How to Plan a Wedding Weekend in Hawaii
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Hawaii, why limit the celebration to just one day? Turning your big day into a full wedding weekend allows you and your guests to soak in the beauty of the islands, spend quality time together, and create unforgettable memories beyond the ceremony itself.
As an Oahu wedding planner and photographer, One Moment Hawaii has helped countless couples design wedding weekends that balance celebration, relaxation, and authentic Hawaiian experiences. Here’s your step-by-step guide — complete with itinerary ideas for welcome dinners, excursions, and farewell brunches.
1. Why Make It a Wedding Weekend?
A wedding weekend:
Gives guests traveling from the mainland or abroad more time to enjoy the destination.
Reduces the stress of cramming everything into one day.
Allows you to incorporate more Hawaiian culture and activities into your celebration.
2. The Ideal Hawaii Wedding Weekend Structure
Day 1: Arrival & Welcome Dinner
Purpose: Set the tone for the weekend and make guests feel at home.
Ideas for your welcome dinner:
Beachfront Luau: Kick off with hula dancing, live music, and traditional Hawaiian dishes like kalua pig and poke.
Private Estate or Villa Dinner: Catered by a local chef, with décor matching your wedding theme.
Casual Sunset BBQ: Perfect for a relaxed vibe, complete with fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.
Pro Tip: Include a small welcome gift with Hawaiian treats, sunscreen, and a schedule of the weekend’s events.
Day 2: Island Excursions
Purpose: Let guests experience Hawaii while bonding before the big day.
Excursion options:
Catamaran Cruise: Sail along Oahu’s coastline, with opportunities for snorkeling and dolphin watching.
Waterfall Hike: Visit spots like Manoa Falls or Waimea Valley for a scenic group adventure.
Cultural Tour: Learn about Hawaiian history at ʻIolani Palace or Bishop Museum.
Beach Day: Rent cabanas and enjoy water sports at Kailua or Lanikai Beach.
Keep the day’s activities flexible so guests can choose between relaxation and exploration.
Day 3: Wedding Day
Morning: Light activities like yoga on the beach or a spa session for the bridal party.
Afternoon: Ceremony setup, hair and makeup, and private photography sessions.
Evening: Wedding ceremony followed by a reception filled with local cuisine, live entertainment, and dancing under the stars.
Pro Tip: Schedule golden hour portraits to capture Hawaii’s famous sunsets.
Day 4: Farewell Brunch
Purpose: End the weekend on a warm, intimate note before guests head home.
Farewell brunch ideas:
Resort Patio Brunch: Fresh tropical fruit, Kona coffee, and island-inspired pastries.
Beachside Picnic: Relaxed and casual with breakfast wraps, pastries, and mimosas.
Family-Style Luau Breakfast: A fun way to relive wedding moments and say aloha until next time.
3. Tips for Planning Your Hawaii Wedding Weekend
Hire a local wedding planner who understands the logistics, permits, and timing for each activity.
Arrange group transportation for excursions and events.
Book early — venues and activities in Hawaii fill up fast, especially during peak seasons.
Balance structured events with free time so guests can explore on their own.
Final Thoughts
A wedding weekend in Hawaii is more than a celebration — it’s a shared adventure your guests will remember forever. By blending stunning locations, cultural experiences, and moments of connection, you’ll give everyone a true taste of aloha.
At One Moment Hawaii, we help couples plan stress-free wedding weekends that flow seamlessly from welcome dinner to farewell brunch, ensuring every moment is beautiful and unforgettable.
