And now for the Big Island. As the youngest (and still growing) island in the chain, the island of Hawaii has the most ecological diversity of all the Islands. Peak season is December and spring break. Having spent a week on the Big Island, I can see why people like it, however, the weather was brutal on most of the Island during my week. 2/3rds of the Island had severe flash flooding, the only dry spot was Kona. It impacted my plans to see everything, and it turns out, the city girl, needed more city that the Big Island offered. So my return trip will include Oahu again, and maybe Maui. I have a lot of friends that absolutely love it there.
So remember the weather is a bit riskier during the rainy season The being said, you are really only safe weather-wise if you stick to the Kona part of the Island, places like Hilo get rain, and lots of it!
If you’re looking for group bookings, contact to me and I’ll work with my contacts to put together an amazing package for you.
DON’T FORGET – If you’re getting married, or renewing your vows you will need a Marriage license and a justice of the peace, minister, officiant to make it all happen.
So in no particular order, here are some unique and popular resorts/venues throughout the The Big Island, Hawaii.
Style: Private Estate | Ocean/Waterfront
What I love about this place, is that, it’s perfect for small intimate family events, whether reunions, vow renewals or weddings. With a sleeping capacity of 44 spread throughout several different buildings; it’s the perfect place to assemble all your closest family and friends. The location is stunning, imagine having dinner as you watch the waves meet the shore.
Events Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 75 guests
Group Events: Aside from the accommodations, budget $200 per person
Weddings: Starting from $15,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
There are accommodations for up to 44 people among the 6 bungalow homes on site. There is a rental fee for a ceremony and reception. There is an additional fee for a 5 night rental minimum. You can find the nightly bungalow rental fee here.
You must provide/arrange for the following: • Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
I think this place is stunning, with both luxury accommodations and a spa, or the option of an eco retreat in the form of yurts. Set on 50 acres, within the forest, you are surrounded by the lush tropics of Hawaii. Now while not on the beach, this retreat is exceptionally beautiful and if you’re like me, you’ll love the glam.
Events Budget: Budget $150 – $200 USD per person, plus accommodations
Weddings: Starting from $20,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
They have a three night buy-out of all the hotel’s retreat rooms, bungalows, and/or yurts to accommodate 40 to 50 guests staying on the property, should you wish to take over the entire place.
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
Style: Hotel/Resort | Ocean/Waterfront | Beach
This Hilton resort has something for virtually everyone, amazing pools, beach access, golf, swimming with dolphins, beautiful wedding facilities to multiple restaurants. If you’re wanting a beautiful location with everything in one place, this very popular favourite is a great choice.
Events Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 1200 guests
Group Events: $5,000 USD or $150 USD per person whichever is greater
Weddings: Starting from $11,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
Events held on a Friday-Sunday require a private catered reception that meets a food and beverage minimum.
Accomodations: Starting from $249 USD to $733 USD per night | Christmas $520 USD to $1,020 USD per night
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
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Style: Museum/Gallery | Park/Garden | Ocean/Waterfront View | Beach
If you love the idea of a historical site, Hulieh’e Palace is a beautiful location. Designated a historical site & a museum, it has the old world Hawaiian charm & history; and once belonged to Queen Emma & Prince Albert. This tropical backdrop offers the perfect photo shoot and the gardens are a lovely place to celebrate as you watch the sun set.
Events Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 300 guests
Events Budget: $200 – 300 per person (you’ll need to rent everything)
Weddings: Starting from $7,500 USD plus base rental fee (based on 25 guests)
You must provide/arrange for the following: • Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
I think that The Royal Kona is another beautiful full service hotel, with 7 different venues for your special event or wedding. They even offer their own Pacific Luau. With a spa and front door access to restaurants & shops in the quaint seaside village of Kailua-Kona.
Style: Hotel/Resort, Ocean/Waterfront View, Beach, Outdoor
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 300 guests
Services: Ceremony | Reception – Indoor | Outdoor
Events Budget: $75 – $150 USD per person
Weddings: Starting from $5,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
Accommodations: Starting at $242 USD to 2,376 USD per night
You must provide/arrange for the following: • Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
Style: Historic/Landmark Building | Barn/Farm/Ranch | Vintage/Rustic
This entire place is yours when you rent this location. It has a wide variety of locations to have your special event, it is both historical and picturesque, with acres of lush rolling mountains as your back-drop. The site itself has been historically restored, so not only do you get a stunning location, but unique sites for photography and exploration.
Events Guest capacity: Reception 80 guests | Outdoors – Ceremony Reception 300 guests depending upon location choice
Events Budget: $150 – $250 per person (You’ll need to rent just about everything – less 50 chairs & 9 tables
Weddings: Starting from $7,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
The flat rental fee allows for 14 hours of event time.
Celebration Locations:
Anna’s Hall – Seating capacity 60 – 80 people, cocktail style 100 people
Wai’au’ia Stream – (a favorite wedding spot) 100+ people
Orange Tree Grove – 100+ people
Anna’s Front Lawn – any size up to 300 people
Vintage Barn – Seating capacity 25 people, cocktail style 50 people
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
Style: Hotel/Resort | Ocean/Waterfront | Beach
This is a full service hotel, the beauty of a resort hotel is that it’s all there, in one convenient place. The Sheraton is set atop a lava rock formation overlooking the ocean. With dramatic views, a spa, pools, and amazing wedding venues. Arrange it all in advance, and you basically just have to show up with your group.
Events Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 1500 guests
Events Budget: $100 – $150 per person
Weddings: Starting from $12,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
Accommodations: Starting from $170 USD to $615 USD per night | Christmas $423 to $989 USD
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
Style: Hotel/Resort | Ocean/Waterfront | Beach
Waikoloa is a small resort town about 40 minutes from Kona, there are two golf courses, shops and a grocery store, has an amazing beach, and a really great club directly on the beach. The grounds are as amazing, while I haven’t stayed there (I kind of wish I had), I’ve spent time on the beach and wandered through the hotel. The hotel offers a spa and beautifully upgraded facilities, and they of course, know how to do weddings exceptionally well.
Event Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 1200 guests | Reception Indoor 1,333 | Outdoor 1000
Event Budgets: Estimate $75 – $200 USD per person
Weddings: Starting from $7,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
Accommodations: Starting from $303 to $2,150 USD per night / Christmas Starting at $521 USD | January through April starting $351 USD
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
Style: Banquet Hall/Restaurant | Barn/Farm/Ranch | Plantation
This working ranch is only an hour away from Kona, and is breathtakingly beautiful. With stunning scenery, and multiple locations to have your celebration, you couldn’t ask for a more special destination.
Events Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 500 guests
Events Budget: $250 per person (you’ll need to rent almost everything)
Weddings: Starting from $8,000 USD plus base rental fee (based on 25 guests)
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
Style: Ocean/View | Plantation | Bed & Breakfast/Inn
With garden to table meals, gorgeous surroundings, private villas and 30 acres. This place is perfect for family getaways, weddings, and even elopements. Holualoa Inn Estate offers spectacular Pacific Ocean views, 30 acres of lush, well-tended tropical fruit and flower gardens, over 4,100 Kona Coffee trees.
Events Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 120 guests
Events Budget: $150 per person, with many variables
Weddings: Starting from $10,000 USD (based on 25 guests)
The rental fees are based on number of rooms booked, activities held, and the size and scope of your event. Exclusive rental of Holualoa Inn is $3,200+ per night based on a 2-night minimum stay, which includes Inn & Private Cottage. The exclusive daily rental of Malulani Pavilion ranges from $3,000 to $8,600.
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music • Decorations • Wedding Officiate • Catering • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
I’m hoping that these 10 beautiful Big Island, Hawaii destinations give you lots of inspiration, as you plan your big event.
Just remember, I’m here for all your luxury travel needs.
Please consider sharing and pinning because each share truly helps me out! Thanks – Maria
AND, before you book things, remember, group packages are there to be had, if you’re booking with a resort. Don’t try to book a group package anywhere but via the actual resort website! However, booking your flights, or just a couple of rooms, do what works best for you. Beach events require a permit, don't usually allow chairs or alcohol. Also keep in mind, all these prices are starting points, everything can go up or down for that matter!
DON'T FORGET - If you're getting married, or renewing your vows you will need a Marriage license and a justice of the peace, minister, officiant to make it all happen.
So in no particular order, here are some unique and popular resorts/venues throughout the The Big Island, Hawaii.
What I love about this place, is that, it's perfect for small intimate family events, whether reunions, vow renewals or weddings. With a sleeping capacity of 44 spread throughout several different buildings; it's the perfect place to assemble all your closest family and friends. The location is stunning, imagine having dinner as you watch the waves meet the shore.
Style: Private Estate, Ocean/Waterfront View, Outdoor
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 75 guests
Services: Ceremony | Reception Outdoor
Group Events: Aside from the accommodations, budget $200 per person
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $15,000 USD
There are accommodations for up to 44 people among the 6 bungalow homes on site. There is a rental fee for a ceremony and reception. There is an additional fee for a 5 night rental minimum. You can find the nightly bungalow rental fee here.
You must provide/arrange for the following: • Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
I think this place is stunning, with both luxury accommodations and a spa, or the option of an eco retreat in the form of yurts. Set on 50 acres, within the forest, you are surrounded by the lush tropics of Hawaii. Now while not on the beach, this retreat is exceptionally beautiful and if you're like me, you'll love the glam.
Events Budget: Budget $150 - $200 USD per person, plus accommodations
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $20,000 USD
They have a three night buy-out of all the hotel's retreat rooms, bungalows, and/or yurts to accommodate 40 to 50 guests staying on the property, should you wish to take over the entire place.
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
This Hilton resort has something for virtually everyone, amazing pools, beach access, golf, swimming with dolphins, beautiful wedding facilities to multiple restaurants. If you're wanting a beautiful location with everything in one place, this very popular favourite is a great choice.
Style: Hotel/Resort, Ocean/Waterfront View, Beach, Ballrooms, Outdoor
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 1200 guests
Services: Ceremony - Indoor 40 | Outdoor 200 | Reception - Indoor 1,200 | Outdoor 300
Group Events: $5,000 USD or $150 USD per person whichever is greater
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $11,000 USD
Events held on a Friday-Sunday require a private catered reception that meets a food and beverage minimum.
Accomodations: Starting from $249 USD to $733 USD per night | Christmas $520 USD to $1,020 USD per night
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
If you love the idea of a historical site, Hulieh'e Palace is a beautiful location. Designated a historical site & a museum, it has the old world Hawaiian charm & history; and once belonged to Queen Emma & Prince Albert. This tropical backdrop offers the perfect photo shoot and the gardens are a lovely place to celebrate as you watch the sun set.
Style: Museum/Gallery, Park/Garden, Ocean/Waterfront View, Beach
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 300 guests
Services: Outdoor Ceremony 50 guests | Reception 300
Events Budget: $200 - 300 per person (you'll need to rent everything)
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $7,500 USD plus base rental fee.
You must provide/arrange for the following: • Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
I think that The Royal Kona is another beautiful full service hotel, with 7 different venues for your special event or wedding. They even offer their own Pacific Luau. With a spa and front door access to restaurants & shops in the quaint seaside village of Kailua-Kona.
Style: Hotel/Resort, Ocean/Waterfront View, Beach, Outdoor
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 300 guests
Services: Ceremony | Reception - Indoor | Outdoor
Events Budget: $75 - $150 USD per person
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $5,000 USD
Accommodations: Starting at $242 USD to 2,376 USD per night | Peak Season starting from $199 USD to $295 USD
You must provide/arrange for the following: • Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
What I love off the bat is that the entire place is your when you rent this location. It has a wide variety of locations to have your special event, it is both historical and picturesque, with acres of lush rolling mountains as your back-drop. The site itself has been historically restored, so not only do you get a stunning location, but unique sites for photography and exploration.
Style: Historic/Landmark Building, Barn/Farm/Ranch, Vintage/Rustic
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 300 guests
Services: Indoors - Ceremony | Reception 80 guests | Outdoors - Ceremony Reception 300 guests, it all depends on your location preference.
Events Budget: $150 - $250 per person (You'll need to rent just about everything - less 50 chairs & 9 tables
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $7,000 USD
The flat rental fee allows for 14 hours of event time.
Celebration Locations:
Anna’s Hall - Seating capacity 60 - 80 people, cocktail style 100 people
Wai’au’ia Stream - (a favorite wedding spot) 100+ people
Orange Tree Grove - 100+ people
Anna’s Front Lawn - any size up to 300 people
Vintage Barn – Seating capacity 25 people, cocktail style 50 people
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
I love a full service hotel, the beauty of a resort hotel is that it's all there, in one convenient place. The Sheraton is set atop a lava rock formation overlooking the ocean. With dramatic views, a spa, pools, and amazing wedding venues. Arrange it all in advance, and you basically just have to show up with your group.
Style: Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Hotel/Resort, Ocean/Waterfront View, Beach
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 1500 guests
Services: Ceremony | Reception - Indoor | Outdoor
Events Budget: $100 - $150 per person
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $12,000 USD
Accommodations: Starting at $170 USD to $615 USD per night | Christmas $423 to $989 USD | January though April $231 - $934 USD
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
Waikoloa is a small resort town with two golf courses, shops and a grocery store, has an amazing beach, and a really great beach club directly on the beach. The grounds are as amazing the hotel, while I haven't stayed there (I kind of wish I had), I've spent time on the beach and wandered through the hotel. The hotel offers a spa and beautifully upgraded facilities, and they of course, know how to do weddings exceptionally well.
Style: Hotel/Resort, Ocean/Waterfront View, Beach, Ballrooms, Outdoor
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 1200 guests
Services: Ceremony | Reception - Indoor 1,333 | Outdoor 1000
Event Budgets: Estimate $75 - $200 USD per person
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $7,000 USD
Accommodations: Starting from $303 to $2,150 USD per night / Christmas Starting at $521 USD | January through April starting $351 USD
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
This working ranch is only an hour away from Kona, and is breathtakingly beautiful. With stunning scenery, and multiple locations to have your celebration, you couldn't ask for a more special destination.
Style: Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Barn/Farm/Ranch, Plantation, Outdoor
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 500 guests
Services: Outdoor - Ceremony 500 guests | Reception 150 guests
Events Budget: $250 per person (you'll need to rent almost everything)
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $8,000 USD plus base rental fee.
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
With garden to table meals, gorgeous surroundings, private villas and 30 acres. This place is perfect for family getaways, weddings, and even elopements. Holualoa Inn Estate offers spectacular Pacific Ocean views, 30 acres of lush, well-tended tropical fruit and flower gardens, over 4,100 Kona Coffee trees.
Style: Ocean/Waterfront View, Plantation, Bed & Breakfast/Inn, Outdoor
Guest capacity: Accommodates up to 120 guests
Services: Ceremony | Reception - Indoor | Outdoor
Events Budget: $150 per person, with many variables
Estimated Wedding Budget: Starting from $10,000 USD
The rental fees are based on number of rooms booked, activities held, and the size and scope of your event. Exclusive rental of Holualoa Inn is $3200+ per night based on a 2-night minimum stay, which includes Inn & Private Cottage. The exclusive daily rental of Malulani Pavilion ranges from $3,000 to $8,600.
You must provide/arrange for the following: Flowers • DJ/Music (approved) • Decorations (approved) • Wedding Officiate • Catering (approved) • Photographer • Wedding cake • And any other extras.
I'm hoping that these 10 beautiful Big Island, Hawaii destinations give you lots of inspiration, as you plan your big event. I've added a succinct list of vendors here. Just remember, I'm here for consulting services as well as full service event planning. Plus you can find a lot more inspiration on Instagram & Pinterest.
AND if you have a suggestion for a city/country that you'd like me to focus on, please send me a message and I'll get to it asap.
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Lisa Manderino | 9th Jul 19
This looks beautiful! I would love to go!
Dena | 9th Jul 19
What a gorgeous list of places to stay at! Thank you for the helpful list!
Maria | 9th Jul 19
You’re most welcome, I’m glad you found it useful!
Adrienne | 9th Jul 19
Such breathtaking beauty. I’d love to go to Hawaii someday. Great post!
Maria | 9th Jul 19
It is incredibly beautiful. Thank you!
Sheila Chandler | 9th Jul 19
Such beautiful scenery and so well worth the money. My daughter is getting married soon here in Florida and it is interesting to read about weddings in other locations. Great information, but really these pics are stunning!
Maria | 9th Jul 19
Thanks, and congratulations! Florida is on my destination list as well!
Leigh Ann | 12th Jul 19
I’ve never been to Hawaii before and this makes me want to go even more. Such beautiful pictures and great tips. Thank you so much!!
Becky | 12th Jul 19
All of those destinations are breathtaking! I have always wanted to visit Hawaii.
Annette Durbin | 12th Jul 19
I’ve never been to Kona, but it IS on my list. Great tips you’ve shared and I’ll keep these in mind when we plan our trip!!
Jamie | 12th Jul 19
Aside from Fiji (where we honeymooned) Hawaii is is always a favorite. Thanks for all the pricing info. : )
Maria | 12th Jul 19
You’re most welcome! And Fiji is also on my list.
Lisa | 31st Jan 20
This list is amazing! Everyone of the options looks wonderful. Thank you for sharing.
Maria | 31st Jan 20
You’re most welcome!
Leslie W. | 31st Jan 20
I just love Hawaii.
Holly | 31st Jan 20
I lived on Oahu for a few years when I was younger, I need to get back to visit some friends! Thank you for your suggestions!
Jennifer | 31st Jan 20
They look like some great places to stay with beautiful scenery.
Charlotte | 1st Feb 20
Ahhh Hawaii is a dream trip. These places look fantastic. Thank you for the help.
Mariah French | 1st Feb 20
Wow, those pictures make me want to go to Hawaii now! Thank you for getting all the details about their event planning in one location, it will make it much easier to plan based on budget!
Maria | 1st Feb 20
I’m really happy to hear that you found it helpful!
cathy creech | 1st Feb 20
Beautiful scenery and hotels!
Kendra | 2nd Feb 20
My nephew got married at The Royal Kona Resort. it was such a beautiful venue! Now the big seabird that decided to drop it’s load on the bride’s wedding dress during the photo shoot was another story! Lol
Maria | 2nd Feb 20
It’s always nice to hear from someone that has experience one of these locations. The bird, the dress, that would be a story no one will ever forget, and I can hear you laughing.
Tricia Snow | 2nd Feb 20
These are great tips for anyone getting married! Thanks!
Crystal | 2nd Feb 20
Wow, such beautiful places! Great list!
vanessa | 2nd Feb 20
hawaii is still on my bucket list….I love your pictures and those hotels are beautiful!
Melissa Jones | 2nd Feb 20
AMAZING! I was just talking to my husband about taking a trip to Hawaii this morning!!
Malia | 3rd Feb 20
Beautiful shots! I’m from the Big Island and you captured the island well. It is definitely more country style, slow living and won’t appeal to all city girls 😉 That’s just part of its charm!
Maria | 4th Feb 20
Like I’ve said, each Island has its own charm 🙂 and everyone has to figure out which one is theirs!
Sydney Delong | 3rd Feb 20
Oh my goodness, my heart is aching to go visit!!
Christina Furnival | 3rd Feb 20
I haven’t been to the Big Island yet but it looks amazing!
Maria | 4th Feb 20
It’s not for everyone, definitely wasn’t my Hawaiian Island.