Yokohama Beach
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In this simple guide, you’ll find the best beaches and venues for the ultimate Oahu military wedding. Plus, we’ve included a ton of tips to help make your Big Day experience as easy as possible. From Hawaii military lodging and military discounts to scenic adventures, we’ve got your planning covered!
Oahu has the 4th largest military workforce in the country, with over 20,000 men and women proudly serving our islands. At Simple Oahu Wedding, we honor and deeply value the members and veterans of our armed forces. And to show our appreciation, we offer a 5% discount off of our base Oahu wedding packages!
Follow along as we go over a handful of our favorite Oahu wedding locations and highlight plenty of military perks!
Yokohama Beach
In the heart of Makua, Yokohama Beach features pristine waters and white sands beneath the foothills of the Waianae Mountains. In Hawaiian “makua” translates to “parent.” Legend has it that this area is the place where humans first walked the earth.
Lodging:
Disney’s Aulani Resort is a quick car ride away from Yokohama Beach. This resort has everything you’d ever want in a Hawaii vacation. Pools, pools, and then some. Spas, hot tubs, and mellow bars. All are packaged in a nostalgic Disney theme to please the kids (and the kid inside you). Aulani is currently offering a 35% military discount for weekday stays from April 16th to June 11th, 2020. However, they’re likely to periodically offer deals throughout the years to come.
Location, Makua:
Situated on the dry and sunny Leeward Coast, this rustic area is spotted with small towns and rolling hills. With plenty of beaches and hole-in-the-wall gems to discover, Makua is a must-see destination for anyone wanting to experience the “real” Hawaii.
If you choose to say “I do” on this breathtaking shore, consider treating yourself to a mini-dinner reception. Discover unforgettable flavors at the world-renowned Roy’s or the Cattle Company Steakhouse.
Just minutes away from Yokohama Beach and near Kaena Point on the coastline, you can find the Makua Military Reservation (MMR). Located 18 miles from Schofield Barracks, this military training site boasts 4,856 acres and a helicopter landing pad. However, with no cabins or water facilities, this reservation is best suited for a brief visit rather than a stay-over.
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.
More Oahu Military Wedding Tips…
Transportation
While Oahu has a prominent public transportation system, we recommend using it for short trips based in Waikiki only. To get around the island, you’re probably going to want the convenience and flexibility of a rental car.
Hertz has a long history of providing great deals to military personnel. Other companies, including AVIS, also offer military discounts. It doesn’t hurt to shop around. You could also check out MVDC for better offers or browse the Hawaii Military Guide for more tips.
Fashion
- Attire
Unique Vintage offers a 10% military discount on their special online wedding section for women. The Banana Republic also gives a 15% military discount and can be found throughout the island of Oahu.
- Jewelry
Helzberg Diamonds and Tiffany’s offer 10% off engagement rings and wedding bands for active-duty personnel and veterans. On top of that, the Waikiki strip is home to a gorgeous two-story Tiffany’s, both convenient and financially savvy!
This guide is just a peek at the beaches and venues we have to offer! As you’re planning your big day, come check out all of our beautiful Oahu wedding locations!
For more information and tips, check out our sister company’s Hawaii Marriage License guide.
Whether you’re stationed here or flying in with Space-A, we want your wedding to be as breezy as our island! Contact us today!
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Looking for the perfect Oahu wedding location?
At Simple Oahu Wedding, we believe the Hawaii locale where you get married should be gorgeous yet uncomplicated with a heaping scoop of island style. We’ll help you find the ideal place to get married in Oahu and turn your dream into reality! Just see what our clients have said:
Follow along as we review our Top 10 Places to Get Married in Oahu!
1. Kualoa Ranch Secret Island (Venue)
There are plenty of breathtaking wedding venues on Oahu, but Kualoa Ranch’s Secret Island takes the (wedding) cake when it comes to island style. This reserve is so private that you and your guests can only access the beachfront by floating over an ancient fish pond via a Hawaiian fishing boat (Yes, you read that correctly!). Imagine saying “I do” on a tropical beach with just you, your guests, and your special someone digging your toes into the powdery white sand.
Why is Kualoa Ranch in our top 10?
- 100% private
- Seats up to 50 guests
- Sweeping panoramic ocean views
- Movie-worthy valley scapes
- Beach OR boat ceremony options are available
- Soft north-east lighting = no harsh shadows
- Ample parking
- Family-owned and operated
- Profits protect Hawaii’s nature and wildlife
- Hawaiian fishing boat… need we say more?
2. Royal Hawaiian Golf Club (Venue)
Although Hawaii beaches tend to get most of the praise, our mountains and jungles can be just as beautiful. Nestled in the lush valleys of Kailua, the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club is the perfect venue for nature lovers. Its endless greenery is accented with designer elements, including a pristine pond, stone bridges, and a rugged rock wall. You’ll say “I do” on the manicured lawns overlooking the venue and then venture into the tropical forest to capture unforgettable couples portraits.
Why is Royal Hawaiian Golf Club in our Top 10?
- Lush backdrops
- Unique Hawaiian experience
- Designer elements
- Golf car ride for jungle photo opt
- Waimanalo Beach photo session if time permits
- Optional on-site reception area
- The greenery you need to see to believe!
3. Paradise Cove Luau (Venue)
If you dream of getting married on a beautiful beach but also want the convenience of an onsite reception, then Paradise Cove Luau is the ideal Oahu wedding location! Situated on the Leeward side of the island, this stunning location showcases vivid sunsets and glistening seascape views. With a grassy lawn or sandy stretch available for ceremony options, you can decide whether or not to go “toes in the sand” or “shoes on the terrace.” When the sun goes down, you can dive into a traditional Hawaiian luau to celebrate your union right there on the property!
Why is Paradise Cove Luau in our top 10?
- Two gorgeous ceremony options
- Discounted group rates available for the luau
- Spectacular ocean views
- Sunsets
- Cocktail hour
- Perfect beach for portraits
- Did we mention sunsets?
- Hawaiian Luau reception (With Polynesian fire dancers!)
4. Papailoa Beach
It’s impossible to adequately describe the fluid and artistic beauty of Papailoa Beach. With a rocky shoreline draped in soft green algae and a stretch of trees fading into the horizon, walking on this Oahu beach feels like stepping into a masterpiece. Best known as the setting for the TV show Lost, Papailoa Beach offers bright tropical beauty with an unexpectedly refined aesthetic.
Why is Papailoa Beach in our top 10?
- Lava rock formations
- White sands
- Minutes from Haleiwa town
- Close to restaurants
- Suitable for groups of 15 or less
5. Waimanalo Beach
Rarely crowded, Waimanalo Beach is one of our favorite locations for beach weddings. Its oceanscape features rolling valley backdrops and a seemingly endless stretch of white sands. In the morning light, Waimanalo Beach’s waters glow a vivid aquamarine, while the sky fades into soft pastels during the sunset hours. With plenty of parking and easy access to the shore, this spot is perfect for wedding guests of any age.
Why is Waimanalo Beach in our top 10?
- Variety of valley and ocean backdrops
- Located near Sea Life Park
- North shore views
- Aqua blue waters
- Restrooms on site
6. Yokohama (Keawaula) Beach
Resting in the heart of Makaha, Yokohama Beach is a remote white sand beach that’s well worth the travel time! The rocky coastline is encircled by lush mountains and valleys with rolling tides crashing in the ocean backdrop. Resting on the western tip of the island, this Oahu wedding location features vivid sunsets and pastel-soft morning light.
Why is Yokohama Beach in our top 10?
- White sands
- Restroom facilities
- Endless mountainscapes
- Remote location
- Vast shore
- Gorgeous sunsets
7. Kualoa Regional Beach Park
Bordered by a grassy field, this Oahu wedding location showcases green mountains and a rolling tropical beach. Just off Kaneohe Bay on the northeastern side of the island, Kualoa Regional Beach Park is famous for its striking beauty. Just ⅓ of a mile out from its shoreline, the basalt island of Mokoliʻi (or Chinaman’s Hat) rests in the vivid Hawaiian waters.
Why is Kualoa Regional Beach Park in our top 10?
- Greenery + Ocean makes for the best of both worlds
- Stunning views of Mokoliʻi
- Variety of palms and trees
- Plenty of parking
- Restrooms on site
- White sands
8. Paradise Cove – Ko’olina Beach
Ko’olina is known for its high-end resorts and accommodations, and although it boasts gorgeous beaches they’re privately owned and inaccessible to the public. Paradise Cove is the single gem in Ko’olina where public weddings are allowed. And what a gem it is! With leggy palms and crystal clear waters, this cove is a must-see! Because it shares its shore with Paradise Cove Luau we recommend morning weddings to avoid dense crowds.
Why is Paradise Cove – Ko’olina in our top 10?
- Manicured Palms
- Reef with clear waters
- Small parking lot
- Lava rock formations
9. Waialae Beach Park
Conveniently located near Waikiki, this gorgeous beach features plenty of palms, golden sands, and a backdrop of rolling waters. Although this Oahu wedding location is often crowded, it boasts a wide shoreline, and we can usually seek out less populated areas for the ceremony and beautiful photo ops.
Why is Waialae Beach Park in our top 10?
- Palm trees galore
- A cute man-made island in the backdrop
- Rocky embankments
- Golden sands
- Convenient location
- Easy access
- Great for sunsets or mornings
- Parking lot
- The feeling of classic Waikiki
10. Haleiwa Alii Beach Park
Located near Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s north shore, this rustic beach boasts a lava rock embankment and endless blooms of tropical palms. Haleiwa Alii Beach Park is in the heart of the small plantation town of Haleiwa and features panoramic views of the ocean coast that make for dynamic wedding day photos.
Why is Haleiwa Alii Beach Park in our top 10?
- White sands
- Near tourist locations like Turtle Bay Resort
- Rolling tide
- Variety of greenery
- Great for sunset and morning weddings
Thinking of booking one of these gorgeous Oahu beaches or venue wedding locations? Come check out our beautiful Oahu wedding packages to keep your Hawaii wedding planning simple and stress-free.
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It could not have been a more perfect evening for an Oahu Wedding. Raquel and Alex traveled to Oahu from California for their beach wedding and we are so happy that they got the most amazing weather and beautiful light for photography.
It’s pretty obvious that these two are very loved. They had 21 people travel to be there and witness their wedding ceremony. With good friends standing nearby they said “I do” with the sound of the waves crashing in the background.
After the ceremony, they had so much fun posing with their crew then enjoying the view together as husband and wife. They had plans to head to the Marriott at nearby Ko’olina and keep the celebration going!
The Location
Yokohama bay is the most remote Oahu Beach Wedding Location we offer, but we feel like it’s also the most beautiful and dramatic. Its location on the west side of the island means lovely consistent weather and gorgeous sunsets. The fact that it is also surrounded by towering green mountains is just icing on the (wedding) cake!
Many of our couples and their guests choose to stay in the resort area of Ko’olina which is about 15 miles away rather than the much further and more popular resort area of Waikiki. We think this is a smart option, at least for the day of your wedding as traffic can be a challenge to this location and the pace of Ko’olina is much more relaxed and a perfect place to start a romantic honeymoon. Which is exactly what Raquel and Matt planned to do starting the next day!
Thank you, Raquel and Alex, for choosing Simple Oahu Wedding to be a part of your awesome celebration!
Time of Day: Sunset
Oahu Beach Wedding Location: Yokohama Bay Beach
Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan of Karma Hill Photography
Oahu Wedding Officiant: Rev. Kimo Taylor
Bride’s Hair and Makeup: Reveal Hair and Makeup
Floral: Boho Dream Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii
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Jessica and Ben’s Oahu Beach Wedding was full of love and emotion! The smile on our bride’s face as she was escorted by her mother, said it all. It’s obvious these two are head over heels for each other. And we can’t get over how our groom got emotional!
This was Jessica’s first time to Hawaii, but not Ben’s, and we’re confident they will be back many times over the years! They even flew to Maui the night of their wedding to start their honeymoon, so now two of Hawaii’s islands hold a special place in their hearts 🙂 . And we are just so glad we could be part of making their Oahu Beach Wedding a reality!
So thank you, Jessica and Ben, for sharing such a beautiful occasion with us. It was an honor working with you both and we wish you a lifetime of happiness as husband and wife! Congratulations and Warm Aloha!
Oahu Wedding Planner: Simple Oahu Wedding
Onsite Coordinator: Mai of Simple Oahu Wedding
Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan of Karma Hill Photography
Officiant: Bride and Groom’s Friend
Wedding Floral: White Wedding Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii
Oahu Beach Wedding Location: Yokohama Beach
Time of Day: Sunset
View our recent wedding: Gold & White Radiance ~ Nakretia & Jerel’s Oahu Destination Wedding
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This couples families flew from all over the world for their Oahu Destination Wedding! Some are from the Philippines and others came from New Zealand. After meeting when they were 18 and being together for 9 years, Alexey and Alexander were more than ready to say “I do” with loved ones surrounding them!
Alexey and Alexander love Hawaii and have visited 4 times already, and we’re confident they’ll keep coming back! Alex can do the Cheee-hooo as good as any local lol, and these two are all about the shaka. After the ceremony, they headed to a luau with everyone as the perfect wrap up to their Oahu Destination Wedding! Talk about a festive celebration!
Thank you, Alexey and Alexander, for sharing your special day with Simple Oahu Wedding. We loved getting to know you both and wish you all the best on the journey ahead! Congratulations and Warm Aloha!
Oahu Wedding Package: Simple Oahu Wedding
Onsite Coordinator: Oli of Simple Oahu Wedding
Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan of Karma Hill Photography
Oahu Officiant: Rev. Kimo
Musician: Jeremy
Wedding Floral: Custom Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii
Hair & Make-up: Reveal
Oahu Beach Wedding Location: Yokohama Beach
Time of Day: Morning
View our recent wedding: Back to Where it All Began ~ Janet & Martin’s Oahu Wedding
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After dating for 3 years, Katie and Ethan were so excited celebrate their love by getting married at an Oahu Beach Wedding! This was our bride’s first trip to Hawaii, but our groom’s third. And we’re confident they will be coming back together again and again over the years 🙂 .
Besides choosing an intimate setting for their Oahu Beach Wedding, Katie and Ethan also decided to keep their ceremony intimate with no wedding guests. But that doesn’t mean they weren’t surrounded by the love of family! In fact, they honeymooned on our sister island of Kauai where her late mother married her father. How sweet is that?!
After taking beautiful wedding portraits with our sister company, these newlyweds were excited to end the evening with a delicious dinner at Kai Steakhouse. The perfect ending to an already perfect day! Thank you, Katie and Ethan, for sharing such a special occasion with Simple Oahu Wedding. We couldn’t be happier for you both and wish you all the best on the journey ahead! Congratulations and Warm Aloha!
Oahu Wedding Packages: Simple Oahu Wedding
Onsite Coordinator: Oli of Simple Oahu Wedding
Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan of Karma Hill Photography
Oahu Officiant: Kahu Kawena
Wedding Floral: Boho Dream Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii
Hair & Make-up: Reveal
Oahu Beach Wedding Location: Yokohama Beach
Time of Day: Sunset
View our recent wedding: A Beautiful Day ~ Katelyn & Joshua’s Oahu Destination Wedding
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This Oahu Destination Wedding was so exciting, especially since our bride and groom had family come all the way from Poland for their special day! The most exciting part though was that these two have been together for over a decade and were more than ready to say, “I do” in front of their loved ones. And despite the rain, it was a truly beautiful day and one we know will never be forgotten!
Patricia and Ted met on AOL online! Remember when that was still a thing? She was just 17 and he was in his early 20’s, they’ve now been together for 14 years. And we have no doubt they will have the most amazing life with each other as husband and wife! We couldn’t be happier for these newlyweds and are so glad we could be part of their Oahu Destination Wedding.
So thank you, Patricia and Ted, for inviting Simple Oahu Wedding to celebrate with you on such a special occasion. We wish you all the best on the journey ahead! Congratulations and Warm Aloha!
Oahu Wedding Coordinators: Simple Oahu Wedding
Onsite Coordinator: Mai of Simple Oahu Wedding
Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan of Karma Hill Photography
Oahu Officiant: Kahu Kawena
Wedding Floral: Tropical Elegance Bouquet & Flower Crown by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii
Oahu Beach Wedding Location: Yokohama Beach
Time of Day: Evening
Check out another gorgeous Oahu wedding here: https://simpleoahuwedding.com/sonia-matt-oahu-destination-wedding/
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Amber and César had the most magical night for their Yokohama Beach Elopement! From an epic rainbow in the distant mountains to a beautiful sunset. It really was a picture-perfect evening! Just see for yourself 🙂 .
Yokohama Beach Ceremony
To make their evening even more memorable, this bride and groom chose to have Kahu Pomaikai perform their wedding with her traditional Hawaiian ceremony. The blessings she offers are full of so much love, and the true spirit of Aloha. Creating a truly memorable experience for a couple getting married in paradise!
Amber and César are big on adventure, so after previously visiting Maui and Kauai they were excited to explore Oahu and the Big Island on their wedding trip. So we’re thrilled they chose to get married here! And are confident this will be a day neither of them will ever forget. We know we sure won’t! Thank you so much, Amber and César, for sharing this amazing evening with us. We absolutely loved helping plan your Yokohama Beach Elopement! Congratulations and Warm Aloha!
Oahu Elopement Planner: Simple Oahu Wedding
Onsite Coordinator: Oli of Simple Oahu Wedding
Oahu Elopement Photographer: Megan of Karma Hill Photography
Oahu Officiant: Kahu Pomaikai
Wedding Floral: Sweet Blossoms Hawaii
Oahu Beach Wedding Location: Yokohama Beach
Time of Day: Sunset
View our recent wedding: Sharing the Joy ~ Marion & Florent’s Oahu Beach Wedding
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Interested in hearing more about our Oahu wedding packages or have a question? We would love to hear from you!
Fill out the form below or email us at:
Due to our event schedule, hours may change without notice
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OFFICE HOURS: Daily: 7AM-3PM HST
WANT TO talk? 808-439-6700
aloha@simpleoahuwedding.net
Your Oahu Wedding Questions, Answered
