Nicknamed the "Garden State," Kauai is famous for its natural beauty and unique blend of world-class resorts and rustic charm. Drawing in celebs like Matt LeBlanc, Harrison Ford, Jennifer Aniston, and Calista Flockhart, Kauai is often considered Hawaii's most romantic island, and for good reason. Its uncrowded beaches, awe-inspiring views, and simple serenity add up to one big nature and love fest. Elvis even did the deed here in the movie Blue Hawaii. Read on to discover some of the island's top spots for tying the knot.
BEACHES, PARKS + MORE
Fern Grotto
Cruise up Hawaii's only navigable river, the Wailua, to see a lava rock grotto draped with emerald green tropical ferns. Then, let local musicians serenade you at the natural amphitheater, as you and yours truly tie the knot. Mt. Waialeale looms in the distance, making wedding photos truly unique. There is a site fee to marry here.
Contact: 808-274-3446
Location: Wailua Marine State Park, Kauai, HI
Kilauea Lighthouse
The northernmost point of the Hawaiian islands, Kilauea Lighthouse is one of Kauai's most famous landmarks. This spot offers spectacular views of Kauai's churning coastline and is a hot spot for bird watching. A donation is requested.
Contact: 808-828-1413
Location: Kilauea Road, Kilauea, North Kauai
Mahaulepu Beach
Large and mostly deserted, secluded and unblemished Mahaulepu Beach boasts reddish-gold sand and dramatic sea cliffs, and is an ideal spot for couples who value privacy. As with all of Hawaii's public beaches and parks, Mahaulepu Beach is free to marry at, however there are no facilities.
Contact: 808-274-3446
Location: 3 miles east of 1571 Poipu Road, Koloa, HI
Poipu Beach
One of Kauai's most popular beaches, soft white sands and crystal waters make for a romantic and memorable wedding setting. Free to marry at.
Contact: 808-274-3446
Location: Po'ipu Road, Po'ipu, South Kauai
Poipu Beach Park
A grassy park dotted with swaying palms, picnic tables and pavilions, Poipu Beach Park overlooks two of the island's most renowned beaches, Poipu and Brennecke. There are restrooms on site and it's free to marry here. Because Poipu is Kauai's most popular beach park, it can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.
Contact: 808-274-3446
Location: Poipu Beach Road, Poipu, HI
Polihale Beach
Meaning "Home of the Spirits" in Hawaiian and known as the mini-Sahara, this sweep of dazzling white sand in Polihale State Park is the largest beach in all of Hawaii. From the northern end of the beach, the beginning cliffs of the Na Pali can be seen. The sand dunes along this beach can reach up to 100-feet in height and Polihale is the most western point in the US, so sunset ceremonies are even more special here, as you'll be catching the last rays of sun for the day. Free. There are restrooms, showers, picnic tables and pavilions.
Contact: 808-274-3446
Location: Old Mana Road, West Kauai
Shipwreck Beach
On Keoneloa Bay, Shipwreck Beach is one of Poipu's largest beaches. Named for an old, wooden shipwreck that has since disappeared, the beach offers excellent hiking. Free to marry here.
Contact: 808-274-3446
Location: Po'ipu Road, Po'ipu, South Kauai
GARDEN VARIETIES
Kilohana Estate
Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of this historic plantation and say "I Dos" in a magical garden setting. Swallow this: This fab spot is free with dinner, if you can believe it.
Contact: 808- 245-9593
Location: Between Kukui Grove & the community college, Lihue, HI
SPIRITUAL SPOTS
Chapel by the Sea
Designed just for weddings, this lovely, octagonal chapel is part of the Kauai Marriott Lagoons. Features European flair in a tropical setting with tranquil lagoons.
Contact: 808-245-5050
Location: 3610 Rice Street, Lihue, HI
The Chapel at Coco Palms
The famous chapel from "Blue Hawaii", Coco Palms offers a thatched roof, swaying palms, and nearby lagoon. Located in the famous Coconut Grove.
Contact: 808-823-0760
Location: Coco Palms Resort, 4-241 Huhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI
Church of the Pacific
This pretty Princeville church lies on a serene country road and overlooks the ocean and mountains. Select the sanctuary or an outdoor gazebo.
Contact: 808-826-6481, http://www.church-of-the-pacific.org/location3.html
Location: 4520 Kapa Ka Road, Princeville, HI
WHERE TO APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE ON THE BIG ISLAND
For the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of marriage agents on Kauai, call the Department of Health at 808-241-3498.
See More: Destination Weddings , Ceremony Ideas , Planning