A Luxurious Wedding Experience at Royal Hawaiian

If you’re dreaming of a timeless celebration on Oahu, a Royal Hawaiian wedding is one of the most iconic experiences you can create. Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this historic hotel sits right on Waikiki Beach, offering an unforgettable setting for couples who want both elegance and a true sense of place. In this post, I’m sharing a recent Royal Hawaiian wedding I had the joy of photographing — a beautiful black-tie affair full of style, history, and those subtle, meaningful details that make this venue so special. Whether you’re envisioning a romantic sunset ceremony or an elaborate multi-day event, a Royal Hawaiian wedding offers the perfect backdrop for a luxury Hawaii celebration.

An Iconic Setting for a Black-Tie Celebration

This particular Royal Hawaiian wedding embraced a clean, organic aesthetic that let the venue’s natural beauty shine. The couple chose a palette of soft whites and greens, allowing the pink architecture and lush tropical surroundings to take center stage. Everything about the design felt intentional and elevated — from the delicate florals to the tailored styling and serene ceremony space.

I especially loved how the couple wove Hawaiian cultural elements into the day, with fresh leis and thoughtful touches honoring the history of the islands. The groom wore a tailored beige tuxedo jacket — a modern take on black-tie style — while their guests embraced the elegance of the occasion. The entire day reflected what I love most about photographing a Royal Hawaiian wedding: timeless beauty, heartfelt moments, and an atmosphere where love and family are at the center.

Why I Love Photographing Royal Hawaiian Weddings

As an Oahu wedding photographer, the Royal Hawaiian is one of those venues that never stops inspiring me. The architecture alone is iconic — with grand pink facades, soaring arches, and tropical gardens around every corner. And with Waikiki Beach just steps away, there’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops for portraits and candid moments.

I often incorporate film photography when photographing weddings here, as the soft, romantic quality of film pairs beautifully with the light and color of this venue. Whether it’s an editorial-style portrait on the hotel’s famous pink staircase or a spontaneous moment on the beach at sunset, every wedding here feels deeply personal and full of story.

Spaces for Every Style of Celebration

One of the things I love most about a Royal Hawaiian wedding is the flexibility of the spaces. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, there’s a space to match your vision.

Couples often choose the Coconut Grove Garden for ceremonies — a lush, serene space tucked beneath swaying palms. The Monarch Room, with its sweeping views of the Pacific, is a favorite for elegant indoor receptions. And for those dreaming of a true island experience, dancing under the stars in the heart of Waikiki is an unforgettable way to end the night.

Of course, the experience here extends beyond the wedding day itself. The hotel’s luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and historic charm create a beautiful home base for couples and guests alike — the kind of place where memories are made long before and after the ceremony.

A Venue Steeped in History

There’s a reason why the Royal Hawaiian has been beloved for nearly a century. Since its grand opening in 1927, the hotel has hosted Hawaiian royalty, Hollywood icons, and dignitaries from around the world. The couple at this particular wedding had the joy of getting ready in the King’s Suite — a space once reserved for King Kalākaua himself. That sense of history and place is woven into every corner of the hotel, adding layers of meaning to each wedding here.

For couples seeking a venue that feels both grand and deeply personal, a Royal Hawaiian wedding offers the best of both worlds — a timeless backdrop for celebrating love, family, and the start of a new chapter.

Planning Your Own Royal Hawaiian Wedding

If you’re currently planning a Royal Hawaiian wedding, I hope this post has given you a little inspiration for what’s possible in this iconic space. It’s truly one of my favorite venues to photograph — a place where history, elegance, and heartfelt connection come together in the most beautiful way.

If you’re planning your own Royal Hawaiian wedding or exploring other beautiful Oahu wedding venues, I’d love to help document your day with artistry and care. You can also browse my guide to the top Oahu wedding venues here.

If you’d like to learn more about working together or have questions about photographing a wedding at the Royal Hawaiian, I’d love to connect. You can reach out to me here — I can’t wait to hear about your vision.

 

Vendors:

Venue: @royal_hawaiian

Planner: @hawaiiday_weddings

Photo: @_emilychoy

Florist: @meidayhawaii

Beauty: @makeupbymariahmelanie @jasminemullins_mua

Rentals: @alohaartisans

Linens: @royal_hawaiian

Bride dress: @daniellefrankelbride @daniellefrankelstudio

Bride shoes: @louboutinworld

Groom suit: @brunellocucinelli_brand @brunellocucinelli

Catering: @royal_hawaiian

Invitation suite: @goodsgang

Sweet treat: @the_not_so_lonelycookie

Live music: @honokamusic