It’s not rare for couples nowadays to wonder how they want to tie the knot. Although traditional weddings are still very popular, more and more couples are learning about civil weddings and elopements. Yes, they both sound intimate and simple, but each has its own unique vibe and details that need careful consideration.
In this blog, we highlight the main differences between Hawaii civil weddings and elopements so you know which is the right fit for you.
Hawaii Civil Weddings
A civil wedding is a legal marriage ceremony conducted by a government official, like a judge, justice of the peace, or court clerk. It’s called “civil” because it happens outside of religious or cultural rituals. Civil weddings are all about simplicity — no frills, no big crowd, just the basics to make your marriage official.
Hawaii civil weddings can take place at the courthouse, an office, or at a nearby park or beach. Many couples use the islands’ gorgeous outdoors to say their vows, but with a smaller, more formal setup than a big traditional wedding. You can keep it super casual or add little personal touches like a bouquet, Hawaiian music, or leis.
Elopements in Hawaii
On the other hand, an elopement is more about how you get married than who performs the ceremony or where. Traditionally, eloping meant running off secretly to get married without telling anyone. Today, it usually means opting for an intimate, low-key wedding with just a few guests or none at all.
Hawaii elopements often take place outdoors, where you tie the knot in a stunning natural setting. It’s less about ceremony rules and more about the personal, meaningful moment.
Key Differences Between Civil Weddings and Elopements
| Aspect | Civil Wedding | Elopement |
| Definition | Legal marriage ceremony conducted by an authorized official, often in an office or official setting, but can be outdoors. | Private, intimate marriage, often spontaneous or planned with minimal guests in a personal location, may be civil or religious. |
| Location | Courthouse, office, parks, beaches; often preset locations with some formality. | Anywhere meaningful—beach, mountain, garden, or secret spot. Location is chosen for personal or romantic value. |
| Guests | Typically, a very small group often requires at least one witness. | Usually only the couple or couple + a few guests, no formal requirements for witnesses in some cases. |
| Formality | More structured, follows legal scripts and procedures. | Informal, personalized, and flexible ceremony style. |
| Planning Level | Often pre-arranged with the government or officiant, follows a clear process. | Can be spontaneous or loosely planned, focusing on intimacy and experience rather than rules. |
| Cost | Generally low-cost, with official fees for license and officiant. | Can be very affordable or elaborate, depending on extras; often less expensive than big weddings. |
| Purpose | Legalization of marriage in its simplest form is often convenient for couples seeking a quick and formal ceremony. | Express pure intimacy and private celebration, often with romantic or adventurous flair. |
Steps to a Hawaii Civil Wedding
- Get your marriage license from the Hawaii Department of Health in person, or apply online. No blood tests or waiting periods are required.
- Pick your officiant. This can be a judge, justice of the peace, a court commissioner, or a licensed person authorized to perform marriages.
- Choose your location. Many couples go for straightforward courthouse weddings or opt for nearby beaches or parks in central Oahu, such as Honolulu Ridge Wedding or Magic Island Wedding.
- Have your ceremony. It’s typically 15 to 20 minutes with the officiant guiding you through vows and legal declarations.
- Your officiant files the marriage certificate, making your marriage official under Hawaiian law.
Steps to Elopements in Hawaii
Hawaii elopements are more about the personal experience. You don’t have to stick to courthouse hours or follow a strict format. Here’s how an elopement might go:
- Choose a stunning, private location, maybe a hidden waterfall on the Big Island, a quiet beach on Kauai, or a sunset cliff on Maui.
- Decide if you want an officiant. You can have a judge or ordained individual perform the ceremony, or even do a self-uniting marriage if allowed.
- Bring a few guests or just yourselves. Sometimes elopements are two-person affairs, which lets you focus on your commitment with zero distractions.
- Add romantic touches like a photographer, Hawaiian leis, or local songs to capture the vibe.
- Celebrate afterwards quietly, whether that’s a beach picnic, dinner at a seaside restaurant, or a night under the stars.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between a Hawaii civil wedding and an elopement depends on what you want from your Hawaiian wedding day.
- If you want simple, legal, and fuss-free with an official tone, a civil wedding is probably your best bet.
- If you want romance, privacy, and adventure with the freedom to customize every detail, eloping in Hawaii might be your vibe.
Remember, you don’t have to pick one or the other rigidly because many couples like to blend the two. For example, you could get legally married via a civil ceremony at the courthouse and then hold an intimate elopement-style celebration outdoors afterward.
Tips for Planning Your Hawaii Ceremony
- Secure your marriage license early. It’s quick but good to have it done before your ceremony day.
- Work with experienced officiants or wedding planners. They’ll help navigate the legal steps and find the perfect spot.
- Consider witnesses, as Hawaii requires at least one. If you don’t have guests, your officiant can usually serve as a witness.
- Add little extras. Hawaiian leis, music, or a photographer can make your day feel special, whether it’s a civil wedding or an elopement.
- Check for permits. If you’re having your wedding on public land, be sure you have permission. Your officiant or planner can assist.
Conclusion
You don’t need a grand affair to make your wedding day unforgettable. If you want a straightforward, easy marriage ceremony, a Hawaii civil wedding might be the perfect choice. But if you crave privacy, spontaneity, or a more personal touch, eloping in Hawaii is an amazing adventure.
Curious to learn more or ready to book your ceremony? Fill out the contact page or check out our Locations, Wedding Services, and Blog pages. Let us help you create the perfect Hawaiian wedding day experience, your way.