Planning a toes-in-the-sand Maui wedding? All public beach ceremonies require a state permit from Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to protect shorelines and ensure safety. Skipping this step risks fines up to $10,000 or event shutdowns.
Permits cap attendance at 20 people total, including the couple, officiant, photographer, any other vendors, and guests – no chairs, tents, or arches are allowed on any public beach.
Because beaches are public spaces, anything that is deemed to “reserve a section of beach” is not permitted. Also, it’s essential to know that it is illegal to ask anyone enjoying the beach to move. Popular spots like Makena Cove, Ironwood, and Kapalua Bay can be some of the busiest beaches to get married at sunset – so plan accordingly.
Permit Requirements & Costs
- Fee: $40 base + 4.712% GET tax (around $42 total).
- Group Size: Maximum 20 people; exact count required upfront.
- Vendors: All pros (photographer, officiant, planner) must hold liability insurance and be registered to do business legally in the State of Hawaii.
- Insurance: Commercial general liability ($2 Million) required.
- Rules: No structures, amplified sound, or post-ceremony receptions on the beach.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Register on DLNR’s Wiki Permits system.
- Select Site from approved beaches list.
- Submit Application 14+ days in advance with attendee count, vendors, and insurance proof.
- Pay & Print permit upon approval (usually 1-3 days).
- Get Married License separately from Maui District Court (no permit needed).
Pro tip: Wedding planners handle this seamlessly for you! Maui Destination Weddings only works with legal Hawaii businesses and vendors – so we take care of this entire process for you.
Top Permitted Beaches for Maui Weddings
FAQs: Maui Beach Wedding Permits
How long does approval take? 1-3 business days if complete.
Can I add guests last-minute? No – fixed at application.
Do I need a beach permit? Yes, required for all commercial public beach weddings via DLNR to avoid fines up to $10,000.
Where/how to apply? Online via DLNR’s Wiki Permits portal
Max group size? 20 people total (couple + vendors + guests) exact count required on application; no additions allowed.
Time limit? Typically 2 hours maximum.
Private beach or exclusive use? No – beaches remain open to public; no roping off areas.
Allowed beaches? DLNR-approved only, beaches such as Ka’anapali Beach and Big Beach, as well as many other smaller beaches are not available for permitting.
Arches, chairs, alcohol? Prohibited – no structures, chairs (except for elderly), amplified sound, or alcohol.
How long for approval? 1-3 business days – always plan on longer periods “Hawaii Time”.
Refundable if it rains? No – permits are non-refundable; plan backups.
Ready to say “I do” stress-free? Maui Destination Weddings manages permits, vendors, and magic. Book your consultation now at mauidestinationweddings.com.
