{"id":72773,"name":"Kailua Kona","state_id":18,"county_id":917,"created_at":"2026-07-27T13:43:25.821-07:00","updated_at":"2026-07-27T14:02:23.364-07:00","meta_description":null,"head_tag":null,"tagline":null,"intro_section":"\u003cp\u003eThere\u0026rsquo;s something really special about Kona weddings. Maybe it\u0026rsquo;s the ocean views, or the soft breezes, or the welcoming and distinctly Hawaiian hospitality. Maybe it\u0026rsquo;s all of the above! Whether you\u0026#39;ve been asked to officiate a Big Island wedding ceremony, or are getting married in the Kailua-Kona area yourself, this guide is for you!\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nFirst, we\u0026#39;ll show you how to become a Kona wedding officiant (and surrounding areas!), including tips on how to register as a local Hawaii Marriage Performer.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThen, we\u0026#39;ll show you how to get married on The Kona Coast, including how to apply for your Hawaii marriage license, how to find a marriage license agent in Kona, popular Kona wedding venues, the best beaches and elopement spots nearby, and tips on getting to your destination from Kona International Airport.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThere\u0026rsquo;s so much to see here, from golden beaches to the colorful mist of the countless waterfalls, five-star resorts to lush rainforests, and more. This is an island that you\u0026rsquo;ll want to spend more than a few days on, soaking in the views and vibe. Figuring out where to start can be overwhelming, but we\u0026rsquo;ve got you covered!\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nLet\u0026rsquo;s start with the hardest part: the legal to-do\u0026rsquo;s.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eRelated: \u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/2-a-wedding-officiant-s-guide-to-performing-destination-and-cruise-ship-weddings\"\u003eA Wedding Officiant\u0026#39;s Guide to Performing Destination and Cruise Ship Weddings\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Sunset wedding view in Kona, HI\" src=\"https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/amm-prod/app/public/ckeditor_assets/pictures/5751/content_kona-weddings.jpg?1785185746\" style=\"width:80%;max-width:80% !important;\" /\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDreaming of a Kailua-Kona wedding? Asked to officiate a wedding on the Big Island? Scroll down advice for engaged couples and Hawaii wedding officiants!\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n","officiant_section":"\u003ch3\u003eSTEP 1: Get ordained online with American Marriage Ministries\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo perform weddings in Kona (and anywhere in the State of Hawaii), you must meet certain requirements \u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/marriage-laws/hawaii/210\"\u003e(\u0026sect; 572-12)\u003c/a\u003e, such as being a judge or justice, applying for a civil license, or by becoming an ordained minister.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nMany first-time officiants find that becoming an ordained minister online is the easiest and most affordable choice - starting with free ordination with American Marriage Ministries (AMM):\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/weddings-by-state/hawaii/get-ordained\"\u003eGET ORDAINED IN HAWAII\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAMM\u0026#39;s online ordinations are recognized throughout the State of Hawaii, and it only takes a minute to complete the online application. Just click the link above.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003eSTEP 2: Register as a \u0026#39;marriage performer\u0026#39; with the Hawaii Department of Health\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOnce you\u0026rsquo;re ordained with AMM, you\u0026rsquo;ll need to complete the Hawaii \u003ca href=\"https://portal.ehawaii.gov/home/online-services/performer-registration/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMarriage Performer License Registration\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;form online, provided by the State of Hawaii and the Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH). The state provides \u003ca href=\"https://health.hawaii.gov/vitalrecords/files/2013/05/performer.pdf\"\u003edetailed instructions\u003c/a\u003e to walk you through this registration process. These steps need to be completed at least 3 weeks before the wedding date. \u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eLearn more about registering as a wedding officiant in Kailua-Kona here:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/weddings-by-state/hawaii/officiant-registration-requirements\"\u003eWhat are the Wedding Officiant Registration Requirements in Hawaii?\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAfter registering with HDOH, you\u0026rsquo;ll receive 2 important e-mails: The first email is a receipt for your registration fee; the second email is your \u0026ldquo;Performer Approval\u0026quot; letter, which includes a link to your official officiant license number, and your username and password to the \u003ca href=\"https://emrs.ehawaii.gov/emrs/public/home.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eelectronic registration system for marriage\u003c/a\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003ePrint this important information for your records.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003eSTEP 3: Prepare for the Wedding on the Big Island\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow for the fun part: writing a wedding ceremony script and preparing for the big day! We can help you with this part. Start with our wedding officiant training pages, which will help get the creative juices flowing as you start to outline your first ceremony. Then, dig into our comprehensive collection of resources linked below to customize the ceremony!\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/ceremony-scripts\"\u003eAMM\u0026#39;s Wedding Ceremony Script Library\u003c/a\u003e (100s of sample wedding officiant scripts)\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/officiant-training\"\u003eWedding Officiant Training\u003c/a\u003e (Free training guides)\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/blog\"\u003eAMM\u0026#39;s American Weddings Blog \u003c/a\u003e(thousands of articles on officiating, wedding planning, and more)\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/2848-the-ultimate-guide-to-wedding-unity-ceremony-ideas-all-in-one-resource\"\u003eThe Ultimate Guide to Wedding Unity Ceremony Ideas: All-In-One Resource\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/store/products/asked-to-officiate\"\u003eAsked To Officiate: Your Complete Guide to a Perfect Ceremony \u003c/a\u003e(wedding officiant guide book)\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/store/products/the-book-of-wedding-vows-and-ceremonies\"\u003eThe Book of Wedding Vows and Ceremonies \u003c/a\u003e(printed collection of ceremony scripts)\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003eSTEP 4: Officiate the Wedding and Complete the Marriage License\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIt\u0026rsquo;s the couple\u0026rsquo;s responsibility to obtain their marriage license from a registered license agent, but just be sure to double check that they have done so before you perform their ceremony. \u0026nbsp;Ask about any special instructions they may have received from the license agent during the application process, and follow these carefully.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAfter the marriage ceremony, you\u0026#39;ll complete and file the marriage license using the Hawaii Electronic Marriage and Civil Union Registration System.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor detailed instructions, check out:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/2884-how-to-fill-out-a-hawaii-marriage-license-faqs\"\u003eHow to Fill out a Hawaii Marriage License \u0026amp; FAQs\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/officiant-training/how-to-fill-out-a-marriage-license\"\u003eHow To Fill Out A Marriage License As An Officiant\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe marriage license must be registered electronically within 3 business days of the ceremony, as directed by state law. Read more about your duty to return the license here: State of Hawaii \u003ca href=\"https://emrs.ehawaii.gov/emrs/public/performer-guidelines.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDOH Marriage Performer Guidelines.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/a\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nRegistering the marriage with the state confirms that you performed the couple\u0026rsquo;s ceremony, so they will be able to access their marriage certificate. You\u0026rsquo;re all done! A\u0026lsquo;o ia!\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hawaii marriage performer conducts an elopement outdoors in Hilo\" src=\"https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/amm-prod/app/public/ckeditor_assets/pictures/5747/content_wedding-officiant-hawaii-hilo.jpg?1784648529\" style=\"width:80%;max-width:80% !important;\" /\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eWant to perform marriage ceremonies on the Big Island of Hawaii? Wedding officiants must register as a \u0026quot;marriage performer\u0026quot; with the HDOH and pay a small fee before officiating their first ceremony. Once you\u0026#39;re registered, you can perform weddings anywhere in the state. Click the links above to learn more and start the registration process.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n","couple_section":"\u003cp\u003eNow let\u0026rsquo;s turn our attention to the couple\u0026rsquo;s responsibilities. Whether you want a simple kona beach wedding or a luxurious resort wedding with all the trimmings, you complete a few legal requirements to make it happen \u0026ndash; starting with the marriage license. (We\u0026#39;ll assume you\u0026#39;ve already chosen your wedding officiant, and that they\u0026#39;ve registered their credentials online following the steps outlined above. But if not \u0026ndash; ask a close friend or relative to officiate your wedding!)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eApply for your Hawaii marriage license:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nYou can apply for your Hawaii marriage license up to one year before the wedding date \u0026ndash; but you must pick it up from a license agent no more than 30 days before the wedding ceremony. \u0026nbsp;Here are the details:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eStart the Hawaii marriage license application online using the Hawaii Electronic Marriage and Civil Union Registration System. Read the information for Couples highlighted at the top of the page, then click the button at the bottom of the screen marked \u0026quot;Start Application.\u0026quot; The application will ask for basic information about you, your partner, and your wedding officiant.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eOnce you\u0026rsquo;re done with this part of the process, and no more than 30 days before the wedding, you and your partner will need to meet with a registered marriage license agent. The license agent will confirm your identity and ask you to sign the license worksheet. You can visit a license agent at a nearby DOH office, or make an appointment with a private Kona marriage license agent.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor more information about agents on the neighbor islands, please call:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e(808) 974-6008\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eBOTH you and your partner must be present in order to obtain it. Remember to bring a government-issued photo ID, like a passport or driver\u0026rsquo;s license. HDOH recommends that you pay the $65 marriage license fee online before meeting with your license agent, however you should bring this payment with you if you have not already paid.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYour marriage ceremony must be performed within 30 days of your appointment with your agent.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor detailed instructions, check out:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/2884-how-to-fill-out-a-hawaii-marriage-license-faqs\"\u003eHow to Fill out a Hawaii Marriage License \u0026amp; FAQs\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAfter the wedding ceremony, registering a Hawaii marriage license\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAfter the wedding, the ball is back in the officiant\u0026rsquo;s court. They will register your ceremony through the same EMRS website you used to apply for your license.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThen, within three to five business days of confirmation, you will be able to go online to request your marriage certificate through the website by using the dropdown menu to select \u0026ldquo;Couples\u0026rdquo; and clicking \u0026ldquo;Check Status.\u0026rdquo; There, you will be able to access a temporary PDF certificate while you wait for your official certificate to be mailed to the address that you provide. (It will ask you for your locator ID, which is also known as your authorization code.)\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nHoʻomaikaʻi! Congratulations, you\u0026rsquo;re officially married!\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Couple poses for wedding photos during hawaii wedding ceremony\" src=\"https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/amm-prod/app/public/ckeditor_assets/pictures/5752/content_beach-wedding-kona-wedding-officiant-hawaii-big-island.jpg?1785185966\" style=\"width:80%;max-width:80% !important;\" /\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e(Photo:\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;Micah \u0026amp; Sammie Chaffin / Unsplash)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n","wedding_tips":"\u003ch3\u003eThe Basics: Getting Married on The Kona Coast\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow that we\u0026rsquo;ve taken care of the legal to-do\u0026rsquo;s, let\u0026rsquo;s talk about the fun stuff: the features of the island and planning your wedding.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nA Hawaii marriage license can be used anywhere in the state, so you\u0026#39;re free to choose a venue anywhere on the island. While researching venues, remember that Hawaii Island is divided into two major weather types: the \u0026ldquo;sunny\u0026rdquo; west side where Kona is, and the \u0026ldquo;rainy\u0026rdquo; east side, where Hilo is. While the areas around Waikoloa, between Waimea and Kona, the summits of the Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea volcanoes, and the most southern tip of the island also stay pretty dry, the rainiest pockets to the east can get between 10 and 40 times as much rain! The time of year should also factor into your decision: the wettest months are between November and March, but showers can happen anywhere and can show up out of nowhere. Rain is just a part of life on the island!\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2\u003eWedding Venues in Kona, Hawaii (and Nearby Areas)\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow, let\u0026rsquo;s talk about locations! Below are just a few beautiful spots for a full wedding or small elopement in the Kailua-Kona area.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cem\u003e(Note: AMM is not affiliated with these venues; we\u0026#39;ve just heard good things from couples and want to pass them on.)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://konaseasalt.com/pages/events-on-the-salt-farm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKona Salt Farm Events:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/a\u003e This unique 7-acre salt farm on Keahole Point hosts weddings and other events of all kinds. Couples can choose from indoor and outdoor oceanfront event spaces, or a covered lanai and lounge area, for guest lists up to 250. The farm partners with local farmers and seafood providers too, making this a great choice for couples seeking a sustainable, local, eco-friendly experience.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/koahwhh-hilton-waikoloa-village/weddings/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHilton Waikoloa Village:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Located in nearby Waikoloa Village, HI, about 30 miles (42m) from Kailua-Kona, this oceanfront resort offers extreme luxury for large weddings. Couples can choose from a variety of wedding packages and a variety of on-site ceremony locations, including beach vows, a large ballroom, and even a small wedding chapel.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.parks.hawaiicounty.gov/facilities-parks/pavilion-rentals\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMakaeo County Pavilion: \u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFor couples in search of a locals-friendly, affordable wedding venue in Kona, this event hall in Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area is a great choice. The space includes indoor seating with tables and chairs, and access to a kitchen. Take photos at the nearby Maka\u0026#39;eo Walking Path, and keep keiki entertained at Kona Skate Park next door! Makaeo County Pavilion can be reserved for weddings through the County of Hawaii Department of Parks \u0026amp; Recreation, with permits costing only $50.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://daughtersofhawaii.org/hulihee-palace/hulihee-palace-facility-rental/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHulihe\u0026lsquo;e Palace: \u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThis historic venue provides a fairytale setting for your wedding ceremony and reception. Built in 1838 as a retreat for the royal family, Hulihe\u0026rsquo;e Palace is filled with old-world luxury, and surrounded by lush green lawns and swaying palms. The venue hosts outdoor events year round, and can accommodate intimate elopements or large full-size wedding ceremonies (up to 350 guests). Fees start at around $1,000.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/weddings/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFour Seasons Resort Hualalai: \u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/a\u003eGolf lovers will appreciate this destination wedding venue, home to the world-class Hualalai Golf Course designed by Jack Nicklaus, carved out of the area\u0026rsquo;s natural black lava. Get married on the fairway, or in one of the resort\u0026rsquo;s decadent indoor spaces.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Best Beaches to Get Married in Kona, Hawaii\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThese are just a few of the stunning beaches you\u0026rsquo;ll have to choose from along the Kona Coast. Consider them a starting point as your begin your search for the best beach for your elopement!\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eKona beach wedding permits:\u003c/strong\u003e For all state beaches in the area, you\u0026rsquo;ll likely need a permit to gather. For most locations, this will be a Right-of-Entry permit from the \u003ca href=\"https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ld/commercial-activities/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR)\u003c/a\u003e, purchased through the \u003ca href=\"https://wikipermits.ehawaii.gov/permits/welcome.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eWiki Permits Online Permitting System\u003c/a\u003e. However a few beaches are managed by other government agencies (including the \u003ca href=\"https://www.parks.hawaiicounty.gov/facilities-parks/pavilion-rentals\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCounty of Hawaii Dept. of Parks and Rec\u003c/a\u003e). You may also need to purchase liability insurance for the duration of your event.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKukiʻo Beach: \u003c/strong\u003eLocated north of Kailua-Kona on the Kohala Coast, this beach is semi-secluded with white sand, cool breezes, and shady palms. It\u0026rsquo;s also famous as a home to green sea turtles, and offers excellent snorkeling. (Maybe the perfect spot for an\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/1061-how-to-take-the-plunge-with-an-underwater-wedding-ceremony\"\u003e underwater wedding ceremony\u003c/a\u003e!)\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKikaua Point Park\u003c/strong\u003e: A popular choice for family weddings, this beach is only 17 miles from downtown Kailua-Kona. You will pass through the Kukio Golf Resort to reach the public beach, and be rewarded with incredible views of the ocean.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOld Kona Airport Beach Park: \u003c/strong\u003eAs mentioned above, this is a great local park for an affordable / budget Kona beach wedding. The Makaeo County Pavilion is located in the park for indoor gathering and kitchen access, or plan a simple elopement on the beach with your feet in the sand.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003eTransportation: Getting to Your Big Island Wedding Venue \u0026amp; Lodging\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you\u0026rsquo;re flying in from the mainland, you\u0026#39;ll land in Kailua-Kona at Kona International Airport. From there, the easiest and fastest way to navigate Hawaii Island is to rent a car. You can easily do this when you arrive at Hilo or Kona International Airports. It\u0026rsquo;s a good idea to reserve a car before you arrive, but if you forget, there are plenty of car rental agencies around that will be able to hook you up when you get there - you just might not get the car of your choice.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nIf you prefer not to rent a car or can\u0026rsquo;t drive, there are plenty of \u003ca href=\"https://airports.hawaii.gov/koa/getting-to-from/ground-transportation/taxicab/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etaxis\u003c/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https://airports.hawaii.gov/koa/getting-to-from/ground-transportation/speedishuttle/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eshuttles\u003c/a\u003e, and rideshare services to choose from. Limited public transportation is also available for free, but these fixed-routes can involve long wait times and sparse service (see \u003ca href=\"https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/home-transit\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHele-On Bus Service\u003c/a\u003e for more information).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAll Hele-On buses and some taxis and shuttles are wheelchair / ADA accessible. If accessibility is a factor, we recommend contacting your hotel for more information.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003eExplore More Kona, Hawaii Wedding Ideas from American Marriage Ministries\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/1935-how-much-does-it-cost-to-get-ordained-online-in-hawaii-to-officiate-a-wedding\"\u003eHow Much Does it Cost to Get Ordained Online in Hawaii to Officiate a Wedding?\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/weddings-by-state/hawaii/important-officiant-registration-facts\"\u003e10 Important Hawaii Officiant Registration Facts\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/2343-how-to-plan-a-beach-wedding-for-any-time-of-year\"\u003eHow to Plan a Beach Wedding for Any Time of Year\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://theamm.org/articles/1247-5-seaside-unity-ceremony-ideas-for-your-beach-wedding-or-vow-renewal\"\u003e5 Seaside Unity Ceremony Ideas for Your Beach Wedding or Vow Renewal\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n","faq":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre AMM ministers and online ordination recognized inHawaii?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h4\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eYes, they are! But you do have to register with the state of Hawaii to enter their system of officiants before you can perform your first wedding.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes a Hawaii marriage license expire?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h4\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eYes, it requires 30 days from the date that the license agent issues it, so don\u0026rsquo;t apply for a marriage license until a few weeks before you wedding date.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow long do we have to wait before we can use our marriage license? Are same-day weddings allowed in Hawaii?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h4\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn some states there is a waiting period that you must abide by before you can hold your ceremony, but in Hawaii, as soon as the license is issued to you, you\u0026rsquo;re free to use it the same day!\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we get our official marriage certificate?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h4\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the wedding, your officiant needs to go online and \u0026ldquo;confirm\u0026rdquo; that the ceremony was completed but completing the online process within 3 business days. Then, after a few days, your temporary marriage certificate will become available to you online as a printable PDF. You can also request to have the Department of Health send you an official copy via mail.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n","content_live":true,"marriage_licensing_info":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIssuance Office:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nHawaii District Health Office - Kona Branch\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n79-1015 Haukapila Street\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nKealakekua, HI 96750\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n(Call first, appointment required: 1-808-322-4880 )\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eFee:\u003c/strong\u003e $65\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eWaiting Period:\u003c/strong\u003e None\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eExpiration:\u003c/strong\u003e 30 Days\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eReturn:\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;3 Business Days (Officiant Confirms Online)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n","meta_description_esp":null,"head_tag_esp":null,"tagline_esp":null,"intro_section_esp":"","officiant_section_esp":"","couple_section_esp":"","wedding_tips_esp":"","faq_esp":"","content_live_esp":false,"marriage_licensing_info_esp":""}