Beach Locations Feature – Big Island Beach Wedding

When it comes to getting married on the Big Island of Hawaii, there’s no shortage of beautiful beach locations to choose from! Whether you’re looking for a palm tree-dotted beach or a rugged coastline adorned with plenty of lava rocks, there are endless options for a Hawaii beach wedding. Nothing quite compares to tying the knot with your toes in the sand, surrounded by the natural beauty of Hawaii island!
We’ve scouted and rounded up the most picturesque views the Big Island has to offer for our excited couples. Each one is unique and special in its own way, yet one thing for sure is our couples are guaranteed to have amazing wedding photos in paradise!

‘Anaeho’omalu Beach or A-Bay (Waikoloa)

Located in the heart of Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast, Anaeho’omalu Beach (pronounced as “ā’-nāe-ho’o-mā’lu”), or A-Bay as the locals call it, is a stunner of a beach! It’s a perfect option for anyone staying at the Waikoloa, Mauna Lani, or Mauna Kea Resorts. It’s close and convenient for any dinner plans or reception you may have planned afterward. The crescent-shaped bay overlooks beautiful ancient fish ponds with a sweeping mountain view. It’s one of the longest stretches of white sand on the island too! There occasionally are a few boats in the distance, which add to the beachy atmosphere of our wedding photography. A-Bay has a variety of backdrops for newlywed portraits, too, from the coconut trees to the serenity of the Hawaiian fish ponds.

Besides being easily accessible, it has two large parking lots. Even though this is a popular beach, it’s large enough to find an open spot for a ceremony by the shoreline. If you’re after convenience and don’t want to travel far from your resort accommodation, this is the spot for you!

Kohanaiki Beach

Just a quick drive from Kailua-Kona, Kohanaiki Beach is a rustic and classic Hawaii Island beach. Locally known as Pine Trees, this is one of the Big Island’s newest state park beaches. Your ceremony will have a rustic and natural backdrop of a long stretch of white beach with tropical foliage and deep ocean blue at your feet. It has a quiet and private feel since it is generally not crowded and tourist-ridden. Like most beaches on the Big Island, natural lava rock formations are scattered across the long stretch of white sand. The beach also has several large trees that provide shade for guests’ comfort or a different portrait backdrop. In addition, numerous tide pools form at low tide, which can create an interesting background for your wedding photography.

There is ample parking, making it an excellent choice for couples who want an intimate Hawaii wedding ceremony. Most importantly, it has all the signature elements of the island’s natural beauty.

Old Kona Airport Beach

Another gem on the Western coastline is the Old Kona Airport Beach. Once home to the Kona airport, the landing strip is now used for parking, so finding a place to park certainly won’t be an issue! The Old Kona Airport Beach is made up of both sand and lava rock slabs, with the sand being primarily covered with pebbles and lava rock fragments. There are some patches of grass scattered along the beach too. The palm and coconut trees provide shade and add to the tropical ambiance as you exchange your vows. It has a long stretch of white sand and typically isn’t too busy. There is plenty of space to spread out with a larger group. Also, since the beach runs the length of a standard airport runway, you can be sure to find a quiet spot for your inimate ceremony and portraits!

This beach is a convenient option for those staying in the Kailua-Kona area. There is a flat walking trail parallel to the runway for easy access too.

Kukio Beach

Even though the beach is open to the public, to access the beach, you have to pass through a gated luxury resort community. Although this beach is typically very quiet with beachgoers, it is a VERY popular spot for weddings. So, unfortunately, you may not be the only wedding on the beach that day. Therefore, we only suggest this spot for a Big Island wedding if you stay in the resort area simply because of the accessibility.
The beach features a long sandy beach close to the Four Seasons Hualalai. It has all the distinguishable elements of the Big Island’s natural beauty! There are ample lava rock formations and tide pools, which are attractive natural features for your wedding ceremony and photography.

Puako Beach

This hidden gem is tucked away in an affluent, laidback neighborhood north of the Waikoloa and Mauna Loa resorts. The breathtaking views and tidepools are just a few reasons we love this location to say “I, do!” Its unspoiled beauty has a rustic feel and quiet charm due to the rocky shoreline. The lava rocks are a striking contrast to the deep ocean in the distance. However, it does have a small patch of sandy beach, offering a sense of privacy and seclusion. What’s more, you can generally have the beach to yourself since it’s primarily frequented by locals who live there. This makes it an ideal location if privacy is important to you both. It’s perfect for a romantic elopement or a smaller group.

Parking is limited, but since this is off the beaten path, street parking is available. It’s very private yet accessible, a beautiful option away from the more touristy spots.

Whether you’re looking for privacy or convenience, the Big Island has plenty of options for your vows! Not sure what would be the right location for you? (We know they all are stunning!) Don’t hesitate to reach out! Our knowledgeable team of wedding coordinators will be more than happy to help you find the right location for your special day! Send us an email at  aloha@simplehawaiiwedding.com to learn more!

BIG ISLAND BEACH WEDDING LOCATIONS – DETAILS

Big Island Wedding Photographer: Karma Hill Photography