25 Best Places to Elope Worldwide in 2025

More couples are choosing to elope instead of having a big wedding. It’s no surprise—elopements are intimate, stress-free, and full of adventure! But the biggest question we hear is, “Where should we elope?”

We have done all the research for you and found the best places to elope worldwide. We also included some awesome information below each location, including links to our elopement packages and elopement guides. Follow the links included within each location to learn the exact details on how to elope in that location.

These spots also double as amazing honeymoon destinations or places for a future vow renewal. No matter where you are in your planning, we’ve got you covered!

One last thing: Always follow local rules and Leave No Trace (LNT). Let’s protect these beautiful places by staying on trails and respecting nature.

How to Pick the Best Place to Elope

Photo by Larsen Photo Co.

With so many incredible options, how do you pick the right one? Ask yourselves these five key questions:

Best Places to Elope in The US

Photo by Carissa Marie Photography featuring UTAH

The U.S. is home to some of the best places to elope, from towering mountains to scenic coastlines. Whether you want a quiet ceremony in the desert, a waterfall backdrop, or a remote adventure, there’s a perfect spot for you. With so many stunning locations to choose from, we’ve rounded up the top places to make your elopement unforgettable.

Ready to dive into some of our favorites? Let’s do this!

Yosemite National Park, Northern California

Photography by Wesley Harden | Photography

Yosemite National Park is among one of the crowning glories of all of California. People come from all over the world to visit this magical National Park. Yosemite has to be one of the most beautiful national parks we have ever seen. 

• Scenery: Jagged cliffsides, cascading waterfalls, and beautiful mountain ranges are just a few of its best features. The park is also the perfect, romantic location for a mountain elopement.
• Popular Locations: Yosemite has designated wedding destinations where you can plan your ceremony if you apply for a permit. If your wedding party is less than 20 people, you can request a location not on the approved list.
• Our favorite Areas: Taft Point, Glacier Point, El Cap Meadow, and Cathedral Beach.
• Top inspiration for this location: Unique Yosemite Wedding Photo Ideas You Can Incorporate on Your Wedding Day

Big Sur, California

Photo by Jamie LeMaire Photography

Big Sur is a famous coastline of the Pacific Coast Highway in Northern California. It’s blue water, white caps are gorgeous as they crash on jagged, green cliffsides. Get married down at the beach at sunset, on a weekday to avoid crowds. Or exchange vows standing tall on top of the cliffs, looking down at the ocean below. Big Sur is also a great location to consider if you’re planning a micro wedding since there are a good number of wedding venues there (like the Wind & Sea).

• Scenery: Big Sur is a coastal elopement dream where you can see gorgeous water views on huge cliffs. On the other hand, you can also see whimsical forest views with giant redwoods. The best of both worlds in our opinion!
• Popular Locations: For a coastal elopement, Garrapata State Park is a fan favorite among photographers and couples. For redwood views, then opt for Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. 

Joshua Tree National Park, Southern California

Photo by Summit and Sur Photo

One of the most popular places to elope in Southern California is Joshua Tree National Park. This desert landscape is a favorite among couples with its unique landscapes and overall beautiful weather. 

• Scenery: This desert landscape is filled with rock arches and unique rock formations. Let’s not forget the famous Joshua Trees! 
• Popular Locations: There are a few approved ceremony locations you can request when applying for your permit. Some of our favorites include Hidden Valley Picnic Area, Cap Rock, Quail Springs Picnic Area, and Split Rock.
• Top inspiration for this location: Joshua Tree Super Moon Elopement

Olympic National Park, Washington State

Photo by Sabrina Kaye Photography

Olympic National Park sits on the west side of Washington near Seattle and stretches all the way to the coast, making it one of the top places to elope in Washington State. Hurricane Ridge is a popular place for elopements, a beautiful, epic mountain pass. And Lake Crescent is a gorgeous lake, with mountain views, campsites, and a gorgeous lodge for you to grab a room and relax before your big day. Oh, and you’ll find some of the best star-gazing spots in all of Washington here!

• Scenery: We like to say Olympic is perfect for couples who can’t decide what view they want on their elopement. They can have a little bit of everything. The east side of the park sports mountain views and alpine lakes. Then you have rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches on the other side!
• Popular Locations: Some of our favorite places to elope in Olympic include Lake Crescent, Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, and Ruby Beach

Finding a place to elope in Olympic National Park is either super difficult or super easy, depending on if you’re a “glass half full” or “glass half empty” kind of person. It’s super difficult because you have so many options it may be hard to decide, but super easy because there is not an ugly spot in this park. If you’re still flustered, our Washington elopement vendors are your go-to resource to help you keep an eye out for “GOAT capture”!

Garden of the Gods, Colorado

Photo by Paige Weber Photography

If the desert vibe is what you’re looking for, then the Garden of the Gods should be your elopement location choice. Tucked away in Colorado Springs just an hour from Denver, you’ll find the home of Pikes Peak, one of the highest mountains in Colorado.

• Scenery: Epic red rock formations with some mountain views. 
• Popular Locations: There are 6 places you can pick from to have your ceremony in the park including High Point Overlook and Three Graces Plaza. Garden of the Gods is actually one of the few parks that do not require a wedding permit and fees (perfect for elopements on a budget). There are also a ton of hiking trails to explore, perfect for “just us” elopement ceremonies.

Garden of the Gods is desert meets lush rolling green hills. People flock from all over to the Garden of the Gods for hiking and rock climbing. It’s stunning, and there are so many options for elopements, making it one of the best places to elope in Colorado. 

Pro tip: have a sunrise elopement here, to beat the crowds.

Alaska Glaciers

Photo by Wild Iris Photo

Alaska is probably one of the dreamiest places to elope, filled with forests and whimsical passes. Even though Hatcher Pass is one of Alaska’s most popular places to elope and visit, we really want to highlight the glaciers in Alaska. The whole state is covered in glaciers with over 100,000 to explore.

The glaciers near Anchorage are the most accessible, but so many couples take private helicopter rides to these remote locations. If you want to be completely on your own during your elopement, then this is the place for you. 

• Scenery: Glaciers and snow-capped mountains with lakes.
• Popular Locations: Mendenhall Glacier near Tongass National Forest, Denali National Park, Matanuska Glacier (probably the most accessible one), Knik Glacier on the northern edge of Alaska’s Chugach Mountains, and Kenai Fjords National Park to name a few. 

There are a ton of adventures that await you in Alaska. Whether you want to plan a multi-day Alaska experience or just take a helicopter ride up to a glacier, exchange wedding vows, and then have a small wedding ceremony at an intimate wedding venue. 

Kaua’i, Hawaii

Photo by Carissa Marie Photography

Hawaii is one of the top elopement destinations in the world. With many elopement couples flocking to explore Big Island, Maui, and Oahu we felt Kauai was actually an honorable mention for a top place to elope. So why Kauai over the other islands? Kauai is more laid back and less crowded compared to the others, meaning you can escape the crowds easily. There is also a ton to explore from beaches to tropical rainforests. 

• Scenery: Mountain views, beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests. 
• Popular Locations: Nā Pali coastline (only accessible by boat, helicopter, or advanced hike), North Shore (covered in amazing beaches and tropical rainforest), Lihue (the main hub for Kauai with great places to stay), and Polihale State Park to name a few.

Zion National Park, Utah

Photo by Uncharted Elopements

Zion National Park is perhaps the crowned jewel of Utah. It’s arguably the most popular National Park in the whole state. Only an hour or so drive from Las Vegas, Zion is the epitome of epic desert vibes. People flock from all over the world to visit this pristine, amazing gem. 

• Scenery: Towering red rock formations, canyon views, rolling sand dunes, and slot canyons. 
• Popular Locations: Visit their website for a list of approved spots for weddings. Or, for just the two of you taking portraits (no officiant or guests), find a remote spot in the park. Some of our favorite portrait locations include Zion Overlook, Observation Point, and Slot Canyon portraits. You can also look into some venues/accommodations nearby like Under Canvas!

Sedona, Arizona

Photo By Kristen Marie

Sedona is a region of Arizona located in the North, near Flagstaff. It is famous for its peaceful vacation homes among steep red rock buttes, canyons, and pine forests. It sports numerous trails and outdoor activities for all interests and activity levels.

We love Sedona for its peacefulness tranquility and overwhelming natural beauty. There are so many epic spots to say your “I dos”. From peaceful hiking trails to pull-offs right off the side of the road. Also, one of my favorite perks of Sedona is so many peaceful and luxurious Airbnbs for the afterparty!

• Scenery: Red rocks for miles, mesquite trees, rock bridges, and epic desert views,
• Popular Locations: There is a ton to explore here including the famous Cathedral Rock, Bear Mountain, Merry-Go-Round-Rock, or go off-roading to a secret spot! You can even invite a couple of family and friends to your adventure!
• Top inspiration for this location: Emotional Sedona Red Rock Elopement.

Oregon Coast

Photo by Sam Starns

Stretching over 360 miles, the Oregon Coast is renowned for its stunning rugged coastline, dotted with charming seaside towns, majestic cliffs, and pristine beaches. The region is home to iconic landmarks such as the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse and the dramatic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, providing breathtaking backdrops for your elopement ceremony.

For those seeking a more relaxed elopement experience, the Oregon Coast boasts a variety of charming accommodations, from cozy seaside cottages to luxurious oceanfront resorts. Couples can also indulge in fresh, locally sourced seafood and explore the vibrant arts and culture scene in coastal towns like Astoria, Newport, and Florence.

• Scenery: Epic coastlines, amazing beaches, redwoods, and unique sea stacks.
• Popular Locations: Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, Cape Kiwanada, Cannon Beach, and Ecola State Park
• Top Inspiration: These two brides announced their Oregon Coast elopement on Facetime!

Key West, Florida

Photo by Anna Holden Photo

When you think of Florida, what do you picture? Palm trees, and white sand beaches? Beach bars with signature rum drinks, cabanas, and crystal-clear water? Well if you’re looking for the ultimate Florida experience, Key West is the place for your elopement. The beaches are pristine, and the pride the locals have in their towns makes it so much more authentic. There is an assortment of themed bars and restaurants, gorgeous shorelines, hotels, and Airbnbs, state parks for a beautiful Florida elopement.

• Scenery: Beaches and lots of sun!
• Popular Locations: Smathers Beach, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, or Key West Lighthouse.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Photo by Kylie Farmer Photography

Glacier National Park is in the heart of the Big Sky State. Home to the “Going to the Sun Road” made famous for its appearance in “The Shining” and other films, the park is everything you think of when you picture Montana. Visit their website for information about eloping there. There are so many epic hiking trails, pull-offs, and secret hideaways for your epic, mountain elopement.

• Scenery: A gorgeous mountain elopement location with views of valleys and lakes.
• Popular Locations: Lake McDonald, Logan’s Pass, Bowman Lake, and Sun Point Nature Trail

Moab, Utah

Photo by Julia Goldberg Photography

Moab, Utah is the Midwest’s best-kept secret. Home to two epic National Parks and multiple state parks, towering red rock formations, scenic drives, rock climbing, and hiking for all levels, it is not hard to find your own special spot for an elopement. Seriously, the amazing thing about being here in Moab is that no matter where you are, it feels like you have the place to yourself, Like a giant playground for adults, Moab is for everyone looking for adventure, and a special elopement to call their own.

• Scenery: Desert terrain with red rock formations and views of La Sal Mountains
• Popular Locations: BLM Land, Dead Horse State Park, Canyonlands and Arches. You can even find an intimate wedding venue in Moab for a micro wedding or just for you two (we love Under Canvas). Moab has a lot to offer and there are so many activities you can do together. From rock climbing and ATVing to white water rafting and base jumping! 
• Top inspiration for this location: Desert Elopement in Utah.

New England

Photo by Jenna Richmond Photography

Eloping in New England is one of our favorite places to elope during the fall. Places like Acadia National Park in Maine offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rocky coastlines, and picturesque lighthouses, providing a stunning backdrop for a ceremony.

The White Mountains in New Hampshire offer adventurous couples the opportunity to elope amidst towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. The iconic Mount Washington provides a dramatic backdrop for ceremonies, while the Kancamagus Highway offers a scenic drive through the heart of the mountains.

Vermont’s Green Mountains offer another stunning location for elopements, with their rolling hills, quaint villages, and covered bridges creating a picturesque and romantic atmosphere.

Scenery: Everything from mountain views and coastlines to mountains and cascading waterfalls.

Popular Locations: Acadia National Park, White Mountains, and Cape Cod National Seashore.

Best Places to Elope in Europe

Are you thinking about planning a destination wedding adventure? So many couples decide to plan a destination elopement and use that as an opportunity to start their honeymoon as soon as their elopement adventure is over (we wouldn’t blame them). Europe is also perfect for a destination wedding if you plan on inviting some family and friends.

Europe is full of breathtaking places to elope, from dramatic coastlines to historic castles and snow-capped mountains. Whether you dream of saying your vows on a cliffside in Italy, a fairytale château in France, or a remote fjord in Norway, there’s a perfect spot for every couple. We’ve rounded up the best places to elope in Europe for an unforgettable and romantic experience.

Let’s get into some of our favorites!

Iceland

Photo by Allie Dearie Photography

Iceland has become the Mecca of adventurous elopements. Couples flock from all over the world to say “I do” in Iceland. And for good reason! Iceland is home to the most unique landscape you will ever see, a small, green, temperamental Island. Hundreds of roaring waterfalls, black sand beaches, canyons, glaciers, volcanoes, and all things epic. This is the very place you should go to feel the smallest. Because most of the island is uninhabitable, there is no shortage of peaceful places to go. Every hiking trail, dirt road, and landscape you come upon will make you feel like you’re the only one there.

• Scenery: Iceland’s dramatic landscapes include volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls, providing a stunning backdrop for elopements.
• Popular Locations: The iconic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where couples can exchange vows behind the cascading water for a truly magical ceremony. Another breathtaking option is the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, with its towering basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks creating a dramatic setting for an intimate wedding ceremony. For couples seeking a more remote and rugged location, the rugged beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers stunning coastal cliffs, hidden caves, volcanic craters, and lava fields. The peninsula is also home to the majestic Snaefellsjokull glacier, a stunning backdrop for a winter elopement.

Ireland

Photo by Wild and Green Photography

Ireland is a romantic and picturesque destination that offers couples a magical setting for their elopement. Known for its lush green landscapes, rugged cliffs, and historic castles, Ireland is full of charm and beauty.

• Scenery: Ireland offers rolling green hills, rugged coastal cliffs, mystical forests, and ancient castle ruins, creating a dreamy and romantic backdrop for your elopement.
• Popular Locations: Some of the best places to elope in Ireland include the Cliffs of Moher, the Wicklow Mountains, Connemara National Park, and the historic castles of County Kerry. Another stunning option is the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, with its unique hexagonal basalt columns creating a mystical atmosphere for a wedding ceremony. Places like Ashford Castle, Dromoland Castle, Dunseverick Castle, and Dunluce Castle offer a glimpse into Ireland’s rich history and provide a stunning backdrop for a romantic ceremony.
• Top Inspiration: Monica and Bryan’s Romantic Elopement at Kinbane Head.

Italy

Photo by Shelly Lynn Photography

Italy is synonymous with romance, making it a perfect destination for couples looking to elope in Europe. From the enchanting canals of Venice to the rolling hills of Tuscany, Italy offers a diverse array of stunning locations for a romantic elopement.

• Scenery: Italy has so many stunning landscapes. From the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, serene lakes, and historic cityscapes filled with timeless charm.
• Popular Locations: Top elopement spots in Italy include the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, the Dolomites, Tuscany, and the romantic streets of Venice.
• Top inspiration: 3 Day Elopement Hike in the Dolomites

Austria

Photo by Wild Connections Photography

Austria offers a fairy-tale setting for couples looking to elope in Europe, with its stunning alpine landscapes, historic castles, and charming villages. One of the most popular elopement locations in Austria is the picturesque town of Hallstatt, nestled on the shores of Lake Hallstatt and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Couples can exchange vows in a historic church or on a boat cruise on the lake, with the stunning alpine scenery providing a breathtaking backdrop.

• Scenery: Austria is filled with breathtaking alpine views, crystal-clear lakes, rolling meadows, and charming historic towns.
• Popular Locations: Some of the best places to elope in Austria include Hallstatt, the Austrian Alps, Salzburg, Vienna, and the stunning lakes of Carinthia.

Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic ceremony in a historic castle, a lakeside wedding in a charming village, or a mountain elopement in the Austrian Alps, Austria provides a picturesque and magical setting for couples looking to elope in Europe.

Scotland

Photo by Oli and Steph Photography

Scotland is a land steeped in history and legend, offering couples a rugged and mystical setting for their elopement. The Scottish Highlands, with their sweeping vistas of rugged mountains, mist-covered lochs, and ancient castles, provide a dramatic backdrop for a romantic ceremony. Couples can exchange vows amidst the stunning scenery of Glencoe or on the shores of Loch Ness, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

• Scenery: Scotland is known for its rugged mountains, misty lochs, dramatic cliffs, and ancient castles.
• Popular Locations: Top spots to elope in Scotland include the Isle of Skye, Glencoe, Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands, and the shores of Loch Lomond.
• Top Inspiration: Cairngorms National Park Scotland Wedding.

Greece

Photo by Will Khoury Photography

Greece is a land of ancient mythology, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, making it a captivating destination for couples looking to elope in Europe. The Greek islands, with their crystal-clear waters, white-washed buildings, and breathtaking sunsets, offer a romantic backdrop for a wedding ceremony. Couples can exchange vows on the cliffs of Santorini overlooking the Aegean Sea or on the sandy beaches of Mykonos, with the sound of the waves as their soundtrack.

• Scenery: Greece offers stunning blue waters, white-washed villages, dramatic cliffs, and ancient ruins.
• Popular Locations: Some of the best places to elope in Greece include Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Athens, and the hidden beaches of Zakynthos.
• Top inspiration for this location: Destination Wedding in Santorini

Best Place to Elope in the World (Outside US and Europe)

But what about places that are not within the US and Europe? We’ll talk about some of our favorites that go beyond the borders of North America and Europe. From the lush jungles of Bali to the vibrant streets of Mexico, the sun-soaked beaches of Puerto Rico, the rugged beauty of Canada, and the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, these destinations offer couples a wealth of stunning locations to exchange vows. Each destination has its own unique charm and allure, promising an unforgettable elopement experience that blends adventure, romance, and culture.

Here are some of our favorites:

Canada

Photo by Film & Forest Photo

Canada offers couples a diverse range of stunning landscapes and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for elopements. The Canadian Rockies, with their towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and breathtaking glaciers, provide a picturesque backdrop for a romantic ceremony.

• Scenery: Canada has wild forests, tall mountains, and clear blue lakes. From mountains and forests to lakes and tundra, Canada has it all.
• Popular Places: Great places to elope in Canada include Banff, Jasper, and Tofino. Banff is Canada’s oldest national park.

New Zealand

Photo by Adventure and Vow

New Zealand is a land of stunning natural beauty, offering couples a truly magical setting for their elopement. The country’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to pristine beaches, provide a picturesque backdrop for a romantic ceremony.

• Scenery: New Zealand has dramatic mountains, lush forests, and stunning beaches. Its lakes are crystal clear, and its fjords are breathtaking.
• Popular Locations: Top places to elope in New Zealand include Queenstown, Lake Tekapo, and Fiordland (pictured above). The Coromandel Peninsula and Mount Cook also offer stunning backdrops. Milford Sound is perfect for a truly scenic escape.

Costa Rica

Photo by Javier Mendez Photography

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that offers couples a magical setting for their elopement. Known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and stunning biodiversity, Costa Rica provides a picturesque backdrop for a romantic ceremony.

• Scenery: Costa Rica has lush rainforests, tropical beaches, and misty mountains. Waterfalls and volcanoes add to its natural beauty. Wildlife is everywhere, making it feel like paradise.
• Popular Locations: Great places to elope in Costa Rica include Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde. Tamarindo and Uvita offer stunning beach settings. La Fortuna is perfect for a romantic rainforest escape.

Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity also offers unique elopement opportunities. Couples can exchange vows in the heart of the rainforest, with towering trees, exotic flowers, and the sounds of wildlife surrounding them, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Bali

Photo by Fire Wood and Earth

Bali is a tropical paradise that offers couples a magical and exotic setting for their elopement. Known for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant culture, Bali provides a picturesque backdrop for a romantic elopement ceremony.

• Scenery: Bali has lush jungles, volcanic mountains, and golden beaches. Rice terraces and waterfalls create a dreamy landscape. The island feels peaceful and magical.
• Popular Locations: Top places to elope in Bali include Uluwatu, Ubud, and Nusa Penida. Seminyak and Canggu offer stunning beach settings. Mount Batur is perfect for a sunrise ceremony.

Bali’s rich culture and spirituality also offer unique elopement opportunities. Couples can exchange vows in a traditional Balinese ceremony, complete with floral offerings, traditional music, and elaborate costumes, creating a truly authentic and memorable experience.

Mexico

Photo by Safeena Noah

Mexico is a land of vibrant colors, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, offering couples a truly magical setting for their elopement. From the beaches of the Riviera Maya to the colonial charm of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico provides a picturesque backdrop for a romantic ceremony.

• Scenery: Mexico has golden beaches, lush jungles, and towering mountains. Its deserts and cenotes add to the magic. Ancient ruins create a unique, romantic backdrop.
• Popular Locations: Top places to elope in Mexico include Tulum, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta. Sayulita and Bacalar offer stunning waterfront views.

Mexico’s rich culture and history also offer unique elopement opportunities. Couples can exchange vows in a traditional Mexican ceremony, complete with mariachi music, colorful papel picado banners, and delicious Mexican cuisine, creating a truly authentic and memorable experience.

Puerto Rico

Photo by Adventure and Vow

Puerto Rico is a Caribbean gem that offers couples a blend of tropical beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for an elopement. From the historic streets of Old San Juan to the pristine beaches of Vieques, Puerto Rico provides a picturesque backdrop for a romantic ceremony.

• Scenery: Puerto Rico has tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and scenic mountains. Its waterfalls and old city streets add to the charm.
• Popular Locations: Great places to elope in Puerto Rico include Old San Juan, El Yunque Rainforest, and Culebra. Rincon and Vieques offer stunning beach settings. Castillo San Cristóbal is perfect for a historic touch.

Puerto Rico’s rich culture and traditions also offer unique elopement opportunities. Couples can exchange vows in a traditional Puerto Rican ceremony, complete with salsa music, colorful decorations, and delicious local cuisine.

Vendors For Your Elopement

Once you decide on a place to elope, it’s time to team up with an elopement vendor who specializes in the location you want to adventure! Teaming up with a local allows you to be prepared when it comes to permits, LNT, marriage license requirements, and more. Check out some of our feature elopement photographers below or explore our elopement directory to search by location and vendor type.