A beach wedding on Maui at sunrise or sunset feels like the island is part of your guest list. The light, the ocean, and the sky all show up for you.

Why couples love sunrise and sunset

Sunrise and sunset are the two timeframes that give you the softest light, cooler temperatures, and a calmer atmosphere on the beach. This matters for how your photos look, how comfortable everyone feels, and how busy the shoreline is during your ceremony.​

Best Sunrise spots on Maui

• Maluaka Beach (South Maui)
  Soft sand, views toward the West Maui Mountains, and often smaller crowds early in the morning. Sunrise here brings gentle color and a quieter feel that works beautifully for intimate ceremonies and elopements.​
• Poʻolenalena Beach / Chang’s Beach (South Maui)
  A long stretch of sand with lava rocks and views of surrounding islands. Early morning tends to be calmer with fewer people, which is helpful for couples who want privacy and simple setups.​
• Palauea / White Rock (South Maui)
  A relaxed beach with greenery and rocks that frame the water in photos. Sunrise often feels peaceful here, making it a good option for couples who prefer small groups or elopements.​
• Paipu Beach (South Maui)
  Just on the other side of a lava rock walk from Po’olenalena Beach, Paipu sits with long stretches of golden sand and calm waters.

Best Sunset spots on Maui

• Makena Cove / Pa‘ako Cove (Secret Cove)
  A small pocket of sand framed by lava rock and palms, often described as one of the most photogenic sunset spots on the island. Space is limited, so this location works best for elopements or very small groups. Expect to share the beach! ​
• Poʻolenalena Beach (South Maui)
  Poʻolenalena is frequently recommended for sunset weddings because the sun drops over the water and there is room to spread out. It is popular, so timing and permit details matter here.​
• Maluaka Beach (South Maui)
  Lovely at golden hour with views that catch the last light of the day. Couples who prefer a wider beach with options for different angles often like this spot for sunset.​
• Kapalua Bay (West Maui)
  A crescent-shaped bay with calm water and great light at the end of the day. Many couples pair a ceremony here with dinner nearby, especially at oceanfront venues including Merriman’s.​

Sunrise vs Sunset: How to Choose

• Privacy and crowds
  Sunrise usually means fewer people and a quieter beach, which suits camera-shy couples or elopements. Sunset can be busier but offers that classic Maui glow and tends to line up better with guest schedules.​
• Heat and weather
  Early mornings are cooler and often less windy, especially on the south shore. Later in the day can bring stronger wind, but it can also give you beautiful movement in hair, veils, and clothing for photos.​
• Logistics and timeline
  Sunrise ceremonies usually mean a very early wake-up, hair and makeup in the dark, and a day that opens up for brunch or island time. Sunset is ideal if you want a relaxed day of getting ready followed by a ceremony and dinner.​

What to avoid for Maui Beach Weddings and Elopements

• Skipping permits and rules
  Maui’s state beaches are public, and wedding ceremonies are considered commercial activity that requires permits from the state’s Wiki Permits system. Skipping this step can lead to on-site interruptions or fines, so couples should always work with a planner or vendor team that is familiar with the current rules.​
• Choosing off-limits locations
  Some beautiful stretches of sand are off-limits for ceremonies, including certain parts of Makena State Park and other protected areas. A planner who works here regularly will know which sections are approved and which are reserved strictly for public use.​
• Overdecorating the shoreline
  Hawaiʻi restricts what can be set up on the beach, and heavy décor, arches that stake into the sand, and seating for large groups are often not allowed. Couples who keep décor minimal and portable stay within the rules and avoid long setup times in direct sun.​
• Ignoring tides, swells, and currents
  The ocean can change quickly, and some areas feel comfortable only at certain tide levels. Choosing locations and ceremony times with local knowledge helps avoid guests standing in water or losing space to incoming waves.​
• Scheduling in harsh midday light
  Midday sun on the beach can be bright, hot, and unflattering in photos, especially if there is little shade. Sunrise and sunset solve many of these issues, which is why they are so popular for weddings and elopements in Maui.​

Quick FAQ about Maui beach weddings

What is the best season for a Maui beach wedding?
Maui hosts weddings year-round, but some months have calmer ocean conditions and more predictable weather. Your planner can recommend dates that match your priorities for crowds, budget, and conditions.

Do we need a permit for a Maui beach wedding or elopement?
Yes, commercial use of most Maui beaches, including weddings and elopements with a photographer or planner, requires a permit through the state’s system and compliance with site-specific rules.​

Get the full 2026 guide here: Maui Beach Wedding Permits: Complete Guide.

How far in advance should we plan our date and location?
Many couples choose their date and general area several months ahead so their planner can confirm availability, permits, and backup options. Popular months and weekends fill up quickly with both visitors and local events.​

Can we have chairs, arches, and a full setup on the sand?
Hawaiʻi’s rules limit structures, furniture, and large décor items on many shorelines, so most couples opt for simple, portable touches for their ceremony. Larger setups often happen on nearby lawns or venue spaces instead of directly on the sand.​

Is sunrise too early for hair and makeup?
Sunrise ceremonies usually mean artists start working in the very early hours, which some couples find tiring and others find exciting. We can help you build a realistic timeline so you feel calm and ready instead of rushed.

​Your Maui beach wedding awaits. Contact us at Maui Destination Weddings to plan the details and secure your spot.