When you think of Hawaii weddings, you probably think of beautiful swaying palm trees, gorgeous beaches, and maybe even your toes in the sand. Still, if you want to have all of that along with a comfortable, indoor chapel wedding, you should consider Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel on Oahu’s West Side.
Your special day can start with a ceremony inside a beautiful chapel. Then, you can enjoy the area’s beautiful backdrop for photos with your family and guests. There are also plenty of amazing opportunities for a couple’s session, including the beach and ocean views, which are perfect for drone videography (licensed drone pilot required).
Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel Location
Located at the popular Paradise Cove Luau, the chapel is located in the Ko’olina area of Oahu, about 45 minutes from Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki.
It’s only minutes away for couples staying at the Four Seasons Oahu, Aulani, or the other condos in the area. The chapel does have parking available, but spaces are limited.
For couples coming from Waikiki, guest transportation is a good option. It ensures everyone arrives together and nobody gets lost. Providing a party bus for your guests is a small price to pay to help your stress levels on the day of your wedding ceremony.
Paradise Cove offers several wedding venues, including the popular Paradise Cove Ocean Garden.
Crystal Chapel’s Photo and Video Opportunities
The Ko’olina area is full of natural Hawaiian beauty, and the Crystal Chapel is no exception. With a fairytale vibe, the chapel is a comfortable place for the ceremony. It offers cool views from the top balcony (see photo). It is the perfect place for a flower shower processional (see video).
The surrounding area feels like a large garden, and the stunning ocean views are just a short glance away.
After the ceremony, final details with your Oahu wedding officiant, and group shots with your family and friends, the highlight of your photoshoot is on the beach and rocks behind the chapel. The beach area is difficult for the public to access, making it as private as you can find in Hawaii.
The natural lighting in the chapel is beautiful, but it can cause some issues for your photographer and videographer. The large glass wall will have some reflections, and strong light can cause backlighting issues. Considering all the positives of the wedding venue, these minor issues shouldn’t be a concern.
While you’re off on your photoshoot, your guests can enjoy the lawn behind the chapel, and you can inquire with your coordinator about having a champagne toast there.
For drone footage, Paradise Cove requires the drone operator to be licensed and insured and to have their drone registered. If you want to capture the day with some amazing drone footage, make sure your videographer has all their paperwork done, like me. 😉
Reception Ideas for Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel Weddings
After your wedding in the chapel and your photoshoot, you’ll want to have a reception to celebrate with family and friends. One idea is to take everyone to the luau, next to the Crystal Chapel.
The Paradise Cove Luau is a fun way to celebrate your Hawaii wedding, and it’s a low-stress event in terms of planning. For any first-time visitor to Hawaii, a luau is often seen as a must-do event, so why not gather your guests and celebrate with some Polynesian entertainment?
For groups staying in Waikiki, it’s not uncommon for everyone to return for a nice dinner closer to their hotel.
Paradise Cove Luau might be the perfect place for your wedding reception.
Final Thoughts on Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel Weddings
If you’re looking to have your Oahu wedding in a chapel, Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel is a great option. The venue is close to the ocean, surrounded by lush greenery, and full of natural light.
The Paradise Cove area is magnificent. It’s one of the most beautiful areas on the island and offers almost everything Hawaii weddings are meant to offer.
