Weather Backup Locations

Hawaii weather is unpredictable - always have a backup plan. Quick reference for alternative locations when rain or wind disrupts outdoor plans.

Weather Scenarios & Responses

🌧️ Light Rain / Passing Shower

Most common scenario. Hawaii "liquid sunshine" often passes in 10-20 minutes.

1
Wait it out - Find covered area nearby and wait. Have umbrellas ready.
2
Embrace it - Rain photos can be magical. Colorful umbrellas, wet reflections.
3
Adjust timeline - Continue with covered activities, shoot outside when it clears.
Pro Tip: Rain often creates incredible rainbow opportunities immediately after. Stay ready!

⛈️ Heavy/Persistent Rain

Less common but requires backup plan activation.

1
Move to backup location - Covered venue, indoor space, or different side of island.
2
Adjust ceremony location - Most venues have covered backup areas.
3
Reschedule portraits - Do family formals under cover, steal couple later if it clears.

💨 High Winds

Trade winds can be strong, especially on windward sides and elevated locations.

1
Find windbreak - Buildings, walls, dense vegetation can block wind.
2
Adjust positioning - Put couple with backs to wind, shoot quickly between gusts.
3
Embrace movement - Flowing dress and hair can be beautiful. Use fast shutter.
Gear Note: Sandbag light stands, use smaller modifiers, secure anything that can blow away.

☁️ Heavy Overcast / No Sunset

Clouds block the golden hour you planned around.

1
Don't panic - Overcast light is beautiful, soft, and flattering.
2
Focus on connection - Without dramatic light, emphasize emotion and intimacy.
3
Add warmth in post - Boost colors and warmth during editing.

Quick Backup Ideas by Island

Oahu

Hotel Lobbies/Courtyards

Covered, elegant

Royal Hawaiian, Moana Surfrider, Kahala Hotel have beautiful covered areas with classic Hawaii aesthetics.

Covered Lanais

Semi-outdoor feel

Many venues have covered lanais that still feel outdoor while protected from rain.

Windward to Leeward

Different weather

If North Shore is wet, South/West shore may be clear. Weather varies dramatically across island.

Maui

Resort Covered Areas

Luxury backup

Four Seasons, Grand Wailea, and most resorts have elegant covered spaces designed for weather backup.

South to West

Dry side

Wailea and Kaanapali are typically drier than Upcountry or East Maui.

Under Banyan Trees

Natural cover

Large banyan trees (like in Lahaina) provide natural canopy and beautiful backdrop.

Big Island

Kohala Coast Resorts

Driest area

West side is dramatically drier than Hilo side. Resorts have covered areas throughout.

Covered Hales

Traditional structures

Many venues have traditional Hawaiian covered structures (hales) for backup.

Lava Rock Overhangs

Natural formations

Some beach areas have natural lava formations providing shelter with dramatic backdrop.

Kauai

South Shore

Drier weather

Poipu area is significantly drier than North Shore. Consider relocating if needed.

Resort Covered Areas

Built-in backup

Grand Hyatt, St. Regis have beautiful covered spaces designed for weather contingency.

Plantation Style Buildings

Character locations

Historic buildings with covered porches provide shelter with Kauai character.

Weather Preparation Checklist

Before the Day

  • Discuss backup plan with couple/planner
  • Scout backup location options
  • Check weather forecast day before
  • Have clear umbrellas ready

Gear Preparation

  • Rain covers for cameras
  • Plastic bags for emergency protection
  • Microfiber cloths for lens wiping
  • Silica gel packets in bag

On the Day

  • Check hourly forecast morning of
  • Monitor radar for approaching showers
  • Communicate with planner about conditions
  • Stay calm and confident

Weather Apps

  • MyRadar - Real-time precipitation
  • Weather.gov - NOAA forecasts
  • Windy - Wind and cloud visualization
  • PhotoPills - Sun position planning
Mindset is Everything
  • Your energy matters: If you're stressed about weather, the couple will be too. Stay positive.
  • Rain creates stories: Couples often treasure rain photos more than expected perfect conditions.
  • Flexibility is key: The best photos often come from adapting to unexpected situations.
  • Hawaii showers pass: Most rain in Hawaii is brief. Patience often solves the problem.
  • Document the moment: Whatever happens is part of their wedding story - capture it beautifully.