Wondering what the best time to get married in Hawaii is? It’s true that Hawaii has near-perfect weather – the temperatures are consistent all year round, and it doesn’t get very hot or cold. However, before booking your flights and practicing your hula, let’s talk about things you couldn’t possibly know unless you live here.
We will discuss the best time to get married in Hawaii, with each season’s vibe, weather quirks, and crowd levels. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each season so you can pick the perfect time for your big day.
Winter Weddings
Winter in Hawaii slightly differs from the winters you may experience anywhere else. You won’t find snow, and the weather is nice and cool. However, many don’t know things can get somewhat wet in Hawaii from December through February. This means the likelihood of rain on your wedding day is high. Some areas, like the north shore of Oahu or Hana on Maui, can get downright soggy. If you’re picturing a sun-soaked beach wedding, you’ll want to have a backup plan just in case.
With average temps around 75°F (24°C), it’s pretty delightful for an off-season Hawaii wedding. And the bonus is that, during this time, everything is lush. If you’re after a more intimate wedding, winter might be your sweet spot. You’ll find fewer tourists, which means quieter beaches and more privacy for your vows.
Are you ready to hear this? Winter is whale-watching season! Imagine saying “I do” with humpback whales breaching in the background. Now that’s a wedding story for the ages.
Spring Fling
Spring is when Hawaii really starts to show off. The weather is fantastic, and the temperatures are just right. It’s warm, mild, and has less rain than in winter. The islands burst into color, with flowers blooming everywhere, but be aware that there can be some unexpected rain.
March is especially great if you’re looking to snag some last deals. As it gets closer to April and May, the rain clears up a bit, and the peak wedding season in Hawaii is just about to arrive. During this time, waterfalls will be running due to the rains, but the trails can be really muddy, and mosquitoes will also join your party.
Summer Lovin’
If you crave sunshine and crystal-clear waters, a summer wedding in Hawaii is just the thing. This is the driest and warmest time of year, perfect for barefoot beach ceremonies and sunset photos. This is the time when the ocean is calm, the days are long, and there are puffy clouds and bright blue skies every day. With that said, it’s no wonder that so many consider this the best time to get married in Hawaii.
But there’s a flip side: June through August is also peak tourist season. Schools are out, families are vacationing, and the islands get busy. Prices for hotels and venues shoot up, and you’ll need to book venues, vendors, and even dinner reservations well in advance.
If you love the energy of a bustling island and don’t mind sharing paradise with a few extra people, go for it! If you are into surfing, summer is the best season to show off what you know on the south shore.
Fall for Hawaii
Did you know that October is the hottest month of the year? Yeah, it’s true, and it doesn’t get much cooler until December. Fall is Hawaii’s best-kept secret. The summer crowds head home, prices drop, and the weather stays gorgeous. This is shoulder season, which means you get the best of both worlds: beautiful weather and fewer tourists.
Venues and vendors become more available during the fall, and you might even score a deal on accommodations. The sunsets are especially stunning in the fall, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. Fall is hard to beat if you want a relaxed Hawaii civil wedding. Just keep an eye on the calendar. November can bring the first hints of the rainy season, so early fall is usually safest.
Things To Be Aware Of
Hawaii’s weather is famously pleasant, but there are a few things to keep in mind. The wet season runs from November to March, with the heaviest rains hitting in the winter months. Even then, showers are usually brief and often confined to certain parts of the islands.
The summer months (June to August) are the driest and hottest. That sun that we all love drenching our bodies in…well, it is the same one that burns and drenches us in sweat. The sun is stronger in Hawaii, so plan for shade and hydration if you’re having an outdoor Hawaii civil wedding. And protect your skin with sunscreen and a hat.
You’ll find that in most places on the island, it’s wet and hot. Note: Your hair may frizz due to humidity, so plan your hairstyle accordingly. On the other hand, your skin will be plump and hydrated. And don’t forget that humidity is a haven for mosquitoes. Be prepared to face this insect population all year round, especially if you embark on forestry hikes.
Book early if you have your heart set on a particular spot or date. The ideal time is 6 to 12 months in advance for peak seasons. Consider a weekday or an off-season Hawaii wedding for more flexibility and better deals. And if you’re feeling spontaneous, last-minute elopements are totally doable in Hawaii, especially if you’re open to different locations or times of day.
Island Vibes
You’ve surely heard that each Hawaiian island has its own personality. Oahu is bustling and urban, with endless options for venues and activities. Maui is a mix of luxury and laid-back charm, perfect for couples wanting adventure and relaxation. The Big Island offers dramatic landscapes, from black sand beaches to volcanoes, while Kauai is all about lush greenery and quiet romance.
Choose the island you prefer because you’ll find stunning locations for your ceremony everywhere. Think beaches, botanical gardens, waterfalls, and even private estates. If you’re looking for inspiration or want to see what’s available, check out our seasonal elopement packages for ideas tailored to every season.
Conclusion
So, what’s the best time to get married in Hawaii? The answer is: it depends on your style! Nevertheless, it will be gorgeous regardless of what you decide! If you wish to get more ideas and tips, feel free to check out our blog.
Ready to start planning? Fill out our contact page, or keep exploring our Locations or Wedding Services pages. Your perfect Hawaii wedding is just a click away – let’s make it happen!