Wedding Information for your Kauai Wedding

Wedding Licence
Hawaii is a beautiful place and a marriage here is an ideal way for a couple to start life together. You may be a visitor to the Islands, drawn to our year-round warm and sunny weather, or you may be a resident wishing to celebrate a most cherished moment in a place that you call home. Whoever you are, we welcome you and hope that we can make your wedding day as free from worry as possible. Aloha and best wishes!

For any person to lawfully marry in the State of Hawaii, a license for that purpose must be obtained from an authorized agent. Once the license has been issued, there is no waiting period before the marriage can take place. No blood tests are needed, and no witnesses are required.

A marriage license and marriage certificate are different documents. The marriage license permits a marriage to take place. The marriage certificate indicates that a legal marriage has been performed.


Who is Eligible to Apply for a Marriage License?
  • In applying for a marriage license, both the prospective groom and bride must appear in person before a marriage license agent.
  • A marriage license is issued immediately after the application is accepted by a marriage license agent, and it is valid statewide. A marriage license expires 30 days from and including the date of issuance.
  • There are no state residence or U.S. citizenship requirements.
  • Blood tests or witnesses are not required.
    The legal age to marry is 18 years for both males and females.
  • Males or females of 16 or 17 years of age who wish to marry require the written consent of both parents, legal guardian, or the family court. The parents or legal guardian do not have to be residents of the state. Consent forms may be obtained from a marriage license agent.
  • Proof of age is required. A certified copy of a birth certificate must be presented for anyone 18 years of age or under. A valid I.D. or driver's license may be presented for anyone 19 years of age or over.
  • Cousins may marry. However, the blood relationship between the prospective bride and groom cannot be closer than first cousins.
  • If previously married, proof of original divorce decree or death certificate needs to be presented to the marriage agent by the applicant if the divorce or death was final within 30 days of applying for a marriage license. NO FAX COPY WILL BE ACCEPTED.
  • The fee for a license is payable online by credit card upon completion of the application.



How to Apply for a Marriage License
  • The prospective bride and groom can now apply for their Wedding license online here: https://emrs.ehawaii.gov/emrs/public/home.html
    but, must also appear together in person before a marriage license agent once they get to Kauai, and prior to the actual ceremony, (complete list for Kauai is below) to validate the marriage license application in the Agents presence. Proxies are not allowed.
  • Once online, click on the "Applicants" tab and select "Apply License" and fill in the form for either a Marriage or for a Civil Union, pay the fee and write down the code number generated by the website, this will be used by the Wedding License Agent when you appear before them, and the officiant after the wedding.
  • An online license, once generated on any island is good anywhere within the State of Hawaii for 30 days. Once the marriage is completed and the form finalized a temporary license can be printed from the web site from beneath the tab "Check Status" under "Applicants" The final printed License will be mailed to you directly from Honolulu.








Wedding License Agents in Kauai

You can obtain your wedding license by calling any of the following agents (we will need a wedding license to complete your ceremony). The wedding license will cost you $65.
  • We recommend:
    Kapaa District (East Side of Kauai - Royal Coconut Coast)
    Walter (Kamika) Smith - 808-821-6887
    Please call Kamika Smith for your wedding license appointment. You’ll need to obtain the Wedding License prior to your wedding and bring it with you to the beach. Please download and fill in the marriage license application beforehand, bringing it with you to your license appointment

    Do the license now
  • Instructions:
    • Click on Applicants, and then Apply License,
    • Choose type of license (Wedding for Traditional marriages,
      Civil Union for Same Sex couples),
    • Hit Save & Continue (you’ll be given an option to print out a paper form so you can fill it in together, before you complete the online form,
    • Complete the form (Red Asterisks are compulsory),
    • Hit Save & Continue and when you’re complete you’ll have a code that you need to write down that must be given to the Wedding license Agent and to the Wedding coordinator.


  • Lihue District (East Side of Kauai, by Airport)
    Jill Kosen - 808-246-2779 (Office located at Photo Spectrum)
    Joy Euccat - 808-821-6887 (weekends & Wednesday nights only)


  • Hanalei District (North Shore of Kauai)
    Dayna Santos - 808-826-7742
















DLNR Beach Use Permit

The DLNR (Department of Land & Natural Resources) requires beach use permits for all weddings performed on Hawaiian beaches. These permits must be applied for by a wedding officiant who is licenced in the State of Hawaii - the couple can not do this themselves.

All Beach Use Permits must be applied for and obtained for a specific day and time. The event must not exceed 2 hours per Permit.

Kauai Island Weddings will apply and obtain this Beach Use Permit for you. The couple can choose a first & secondary beach location for their wedding.
The Beach Use Permit will cost between $75 and $200 depending on the size of your group.

Beach Wedding Locations






There is a $5,000 fine for performing a wedding without a Beach Use permit.







Helpful links and phone numbers:

Hair, Nail, Facial, and Spa Treatments...

Studio 203 - Lihue (East Side)
808-246-6203
Hair Stylist

Lee Ann Higashi or any of her associates will do a great job transforming you into a beautiful bride. You can also make a nail appointment at their salon.


Hair & Make-up at your Hotel
808-482-1656
Susan Brinks

Specializes in bridal hair and make-up and will travel to your hotel or vacation rental to make you pretty the morning of the wedding.


Make-up Artist - Holly Edwards
562-221-3094
Having the right make up application is absolutely essential on your wedding day; you'll be photographed more on this day than any other day in your entire life and your image will remain in memories and photographs for lifetimes to come.
As an experienced wedding make-up artist, it's Holly's mission to make you look and feel absolutely breathtaking on your wedding day. She truly believes that the best approach is a look that enhances your beauty naturally, while giving you that "glow from within". She specialize in flawless bridal makeup that makes you look like "you" at your very finest- classic, polished, and timeless. It would be her honor to create the perfect look for you on the most memorable day of your life....
Website


Kalaya Delmars, HHP
808-634-8858
Pre-wedding relaxation massage.
Get a relaxing massage prior to your wedding or a couples massage during your honeymoon. Great for the stressed out bride, or the over-anxious mother. Will travel to your hotel, and is highly recommended.

Website


Soul Play - Kapaa (East Side)
808-822-9090
Manicure, Pedicure, Hair & Make-up.
Located in the Dragon Building at the north end of Kapaa town.



Spa Makaiwa - Kapaa (East Side)
808-821-2626
Massage, Facials, Waxing, Body Treatments & Bridal Packages
Bridal Packages starting at $325 include Hair, Make-up, Facial, Manicure, Pedicure and Massage. Book 2 weeks prior to your wedding date.
Located in the Kauai Coast Resort (next to Hukilau Lanai Restaurant)
Spa Makiawa website



Alexander Day Spa & Salon at the Marriott Hotel - Lihue (East Side)
Call Toll Free: 1-866-9DAY SPA or 1-866-932-9772

Pamper Yourself on Kauai
Please join Alexander and his highly trained staff at the newest luxury day spa on Kauai, located conveniently at the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club. We are available to assist you with any of your spa or salon arrangements. Should you be planning to spend your wedding day (or vow renewal) on Kauai, we cater to all the wishes of the bride and groom. From nails, make-up and hair to relaxing spa treatments and massages, Alexander Day Spa and Salon provides you with unmatched service and attention with the "Aloha Spirit."
http://www.alexanderspa.com/salon.html


Princeville at Hanalei - Princeville (North Shore)
800-826-1105
Find refreshment for body and spirit at the Princeville Health Club & Spa.
Choose from our "only-on-Kauai" collection of rejuvenating Spa Services and Fitness Options to make the most of your Hawaii vacation and visit to Princeville at Hanalei.
Relax in our whirlpool, sauna and steam room, and let our Spa Therapists pamper you with massage, skin care, and body treatments that utilize nature's finest ingredients to nourish and restore. Feel tension disappear as you experience massage techniques from a range of disciplines. We offer classic Swedish massage, Hawaiian lomi lomi, aromatherapy, sports massage, hot stone massage and deep tissue massage. You'll look and feel radiant after a day at our spa!
http://www.princeville.com/spa.html


Anara Spa at the Hyatt Hotel - Poipu (South Shore)
Tel: 808-240-6440
E-mail: infokauai@hyatt.com
Since 1990, ANARA Spa has delighted guests with innovative treatments integrating Hawaiian culture, nature's soothing powers and a therapists' nurturing touch. Newly upgraded facilities create an even more welcoming atmosphere, featuring a 20,000 square foot garden spa, five new hale (thatched roof huts) with private lava rock showers and steam grottos, and expanded indoor/outdoor fitness areas. Select your pampering treatment from a wide array of choices, including refreshing facials, tension-relieving massages, body polishing and salon services. Whatever you choose, you'll be delighted with your newfound sense of calm and well-being.
This full service salon provides manicures, pedicures, bridal styling and make-up application for your special day.
Anara Spa Website


Hawaiian Wedding Attire
Hilo Hattie
For Hawaiian wedding attire, and matching Aloha Shirts, blouses, and dresses there is no better place to go. There is a local Hilo Hattie store in Lihue on Kauai, if you rather do your shopping when on island.
www.hilohattie.com
www.mauishirts.com


Get your Wedding Dress steamed!
Patricia Williams will drive to your hotel room and steam your wedding dress! We have a few dry-cleaners on the island, but you'll be surprised to find that they will quote you a 7-10 day's wait to get your dress steamed, at a cost of $75. Patricia Williams will do it for you at the same price, at your hotel room, a day or two before your wedding. Call her at 808-635-5950.


Kauai Wedding/Honeymoon Accommodations
If you enjoy the privacy of a vacation cottage or the atmosphere of a B&B, you are sure to find your perfect vacation spot by clicking at the following link. May we suggest the Kauai Country Inn one of Hawaii's best Bed and Breakfasts; you know you've found a great vacation rental when Frommer's Hawaii & Kauai say: "Run to the phone and book this place!"
Four private executive style suites, all with private bathroom, living rooms, and kitchen or kitchenette. Private decks and in-room computers with FREE internet access. In-room movie libraries. Recommended by Frommer's Hawaii and Lonely Plant Guide Books!
Kauai Country Inn

Restaurant Recommendations
for your Wedding Dinner

East Shore
Hukilau Lanai (Kapaa)
Fresh fish and fresh air are two things one could reasonably expect from a restaurant called Hukilau Lanai. Fortunately, this Kaua'i eatery lives up to its name, and then some, serving near-flawless meals in a setting as comfortably familiar as a friend's covered lanai. Some ocean view. 808-822-0600
Hukilau Lanai website


Kintaro (Kapaa)
Great Sushi & Japanese cuisine on Kauai's east side. Sorry but no view.
(808) 822-3341


South Shore
The Beach House (Poipu)
The Beach House Restaurant on Kauai is known to visitors and residents alike for its spectacular oceanfront setting along the island's south shore. The Beach House is one of several popular fine dining establishments owned in Hawaii by restaurateurs Roy Dunn and Mike Hooks, a team that has captured a winning formula melding gracious Hawaiian service with innovative Pacific Rim Cuisine. Along with the breathtaking sunset views, it's equally easy to get swept away by Chef Todd Barrett's creative twists on island favorites made with fresh local ingredients. Take a slice of paradise, mix well with a generous helping of island hospitality and a bounty of Hawaiian flavors, and you'll discover what nourishes the soul and brings you back for seconds. 808-742-1424
Beach House website


"Ilima Terrace" & "Donderos" at the Hyatt Hotel (Poipu)
The spectacular setting of Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa presents a wondrous backdrop for the delectable culinary creations of our talented chefs. Feel the refreshing island breezes wash over you as you begin your day with freshly baked pastries or a tempting buffet at Ilima Terrace or create an evening to remember in our romantic Italian restaurant, Dondero’s. Dine al-fresco on our terrace with sweeping views and tradewind breezes. Our Italian tasting menu creations will delight. 808-742-1234
Hyatt restaurants website


OUR FAVORITE! "Tidepools" Restaurant at the Hyatt Hotel (Poipu)
The spectacular setting of Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa presents a wondrous backdrop for the delectable culinary creations of our talented chefs. Dine on the freshest seafood while overlooking waterfalls and koi-filled ponds. Feel the refreshing island breezes wash over you as you begin your day with freshly baked pastries or a tempting buffet. With the most unique setting on the island, Tidepools offers the freshest seafood and steaks as you dine in thatched roof bungalows set amidst waterfalls and tropical lagoons. Our chef’s culinary creations are sure to please. 808-742-1234
Hyatt restaurants website


Lihue
Gaylords (Lihue)
Gaylord's is a Kauai institution at the legendary Kilohana Estate. Once the home of Ethel and Gaylord Wilcox, this plantation owner's estate transports you to a world of historic charm, lush gardens and scenic grounds where legends and lore are brought to life. By day, Kilohana is sure to stir your appetite for breakfast or lunch on the estate's famed courtyard lanai with stunning mountain views, gentle breezes and tropical tastes that take you away. And as the sun sets. Gaylord's elegance truly shines. Be swept up in the flavors of exquisite gourmet cuisine and impeccable old-world charm warmed by torchlight elegance found nowhere else. Celebrate nearly two decades as "best of Kauai" with award-winning cuisine, unmatched hospitality and a taste of history that you'll never forget.
808-245-9593
Gaylords website


North Shore
St. Regis Hotel
At the St. Regis Hotel in Princeville, you can relax and take in the gorgeous view while enjoying a tropical cocktail and a tasty appetizer or two. Browse our light menu or choose from a selection of fresh sushi. Save some room for specialty desserts! Hawaiian entertainment is presented in the evenings several times a week. Spectacular ocean & mountain views.
Website


Frommer's Restaurant Guide for Kauai
Website





Places to go Dancing
Website
We get frequently asked for this information.
Though Kauai is not cosmopolitan, but rather quaint and small town, there are still places to dance the night away...





Luau:
A GREAT IDEA IF YOU HAVE FAMILY & FRIENDS WITH YOU!

Smith Family Luau (Kapaa)
Named "best luau on the island" by the popular Kauai Revealed guidebook. Come experience the rhythm of aloha and the taste of Hawaii! With an open buffet, dinner entertainment, and a Hula Show after dinner, this is a great option for wedding couples traveling with family and friends. $88 per person with discounted rates fr children.

Luau Days:
January: Monday, Wednesday & Friday nights.
February - May: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday nights.
June - August: Monday through Friday nights.
September - October: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday nights.
November & December: Monday, Wednesday & Friday nights.
Closed on Saturdays & Sundays. Reserve NOW


Luau at Gaylord's at Kilohana
Lu‘au Kalamaku expresses the amazing and uncommon stories of Polynesian migration to Hawaii through a new musical form - the theatrical lu‘au. Held at Gaylord's in Kilohana.
808-245-9593
Website


Kauai Coconut Beach Luau
Recipient of Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau's prestigious Kahili Award - presented to Hawaii's most authentic lu‘au.
808-946-1000
Website


Luau at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Kauai
The most significant style of celebration in ancient Hawaii was the luau, held to honor kings, gods and guests. Hawaii luaus are now a distinct element of island culture synonymous with celebrations. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau welcomes you to join us for this time-honored event. The sounding of the pu kani or conch shell beckons the beginning of the festivities. Under a starlit sky, traditional Polynesian drumming welcomes you to experience this bit of Old Hawaii. Prepare to be enchanted by the historic yet exotic dances of Polynesia, from the islands of Tahiti, Samoa, and New Zealand, to our own Hawaii. We invite you to experience the beauty, romance and adventure of our Grand Hyatt luau in Hawaii. It is an evening that you will always remember.
808-742-1234
Website


Poipu Kauai Sheraton Luau
Just footsteps from the crescent shaped white sandy beach, the Surf to Sunset Luau is an ideal event for the entire family. Featuring award winning entertainment, an extensive menu for all tastes, and numerous cultural facets. Guests may choose from the Traditional package for an evening of buffet dining and fine entertainment; or The Golden Circle package which includes premier stage side seating; table service with salads, appetizers and beverages served "family style"; includes signature leis.
877-742-7893
Website




Luau photos above curtesy of
Smith Family Luau Kauai.


Luau Schedules:
Sundays:

Luau at the Hyatt Hotel, Coconut Beach Luau

Mondays:
Smith's Family Luau (Year around),

Tuesdays:
Luau at Gaylords,
Coconut Beach Luau
Smith's Family Luau (June through August),

Wednesdays:
Smith's Family Luau (Year around),

Thursdays:
Coconut Beach Luau
Luau at the Hyatt Hotel,
Smith's Family Luau (June through August),

Fridays:
Smith's Family Luau (Year around),
Poipu Kauai Sheraton Luau

Saturdays:
no info available





Transportation

So you have most of your family and friends join you on your Hawaiian Destination Wedding. But how do you transport everyone from the wedding site to the Luau or restaurant for dinner, and more importantly, safely back to the hotel after? Most folks will have everyone drive their own rental cars, but some couples want to make sure that everyone can drink & enjoy themselves and will be safely delivered back to their hotel.

Kauai Island Tours - offers shuttle busses for private groups
Office: 800-733-4777 OR Cell 808-651-2295 Website

Roberts Hawaii - offers shuttle busses for private groups
Office: 866-898-2519 OR Website


Terms of Service
Thank you SO much for everything. Everything about what you and your family did was perfect. We can not possibly thank you enough, or tell you just how great you were. Thank your son again for us, one more time, for taking those pictures with our camera. It meant so much to our family that were able to upload photos of the wedding so quickly. The pictures are perfect. I can't wait to see the rest. Thanks again. Grant & Jamie Fritschle Photo

Our wedding day was nothing short of amazing! Your son is so dear and we loved Todd as well.
Again, thank you for such a magical day!
Kitty Yntema
Photo


Dear Mike, Martina, & Johannes:
Thank you all so much for such a memorable wedding day. It was very romantic and we feel that we just intensified our love for each other with such a beautiful ceremony on our beach. We went back to the same little stretch of Anini Beach the day we left, took pictures of our leis, and then tied them together and threw them into the ocean.
You have made the start to our married lives very special and we are thankful for such a wonderful beginning. The photos made it here yesterday and they are just lovely.
Oh, and while we were on the plane to Honolulu and much to our surprise, there was our favorite Reverend in the Hana Hou! inflight magazine with his Beatles Museum collection. Hopefully next time we can stay at the country inn and check it out.
Our best always, Ed & Jill Tjarks
Photo

We thought our wedding was perfect and exactly what we pictured. We have been enjoying the pictures and everyone we show them too is jealous! Thanks for checking in. :)
Megan & Lee Bland
Photo


Aloha Martina and Mike,
We wanted to thank you for sending the wonderful coffee table book. We have been spending the last couple of weeks showing it to friends and family and they have all loved it!We were very impressed with the way everything went on the big day and everyone has admired the beautiful photographs. We of course also loved visiting the Beatles museum! It made our honeymoon even more special It brought back Beatlemania to the fullest and a lot of fun memories for us! I will be on the lookout for any interesting Beatles items whenever I go to garage sales as you never know what you might find!
We wouldn't hesitate to recommend you to any of our friends and family who might want to have a Kauai wedding! It turned out exactly how we wanted it to and it was hard to come home after such an incredible honeymoon! We hope to return to Kauai in the near future and will definitely be looking you up!
Thanks again, Carol & Brett Moore
Photo

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