Island Overview
The Big Island is truly big—larger than all other Hawaiian islands combined. This creates a diversity of environments that offers wedding photographers unprecedented variety, but also significant logistical considerations.
- Dramatic landscapes: Volcanoes, lava fields, black sand, snow-capped mountains
- Two distinct coasts: Sunny Kona vs. rainy Hilo sides
- Adventure couples: Attracts those seeking unique, non-traditional settings
- Lower wedding volume: Less competitive than Maui/Oahu, but also smaller market
- Significant distances: Venues can be 2-3 hours apart
The Big Island has distinct climate zones and two main resort areas:
- Kohala Coast (West): Sunny, dry, luxury resorts—main wedding area
- Kailua-Kona: Historic town, charming venues, good sunsets
- Hilo (East): Rainy, lush, waterfalls—fewer weddings but unique backdrops
- Volcano: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, otherworldly landscapes
- Waimea: Upcountry ranch country, rolling green hills
Kohala Coast Venues
The Kohala Coast on the island's west side is home to Hawaii's most exclusive resorts. Built on lava fields, these oases offer consistently sunny weather and dramatic contrast between green resort grounds and black lava surroundings.
Mauna Lani Resort
Luxury resort set among ancient Hawaiian fishponds and lava fields. The historic fishponds and palm groves create unique Big Island backdrops. Multiple ceremony locations including beachfront and garden settings.
Fairmont Orchid
Beachfront resort with intimate cove beach and lush tropical grounds. Brown's Beach House offers romantic oceanfront dining. The resort's smaller scale creates intimate atmosphere.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Classic Hawaiian luxury with one of the island's best white sand beaches. Mid-century architecture and art collection add sophistication. Historic property with timeless elegance.
Hapuna Beach
One of Hawaii's best white sand beaches—wide, long, and stunning. State beach park requires permits for commercial photography. Perfect for elopements and intimate ceremonies.
Kona Side Venues
The Kailua-Kona area offers a more accessible, less resort-focused wedding experience with historic charm and excellent sunsets.
Holualoa Inn
Boutique inn on the slopes above Kona with panoramic ocean views. Coffee farm surroundings and intimate garden setting. Perfect for smaller destination weddings seeking authenticity over resort luxury.
Royal Kona Resort
Oceanfront resort in Kailua-Kona with dramatic rocky coastline. Don the Beachcomber offers tiki-style reception option. More accessible price point than Kohala resorts.
Unique Big Island Locations
The Big Island offers dramatic locations found nowhere else—volcanic landscapes that create truly otherworldly wedding photos.
Black Sand Beaches
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
The most accessible black sand beach, famous for basking sea turtles. Dramatic contrast between jet-black sand and white dress creates stunning imagery. Located on the south side between Kona and Volcano.
Volcanic Landscapes
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Active volcanic landscape offers truly unique ceremony backdrops. Crater rim, lava fields, and steam vents create otherworldly settings. Special permits required; not all areas accessible.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an active volcanic area. Conditions change rapidly based on volcanic activity. Always check current conditions, obtain proper permits, and follow park guidelines. Some areas may be closed due to volcanic gases or activity.
Stargazing at Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea Summit
At nearly 14,000 feet, Mauna Kea offers sunset above the clouds and some of Earth's best stargazing. Elopement option for adventurous couples. Requires 4WD, proper preparation, and respect for the sacred summit.
Mauna Kea is sacred to Native Hawaiians. The summit is considered a wahi pana (sacred place) connecting Earth to the heavens. If photographing here, approach with deep respect. Avoid any behavior that could be seen as disrespectful, and be aware of ongoing cultural and political sensitivities around the mountain.
Hilo Side
The east side of the Big Island receives significantly more rain, creating lush, jungle-like environments with waterfalls—beautiful but less predictable for weddings.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Stunning tropical garden along the Hamakua Coast. Waterfalls, exotic plants, and jungle pathways create magical backdrops. Rain is common—embrace it or have backup plans.
Akaka Falls
Dramatic 442-foot waterfall in lush rainforest setting. State park with easy access trail. Popular for elopements and portrait sessions. Plan for rain and muddy conditions.
Big Island Photography Considerations
Climate Zones
The Big Island has 8 of the world's 13 climate zones. What to expect:
- Kohala Coast: Hot, dry, sunny—classic beach weather
- Hilo: Wet, humid, rain likely—tropical rainforest
- Volcano: Cool, misty, unpredictable—bring layers
- Mauna Kea: Cold, possibly snow—winter conditions at summit
Distance Challenges
- Kohala to Kona: 30-45 minutes
- Kona to Volcano: 2-2.5 hours
- Kohala to Hilo: 2+ hours
- Plan timelines carefully—these aren't quick drives
Unique Shot Opportunities
- Black sand beach portraits (Punalu'u)
- Lava field elopements (respect safety boundaries)
- Sunset at Kohala coast with lava rock foreground
- Green sand beach (Papakolea)—difficult access but unique
- Mauna Kea sunset and stars (for adventurous couples)
- Waterfall portraits on Hilo side
Gear Considerations
- Lava rock: Extremely sharp—protect tripod feet, watch where you step
- Volcanic haze (vog): Can affect visibility and create hazy conditions
- Temperature range: Sea level to summit can be 40°F difference
- Hilo humidity: More challenging for gear than dry Kona side
Key Takeaways
Truly Unique Settings
Black sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and snow-capped peaks offer backdrops found nowhere else on Earth.
Plan for Distance
The Big Island is big. Factor significant drive times into any multi-location timeline.
Choose Your Coast
Kona/Kohala for reliable sunshine; Hilo for lush rainforest—but rain is likely.
Cultural Respect
Sacred sites like Mauna Kea require deep respect. Understand the cultural significance before photographing there.