Each of the Hawaiian Islands has its own distinct vibe for destination weddings. From the urban bustle of Oahu to the adventures found on the Big Island and Maui’s family-friendly offerings, something can be found to suit virtually every taste in travel. But it’s hard to beat Kauai for unspoiled tropical beauty and serenity—and romance. If a quiet, laid-back and unplugged Hawaiian experience is what you’re after, The Garden Island is for you. 

“In Kauai, couples get to experience the quiet splendor and romantic solitude without distraction,” says Rita Moore, director of destination weddings at Koloa Landing Resort at Poiupu, one of the island’s best-loved lodging and romantic travel destinations. “We love to see couples relax and get to know each other, be present with each other without too many larger island/city distractions.” 

To give an idea of the lengths Kauaians will go to preserve their intimate island status, it’s worth noting that more than 97% of Kauai’s land is undeveloped, and a building code states that no structure can be taller than a coconut palm tree. With more beaches than any other Hawaiian Island plus rainforests, dramatic peaks and valleys and an abundance of colorful tropical flora, this is paradise found. For those seeking adventure, golf, hiking, scuba and snorkeling, helicopter touring and off-road tours are top drawers.

Located on the island’s South Shore, Koloa Landing embodies relaxed elegance, privacy and the warm spirit of aloha on 25 lush acres. The resort’s suites and one- and two-bedroom villas will surprise you with unexpected amenities, including a fully stocked gourmet kitchen and ensuite washer and dryer. And the jewel in the resort’s crown: the property’s 350,000-gallon multilevel pool includes water slides, swim-thru waterfalls, private cabanas and grottos. 

One of Koloa Landing’s advantages is the longstanding relationships with island vendors, making planning your day easier from far away. A variety of wedding packages offer unforgettable celebrations for every budget—without the added-on surprise of a site fee. Moore cites Koloa Landing’s commitment to making your day perfect without sweating the details. “Kauai boasts world-class designers, florists, and coordinators and we bring them to you. Our top priority is ensuring that from start to finish, you know that your day is exclusive to you.”

THINGS TO DO

Blue Dolphin Sunset Dinner Cruises
With views so stunning it’s hard to wrap your head around what you’re seeing, the staggering vistas of Kauai’s NaPali Coast are unmatched—but nearly impossible to experience on foot. Leave your shoes on the dock and from the comfort of an expertly manned 65-foot catamaran, see 17 miles of soaring cliffs, majestic peaks, secret coves and pristine beaches—not to mention one of those legendary Hawaiian sunsets. At the halfway point the watercraft’s bar opens and a casual dinner is served. The crew makes it fun with attentive service, tasty snacks and nuggets of Kauaian history and folklore.

Kauai ATV Tours
Never let it be said that adventure on Kauai can’t be found. You just have to know where to look—or have someone show you the way. Get your hearts pounding with a backroads ATV adventure tour. With informative guides in the lead, you are behind the wheel through some of the island’s most picturesque spots that you’ll recognize from such films as Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean and Raiders of the Lost Ark. By adventure’s end, you’ll be caked from head to toe in the rich red dust of the beautiful terrain you’ve just traversed. (Helpful hack: Don’t wear white.)

Photos courtesy of (in order of appearance): Photography by Hanakāpī‘ai (1, 3-7); Kōloa Landing Resort (2); Blue Dolphin Charters (8)