How to Elope at Kapalua Ironwoods Beach in Maui
Kapalua Ironwoods is hands down one of the most incredible places to elope in Maui – and as an elopement planner, it’s the location my couples request the most! With the gorgeous rocky beach, cliffs over the ocean, and the most romantic sunsets, it’s easy to see why. If you want to elope at Kapalua Ironwoods and plan an adventure of your own, this guide will tell you how to make it happen!
Where is Kapalua Ironwoods?
Kapalua Ironwoods is located in West Maui, about an hour’s drive from the airport. It’s in the city of Kapalua, and nearby you’ll find lots of restaurants, hotels and resorts, and hiking trails! Its location in the west means that the beach is the perfect place to watch the sunset – and the gorgeous blue water is framed by lava rock cliffs, creating an absolutely breathtaking place to say your vows.
The Best Time to Elope at Kapalua Ironwoods
The temperatures at Kapalua Ironwoods are pretty consistent throughout the year! In the summer, highs stretch towards the 90s, while winter highs are usually around 80 degrees. But, there are still a few considerations when you’re deciding on a wedding date!
Kapalua Ironwoods tends to be windier than the rest of the island, and winters are the windiest – and rainiest. April through May, along with September through November, tend to be the best times to elope at Kapalua Ironwoods, because you have a better chance at dry weather and less wind! These times of the year are also a little less busy throughout the island, as winter and summer are the most popular times for vacationers.
When you choose a date, it’s best to stick to weekdays! This is an easy way to get at least a little bit more privacy, as Kapalua Ironwoods will be busier on the weekends. Plan your ceremony during the week, especially Monday through Thursday, and you’ll have fewer people around as you exchange vows! But, be careful to avoid holidays and three-day weekends, as these get even busier.
After you’ve chosen a date, you’ll also need to set a time for your ceremony! Sunset is absolutely gorgeous at Kapalua Ironwoods, so I always recommend that couples plan their ceremony for later in the evening to get that beautiful golden glow. If you’re an early bird, tying the knot at sunrise is the best way to get a little more privacy!
Tips for Eloping at Kapalua Ironwoods
As we plan your adventurous elopement, here are a few things to keep in mind!
Prepare for Wind
Honestly, no matter when you elope at Kapalua Ironwoods, it’s likely to be a little (or a lot) windy. The best way to deal with it is to just embrace it! Windswept hair looks amazing in photos, and it’ll all be a part of your elopement story. The wind can make it a little chilly, especially in the evenings, so adding some layers to your elopement attire can help! Adding a jacket, shawl, or cape can make a big difference – so I recommend bringing some layers with you to at least put on after the ceremony is over.
Get Married on the Cliffs
When you elope at Kapalua Ironwoods, you can get married on the beach by the water, or up on the cliffside – and I always recommend the cliffs! The beach gets pretty busy, and there’s often more than one elopement ceremony happening at the same time. While the beach is popular, the cliffs are pretty much always empty, so they make for a perfect place to exchange vows, and you’ll have complete privacy! The views are pretty jaw-dropping too.
Stop at Honolua Bay
There’s another gorgeous spot just 10 minutes from Ironwoods Beach – a forest called Honolua Bay, with beautiful trees and lush greenery. While you can’t have a ceremony here, many couples decide to do their first look amongst the woodsy scenery before heading to the beach! You can do your first look, and take some photos together, and some couples like to read private vows or letters to each other before joining their loved ones at Kapalua Ironwoods.
Where to Stay When You Elope at Kapalua Ironwoods
One of the best things about eloping in a place as beautiful as Maui is that you can have your honeymoon right after! The place you stay during your elopement will be a big part of your experience, so here are a few ideas for places to stay nearby when you elope at Kapalua Ironwoods. This will also serve as a place to get ready before your elopement ceremony!
Hotels and Resorts
Hotels and resorts are always a convenient option for places to stay, and there are definitely plenty of them on Maui’s west shore! Check out the Westin Maui Resort & Spa for gorgeous ocean views, and the Royal Lahaina. Napili Kai is on the beach right next door to Ironwoods, set in Napili Bay and surrounded by gardens, palm trees, and incredible views.
Airbnbs
Another great option for finding somewhere to stay when you elope at Kapalua Ironwoods is to search on Airbnb! Stay at a condo right on Ironwoods, book a beachfront stay, or rent a condo in a gorgeous resort.
Ready to Elope at Kapalua Ironwoods?
Once you’ve decided that Kapalua Ironwoods is the perfect location for you, it’s time to start planning! But you shouldn’t have to do all that work yourself – and that’s where I come in.
As an elopement planner who was raised and lives on Maui, I’m ready to help you plan a stress-free, laid-back, perfect-for-you day! If a big, extravagant wedding just doesn’t feel right for you, eloping allows you to be intentional about how you get married, and to create a meaningful day that’s all about you and your partner.
My Kapalua Ironwoods elopement packages include everything you need – and I really mean everything! I’ll do all the planning, be your photographer, match you with the best vendors on the island, and give you all the tips, all the tricks, and everything required to make your dream day happen.
Ready to elope at Kapalua Ironwoods? Contact me!
