Kehena Black Sand Beach Weddings – A Wild and Romantic Hawaii Experience

Bride and groom, Deena and Brian, posing against steep cliffs at Kehena Black Sand Beach for their elopement photography with Kona Wedding Officiant.

If you’re dreaming of a Hawaii wedding that feels adventurous and authentic, Kehena Black Sand Beach on the Big Island is one of the island’s most breathtaking hidden gems. With its dramatic black sand, turquoise waves, and lush coastal cliffs, Kehena offers a raw, natural beauty perfect for couples who want something truly different.

A Beach Like No Other

Located along the rugged Puna coastline, Kehena is known for its volcanic energy and untamed scenery. The glistening black sand—born from lava meeting the sea—creates an unforgettable contrast in your wedding photos. Couples often choose Kehena for intimate elopements or small ceremonies where nature itself becomes the décor.

Shelbie and Vail pose in the trees at Kehena Black Sand Beach for their post elopement wedding photography with Kona Wedding Officiant team photographer.

Getting to Kehena

Kehena is about 45 minutes from Hilo, on the east side of the Big Island. To reach the beach, you’ll take a short, steep path down to the shoreline, so plan to wear comfortable shoes. The journey is worth every step once you reach the secluded beach below.

Keep in mind that Kehena is clothing-optional, especially on weekends, so weekday, morning weddings are recommended for a more private experience.

Oxana and Max embrace for a moment of joy during their post-wedding elopement photography session with Kona Wedding Officiant after just being married at Kehena Black Sand Beach.

Best Time for a Kehena Wedding

Mornings and sunset are the most magical times to marry at Kehena. The golden light bouncing off the black sand creates a surreal, romantic glow. In winter, waves can be stronger—adding a touch of wild beauty (and misty drama) to your ceremony backdrop. At Kona Wedding Officiant, we have found that the best wedding times to avoid rain are generally about 9:00am. Those couples who wish for a sunset wedding should know that there is a higher chance of rain in the afternoon/evening hours and there is no true sunset in East Hawaii.

Steven and Brittnee from Washington says I do with Kona Wedding Officiant, rain or shine, and delighted to be married at this lush tropical black sand beach location in Hawaii.

Why Couples Love Kehena Black Sand Beach

• Stunning black sand and dramatic cliffs for photography

• Peaceful, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere

• Perfect for intimate Hawaii elopements and non-traditional weddings

• Deep sense of connection to Hawaii’s volcanic energy and natural spirit

Elizabeth and Shane pose on the volcanic lava rocks on the south side of Kehena Black Sand beach just after their ceremony with Kona Wedding Officiant at Kehena Black Sand Beach Big Island Hawaii.

Things to Know Before You Go

Kehena is a natural, undeveloped beach—there are no restrooms, changing facilities, or designated parking. This makes it best suited for couples seeking a minimalist, meaningful experience. Our local Big Island Hawaii team will guide you on logistics, timing, and permitting to ensure everything flows beautifully.

Deanna DiMichele, Kona Wedding Officiant, performing a marriage ceremony for Hollie and Alex on the rocky black sand shoreline of Kehena Black Sand Beach.

Plan Your Kehena Black Sand Beach Wedding

At Kona Wedding Officiant®, we specialize in elopements and intimate ceremonies across the Big Island. From the lush jungles of Puna to the golden beaches of Kona, we help you celebrate your love your way—with aloha.

If you’re drawn to the wild beauty of Hawaii’s black sand beaches, Kehena might just be your perfect place to say “I do.”

👉 Contact us today to start planning your Kehena Black Sand Beach wedding or Big Island elopement.

🌺 Learn More About Our Hawaii Black Sand Beach Weddings

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Just married couple Deena and Brian share an intimate moment seated upon the volcanic black lava rock at the remote Kehena Black Sand Beach in Puna, Hawaii.