Planning a Destination Wedding In Hawaii

If you were to shut your eyes and imagine "paradise", it's likely to look a lot like Hawaii. With its white sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls and lush tropical mountains, Hawaii offers something special for everyone. For brides looking for an easier destination wedding, all this beauty can be found in the US, so no need for passports![/size]

Here are some great islands to get married in Hawaii:

Maui - One of the most convenient islands to melt away in, Maui offers pristine beaches, the dormant volcano Haleakala, from which you can see the breathtaking sunrise, and scenic roadtrips as you hug the turns driving back into time on the tropical Road to Hana.

The Sheraton Black Rock provides an incredible Maui wedding package for every budget, and is located in the heart of Ka'anapali. With stunning grounds, and unbeatable snorkeling, the Sheraton offers entertainment and relaxation for the entire wedding party - and most importantly, a romantic setting for the bride and groom. The Sheraton is currently the top rated property for Maui Weddings within BDW!

Kauai - Westernmost and oldest of the eight major Hawaiian Islands, Kaua'i is by far the most tropical. Famous for its movie set landscapes, the island abounds with lush foliage and magnificent seaside cliffs. On the island's northern side, Mt. Waialeale, with almost 500 inches of rain annually, is the wettest spot on earth. Whether it's sunny Poipu Beach, the verdant hills of Princeville or the lovely eastern coast, Kaua'i is alive with the spirit of the islands.

Oahu - Waikiki Beach- On the island of Oahu there are sandy white beaches as well as a tropical paradise. You will find luxury resorts, great shopping, fine dining and many hot night spots.

Lanai - This Island has a slow pace about it that makes your vacation so much more relaxing. You can visit one of the largest pineapple plantations or golf at a championship course for fun. This is the Island to go to when you want to get away from it all.

Kona - Known as "the Big Island", Kona has many places to have a beautiful destination wedding. Some of popular places to get married are: Paradise Cove, Green Turtle Beach, Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park, Anaeho'omalu Beach In Waikaloa , and Beach 69.

Fun Things to Do in Hawaii:

• Snorkel in the warm water of Molokini.
  
• Helicopter around the islands and the majestic mountains.
  
• Learn to surf.
  
• Go to an authentic Polynesian luau.
  
• Visit the active Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island.
  

Legal Requirements for obtaining a marriage license in Hawaii:

• You must have a valid marriage license to he married in Hawaii.
  
• There is a $65.00 state fee paid directly to the agent.
  
• The license is good for thirty days.
  
• Both partners must be at least 19 years of age or have written parental or legal guardian permission.
  
• There is no waiting period, no residency requirement and no blood tests or shots required.
  
• A Picture ID is all that is required for U.S citizens and non-U.S citizens. (State Driver's License or Passport) Foreigners can be married in Hawaii with a passport or Visa.
  
• If a divorce was finalized for either partner within the last three months, please bring the final decree.
  
• The certified copy of the marriage certificate is mailed to the married couple approximately 120 days after receipt from the officiant.
  
• If the certified copy is needed sooner, the marriage license agent will provide a request form, which can be mailed to the Vital Records Section along with a $10 fee charged by the Department of Health for this service.