Bali Elopement Guide

Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic and unforgettable elopement. It’s also the perfect honeymoon destination to add to your cash fund registry wish list. With its pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, mystical waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage, Bali offers a unique experience for your special day. This elopement guide will break down everything you need to know about planning a Bali elopement, from the best locations and seasons to marriage legal requirements and planning tips.

Why Elope in Bali?

Bali is a picturesque island located in Indonesia, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Southeast Asia. Positioned between the islands of Java and Lombok. Couples can exchange vows on sun-kissed beaches, amidst emerald green rice fields, or by cascading waterfalls. Bali is also a more affordable elopement location compared to other popular elopement spots that double as honeymoon spots (think Italy or France). The island’s year-round pleasant weather and the warmth of Balinese hospitality add to the charm of eloping in this tropical paradise.

Best Places to Elope in Bali

Photo by Oleg Breslavtsev

Beaches

• Nusa Dua: Known for its pristine white sand beaches and luxurious resorts, Nusa Dua offers a tranquil setting for a beach elopement.
• Seminyak: A vibrant area with chic beach clubs and upscale accommodations, perfect for couples seeking a lively atmosphere.
• Jimbaran: Famous for its stunning sunsets and seafood restaurants, Jimbaran provides a romantic and picturesque backdrop.

Rice Terraces

• Tegalalang: The iconic rice terraces of Tegalalang in Ubud are perfect for couples who dream of a lush, green setting.
• Jatiluwih: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jatiluwih offers expansive and serene rice fields for a more secluded ceremony.

Waterfalls

• Tegenungan: Easily accessible and surrounded by lush greenery, Tegenungan is a popular choice for an adventurous elopement.
• Sekumpul: Considered one of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls, Sekumpul requires a bit of a hike but rewards with stunning views.
• Gitgit: Located in North Bali, Gitgit Waterfall is a serene and less crowded option.

Temples

• Uluwatu: Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Uluwatu Temple is perfect for a dramatic and spiritual ceremony.
• Tanah Lot: A sea temple set on a rock formation, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic locations.
• Tirta Empul: Known for its holy spring water, Tirta Empul offers a unique and sacred setting.

When to Elope in Bali

Photo by Oleg Breslavtsev

Bali enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and wet.

Dry Season (April to October):

Ideal for beach weddings and outdoor ceremonies.

Average temperatures: 77-86°F (25-30°C).

Less humidity and lower chances of rain.

Wet Season (November to March):

Lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists.

Average temperatures: 79-86°F (26-30°C).

Frequent afternoon showers, but mornings are often clear.

Monthly Breakdown:

• April to June: Pleasant weather with fewer crowds, making it a great time to elope.
• July to August: Peak tourist season with higher prices but excellent weather.
• September to October: Still part of the dry season with fewer tourists.
• November to March: Wet season with lush scenery but a higher chance of rain.

Marriage License Requirements in Bali

Photo by Oleg Breslavtsev

To legally marry in Bali, couples must meet specific requirements and provide the necessary documentation.

Marriage Licenses and Necessary Documents

• Valid passports
• Birth certificates
• Proof of single status (Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage)
• Divorce decree or death certificate if previously married

Steps for Legalizing Your Marriage

• Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment from your home country
• Submit documents to the Civil Registry Office in Bali
• Have a religious ceremony followed by a civil registration
• A local wedding planner can help navigate the legal requirements and ensure all paperwork is correctly processed.

Places to Stay During Your Bali Elopement

Photo by Oleg Breslavtsev

• Luxury Resorts: Many resorts offer elopement packages, including ceremony setups and accommodations.
• Villas: Private villas provide an intimate setting with personalized services.
• Boutique Hotels: For a unique and charming stay, consider boutique hotels that capture Bali’s essence.
• Rentals: Unique rentals allow couples to have an intimate place to get ready.

Check out some of our favorites below:

Check out this beachfront villa.

Check out this 2-bedroom villa.

Check out this house in a rice field.

Check out this villa next to a beach and volcano.

Check out this beachfront villa, perfect for a small wedding.

Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in Bali.

Bali Elopement Vendors

Photo by Oleg Breslavtsev

Top Tips From a Bali Elopement Planner

Photo by Oleg Breslavtsev

• Do not postpone your booking until the last minute. There are almost no free dates at locations closer to the event. Usually, for August – September the schedule is filled six months or a year in advance.
• Always take comfortable shoes. This is necessary because all locations are natural. You can change your shoes on the spot.
• Consider a multi-day elopement. If you want to shoot in different locations in Bali, we advise you to divide the shooting day with the photographer for two days, because the day is very hot and the light is direct. She also mentions a lot of beautiful locations in Bali are sometimes far from each other, and you can lose time in traffic. 
• Consider the weather and environment when wedding shopping. When planning your wedding outfits, focus on the nature of Bali. Bali is hot and very tropical.  
• Always Facetime or get together with your photographer before your wedding. We agree 100% with this advice because it’s important to be comfortable and form a connection with the person who is documenting your special day. 
• Splurge on a romantic hotel. The villa these two stayed in is a perfect example of a gorgeous way to not only get beautiful getting-ready portraits but to also enjoy time with each other. 

Tips provided by Catherine at WedBali.

Why Should You Elope in Bali From a Planner

Bali is stunning, and Catherine tells us there are so many unique locations to appreciate on the island. She mentions how there are gorgeous waterfalls, cliffs, beaches with yellow and black sand, a volcano, fields with dried flowers, lakes… the options are endless!

She also tells us how planning an elopement in Bali for just the two of you can also transition easily into a honeymoon. We love it when couples elope where they can also celebrate their honeymoon. Imagine saying I do and transitioning straight into a couple of days of adventure and vacation together.

Catherine, at WedBali, also tells us eloping in Bali is wonderful when you get a Bali elopement package to help plan your wedding day. WedBali specializes in elopements and weddings with guests in the villas.

“Our packages for elopements include decoration, flowers, bouquet, floral accessories for hair if needed, transfer for the day, priest, makeup and hair, rent of the venue, champagne and more. Photographers are not included in our packages because every couple likes a different style of photo. We do, however, suggest a list of photographers who we often work with. We also offer several locations for elopements to choose from including waterfalls, lakes, beaches, and cliffs.” [Catherine]