Unique Ideas for your Oahu Elopement

Hawaii is so much more than just pretty beaches! Of course, we have literally have hundreds of those, and I can recommend the best spots for photography, but if you want to do something a little bit different, or an addition to the more traditional beach backdrop, here are some unique Oahu elopement ideas:

1. Get out on the water, on a boat! How cute is this turquoise wooden boat below?! It made for some amazing sunset photo ops. Another way to get out on a boat could include a Waikiki sunset sail on a catamaran. Iconic Waikiki Beach is always super busy and it’s difficult to photograph there without oodles of people in the background. But the Honolulu Skyline and Diamond Head look stunning from the water – especially at sunset time! Hiring a private charter would allow for not only beautiful photos, but a super special experience. Some of my favorite catamaran companies are Kepoikai, Manakai, and Nahoku is fun if you want a vibrant burst of yellow in your photos!

Outside of Waikiki, boat charters are possible in lots of different places around the island. A private cruise to the Kaneohe Sandbar would be stunning. The Sandbar is a unique spot a mile out from the shore with the dramatic Ko’olau mountains as a backdrop and crystal blue waters. At low tide (or even high tide!) the water is shallow enough that it’s possible to stand and take pics in the water! Captain Bruce is just one of many private boat charter options. It’s also possible to kayak or paddle board to the Sandbar.

(If you’re considering eloping on Kauai, the Napali Coast is an amazing place to do it!)

2. See the island from the sky in a helicopter! There are tons of doors-off helicopter charter companies on Oahu and imagine the experience of flying high over the island as part of your elopement day experience! Some companies even offer scenic landing options, including Rainbow Helicopters.

3. Kayak to Mokoli’i. Also known as Chinaman’s Hat. This tiny, uninhabited island is just a short 20 minute paddle from Kualoa Regional Park. Mokoli’i offers stunning views of the Ko’olau mountains and for a truly unique perspective, you can hike to the top of the island’s peak.

4. Hike to an epic viewpoint! There are endless hiking options on Oahu for truly unique views. Hikes can range from short and sweet, to short and steep, to super long and strenuous. And everything in between. I can recommend good spots not only for photos, but that match your desired length and ability. One of my favs is Crouching Lion.

Don’t want to hike at all? There are plenty of spots that provide insane views, but are just steps from the parking lot!

5. Be yourselves! Sure all of the above ideas are different and fun, but at the end of the day, your elopement is about you and your partner! Pretty pictures are wonderful (and your first family heirloom together), but most importantly, you’re celebrating your love and your union. The best part about eloping, or doing your wedding  or honeymoon photos in Hawaii, is that YOU can decide exactly what you want to do. Want those beach photos at sunset? Cool! Want to wear a purple gown? Amazing. Want to wear three different gowns? Perfect. Want to wear a t-shirt and denim cut-offs? You can do exactly what feels most true to you!

I hope this post sparked some ideas in your head for you unique Oahu elopement!

VENDORS:
Styling & Planning: Adventurous at Heart
Couple: Diamond & Ron
Cake: Oahu Cakes
Makeup: Karla Annahissa
Stationery: Minted
Agate placecards: Dearly Beeloved

Planning your Hawaii elopement? Contact me about documenting your day!