Season
Hawaii’s winter is still warm by mainland standards (hello 80°F days), and January kicks off peak season with lots of travelers chasing sunshine. You’ll find dramatic sunsets, ideal whale watching on Maui, and breathtaking sunrises—especially on the east sides of the islands.
Plan early-morning elopements to beat the crowds and enjoy crisp light. Bonus: Waterfalls are flowing from recent rains, and the waves on the North Shore of Oahu are huge. If you’re into stormy ocean drama in your photos, this is a great time.
Vibe: Lush, lively, and full of energy.
February – Still High Season, but More Chill
February is similar to January but with slightly fewer crowds (unless you’re hitting Valentine’s Day weekend). The weather is still gorgeous, with scattered rain showers bringing those vibrant greens Hawaii is famous for.
Sunrise ceremonies will give you the softest, dreamiest light—and you’ll often have beaches nearly to yourself on weekdays.
Vibe: Romantic, moody skies, cozy adventure.
March – Shoulder Season Begins
March can be unpredictable. Rainier on the windward sides, drier on the leeward. You’ll still get plenty of sun—but pack a rain jacket just in case.
Spring break starts to bring families back into the mix, especially mid to late March, so plan accordingly if you want privacy. On the plus side, waterfalls are full and jungle trails are vibrant. Eloping near the end of March can be ideal if you want a tropical vibe without peak crowds.
Vibe: Waterfall-core, slightly chaotic, tropical AF.
April – Golden Month of Calm
One of my personal favorite months. Rain tapers off. Prices drop. Crowds dip. Everything is GREEN and glowing.
Elopements in botanical gardens, up in the hills, or cliffside are gorgeous this time of year. Vendors tend to have more flexibility, and you can explore more remote areas without elbowing through a crowd.
Vibe: Peaceful, colorful, and SO photogenic.
Mid break: Download my Free How To Elope Guide to keep it in your pocket all the time!
May – Breezy and Balanced
May is warm, dry, and full of golden-hour light. Ocean temps are rising, and the trade winds keep things from feeling too sticky.
If you want to plan a beach ceremony followed by a private sail, picnic, or hike—May is your month. It’s also the calm before the summer rush, so you’ll get dreamy weather and better travel deals.
Vibe: Easygoing, golden, sun-kissed.
June – Start of Summer
June means longer days, warmer temps, and low rainfall. But summer travel starts to kick in, especially mid-month.
Early morning or weekday elopements are key if you want space to breathe. Think sunrise beach ceremonies or sunrise hikes to a cliff with no one else around. You’ll have time for a full day of adventure without sweating through your bouquet.
Vibe: Bright, playful, just starting to bustle.
July – Peak Summer + Big Energy
It’s hot, it’s humid, and it’s busy—but still magical. This is a good time to lean into sunrise ceremonies or elope on lesser-known beaches or upcountry spots.
Plan for extra time in your itinerary (island traffic is real) and know that accommodations + vendors will book up early. But if you want color, joy, and warm nights under the stars? July’s got it.
Vibe: Bold, beachy, and bursting with energy.
August – Hot, Humid, Local
Still summer, still steamy. But crowds may ease a little compared to July. You’ll need hydration, shady spots, and maybe a backup rain plan—just in case.
Consider eloping near sunrise on the east side of Oahu, or in lush, breezy Kauai valleys. Bonus: Warm ocean temps are perfect for underwater photos or a post-ceremony swim.
Vibe: Sultry, tropical, quietly gorgeous.
September – Crowd-Free Sweet Spot
One of the best-kept secrets of Hawaii elopements. September brings lower airfare, fewer tourists, and lingering summer weather.
The beaches are quiet, the sunsets are stunning, and the island feels like it’s taking a breath. This is an incredible month to explore the Big Island, hit hidden beaches, or stargaze from the cliffs after your ceremony.
Vibe: Dreamy, calm, golden.
October – Shoulder Season Gold
October gives you warmth without chaos. You’ll still get long days, colorful skies, and waterfall access—plus plenty of privacy. It’s like Hawaii showing off, just for you.
This is a great month for hiking, camping-style elopements, or doing something off the beaten path. If you want moody skies with a hint of fall color in the upcountry, this is your moment.
Vibe: Secretly romantic, soft light, laid-back luxury.
November – Lush and Misty
The wet season officially begins—but don’t let that scare you. Light rain + soft sun = magic photos.
Travel crowds are still low early in the month. Whale watching starts picking up. Plus, the island flora is lush and vibrant after the first few showers.
Vibe: Misty jungle magic, peaceful and poetic.
December – Holiday Rush & Rainy Romance
Early December? Go for it. Late December? Expect sold-out everything.
If you love the idea of a cozy, rainy beach ceremony followed by hot tub hangs or sipping mai tais by the fire pit, you’ll be fine. But know that December brings rain, wind, and higher prices—especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
Vibe: Dramatic, moody, festive.
Sunrise / Sunset Ceremony Tips for Hawaii
No matter what month you choose, golden hour in Hawaii is unmatched. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Sunrise: Best on the east side of each island (e.g. Hana on Maui, Waimanalo on Oahu, Hilo on Big Island)
- Sunset: Best on the west side (e.g. Lahaina coast on Maui, Polihale on Kauai)
- Arrive 30–45 minutes before for optimal light and privacy
- Always check tide charts and trail closures if you’re doing something adventurous
What to Pack for a Hawaii Elopement
Packing depends on the season—but here’s a general guide:
- Dry Season: Sunscreen (reef-safe!), bug spray, water shoes, breathable clothing, extra water
- Wet Season: Umbrella, waterproof bags, backup shoes/outfits, microfiber towels, rain jacket
- Year-Round Musts: Hydration packs, Polaroids (duh), and post-elopement snacks
Ready to Elope in Hawaii?
I hope this guide helped you feel confident about when to plan your elopement in Hawaii. Whether you’re dreaming of salty hair and sunrise kisses or moody rain and jungle trails, Hawaii brings the magic year-round.
If you’re still looking for a photographer who’s ready to hike with you, drink coffee at 5AM, and document the kind of love that gives goosebumps, I’d be honored to be your person.
Click here to get in touch and start planning your Hawaii elopement.
When to Elope in Hawaii // Jamie Tobin Photography
