Planning a wedding in paradise involves balancing your dreams with your bank account. While the average Hawaii wedding cost hovers around $34,000, smart planning can drop that figure significantly. This guide breaks down every expense to help you build a realistic budget for your big day.
We will show you exactly where that money goes and how to make your dollars work harder. From venue fees to the hidden taxes that catch many couples off guard, you will learn the secrets to an affordable celebration.
This guide will break down all the expenses for a wedding in Oahu and give you tips to manage your budget effectively.
Key Takeaways
- The average Hawaii wedding cost is approximately $34,000, though simple elopements can cost as little as $2,500 while luxury events often exceed $150,000.
- Venue fees vary widely; beach permits are a steal at roughly $20 to $50, whereas premium locations like the Royal Hawaiian Hotel often start above $10,000.
- Photography and videography packages typically run between $3,000 and $6,500, but adding drone coverage or booking top-tier professionals can push this to $15,000.
- Catering prices range from $50 per person for buffets to over $150 for plated meals, and open bars can add another $25 to $50 per guest.
- You must budget for the 4.712% Hawaii General Excise Tax (GET) on services and a marriage license fee of roughly $70.
Overview of Hawaii Wedding Costs
Most couples spend roughly $34,000 for a traditional wedding in Hawaii. This figure aligns closely with national averages but can swing drastically based on your vision. A lavish resort celebration with 100 guests can easily climb to $100,000, while an intimate beach ceremony might cost less than $10,000 total.
The type of experience you choose is the biggest price factor. “An elopement in Hawaii might only cost you about $2,500, while a small beach ceremony could be close to $10,000.” This stark difference means your guest list and venue choice are your most powerful budgeting tools.
You must also account for non-negotiable fees. Hawaii sales tax, known locally as the General Excise Tax (GET), is currently 4.712% on Oahu and Maui. You will see this added to everything from your hotel room to your photography package. Accommodations vary from budget-friendly spots like the White Sands Hotel in Waikiki at $200 per night to luxury stays at the Four Seasons closer to $900 per night.
Flights from the U.S. mainland typically cost between $400 and $1,500 per person. Your guests will likely treat this as their annual vacation, so they will be budgeting for experiences like surfing lessons on the North Shore or dining at local favorites like Duke's Waikiki.
Breaking Down the Average Costs
A clear budget starts with knowing the real market rates for each service. We have broken down the major categories below to help you allocate your funds where they matter most.
Venue Costs
Venue fees in Hawaii typically range from $2,000 to over $15,000 depending on the location's exclusivity. Iconic properties like the Royal Hawaiian Hotel often charge site fees starting at $10,000, which provides a stunning, private backdrop for your vows.
For a more lavish experience, the Four Seasons Hualalai on the Big Island offers comprehensive packages that can exceed $20,000. These resort fees usually include essential rentals like chairs and tables, which simplifies your planning. Private estates are another option, generally costing between $3,000 and $8,000, but they may require you to bring in outside restrooms and generators.
Budget-savvy couples often choose public beaches. A standard "Right-of-Entry" permit from the state government is incredibly affordable, often costing just $20 for a basic setup or up to $50 depending on square footage. However, you must follow strict rules: no amplified music, no alcoholic beverages, and often no chairs or arches are allowed on the sand. This option is best for simple, standing-only ceremonies.
| Venue Type | Estimated Cost | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Public Beach | $20 - $50 (Permit) | Stunning natural views; strict "no furniture" rules. |
| Private Estate | $3,000 - $8,000 | Privacy and flexibility; may need external rentals. |
| Luxury Resort | $10,000 - $25,000+ | All-inclusive service; premium amenities included. |
Photography and Videography
Most couples invest between $3,000 and $6,500 for a combined photography and videography package. High-end studios like Karma Hill Photography or Masha Sakhno often charge between $4,000 and $10,000 for extensive coverage that captures every moment of your day.
A wedding photographer and videographer in Oahu is essential for capturing the vibrant colors of the islands. Many professionals recommend booking a "Golden Hour" package to take advantage of the spectacular lighting just before sunset. If you want aerial shots of the coastline, expect to pay an additional $300 to $500 for drone services.
It is important to check if your photographer holds a commercial film permit. This is a legal requirement for shooting on public lands in Hawaii. Legitimate professionals handle this paperwork for you, ensuring your shoot is not interrupted by park rangers.
Your memories in paradise deserve great photos.
Catering and Reception
You should expect to spend between $50 and $150 per person for food and drink. A plated meal costs on the higher end, often starting at $100 per guest at resorts, while buffet options usually range from $50 to $90 per person.
For a true taste of the islands, consider a menu featuring local staples like Ahi Poke, Kalua Pork, and Huli Huli Chicken. Local caterers like A Catered Experience or Keneke's offering these traditional dishes can often provide better value than generic hotel banquet menus. Food trucks are another trendy option for casual receptions, with costs averaging $30 to $70 per person.
Alcohol is a significant separate expense. An open bar typically costs $25 to $50 per guest for a four-hour reception. To save money, some private venues allow you to buy your own alcohol from stores like Costco, though you will likely need to hire a licensed bartender to serve it. A simple wedding cake adds about $300 to the bill, while elaborate custom designs can run over $1,000.
DĂ©cor and Floral Arrangements
Floral budgets in Hawaii generally fall between $1,500 and $4,000. Because many flowers must be imported, costs can be higher than on the mainland. A bride's bouquet featuring premium blooms like orchids or proteas typically costs $200 to $500.
You can save money by using locally grown tropical flowers and greenery. Monsteras, palm leaves, and plumeria are abundant on the islands and cost significantly less than imported roses or peonies. Floral arrangements for the ceremony often range from $500 to $1,500 depending on complexity.
A floral arch is a stunning focal point that usually costs between $800 and $2,500. However, remember that arches are generally not allowed on public beaches due to state regulations. If you want an arch, you will likely need to book a private estate or resort venue.
Music and Entertainment
Live music costs range from $300 for a solo performer to over $4,000 for a full band. A solo ukulele player or guitarist adds a perfect Hawaiian touch to your ceremony for roughly $400 to $600 per hour.
For receptions, DJ and MC services are the most popular choice. A professional wedding DJ who provides their own sound system and lighting typically charges between $1,500 and $3,500. It is critical to note that amplified music is strictly prohibited on public beaches. If you marry on the sand, you must rely on acoustic music or the sound of the ocean.
If you want to incorporate traditional entertainment, a hula hoop troupe or fire knife dancer is an unforgettable addition. These performances usually cost between $500 and $1,500 for a 30-minute show. Many couples schedule this as a surprise for their guests after dinner.
Transportation and Guest Travel
Flights and hotels are the largest expenses for your guests. Round-trip airfare from the West Coast often dips to $400, while flights from the East Coast can exceed $1,000. Budget hotel rooms in Waikiki or Kihei start around $200 per night, but resort fees can add another $40 to $80 daily.
Rental cars are essential on most islands but can be pricey. Daily rates average $60 to $120. Many savvy travelers now use the Turo app to rent cars from locals, which can sometimes be cheaper than traditional agencies. For the wedding day itself, shuttles are a smart investment.
Hiring a private shuttle for your guests costs between $1,500 and $3,000. This ensures everyone arrives on time and gets home safely after the reception. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Honolulu but can be scarce in remote areas like the North Shore or Hana.
We saved by booking group shuttles ahead instead of using many taxi trips.
Factors Influencing Hawaii Wedding Costs
Your final bill depends heavily on three main levers: your guest count, your island choice, and your wedding date. Adjusting any one of these can save you thousands of dollars.
Guest Count
The number of guests is the single biggest driver of cost. A smaller guest list directly reduces your catering, rental, and transportation expenses. For a standard resort wedding, you can estimate a cost of roughly $250 to $400 per person once food, drink, and rentals are tallied.
Micro-weddings are increasingly popular in Hawaii. Hosting 15 to 20 guests often allows you to upgrade your experience significantly. Instead of a generic banquet chicken dinner for 100 people, a smaller group allows you to afford a private dining room at a top-tier restaurant like Merriman's or Roy's.
Your choice of oahu wedding venues also dictates capacity. Public beach permits often cap groups at 25 or 30 people maximum. If you invite more people than the permit allows, you risk having your wedding shut down by enforcement officers.
Choice of Island
Oahu is generally the most affordable island due to competition and volume. It offers the widest range of vendors, from budget-friendly caterers to luxury designers. You have easy access to affordable items at big-box stores like Costco and Target in Honolulu.
Maui and Kauai tend to be more expensive. Maui is famous for high-end luxury, with venues like the Montage Kapalua Bay commanding premium prices. Kauai has fewer vendors, which means less competition and higher delivery fees for rentals and florals.
The Big Island offers a mix of price points. You can find incredible luxury at the resorts on the Kohala Coast or budget-friendly options in Hilo. However, the sheer size of the island means you may pay more for vendor travel time if your bakery is in Kona and your venue is two hours away.
Seasonal Price Variations
Traveling during the shoulder seasons of April, May, September, and October offers the best value. During these months, flight prices often drop and hotels are less crowded. You avoid the peak holiday pricing of December and the summer rush of July.
Weather is another seasonal factor to consider. The "wet season" runs from November to March, which brings higher chances of rain, especially on the windward (east) sides of the islands. Hurricane season officially runs from June through November, though direct hits are rare.
Booking a low season date can also help you secure your first-choice vendors. Top wedding photographers and planners often book out 12 to 18 months in advance for prime summer dates. Being flexible with your date can sometimes unlock discounts at venues looking to fill their calendar.
Venue Options for Your Hawaii Wedding
Choosing between a resort and a beach determines not just your cost, but the entire flow of your day. Each option comes with its own set of rules and logistical realities.
Beachfront Venues
Public beaches are perfect for intimate, standing-only ceremonies. Popular spots include Waialae Beach on Oahu and Makena Cove on Maui. The state requires a right-of-entry permit, which you can obtain from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) online system.
You must adhere to strict "Leave No Trace" principles. Beach wedding permits generally forbid the setup of chairs, arches, tables, or amplified sound systems. This means your ceremony will be simple, natural, and brief.
Always verify the specific guest count limit for your chosen beach. While some large beaches allow up to 30 people, smaller coves may limit you to 10 or fewer. Rangers do patrol these areas, and fines for unpermitted weddings can be steep.
Hawaiian Resort Weddings
Resorts offer a stress-free, all-in-one experience. Properties like the Grand Hyatt Kauai or the Four Seasons Hualalai provide manicured gardens and oceanfront lawns where you can have a full setup with arches, chairs, and music.
These venues usually require you to use their in-house catering and bar services. While this increases the price, it eliminates the headache of coordinating rentals and deliveries. All-inclusive wedding packages at these resorts often start at $15,000 and include a coordinator to handle the details.
Privacy is the main advantage of a resort. Unlike a public beach where tourists might walk by in swimsuits, resort venues offer secluded lawns or terraces. This ensures your vows remain private and your photos are free of unexpected photobombers.
Budgeting Tips for a Hawaii Wedding
Staying on budget in Hawaii requires discipline and local knowledge. Tracking every expense from the start prevents the dreaded "budget creep" that affects many couples.
Prioritize Expenses
Pick the two or three things that matter most to you and spend there. If you are foodies, allocate 40% of your budget to an incredible dining experience and cut back on florals. If photography is your priority, book a top-tier photographer and choose a simpler venue.
Many couples save significantly by skipping the traditional reception. Instead, they host a "reception dinner" at a local restaurant. This avoids venue rental fees, dance floor rentals, and the need for a DJ, while still providing a wonderful celebration meal.
For a dream hawaii wedding on a budget, consider a morning ceremony followed by a brunch. Breakfast catering is substantially cheaper than dinner service, and the morning light is often beautiful for photos.
Start Saving Early
Open a dedicated high-yield savings account for your wedding fund immediately. Hawaii vendors often require a 25% to 50% deposit to secure your date, so you need liquid cash early in the planning process.
Look for credit cards that offer travel rewards. Charging your large vendor payments to a card that earns airline miles can often pay for your flights to the islands. Just be sure to pay the balance off immediately to avoid interest charges.
Watch out for the small fees that add up. Gratuity is not always included in vendor contracts, so you should budget an extra 15-20% for tips. The $70 marriage license fee and various permit fees also need to be line items in your spreadsheet.
Look for All-Inclusive Packages
Local planning companies offer packages that bundle the ceremony essentials for a fraction of the cost of a custom wedding. Companies like "Simple Maui Wedding" or "Weddings of Hawaii" offer packages ranging from $2,500 to $5,000.
These packages typically include the officiant, the beach permit, a photographer for one hour, and leis for the couple. This "show up and get married" model is perfect for couples who want to avoid the stress of coordinating multiple vendors from thousands of miles away.
Even for larger weddings, booking a package at a venue like Kualoa Ranch can save money. Their packages often include tables, chairs, and transportation for guests, which are expensive to rent individually. This streamlined approach ensures all legal requirements, like the Hawaii marriage license, are handled correctly.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Taxes and fees in Hawaii can be a shock if you are not prepared. The General Excise Tax (GET) is 4.712% on Oahu, and unlike a sales tax, it applies to services like photography and planning, not just physical goods.
Resort fees are another common surprise for you and your guests. Many hotels charge a mandatory daily fee of $35 to $50 that covers "amenities" like pool towels and Wi-Fi. Parking at Waikiki hotels can also run $40 to $50 per night, so advise your guests to budget accordingly.
Vendor travel fees are common if you get married on a Neighbor Island. If you fly a specific photographer from Oahu to Lanai, you must pay for their flights, rental car, and often a hotel room. Even on the Big Island, travel fees apply if a vendor drives more than an hour to your venue.
Finally, do not forget the marriage license logistics. You must apply and pay online, but you also need to meet with a licensing agent in person once you arrive in Hawaii. This appointment usually costs nothing extra, but it requires time and transportation to get there.
Conclusion
A dream wedding in Oahu is within reach if you plan with your eyes open. By understanding the real costs—from the $20 beach permit to the $34,000 average total—you can make decisions that prioritize what you value most.
Start saving early, leverage local packages, and don't fear the non-traditional route. Whether you choose a luxury resort or a simple sandy cove, getting your Hawaii marriage license is the first step toward an unforgettable start to your life together.
FAQs
How much does a wedding in Hawaii cost and what affects the total cost?
The wedding in Hawaii cost varies widely — expect anywhere from $2,000 for a simple Hawaii elopement to $40,000+ for a full wedding weekend with ceremony and reception. Major factors that affect the total cost include the island you choose (Oahu, Maui, Big Island), number of guests, wedding packages selected, venue fees, wedding vendors like photography and videography, catering, and travel and accommodation for guests. Year-round tourism means prices can be higher in peak seasons; budgeting for a destination wedding in Hawaii should include vendor travel costs and permit fees to get a Hawaii marriage license.
Can you explain average total cost differences between Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island?
Average total cost tends to be higher on Maui and Oahu compared with many parts of the Big Island because popular Maui wedding venues and Oahu wedding photographers charge premium rates. Maui wedding venues and Oahu hotels often include ceremony and reception options in wedding packages, increasing convenience but also costs. The Big Island can offer more affordable local wedding options, though remote venues may add logistics fees. Shopping multiple vendors and hiring a local wedding planner can help keep costs down.
What are common wedding packages available and are elopement packages cheaper?
Destination wedding in Hawaii packages range from simple elopement packages that include an officiant and photographer to all-inclusive wedding packages covering ceremony, reception, flowers, and coordination. Elopement packages are generally the cheapest option and often include a get married in Hawaii officiant and basic photography. Full wedding packages for larger events will add costs for catering, rentals, and wedding videographer, so consider which components are essential when planning a wedding in Hawaii to control the wedding budget.
How do I get a Hawaii marriage license and what costs are involved to get married?
To get a Hawaii marriage license you must apply at a Hawaii Department of Health office or online, provide valid ID, and pay the license fee (fees vary by county, roughly $65–$100). There is no residency requirement, making it easy to get married in Hawaii while traveling. Additional costs to get married include the officiant fee, venue permit fees for beaches or parks, and any filing fees for the marriage certificate. A local wedding planner can help ensure you complete paperwork correctly.
How can I plan a wedding weekend and manage travel and accommodation for guests?
Planning a wedding weekend involves booking group room blocks, arranging arrival activities, and scheduling the ceremony and reception across multiple days. Use a wedding planner or a local wedding coordinator to negotiate travel and accommodation deals, recommend wedding locations, and organize rehearsal dinners or beach activities. Booking early helps secure better rates year-round, and providing guests with travel and accommodation details reduces stress and ensures a smooth wedding experience.
What should I know about hiring wedding vendors like an Oahu wedding photographer or videographer?
Hiring experienced wedding vendors is crucial for capturing your wedding experience. An Oahu wedding photographer or island-based wedding videographer will know local lighting and best scenic spots, which improves ceremony and reception coverage. When hiring vendors, confirm travel fees, delivery timelines, and whether they are familiar with local permits. Comparing portfolios and reviews helps you find the right fit while staying within your wedding budget.
How can I incorporate Hawaiian culture into my ceremony and reception?
To incorporate Hawaiian culture, consider traditional elements such as a Hawaiian officiant or oli (chant), lei exchanges, Hawaiian music or hula performers, and locally sourced flowers and food. Consult with a local wedding planner or cultural advisor to respectfully include practices like an ahu ritual or oli while ensuring authenticity. Incorporating Hawaiian culture enhances the local wedding feel and can be included in many wedding packages or added Ă la carte to your ceremony.
Is it better to hire a local wedding planner and how does that affect the wedding budget?
Hiring a local wedding planner can save time and often money by leveraging vendor relationships, recommending cost-effective wedding locations, and handling logistics for planning a destination wedding. A local planner knows year-round vendor availability, permit requirements, and can assemble ceremony and reception details efficiently. While planners charge fees, their expertise can reduce unexpected costs and help keep overall wedding expenses within your budget.
How much does a Hawaii wedding photography and videography typically add to the total cost?
Wedding photography and videography can add $1,500–$7,000+ to your wedding budget depending on hours of coverage, travel, and whether you hire a top-tier Oahu wedding photographer or a destination wedding videographer. Many couples include these services in wedding packages or hire them separately. To manage costs, consider shorter coverage, a smaller photography team, or hiring a talented local wedding photographer who charges lower travel fees than mainland vendors.
