Top 10 Beaches for Wedding Photos on Maui
When it comes to destination weddings, few places on earth can compare to the beauty and romance of Maui. Known for its golden sand, turquoise waters, and cinematic sunsets, Maui offers endless backdrops that transform wedding photography into pure art.
At Wedding Photographers On Maui — the sister division of 808 Pictures, Hawaii’s most five-star reviewed photography company since 2004 — we’ve photographed thousands of couples across the island. From quiet elopements to grand beach weddings, these are our top ten beaches that capture the heart and magic of Maui.
1. Wailea Beach – Classic Maui Luxury
Wailea Beach is the crown jewel of South Maui — calm, elegant, and bathed in soft golden light. It’s surrounded by five-star resorts like the Four Seasons and the Grand Wailea, yet it remains peaceful and wide open. Ideal for sunset portraits, family group shots, or romantic couple sessions, Wailea Beach embodies the luxurious charm that makes Maui world-famous.
2. Makena Cove (Secret Beach) – Hidden and Intimate
Makena Cove is a photographer’s dream — a tucked-away spot framed by lava rock walls, swaying palms, and crystal-clear water. It’s perfect for elopements and small ceremonies, offering both privacy and drama in every frame. The sunsets here are legendary, painting the ocean in shades of gold and pink.
3. Maluaka Beach – Calm Waters and Golden Sands
Maluaka Beach, just south of Makena, is known for its tranquil waters and incredible clarity. It’s one of our favorite spots for morning weddings and family portraits. The light here is soft and even, creating a natural glow that flatters every couple.
4. Keawakapu Beach – Long and Romantic
Stretching over half a mile, Keawakapu Beach offers open views of the horizon and space to breathe. It’s a wonderful choice for walking shots, veil tosses, and natural, lifestyle-style wedding portraits. The sunsets here are long and lingering — perfect for capturing those final glowing moments of the day.
5. Polo Beach – Peaceful and Elegant
Just outside the Fairmont Kea Lani, Polo Beach provides a blend of serenity and sophistication. The soft slope of sand, the gentle tide, and the nearby palm trees create a timeless, peaceful setting. It’s perfect for couples who want a calm, uncluttered look in their photos.
6. Kapalua Bay – West Maui’s Coastal Beauty
Located on Maui’s west side, Kapalua Bay is world-renowned for its crescent shape and calm, turquoise waters. It’s a favorite for sunset ceremonies and honeymoon shoots, offering both beach and lush tropical greenery. The water here glows in photos — especially when the sky catches fire at dusk.
7. Napili Bay – Natural, Local, and Relaxed
Napili Bay has a laid-back charm that feels authentically Hawaiian. The curved shoreline and peaceful waves create a romantic, intimate mood. It’s ideal for couples who want a local, natural vibe without the crowds of resort beaches.
8. Ironwoods Beach – Dramatic and Breathtaking
For couples who crave something cinematic, Ironwoods Beach in Kapalua is a must. Towering cliffs, rolling waves, and soft white sand create one of the most dramatic landscapes on Maui. It’s perfect for fashion-inspired wedding photography or adventurous elopements.
9. Baldwin Beach – Wide Sands and Island Light
Located near Paia on Maui’s North Shore, Baldwin Beach is vast and open with incredible sky views. Its long sandy stretch and soft ocean mist make for stunning editorial-style portraits. Morning light here is especially magical — bright, clean, and full of energy.
10. Big Beach (Makena State Park) – Majestic and Untamed
As its name suggests, Big Beach is one of the largest and most impressive beaches in Hawaii. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and golden dunes, it’s ideal for adventurous couples and wide-angle wedding shots. The light here is strong and dynamic — a perfect match for bold, cinematic images.
Bonus Tip: Combine South and West Maui Locations
Many couples choose to combine a session at Wailea or Makena with a stop on the West Side — like Kapalua or Ironwoods — for variety. This gives you both tropical warmth and rugged drama in one unforgettable gallery.
Our photographers at Wedding Photographers On Maui know the best timing, angles, and tide schedules for each location, ensuring every moment is beautifully captured.
Book Your Maui Wedding Photography Experience
No matter where your Maui wedding takes place, our team is here to bring your vision to life. With over 20 years of experience photographing couples across the island, 808 Pictures and Wedding Photographers On Maui are trusted by brides and grooms around the world for elegant, natural, and timeless photography.
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