Hawaii is home to some of the most incredible elopement destinations in the world – and when you’re deciding which island to elope on, you can’t go wrong with the dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls of Kauai! Whether you’re hiking or hitting the beach (or both), a Kauai elopement is perfect for any couple who wants to elope in Hawaii. This guide will tell you everything you need to know to elope in Kauai, and plan your once in a lifetime, truly unique, wedding day!

There are infinite beautiful places to elope in Kauai – but to help you narrow it down, here are some of the best spots!

1) Waimea Canyon State Park

Head’s up – you can’t have a ceremony here! But, you can go to Waimea Canyon for some photos, and I couldn’t leave it off the list! Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this spot features one of the most incredible, sweeping views in Kauai. The colorful gorge is vast, with waterfalls all around.

Permits: your elopement ceremony needs to take place at one specific spot, and you can’t take professional photos anywhere else in the park.

2) Mokoli’i Island Beach

For Kauai beach elopements, Mokoli’i Island is one of the best spots! The gorgeous beach is surrounded by lush green mountains, so you can get married with the turquoise water and the towering peaks behind you.

3) Mount Waialeale Falls

This spot is difficult to reach – but the unmaintained trail means this is one of the best places to elope in Kauai for a private, remote spot! The waterfall plunges nearly 3,000 feet, located on Mount Waialeale – one of the highest spots on the island.

4) Na Pali Coast Trail

If you want a big adventure when you elope in Kauai, hike the Na Pali Coast trail! The 22 mile hike takes you through incredible jungles, mountain peaks, and beaches for some of the most epic scenery on the island. Hike it in a day, or turn it into a backpacking adventure!

Permits: this location is actually a suggestion for an activity after your elopement, as ceremonies are strictly forbidden anywhere on the path, as is any kind of professional photography (no couple photos after either).

5) Kalepa Ridge Trail

This hike is only 2 miles long, but it’s definitely a challenge! You’ll be rewarded with some absolutely jaw dropping views of the ridgeline and the mountains of Kauai, and it’s a great place to explore for adventurous couples.

Ready for your Kauai Elopement?

One of the most important things you need to elope in Kauai is an experienced photographer!

As an elopement photographer, I help my couples with every part of the day – from finding the best place for them to get married, to making sure we get the right permits, and building a custom timeline for the day, I want to make sure your elopement is unique, and a perfect reflection of you.