Best Honeymoon Destinations for Elopers

Eloping is slowing becoming more and more popular. The courthouses and backyard elopements of days past have been transformed into magical getaways for two. These private weddings are often just the couple, a few invited friends, the officiant, and the photographer so as soon as the couple ties the knot, they can start their magical honeymoon right away. A lot of elopement locations also make the best honeymoon destinations. 

This trend was made popular by couples who decided to buck the traditions and choose an easier option in place of stressing over a large, expensive wedding. For a destination wedding, the couple doesn’t have to agonize over a guest list, plan a plated meal for 200, or deal with uncomfortable family tension. Instead, the two love birds are able to focus on the commitment they are making in some of the most beautiful places in the world.

Brave couples can stand at the top of a mountain, the romantics can hold hands on the beach, and the adventurous couples can tie the knot in the jungle. Each ceremony is completely unique and represents the unique love between the couple. 

Whether you are planning on skiing away from your ceremony or running into the water, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of the best honeymoon destinations for elopers. So sit down with your spouse-to-be and find the best location for the wedding and honeymoon of your dreams. 

Read on to discover the best honeymoon destinations for elopers. 

Beach Honeymoon Destinations for Elopers

If you have been dreaming of a beach elopement with your future partner, look no further than our list of tropical destinations. Browse through the beach honeymoon destinations for elopers to get ideas for the perfect place to say “I do” with your new spouse.

 

Costa Rica

Exchange your vows with the ocean breeze in your hair and sand in-between your toes. In Costa Rica, you and your new spouse can enjoy the best of both worlds and split time between the coast and the jungle life. Try out the Pura Vida, or simple life, lifestyle and explore by hiking, surfing, and visiting the beautiful Santa Rosa National Park.

• Best time to tie the knot: December to April
• Best spot for your ceremony: Puerto Viejo

 

Fiji

The island of Fiji is the perfect destination for the couple who wants to get away from it all. The secluded paradise provides lovers the perfect backdrop to share their vows and an even better location to spend their honeymoon. Couples can choose from stunning resorts to quaint cottages and can dive intro colorful and stunning coral reefs, explore waterfalls, or walk along deserted beaches.

• Best time to tie the knot: October to November
• Best spot for your ceremony: Treasure Island or Malolo Lailai Island

 

Hawaii

If you and your fiance want to find a tropical oasis that is off the beaten path, Maui is the place to be. This romantic island is truly made for lovers. On the beaches of Maui, you and your partner will find volcanic landscapes, breathtaking sands, and crystal clear water. Just picture you and your love tying the knot on the shore as the sun sets over the horizon.

• Best time to tie the knot: April to May and September to November
• Best spot for your ceremony: Maui

Are you still planning your Hawaii elopement? Check out our Hawaii Elopement Packages

St. Lucia

This destination is a lush Carribean island that was practically made for honeymooners. The breathtaking hidden waterfalls, beaches, and gardens provide the perfect backdrop for a ceremony. During your honeymoon, don’t step foot off the island until you snorkel around Pigeon Island and hike Gros Piton.

• Best time to tie the knot: May and June
• Best spot for your ceremony: Pigeon Island

Adventurous Honeymoon Destination for Elopers

If you and your partner enjoy hiking in the mountains, walking through forests, and braving the elements, take a look at our list of the best adventurous honeymoon destinations for elopers.

Iceland

If you are seeking breathtaking photos and a one of a kind setting for your big day, consider exchanging vows in Iceland. From stunning lava craters to the famous Blue Lagoon, there are enough mesmerizing locations to keep you and your honey busy for weeks after you say “I do”. For a romantic setting for your nuptials plan on having the ceremony on Reynisfjara Beach. The signature black sands will set the perfect mood for the day.

• Best time to tie the knot: June to August
• Best spot for your ceremony: Reynisfjara Beach

 

Peru

For hiking couples, there is no better place in the world to get married than Machu Picchu. Hike the world-renowned trail in Peru’s Andean highlands with your love for a honeymoon that you will never forget. Just make sure to do your research beforehand. The hike is quite the trek.

• Best time to tie the knot: April and May
• Best spot for your ceremony: Sacred Valley

 

Yosemite, CA

If you have been dreaming of a mountainous marriage ceremony, the breathtaking views of Yosemite National Park make the perfect backdrop for your nuptials. After your ceremony, take in the world-class hiking, historic lodging, and abounding wildlife with your partner for your honeymoon. Before you plan your ceremony and honeymoon make sure to check out the Yosemite National Park Weddings Page for important information on permits and ceremony locations.

 

• Best time to tie the knot: Late May–June and September
• Best spot for your ceremony: Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Bridalveil Falls, Mariposa Grove

Croatia

From the iconic landmarks from TV shows to the eerie brilliance of the natural scenery, Croatia is a one-of-a-kind place to get married. Take your sweetie to Plitviče Lakes National Park for breathtaking waterfalls and limestone canyons that are unlike anywhere else in the world.

 

• Best time to tie the knot: May and June or September and October
• Best spot for your ceremony: Plitviče Lakes National Park

Queenstown, New Zealand

For the adventure-seeking couple, Queenstown, NewZealand is the perfect location for exchanging vows. Breathtaking scenery and endless outdoor activities make this destination perfect for adventurous couples who want a beautiful backdrop for their ceremony. For your honeymoon, you can take in Kiwi culture, visit vineyards, and hike spectacular volcanoes and mountains.

 

• Best time to tie the knot: December to February
• Best spot for your ceremony: The Peaks of The Remarkables

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for couples that like trying something new every day. Lovers can explore ancient ruins, skip down endless coastlines, and observe the wildlife. For a truly unique experience, swap vows in the Yala National Park and enjoy views of wild elephants in the background. 

 

• Best time to tie the knot: December to March
• Best spot for your ceremony: Yala National Park

Athens, Greece

The city of Athens, Greece is filled with ancient history and remarkable beauty. This destination is perfect for history buffs and romantics alike. While you are there make sure to spend part of your time in Santorini. The blue roofs and white buildings can make anyone fall in love all over again.

• Best time to tie the knot: March and May and September to November
• Best spot for your ceremony: The Island of Santorini

 

Kenya

For the animal-loving couples out there, Maasai Mara, Keyna is a destination of a lifetime. This national reserve runs along the border of Kenya and Tanzania and is home to cheetahs, lions, elephants, hippos, and zebras. After getting married on the plains of Africa, couples can enjoy luxury housing and guided tours day after day.

• Best time to tie the knot: July to October
• Best spot for your ceremony: Maasai Mara

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

The pastoral scenery in the country of Ireland is the perfect mixture of dramatic and simplistic. Take your partner’s hands on the Cliffs of Moher and experience the smell of the sea and the sound of the wind as you wed the love of your life. Afterward, take slow drives through the countryside and enjoy famous sites like Blarney Castle and Ring of Kerry.

• Best time to tie the knot: April to June
• Best spot for your ceremony: The Cliffs of Moher

Argentina

For big mountain hikers and skiers, Argentina is truly a paradise. Set your sights on El Chaltén, Argentina, the home of Los Glaciares National Park. Whether you prefer getting married with the backdrop of Patagonia or crisp mountain lakes, this mountain town is sure to please.

• Best time to tie the knot: December to late February
• Best spot for your ceremony: El Chaltén 

Big Sur, California

As you wind along the Pacific Coast Highway take in the incredible views. Big Sur has it all. With its beaches, trees, and mountains there is truly something for everyone. Big Sur is the perfect location for U.S. couples who want a breathtaking wedding and honeymoon for only a short flight. 

• Best time to tie the knot: September to November
• Best spot for your ceremony: Pfeiffer Beach

 

Chile

In the Patagonia region of Chile sits Torres del Paine National Park. Plan your nuptials around this area for a trip you’ll never forget. This region features glorious mountains, blue glacier lakes, and winding rivers for you and your love to explore for as long as you can.

• Best time to tie the knot: November to April
• Best spot for your ceremony: Torres del Paine National Park

Australia

If you and your dear are looking to tie the knot in the land down under, consider a stop in Sydney. After you get enough of the city life, escape to the Moody Blue Mountains for an intimate ceremony that is as beautiful and wild as your love.

• Best time to tie the knot: March to May and September to November
• Best spot for your ceremony: Moody Blue Mountains

 

Lake Tahoe, NV

Another magical destination in the United States is Lake Tahoe, NV. For a honeymoon with some nightlife, stay at Nevada’s South Shore to enjoy the casinos and restaurant options. When you get tired of the hustle and bustle, escape to Sand Harbor Beach or Emerald Bay State Park. Both are excellent options for marrying your one and only.

• Best time to tie the knot: March to May and September and November
• Best spot for your ceremony: Emerald Bay State Park

Whitefish, Montana

Above the small town of Whitefish towers the great Glacier National Park. This park provides something for everyone. There are beautiful peaks for adventurous couples and charming mountain lakes for those who would rather stay on the ground. After you and your spouse are wed, enjoy hiking, rafting, wildlife spotting, and even skiing together.

• Best time to tie the knot: July and August
• Best spot for your ceremony: West Glacier Lake

 

Thailand

Walk amongst jungle-covered cliffs and wild beaches in Thailand. After getting married, escape together and vacation in a floating raft house. During the day, bathe elephants, hike through lush greenery, and enjoy impeccable food.

• Best time to tie the knot: November to April
• Best spot for your ceremony: Khlong Sok

Bali

For the adventurous couples out there we highly recommend traveling through the jungles of Bali to the oasis of Ubud. Here, you and your best friend can enjoy tranquil treehouse resorts, monkey sanctuaries, spa treatments, yoga classes, and some of the healthiest food in the world. If Ubud’s jungles aren’t enough then just wait to experience the beaches.

• Best time to tie the knot: June to September
• Best spot for your ceremony: Ubud

 

Namibia

Escape from it all to one of the least crowded places on earth. Namibia is complete with wild animals, never-ending desert views, and the world’s largest cheetah population.

• Best time to tie the knot: July to October
• Best spot for your ceremony: Namibian Desert

Las Vegas, Nevada

It wouldn’t be a list of best honeymoon destinations for elopers if Vegas wasn’t on the list. After you say “I do” casinos enjoy over-the-top luxury with your new spouse. If you get tired of the smoke and noise, take a scenic helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.

• Best time to tie the knot: March to May and September to November
• Best spot for your ceremony: Vegas wedding chapels

 

Sit down with your other half and talk about the things that are important to each of you. If one of you wants a beach wedding and the other has their heart in the mountains, talk about tying the knot in a tropical mountain range like Costa Rica. That way you will both have the wedding and honeymoon of your dreams.