Today’s guest blog post comes from Dianna K. Shitanishi, the Director of Special Events for Hawaii Weddings and Events. Follow Dianna on Twitter @HawaiiWedding.

Destination weddings are our specialty and we are often privileged with helping clients find the romantic location of their dreams. The following are just a few of my favorite spots around the island of Oahu, all of which has its own unique charm and serves the varied wants and needs of our couples.

Lanikuhonua “Where Heaven Meets the Earth” is a private ocean-front estate on the West side of the island is perfect for those looking to have an outdoor ceremony and reception in one location. The two oceanfront venues are rich in beauty and can accommodate intimate weddings or large gatherings, which provides flexibility for couples that are not really sure about their guest count.

Lanikuhonua (sunset photo)

Moil’i Gardens has a covered pavilion and terraced garden overlooking a 125 acre ancient Hawaiian fishpond, a grand staircase leads downward to the lower gardens at the edge of the water. Moil’i Gardens is located on the Windward side of the island with the beautiful Ko’olau Mountain range as a beautiful backdrop.

Moli’i Gardens has been used for numerous films and TV shows such as “50 First Dates”, ABC’s hit series “Lost” and “Tears of Sun”

“Ke Iki Beach” is located right in the middle of the famous North Shore’s seven mile miracle. During the winter Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline are home to the largest surfable winter waves. Sunset Beach, only a few minutes way, is known as surfing’s Mecca. This location has been the perfect secluded site for our “barefoot in the sand” beach weddings during the off-season and is very well hidden from the public view.

“Oceanfront Oasis” located on the East side of island, is an amazing seven bedroom oceanfront home that has been the holiday retreat of Hollywood royalty also allows ceremonies and receptions. We loved being part of a couple’s 15th renewal of vows celebration which was held on-site and their guests enjoyed a week away in Paradise.

Bayer Estate – also located on the East side of the island, is an intimate and charming historical home by the sea which is just 20 minutes away from Waikiki and may be used just for the ceremony, or an outdoor reception.

Moana Surfrider – is centrally located in the heart of Waikiki, which makes it easy access for your guests. From the main street fronting the hotel, one would never imagine the quiet oceanfront lawn and terrace area with a breathtaking view of Diamond Head. Depending on your guest count, you may enjoy an intimate dinner in their oceanfront Beach House Restaurant, a private reception in their romantic roof-top garden, or an elaborate reception in their new oceanfront Lani Kai Room.

These are just but a few of the beautiful locations we have here on the island of Oahu, a true island paradise.