What could be more dreamy than a beach wedding on a tropical island in Hawaii!
Whether it’s just the two of you with an elopement on the beach or a big group wedding with friends and family, there are a few things to consider when planning a beach wedding on Kauai.
Location
You might consider Kauai to be made up of four quadrants, each with its own charm, climate variables and scenic beauty.
North: The North Shore of Kauai has more beaches per mile of coastline than the other quadrants. You can expect a bit more chance of rain, especially during the winter months. That is what makes it so green and lush! The North Shore goes from Ha’ena to Moloa’a, including Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kalihiwai and Kilauea. Lovely for morning weddings, and sunset as well.
East: Much of the East Shore of Kauai has a more residential and business feel, with shops, restaurants and traffic through the town of Kapaa. The east side goes from Aliomanu to Lihue, so includes Anahola, Kealia, Kapaa, Waipouli, Wailua, Lydgate, Hanamaulu on down to Kalapaki Bay. Sunrise and mid-late afternoon are good times for beach weddings on the East Shore.
South: The South Shore of Kauai is usually drier and sunnier than the other quadrants. Encompassing the Maha’ulepu Beaches and the Poipu resort area beaches, there aren’t as many beaches on the south side, but the climate and convenience to the resorts make it a smart choice weddings, especially if you are staying in that area or celebrating after in Poipu. Shipwreck Beach, fronting the Grand Hyatt is the most popular wedding beach on Kauai.
West: The West Shore of Kauai includes the beaches from Hanapepe to Polihale, including Waimea and Kekaha. Dependably dry and a sure thing for sunset weddings, there are fewer beaches on the west side, but they are quite long and relatively uncrowded, except for Salt Pond Beach Park. Some couples opt for a sunset ceremony on the west side before or after an adventure photoshoot up in the Waimea Canyon State Park.