Oahu Military Wedding: Best Places To Get Married + Vacation Tips

Papailoa Beach

Papailoa beach is one of the lesser-known beaches on Oahu’s North Shore. Situated near Waimea Bay and only a 20-minute drive from Turtle Bay Resort, this rustic beauty is the perfect locale for Military weddings on Oahu. Papailoa offers a break from the rush-and-go mentality of Honolulu. With powder-soft sands and a lava outcropping draped in emerald algae, the scenery will take your breath away. 

Lodging:

If you’re a member of the Armed Forces Vacation Club, you can rent a room at Turtle Bay Resort starting at $2,959.99* for 7 nights. Booking a day or two at this high-end resort would allow you time to capture getting-ready photos before taking a short trip to the shore for your unforgettable Oahu wedding.  *As of May 2020

Location, Near Waimea Bay:

Known for its paniolo (cowboy) charm, this area is covered in plantation fields with occasional roaming cattle. If you’re an outdoorsy couple, then there’s no shortage of things to do at this location! Go horseback riding on trails that overlook the spectacular forests at Sunset Ranch. Get your snorkel gear on and venture out to Shark Cove. Or hike up Waimea Valley to soak in the beauty of the indigenous greenery.

On the other hand, if you prefer the more relaxing luxuries of life, try crunching a couple of freshly roasted nuts at North Shore Macadamia, sip on a Mai Tai at the Toa Luau, or just grab a coffee and roam the many local art galleries. The North Shore is a great spot to let go of the stressors of life and just enjoy the days surrounding your Oahu wedding.

Waimanalo Beach

Situated on the coast of a small town, Waimanalo’s golden sands stretch for over 5 miles. The eastern-facing shore creates soft, luminous lighting during photo opts and vividly highlights the aqua waters and towering mountains. 

Lodging:

Waimanalo is just minutes away from Bellows Beach, which offers military discounted cabin rentals, a military mini-mart, and a volleyball court and playground. 

In addition, the Marine Corps at Kaneohe Bay boasts cottages, cabins, villas, and a waterfront lodge at affordable military rates. All of the 13 cottages in this pristine villa feature 2 bedrooms with queen beds, air conditioning, a full kitchen and living room, plus BBQ and patio areas. The Marine Corps is ideal for small or large groups and has unbeatable views of the northeastern shore. 

Location, Waimanalo:

Waimanalo town is less developed than Honolulu and offers a great reprieve from the hustle of the city.

If you love beach activities, then this windward location can’t be beaten! With an abundance of vivid coral reefs, Waimanalo is loaded with snorkeling opportunities. If you’re staying near Kaneohe Bay Base Marina, you can rent out their gear to engage in a variety of activities, from windsurfing to water skiing. 

Best of all, this location is only a short drive from Sea Life Park. So you can schedule an after-wedding adventure to see the dolphins and feed the sea lions!

Paradise Cove Luau

If you want Aloha spirit and an island oasis, then Paradise Cove Luau is perfect for your Oahu military wedding. With beachside or lawn ceremony options, this locale melds oceanfront with the comfort and ease of a venue.

If a reception is part of your dream wedding, then follow up the “I do” with their onsite luau. This wild adventure features Polynesian fire dancers, traditional food, and authentic Hawaiian games. As an extra bonus, special military discounts apply for luau receptions at this venue! We can get you in contact with their events organizer for more details.

Lodging:

The Pililaau Army Recreation Center is just a short drive from Paradise Cove Luau. Their modest but clean facilities are available in studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, or 3 bedroom options with access to a semi-private beach. Priced at $87 – $127 a night, the PARC is ideal for couples who want a simple place to rest. Why spend $300+ on a hotel when you can put it towards activities that create lasting memories?

Likewise, the Barber Point Beach Cottage offers cedar cabin rentals at White Plains Beach for military families. Located near the USS Arizona, these shoreside cabins range between $90 – $110 a day, with 1 and 2-bedroom options, including AC and washer/dryers. 

Location, Ko’olina:

Populated with high-end resorts and shopping complexes, the Ko’olina area is the perfect spot to indulge in modern luxuries. Go snorkeling and view the Leeward oceans or relax during a mud bath and Lomi Lomi massage. Or take a side trip to the Marina or one of the many golf courses in the area.

Be sure to take advantage of the close proximity to Pearl Harbor. A 20-minute drive will bring you right into the heart of this historic site. Tour the museum or visit Hickam Air Force Base or Fort Shafter as you salute the men and women who proudly serve our country.