How to get married in Hawaii is a dream question for many couples seeking a breathtaking destination wedding or a simple, legal marriage in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Known for its stunning beaches, lush mountains, and warm aloha spirit, getting married in Hawaii offers a unique combination of tropical charm and straightforward legal procedures. Whether you want a beachside ceremony on Maui, a garden wedding on Oahu, or a courthouse marriage in Honolulu, Hawaii provides many options to make your wedding special. However, understanding the legal requirements, available ceremony types, and practical considerations is essential to ensure your marriage is recognized and your experience is seamless. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to get married in Hawaii, exploring detailed steps, all the different ways to tie the knot, and key factors to keep in mind when planning your big day.
General Requirements to Get Married in Hawaii
Getting legally married in Hawaii involves meeting specific requirements set by the state’s Department of Health and local counties. These requirements are designed to confirm identity, consent, and legal eligibility:
1. Marriage License Application: Couples must apply for a marriage license through the Hawaii Department of Health or any County Clerk’s office (Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai). You must apply in person and both parties must be present at the time of application.
2. Valid Identification: Both applicants need to provide valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID. Non-U.S. citizens can apply with a valid foreign passport or other acceptable documents.
3. No Residency Requirement: There is no residency requirement to get married in Hawaii, meaning couples from anywhere in the world can apply and get married there.
4. Waiting Period: Unlike many states, Hawaii imposes no waiting period. You can get married immediately after receiving your marriage license. The license is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
5. Fees: The marriage license fee in Hawaii varies by county but typically ranges from \$60 to \$70. Payment is usually accepted in cash or money order, and fees are non-refundable.
6. Witness Requirement: Hawaii requires at least two witnesses present at the ceremony, who must be over 18 years old. Witnesses will sign the marriage license after the ceremony.
7. Authorized Officiants: The marriage ceremony must be conducted by an authorized person such as a judge, ordained clergy member, notary public, or licensed officiant.
All Ways to Get Married in Hawaii
Hawaii offers a variety of ways to get married, from intimate courthouse weddings to elaborate destination ceremonies on scenic beaches. Each method has its own process, benefits, and drawbacks that you should understand before deciding which suits you best.
1. Courthouse Marriage (Civil Ceremony)
A courthouse wedding in Hawaii is a simple, legal, and budget-friendly option, ideal for couples who want a quick and no-fuss ceremony.
Process: Apply for a marriage license at the local County Clerk’s office (Honolulu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai), pay the fee, and schedule a ceremony at the courthouse. Some counties allow walk-in ceremonies; others require appointments.
The ceremony is conducted by a judge, magistrate, or authorized court official, typically lasting 10–15 minutes.
Benefits: Affordable (fees under \$100), legally binding, fast, and convenient especially for last-minute weddings or elopements.
Drawbacks: Minimal personalization, no scenic or romantic setting, and a potentially less festive atmosphere.
2. Beach or Outdoor Wedding with Licensed Officiant
Hawaii’s most iconic weddings take place on its stunning beaches, gardens, or mountain overlooks, creating a romantic and memorable experience.
Process: Obtain your marriage license from any County Clerk office in Hawaii, then hire a licensed officiant, which can include ordained ministers, notaries, or professional wedding officiants who understand Hawaii’s laws.
Many couples choose popular beaches such as Waikiki (Oahu), Kaanapali (Maui), or Hanalei Bay (Kauai) for their wedding backdrop.
You’ll need to coordinate permits if the beach or park requires one for ceremonies, especially if it’s a public or popular location.
Benefits: Incredible natural beauty, customizable ceremonies, a meaningful atmosphere enhanced by Hawaii’s culture and scenery.
Drawbacks: Weather unpredictability (rain or wind), permit costs or restrictions, and logistics such as travel for guests and vendors.
3. Destination Wedding Packages
Many resorts and wedding planners in Hawaii offer full-service destination wedding packages tailored to your budget and style.
Process: Purchase a wedding package that often includes the ceremony, officiant, flowers, photography, and venue setup. The resort or planner typically helps with marriage license application and ceremony details.
Packages can range from simple beach ceremonies to lavish celebrations with receptions and cultural elements like Hawaiian leis or hula performances.
Benefits: Convenience, expert planning, stress-free coordination, beautiful venues with on-site services.
Drawbacks: Higher cost than self-planned weddings, less control over every detail, and potential limits on date availability.
4. Elopement in Hawaii
Eloping in Hawaii is an increasingly popular choice for couples wanting intimacy, privacy, and a focus on their vows away from the pressures of a large wedding.
Process: Obtain a marriage license in person, hire a licensed officiant or get married at the courthouse, and keep the ceremony small—sometimes just the two of you and a couple witnesses.
Many elopement services specialize in planning intimate ceremonies on secluded beaches, waterfalls, or private gardens.
Benefits: Low stress, cost-effective, romantic, and flexible with locations and timing.
Drawbacks: May exclude family and friends, fewer festivities or social celebrations.
5. Marriage by a Friend or Family Member
Hawaii allows any ordained minister or licensed officiant to perform weddings. Friends or family can become ordained online and legally officiate your ceremony.
Process: Have your chosen friend or family member get ordained through recognized online organizations, then they officiate the ceremony and sign your marriage license.
The couple still needs to obtain a valid marriage license and file it post-ceremony.
Benefits: Personalized, heartfelt, and often more meaningful.
Drawbacks: Risk of inexperienced officiant missing legal steps, potential stress for the friend/family member, and ensuring they understand Hawaii’s legal filing requirements.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married in Hawaii
Planning your marriage in Hawaii involves more than just legal paperwork. Here are six important factors to carefully consider for a smooth and memorable experience:
1. Timing and Weather
Hawaii’s tropical climate means warm temperatures year-round, but the rainy season (November to March) can bring unpredictable showers. If you want a dry, sunny day, the summer months (April to October) are best, though they can be hotter and busier. Beach weddings are magical but always have a backup plan for sudden weather changes. Sunset ceremonies require precise timing, so plan logistics accordingly.
2. Marriage License Application Logistics
Because the marriage license must be applied for in person by both parties, couples planning destination weddings must arrive a day or two early to complete this step. Some counties offer extended hours, but you should confirm availability. Keep in mind the license is valid for 30 days, so timing your wedding date after the license issuance is crucial. Failure to apply in person can delay your wedding plans.
3. Permits and Location Restrictions
If you plan a public beach or park wedding, check with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources or county authorities for required permits. Some popular spots have strict rules on group size, amplified music, and setup. Private properties and resorts usually handle permits internally. Understanding these regulations early avoids fines or ceremony interruptions.
4. Cultural Traditions and Aloha Spirit
Many couples embrace Hawaiian wedding customs such as exchanging lei garlands, incorporating hula dancers, or having a blessing by a kahuna (Hawaiian priest). Respecting and including these traditions adds cultural depth and authenticity to your ceremony. However, if you want a purely secular wedding, that is equally acceptable. Discuss your wishes with your officiant and planner to align expectations.
5. Guest Travel and Accommodation
If inviting guests, consider their travel arrangements and lodging. Hawaii is a popular tourist destination, so book accommodations and flights well in advance to secure availability and better prices. Some resorts offer group rates or wedding blocks. Plan transportation logistics carefully, especially if the ceremony and reception are in different locations.
6. Post-Wedding Legal Documentation
After your ceremony, your officiant must return the signed marriage license to the County Clerk’s office within a set period (usually 10 days). Then, you can order certified copies of your marriage certificate, which you’ll need for legal name changes, insurance, taxes, and immigration purposes. Ordering multiple certified copies at once saves money and time. Verify the process and timeline with your County Clerk’s office.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get married in Hawaii empowers you to create a legally valid and beautifully memorable wedding day in one of the world’s most enchanting locations. From quick courthouse ceremonies to lavish beach weddings with cultural flair, there are numerous ways to get married in Hawaii that fit every couple’s desires and budgets. Understanding the legal requirements, including the in-person marriage license application and witness needs, ensures a smooth process without surprises. When planning your wedding, take into account Hawaii’s climate, cultural richness, and logistical factors to craft an experience that truly reflects your love story. Ultimately, getting married in Hawaii combines romance, legality, and aloha spirit to make your union unforgettable and joyful.
