How much does a Big Island elopement cost?

Big Island Elopement packages start at $1,950 and go up to $4,950. All packages include photography, officiant, florals, planning, and full coordination. Everything is taken care of so you just show up and say yes.

What is included in a Big Island elopement package?

Our packages include elopement planning and coordination, wedding photography by Kris, a licensed officiant, floral arrangements, location scouting, and permit handling. Hair and makeup can be added on.

Who is the best elopement planner on the Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island Elopement, run by Sandra and Kris, is a husband and wife team based in Waikoloa with over a decade of experience planning and photographing elopements across the Big Island of Hawaii.

Do you need a permit to elope on the Big Island?

Some beaches and state parks on the Big Island require permits for ceremonies and commercial photography. Big Island Elopement handles all permit applications for you as part of every package.

Can you plan a last minute elopement in Hawaii?

Yes. Big Island Elopement has planned elopements in as little as 7 days. If you have a date in mind, reach out immediately and we will do everything we can to make it happen.

Do you travel to other Hawaiian islands?

Yes. While we are based on the Big Island we regularly travel to Maui, Oahu, and Kauai for elopements and intimate weddings. Travel fees apply.

Kona Beach Elopement Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Oct 13

Written by Sandra Cesniene

A couple kissing on a white-sand Kona beach, framed by black lava rocks

Yes, you can elope on a Kona beach. Pick your shoreline, sort your license, confirm the beach rules, and plan around the tide and the sunset light. Here's the short version, from locals who plan these every week.

I'm Sandra, a Big Island elopement planner. My husband Kris shoots the photos (Couple Cups). We're on this coastline constantly, so here's what actually matters.

Why couples pick Kona

Kona sits on the sunny, leeward west side. Generally drier than Hilo, easy town access, and the sun sets over the ocean. Golden hour here is unreal.

Just know: no beach forecast is a promise. We plan for real conditions, not Pinterest ones.

Barefoot ceremony? Sand's your friend. Lava rock? Bring grippy shoes and skip the long train drag.

A couple holding hands nose-to-nose at sunset on black lava rocks

Timing: tide + sunset

Tides change how much beach you actually get. Check the forecast close to your date, keep the ceremony off the active waterline, and always have a plan B.

For sunsets, late afternoon is the move on Kona's west-facing coast. Look up the exact sunset time for your date, don't guess. Want a quieter beach? Weekday sunrise. Public beaches are never fully private, and that's just reality.

Permits, briefly

Rules depend on the exact beach and who manages it: State, County, or private. Hawaii DLNR's Wiki Permits process covers commercial activity, including beach weddings, on certain state shorelines. And heads up: a photography permit does not automatically cover the ceremony.

Confirm current rules and fees with the managing agency before booking. Don't assume chairs or arches are allowed.

Bringing guests?

Just the two of you? Easy. With guests, think parking, walking distance, shade, and seating. Grandparents on lava rock is a no. Our Big Island elopement locations guide helps you pick a spot that works for everyone.

We plan celebrations up to 30 guests, but not every beach suits that. Confirm the site first.

A couple walking down the aisle after their beachfront ceremony, guests in rattan chairs

Weather reality check

Wind happens. Vog happens. Quick showers happen. Keep your timeline flexible, line up a backup spot (with its own permissions), and let safety call the shots. Windy day? Talk hair, veil, and florals with your team before the week of.

Your marriage license

Getting legally married? You need a Hawaii marriage license before the ceremony, plus an authorized officiant. It starts with an online application and an in-person appointment. Check the State's current process for timing and details. Going symbolic instead? Tell your planner and officiant early.

The photos

West-facing light is why we love this coast. Sunset glow on black lava. Waves catching the last light. Shots that look like you, not a photo shoot. Our Big Island wedding photographer guide covers what to ask before you book anyone.

A couple walking away along the shoreline at sunset, trees and lava rocks behind them

Kona beach elopement FAQs

Can you legally get married on a Kona beach? Yes, with a Hawaii marriage license, an authorized officiant, and the right site permissions. Confirm the rules for your exact beach.

Which Kona beach is best? The one that fits your crew, your shoes, and your vision. Black or white sand for barefoot, lava rock for drama.

Is it too windy? Depends on the day and the spot. Plan for a breeze and talk hair and florals with your vendors.

What time is sunset? Changes all year. Look up your date, then build the timeline around it.

How many guests can we bring? We plan up to 30, but the beach has to suit it. Confirm space and permissions first.

How far ahead should we book? Earlier is better if you've got a set date and location in mind. Availability and site approvals take time.

Key takeaways

Yes, you can elope on a Kona beach, and the west side gives you ocean sunsets and sunny odds.
Black sand, white sand, and lava rock all feel different underfoot. Pick for comfort and photos.
Check tide, weather, and site permissions close to your date. Confirm current rules and fees with the managing agency.
Marrying legally? License before the ceremony, always.

Want a Kona beach day that feels like you two? Come talk to us, no pressure, just the good stuff.

Check Our Packages: Big Island Kona Wedding & Elopement Packages

Thank you for amazing Big Island Wedding Photos: Couple Cups Hawaii Photographer

Sandra Cesniene