Event Planners in Honolulu earn an average hourly wage of around $28 per hour, which is above the national average due to the city’s vibrant tourism and cultural event scene. However, the actual income can vary widely depending on the type of restaurant or venue, the scale of events and the clientele served.
Curious about which restaurants and venues offer the best pay for Event Planners in Honolulu? This article will explore some of the top-paying spots, highlighting what makes them unique and lucrative. We’ll also discuss how different factors influence earnings and provide tips for landing a high-paying Event Planner job in Honolulu.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Honolulu, HI- 1. House Without A Key
- 2. The Modern Honolulu
- 3. Alan Wong’s Honolulu
- 4. La Mer at Halekulani
- 5. Roy’s Hawaii Kai
- The Impact of Venue Type on Event Planner Earnings
- How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Honolulu
- What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in Honolulu in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Honolulu?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Honolulu Event Planner Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Honolulu, HI
Honolulu boasts a remarkable event and dining scene where planning unforgettable gatherings is vital for success. Many of the highest-paying Event Planner jobs come from restaurants and venues that cater to affluent clients, tourists and special occasions.
Below are some of Honolulu’s top venues known for offering lucrative opportunities for Event Planners:
1. House Without A Key
Situated at the iconic Halekulani Hotel, House Without A Key is famous for its sea views, traditional Hawaiian music and lei greetings. Their events blend luxury with cultural charm, requiring skilled planners who can manage sophisticated outdoor and indoor experiences.
2. The Modern Honolulu
Known for its sleek design and contemporary vibe, this property hosts high-profile events ranging from weddings to corporate galas. The emphasis on style and flawless execution translates to higher pay for talented Event Planners who can handle fast-paced luxury events.
3. Alan Wong’s Honolulu
A culinary landmark, Alan Wong’s is celebrated for its innovative Hawaiian cuisine and exclusive clientele. Planning events here means coordinating luxury dining experiences, often involving VIP guests, which can lead to substantial compensation.
4. La Mer at Halekulani
This Forbes five-star restaurant offers exceptional French cuisine with oceanfront elegance. Event Planners here are tasked with orchestrating finely detailed and upscale events, demanding precision and creativity that command higher earnings.
5. Roy’s Hawaii Kai
With a focus on Hawaiian fusion cuisine, Roy’s is a popular spot for memorable celebrations and business events. Its welcoming atmosphere and steady demand provide strong earning potential for planners capable of managing diverse event types.
The Impact of Venue Type on Event Planner Earnings
Different venue types heavily influence how much Event Planners earn. Luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants typically offer higher salaries and bonuses than casual or mid-tier establishments.
Other factors affecting earnings include the complexity of event logistics, client expectations and whether planners manage private, corporate or public events. In Honolulu, planners who specialize in destination weddings and upscale corporate functions often earn the highest compensation.
Additionally, certifications such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or experience in contract negotiation and vendor management can significantly enhance earning potential.
How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Honolulu
Research Honolulu’s Upscale Venues
Target hotels and restaurants known for hosting luxury events. Familiarize yourself with their style and typical clientele to tailor your application accordingly.
Develop Relevant Certifications
Consider gaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) to stand out and demonstrate your qualifications to potential employers.
Showcase Experience
Highlight your achievements coordinating large, luxurious events on your resume and portfolio, emphasizing budget management and client satisfaction.
Network Industry Professionals
Attend local hospitality and event planning meetups, connecting with hiring managers and peers to learn about opportunities before they are widely advertised.
Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews
Demonstrate your knowledge of Honolulu’s event market, vendor contacts and your problem-solving skills during the interview process to impress employers.
What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in Honolulu in 2025 and Beyond?
The outlook for Event Planner jobs in Honolulu remains promising into 2025 and beyond, supported by the city's steady tourism, numerous conventions and local celebrations. Recovery in travel and event industries post-pandemic has increased demand for skilled planners.
According to labor market projections, the need for experienced Event Planners in Honolulu is expected to grow moderately. There is also a trend toward increased event sophistication, favoring those with strong organizational expertise and digital skills for event technology.
Long-term growth is bolstered by Honolulu’s role as a major destination for weddings, corporate gatherings and cultural festivals, ensuring continued demand.
Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Honolulu?
With an average wage of around $28 per hour, an Event Planner in Honolulu can earn roughly $58,000 annually when working full time. This wage supports a comfortable lifestyle, though the city is known for its relatively high living costs.
Here’s a snapshot of typical monthly expenses in Honolulu in 2025:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (city center): $1,800
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $200
- Groceries (single adult): $400
- Transportation (public transit/gas): $150
Event Planners earning above average wages or with additional bonuses from successful event execution often find this salary sufficient for a good quality of life. Budgeting and occasional side gigs can further enhance financial comfort.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Honolulu Event Planner Jobs
We selected these venues based on a combination of rigorous research into job listings, feedback from hospitality workers and industry reputation. The goal was to highlight places offering competitive pay, strong benefits and opportunities for career growth.
Key factors included:
- Venue Prestige: Renowned restaurants and hotels known for hosting upscale or high-volume events
- Compensation Packages: Listings indicating higher hourly wages and performance bonuses for Event Planners
- Location and Clientele: Properties favored by well-funded corporate clients and affluent tourists offering richer event budgets
These elements together provide an ideal environment for Event Planners to maximize earnings and professional development.
