Guide · 6 min read
Beach wedding permits in Hawaiʻi, and when to book
What a state shoreline permit allows, what it doesn't, and the booking windows that matter.
The beach is public in Hawaiʻi, but a commercial ceremony on state shoreline still needs a permit through the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). Your planner usually handles it, but the rules shape what your day can look like.
What the shoreline permit allows
- Up to 2 hours
- No more than 30 people, including vendors
- No arches, tents or set-up chairs (limited chairs for elderly or disabled guests)
- No alcohol
- Vendors carry liability insurance ($500,000 / $1,000,000)
- Fee of 10 cents per square foot, $20 minimum
Details come from the DLNR application and general terms. If you want an arch, a seated dinner or more guests, look at private oceanfront venues instead. Browse venues.
State parks
State Parks special-use permits are requested at least 45 days ahead for non-commercial use, 90 days for commercial use, and no more than a year out, per Hawaiʻi State Parks.
When to book everything else
Popular resort and estate venues can book a year or more ahead for weekend dates in peak months. Secure the venue and photographer first, then the planner. The Central Pacific hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30 (NOAA), so ask every vendor about weather and rescheduling policies.