Tucked away along Maui’s northwestern coast, Oneloa Beach — also known as “Ironwoods” due to the ironwood trees that grow along its shoreline — offers an extraordinary backdrop for couples seeking a raw, unfiltered connection with nature on their wedding day. Known for its dramatic cliffs, long stretch of white sand beach, and sweeping ocean views, this spot can feel like your own corner of the world — perfect for a soulful elopement or intimate wedding that embraces the spirit of the island.

Throughout this guide, Ironwoods Beach will be referred to by its Hawaiian name of “Oneloa”. Using the proper names of beaches and locations throughout Hawai’i is one way to show respect for the land and indigenous culture. In Hawaiian, “Oneloa” translates to “long sand”, referencing the long stretch of white sand at this beach. “Oneloa” is a common name for beaches throughout Hawai’i, and indeed, there is another beach in Wailea (south Maui) that has this name as well. If you are searching for Oneloa Beach on your Maps app, be sure to look for a Lahaina address.

Oneloa Beach is located in Kapulua, West Maui, about 15 minutes north of Lahaina town. The Kapalua Coastal Trail, a leisurely two-mile hike, runs alongside Oneloa Beach. It is near the Ritz-Carlon and the Kapalua Golf Course.

Accessing Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach

There is a small parking lot located above the beach that tends to fill up quickly during popular beach hours. There is more parking at the east end of Ironwood Lane, near the trail access for Dragon’s Teeth.

After parking, you can access the beach by making your way down the first set of stairs to the boardwalk that runs above the beach. There is a second set of stairs that leads from the boardwalk to the beach itself.

Bride and groom walking down the second set of stairs to Oneloa Beach.

Where to Say Your Vows on Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach

Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach offers several possibilities for wedding ceremony locations. True to its namesake, there is a large stretch of white sandy beach with plenty of space to spread out. The two ends of the beach can also be quite lovely as a backdrop during the ceremony.

Elopement ceremony on the beach at Ironwoods, Maui

For the more adventurous, the Ironwoods cliffs themselves can be the perfect spot to say your vows!

Bride saying her vows atop the cliffs at Kapalua, Maui

Why GET MARRIED AT Oneloa BEACH, Kapalua, MAUI

The dramatic coastal backdrop with towering cliffs, striking lava rock formations, and expansive ocean views is truly unparalleled. Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach offers a wild, untamed beauty, which is ideal for couples who want to feel deeply connected to nature as they exchange their vows.

Sunsets are simply stunning, especially when viewed from the top of the Ironwoods cliffs.

Important Information to Know about Getting Married at Oneloa (IronwoodS) Beach

If you are considering getting married at Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach, there are a few factors to consider. A permit is required for any ceremony at the beach in the State of Hawai’i. As a Maui wedding photographer, I can obtain this permit for you. The maximum number of guests allowed for a beach wedding under state law is 25, which includes the officiant, photographer, and any other vendors present. However, I highly recommend that you consider having no more than 15 guests at a beach wedding. All beaches in Hawai’i are public and 25 people is a lot to have on a public beach for a ceremony. Ironwoods is quieter than some nearby beaches, such as Kaanapali, but it has become popular for weddings and photo sessions, which means that you will be sharing the beach with others. There isn’t that much room for parking at Oneloa (or any Maui beach) to support 25 people present for a ceremony, plus considering general public use of the beach at the same time. Chairs or other seating arrangements are not permitted during beach weddings, which means that it will be might be difficult for a larger crowd of guests to hear and see you during the ceremony.

There is a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs required to access this beach and the nearby cliffs. If you or your guests have functional limitations or health concerns, it might not be the best option for your ceremony location.

The surf is generally quite rough at Oneloa Beach, and it is usually not ideal for getting into the water for creative portraits. It is nearly always breezy at this location. I love that the wind adds to the atmosphere and mood of the images, but it’s important to consider this when making decisions about wedding hair styles, florals, and attire.

The Best Time of the Year to Get Married at Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach

Oneloa is a stunning location for a Maui beach wedding anytime of the year, but different seasons may bring a slightly different vibe. Spring and fall typically have fewer crowds and beautiful weather. In the summer months, it tends to be warmer and drier at this location, but the sunsets can be more vivid and spectacular. In the winter, there is large surf, which can be beautiful for dramatic images with the ocean in the background. There is the possibility of more rain and stronger wind in the winter, but with the rain comes the possibility of rainbows!

Real Elopement & Wedding Stories at Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach

I’ve had the pleasure of photographing a lot of elopements and intimate weddings at Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach. View the following galleries for examples of gorgeous wedding stories told at this stunning location:

S&F’s Romantic Maui Elopement at Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach
S&T’s Elopement at Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach
A&J’s Lovely Elopement at Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach

If you imagine your wedding day unfolding against a backdrop of rugged cliffs, endless horizons, and the sound of the ocean crashing at your feet, Oneloa Beach could be your perfect place to say, “I do”. It’s ideal for couples who value authenticity, beauty, and an untamed spirit — a day that feels entirely your own.

Ready to plan your Oneloa Beach elopement or intimate wedding? I’d be honored to help you capture the raw beauty and emotion of your day. Reach out here to begin creating your Maui story.