The world’s only searchable database & ranked list for
The Best Places to Elope in the U.S. and World
From an elopement photographer who’s been to all 7 continents & 40+ countries
Hey! I’m Maddie Mae—and for the last 14 years I’ve traveled to 40 countries, all 7 continents, and planned & photographed over 300 elopements all over the world.
I’ve seen the world’s most incredible elopement locations firsthand, and I’m excited to share them with you!
I’ve seen the world’s most incredible elopement locations firsthand, and I’m excited to share them with you!
Explore the searchable database of all my recommended spots
Elopement Location Finder ™
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The TOP 25 most awe-inspiring places you can elope around the world
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Telluride, Colorado
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Torres Del Paine, Chile
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Kaua’i, Hawaii
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Ilulissat Icefjord, Greenland
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Chugach National Forest
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Etosha National Park
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Moab, Utah
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Glencoe, Scotland
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Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah
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Santorini, Greece
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Dolomites, Italy
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Milos, Greece
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Great Sand Dunes
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Capitol Reef National Park
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Joshua Tree National Park
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Olympic National Park
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Zermatt, Switzerland
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Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
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Faroe Islands
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Diamond Beach, Iceland
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Atacama Desert, Chile
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Skógafoss Waterfall, Iceland
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Milford Sound, New Zealand
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Yosemite National Park
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Rocky Mountains
Should you elope?
Best Mountain Elopement Locations
Looking for the world’s best rugged mountain backdrop for your day? From the Rockies, to the Alps, Andes, and more—these are the best mountain elopement locations worldwide.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
With one of the highest paved roads in the US, this is a must-stop for elopers looking for alpine tundra environments and high overlooks with little to no hiking required. Variety is king here!
Italian Dolomites
This stretch of the Alps is seriously in your face—from sea level directly over your head. This is an A+ pick for folks looking for great, wild-feeling mountain views but who don’t want to hike.
Swiss Alps
World famous for a reason. From the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc, the mountains here are towering, distinctive, and super easy to get to with gondolas all over waiting to take you up.
Yosemite National Park, California
Half Dome & El Capitan have made a name for themselves here, with iconic 3,000 cliffs and distinct shapes. The views from altitude over the valley will genuinely take your breath away.
Patagonia, Chile
The Andes mountains through here are uber famous for climbers— formations like Torres del Paine and Mount Fitz Roy have a reputation for being unlike anywhere else in the world.
San Juan Mountains, Colorado
Picture Switzerland—super unique & jagged peaks! Some of the most elaborate and accessible 4X4 roads in the country live right here and will put you out on stunning mountain passes.
Glacier National Park, Montana
With 150 peaks over 8,000 feet, beautiful mountain views are a guarantee here. Take Going-to-the-Sun Road directly onto stunning mountain passes and glacier views.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
This stretch of the Rockies is known for its jagged snow-capped peaks, especially in the Cathedral Group. Lots of lakes and valleys here have direct, perfect views of the highest points!
Himalayas, Nepal
The Himalayas are home to the world’s tallest mountains (like Mount Everest), which makes it hard to beat if you’re seeking altitude. Mountain passes around here will give you insane views!
Learn more about the logistics of eloping in the mountains, gear you need, and the best type of wedding attire for an intimate mountain wedding in my:
Best Beach Elopement Locations
If you’re seeking the ultimate beach paradise during your elopement, these are my top picks from around the globe—no matter what your type of shore is.
Tunnels Beach, Kauaʻi, Hawaii
Golden shores, teal waves, and bright greenery here represent one of the best views of the Nāpali Coast. If you’re looking to get out on the water, you can snorkel some reefs here!
Milos, Greece
Less tourist-heavy than its nearby cousin of Santorini, this island is volcanically formed and packed full of perfect hidden beaches and coves that will give you full privacy for your ceremony.
Diamond Beach, Iceland
In the land of fire & ice, nothing captures it quite like this. Volcanic black sand dotted with crystal-clear chunks of ice—this is a beach that is so unique to this corner of the world.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Quintessential PNW beach in the best way. The iconic Haystack Rock dominates the coastline here as well as plenty of sea mist and tide pools that are extra special at sunset.
Tofino, Vancouver Island, Canada
For a great blend of wild shore, rainforests, rocky outcroppings, and beach town vibes, Tofino is an amazing stop. Sunsets on the water here are an unbelievable place to say your vows.
Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
The beach here is most famous for its Coast Track Trail that runs alongside it, giving you access to private beaches and stretches of totally untouched sand. Water taxis are available to escort!
Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles
One of the most photographed beaches in the world. Granite boulders rise up around lush greenery to frame the shore. Wade through the warm, shallow water after saying “I do.”
Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos
With no seaweed or rocks blocking your view, all you get at Grace Bay is soft white sand and uninterrupted turquoise waves. Plus, the barrier reef makes the waves here super tame.
Uig Beach, Isle of Lewis, Scotland
If your favorite part of going to the beach is the sand, Uig has wide stretches full of tidal reflecting pools ready and waiting. You’ll also get a protected bay and bright blue water.
For more on the best places to get married with a great view of the waves, you’ll want to see my:
Best Desert Elopement Locations
For beautiful sunsets, crazy unique rock formations and cliffs, and large expanses of colorful sand and earth, there’s nothing like eloping in the desert. These are some of my favorite spots to get the best of the desert during your wedding day.
Atacama Desert, Chile
Literally like getting married on Mars. This is the driest desert in the world and it’s packed with red sand and truly otherworldly rock formations that will make you feel completely off-world.
Arches National Park, Utah
Between the super famous rock formations during the day and the unmatched stargazing at night, eloping in Arches will quickly show you why it’s so famous. Think red rock, blue sky, and a killer desert color palette.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
The easiest place to find epic desert landscapes and groves of Joshua trees in one spot! This is an iconic SoCal sight for a reason and makes for an epic backdrop in photos & for your vows.
Death Valley National Park, California
Don’t let the soaring temps in the summer months scare you away. Death Valley has so much to offer—including sunrises over the dunes, hikes through canyons, and filming locations.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Known for fairy chimneys and distinctive hoodoos, the rock formations here were formed volcanically and have eroded into incredible shapes over the years. Catch it at sunrise or sunset when all of the rock turns pink.
The Sahara Desert, Morocco
One of the most famous deserts in the world and the size of the entire lower 48—there is so much to explore here. Explore dunes on camelback or on an ATV and then watch the sunset from a desert spa.
Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
The largest salt flat in the world! Beautiful, shimmering white Earth, cracked and stretching on for miles. This is super special when it floods and turns the entire landscape into one giant mirror.
Namib Desert & Sandwich Harbour, Namibia
Sossusvlei is one of the most distinct and unique environments I have ever been in and Sandwich Harbour will give you some of the best coastal 4X4 ready dunes in the world. Every corner here is different.
For more of my favorite desert spots in the world and all the things you’ll need to know if you’re thinking about eloping there, visit my:
Best Forest Elopement Locations
Picturing yourself in the trees? Want dappled light straight out of a fairytale and towering trees to stand as your witnesses? Here are some of my all-time favorites.
Redwood National Park, California
As far from a big production of a wedding as you can get. Here you can say your vows among trees that are literally thousands of years old and feel totally connected to Mother Nature itself.
Olympic Peninsula & Olympic National Park, Washington
The Olympic Peninsula is the ultimate blend of mountain, forest, and sea in the lower 48. You’ll have your pick for forest types… from rainforests to coastal evergreens.
Muir Woods/Muir Beach, California
Pure old growth redwood magic. With six miles of trails to explore and trees hundreds of years old and hundreds of feet tall, this is a great spot to get coast, redwoods, and the magic of NorCal.
Willamette National Forest, Oregon
Come here for fir forests, beautiful waterfalls, and easy access from some of Oregon’s biggest cities. The plethora of scenic drives and hiking trails make it easy to find a great spot in the trees here.
Coromandel Forest Park, New Zealand
Pure, untouched New Zealand nature at its finest. The trees here are thick and every corner holds a new surprise, like hidden waterfalls and tucked away bridges. One true exploration.
Tongass National Forest, Alaska
This is America’s largest forest. There’s a ton of variety here—from thick groves of spruce, to rainforests, to glaciers. Think of this as the most PNW you can get.
The Great Trossachs Forest, Scotland
This forest is part of a national park and one of the UK’s largest nature reserves. Perfect if you like tall evergreens neatly arranged with great lake and mountain views on the side.
Hoh Rain Forest, Washington
Just within Olympic National Park, this is a place to elope if you want to feel truly separated from the outside world and totally serene. The quiet feels otherworldly and it has the beauty to match.
Learn about more of my picks outside of the American West Coast & all things forest elopement in my:
Best Waterfall Elopement Locations
Nothing screams “adventure elopement” quite like a waterfall, whether you’re hiking to it, helicoptering, or seeing it from the water. They make for impressive sights both at the time and in your photos later! There’s no shortage of great ones, but here are a few I love:
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland
A waterfall you can get behind—literally. Take the path to the cave at the back of the waterfall for a tucked away, front-row view to this powerful waterfall (and the hidden one right next to it).
Manawaiopuna Falls / Jurassic Falls, Kauaʻi, Hawaii
As featured in Jurassic Park! You can only get here via helicopter, but the view and the experience are both so worth it.
Latourell Falls, Oregon
This is Columbia River Gorge goodness in a major metropolitan area. Less crowded than other nearby waterfalls and just as stunning!
Skogafoss Waterfall, Iceland
Wide, tall, and mighty, this is a falls to see from a bit farther away unless the spray is part of the experience for you. Rainbows are common here, which adds to the magic.
Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado
The tallest free falling waterfall in the state, this draws visitors in the summer and in the winter, when it turns into a great place to ice climb. You can take a 4X4 right to it and skip the hike!
Iguazu Falls, Argentina & Brazil
This is the largest waterfall system on Earth, so you’re spoiled for great options. This stretches across two national parks in two different countries, but there’s not a bad view in either.
Yosemite Falls, California
The tallest in the US, this is separated into three distinct sections. At over 2,400 feet tall, there are a bunch of great spots to view this from.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
There are 16 lakes here, terraced after each other, which creates a beautiful tumbling chain of waterfalls! The turquoise pools and bright green scenery make the falls look like something straight out of a fantasy novel.
Want to know more about which waterfalls you can visit without getting soaked or want some additional inspiration? I’ve got it for you in my:
Best Glacier Elopement Locations
If you’ve been dreaming of eloping on top of ice or surrounded by it, these are the locations for you! I’ve seen glacial ice in America, the Alps, Antarctica, and everywhere in between. Here are some of my favorites:
Ilulissat Icefjord, Ilulissat, Greenland
A waterfall you can get behind—literally. Take the path to the cave at the back of the waterfall for a tucked away, front-row view to this powerful waterfall (and the hidden one right next to it).
Chugach National Forest, Alaska
Rent a helicopter and have your pick of multiple glaciers in the area. Get transported directly to the top and say your vows standing on solid bright blue ice.
Interlaken, Switzerland
Take a train to the ‘top of Europe.’ Hop on the highest railway line in Europe and get out directly on the upper part of the Aletsch Glacier.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland
Take a boat through the deepest lake in the country and be surrounded by glacial ice. Back on dry land, go ice spotting on a black sand beach.
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Alaska
There are over 1,000 glaciers in this park alone! The most well-known touch all the way to sea level and are accessible via boat.
Antarctica
This is the ultimate ice based elopement destination. The entire continent is covered in massive ice sheets that can be kilometers thick, including glaciers, ice shelves, and more.
Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
More than 200 glaciers to choose from. Take boats or helicopters out for a spin on the largest continental ice extension besides Antarctica.
Prince William Sound, Alaska
The land of many, many glaciers. These are best seen from the water—hop on a cruise or a guided kayak tour to see them all for yourself.
Glaciers aren’t always the easiest places to access, but I’m here to help! Learn more about the best spots and how to get there in my:
Best places to elope in the U.S.
The United States is my backyard, and even having traveled all over the world, I can still safely say there are some seriously impressive places here that you can’t find anywhere else in quite the same way. Here are some of my favorite states to elope in:
Colorado
Having grown up here, Colorado will always have my heart. Variety is what makes this place so special. You can find more peaks over 14,000 feet here than in any other state along with sand dunes, waterfalls, bright red rock, networks of 4X4 roads, wildflowers, alpine lakes… you name it.
Hawaii
The Hawaiian Islands are truly special. A volcanically formed paradise that is unlike any other state. Here you can expect unique landscapes, lush greenery, sand in every shade from green to black to white to gold, and an itinerary full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Utah
Part of what makes Utah such a great place to elope is the amount of state owned land you can find here, which frees you up for a ton of exploring! There are 5 major national parks here along with famous ski towns like Park City.
Alaska
I like to think of Alaska as the most PNW you can get. Think Washington x10—North America’s tallest peak (Denali at over 20,000 feet), more glaciers than any other state, so much wildlife, and a landscape so untamed that you frequently need a plane or helicopter.
California
There’s something in the Golden State for everyone. Well known for its ability to let people go skiing in the morning and surfing in the afternoon, you can also find deserts, forests of redwoods and sequoias, major cities, national parks, rocky and sandy beaches, cliffs, and too many famous spots to count all in this chunk of the west coast.
New Mexico
If you take the rocky landscape of Utah and marry it to Arizona’s vast plains, you get New Mexico. Elope here for red rock and red dirt surrounded by bright blue skies and green vegetation along with quintessential American Southwest food and culture.
Washington
This is the only spot in the continental US where you can find geography that lets you hit mountains of this caliber this close to the ocean. Don’t let the rain and fog fool you, summers here can be beautifully temperate, brightly colored, and absolutely full of life.
Looking for the best places to elope in a specific U.S. state?
Browse my state-specific location guides to find the best elopement locations in:
Best places to elope in Europe
Countries and cultures you can easily hop between, world-class mountains, some of the coolest cities on Earth, and food and wine to die for—that’s what eloping in Europe looks like. Whether you’re from the continent or looking for a change of pace for your wedding day, here are some of my favorite countries to travel to!
Greece
It’s hard to go wrong with a Mediterranean elopement. The islands here are volcanically formed and will give you vibrant backdrops, private beaches, cool caves, and dizzyingly beautiful views all around you. If you venture towards Athens on the mainland, you’ll get a huge dose of ancient culture along with the roots of Western society, which is great for feeling centered and rooted as you say your vows.
Switzerland
There is nothing in the world quite like a Swiss ski town. Between the Alps, the architecture, the amazing cheese and chocolate, and rolling green hills, you’d have to seriously try to have a bad time here. It’s also crazy accessible, which I love. Gondolas will take you right to the top of pretty much every peak and trains are quick and efficient here so that you can easily travel between different parts of the country!
Italy
Another amazing country to elope in if you’re excited about feeling super connected to human history! Italy has so much variety, from the Dolomites on down to the turquoise waters and cliffs of Sicily’s beaches. If you’re a foodie, this is pretty much a must-stop, with incredible regional cuisine even between sections of the country. Don’t skip popular gems like the Amalfi Coast or Lake Como just because they’re well known—they live up to the hype.
Scotland
I’m a little biased because my husband is from here, but I think Scotland is super beautiful. The Highlands are full of beautiful greenery, Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest peak), and beaches that will surprise you. If you’re looking for more city life, Edinburgh has castles, art, history, and architecture in spades. Scotland is also easy to get around—come with enough time and you can hit multiple areas and get a taste of different regions!
Iceland
Honestly the Land of Fire & Ice is one of my favorite places on Earth, so it’s easily one of my favorite places to photograph elopements, too! There’s just nothing like the landscape here. You can find waterfalls everywhere, rolling green hills, glaciers, lagoons of ice, black sand beaches, and a kind of fairytale magic you don’t find in many places. Not to mention awesome unique activities and natural features like the northern lights and hot springs!
France
When many people think of romance in Europe, they first think of Paris. With lights everywhere, beautiful art and architecture, and a sensibility for taste, the mood is just right to kick off any elopement day. After touring the city, you can venture out into other regions of France like the lavender fields of Provence, the white sand beaches of Côte d’Azur, or even Mont Blanc, one of the Seven Summits.
Spain
Everything in Spain is art, from the architecture, to the landscapes, to the culture, to the food. The regions here are as distinct and varied as the landscape itself, and there’s a niche for every type of elopement. This is a great country to feel like you want to live your best life and take on new adventures… like marriage! From the Spanish islands to the only desert in Europe, you’ll find plenty to choose from here.
Looking for the best places to elope in Europe?
Browse my country-specific location guides to find the best elopement locations in:
Best places to elope in Asia & the Pacific
Asia & the Pacific are a wide and varied region with an incredible amount of stunning landscapes, beautiful cities, and rich cultures. For eloping on island time or exploring new national parks, here are some of my top choices!
Milford Sound, New Zealand
This is the home of the highest peak rising directly from sea level in the world, which means you can find massive mountains erupting straight out of the water. With a slope that steep, you get lush and green beaches full of trees at the bottom and glaciated peaks at the top! This is a great pick for diversity within one specific area. It’s so beautiful here that it manages to look like you’re standing in a movie and not at all in real life.
Himalayas, Nepal
If you want the tallest mountains in the world, you’ve got to head to the Himalayas. While you may not be climbing Mount Everest on your elopement day (or are you?!) there are mountain passes that will give you a view of this nearly 30,000 foot mountain in the background of your vows or first dance. Helicopter tours are understandably epic here if you want an aerial view without the strenuous hikes!
Kyoto, Japan
For a taste of traditional Japan, the capital city of Kyoto has so much to offer. The city dates back to the 7th century, so the sense of history here is rich and palpable. From textiles to temples, this city has beauty around every corner. This is an amazing city to get off the beaten path in—break away from the crowds and do as the locals do to uncover hidden gems that will make your entire trip feel even more special.
Tahiti, French Polynesia
This is a legitimately magical place. Lush green jungles, electric blue water, and beaches that range from bright white to volcanically black in sand color. This is a good pick for elopers who want that paradise feel while also still feeling super connected to nature and who want lots of options for activities like 4X4 tours.
Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
Home to one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” in the form of the famous Coastal Track, this park isn’t only good for folks embarking on a multi-day hike. You can also easily access parts of the trail from the water, making it possible to see some of the most remote and beautiful stretches of the park without needing to stay in a hut overnight. Kayaking, horseback riding, sailing tours, and waterfall climbing are all popular activities here!
The Maldives
I always say that your elopement day should feel like the best day of your honeymoon, and the Maldives is the epitome of that energy. Stay in overwater bungalows where you can start your morning sipping tea in a seaside hammock, dive with whale sharks in the afternoon, and finish the day with a romantic fine dining experience—either oceanside or even underwater! The perfect place to relax and enjoy each other’s company in an unreal setting.
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
The rains and waters in this area have created something truly special, carving out deep canyons and creating rainforests all nestled in one of the most beautiful sections of South Island. This region is home to Milford Sound (mentioned above) but it’s also got so many more adventures in store! Eco tours via helicopter, kayak, or on foot are a popular way to see the sights and make a great activity for your elopement day.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Picture spending part of your wedding day in the basket of a hot air balloon soaring over geological features so special and so fragile that you can’t walk on them. Cappadocia is known for its uniquely sculpted rock towers and valleys that originally were formed in a volcanic eruption and have continued to be shaped by wind erosion over the centuries. After your ride, finish the day with tea on a balcony overlooking the valley and the sky full of balloons.
Kuang Si Falls, Laos
Totally romantic and straight out of a fairytale, the Kuang Si Falls tumble over tiered plateaus and walls of rolling rock to create a super dynamic waterfall unlike anywhere else in the world. You can spend your day exploring the verdant jungle surroundings, taking a dip in the pools of the falls, or standing back to take it all in from the footbridges around the area. Eloping here would give you through the roof beauty.
Kanha National Park, India
This national park is famous for its huge tiger reserve! You can go on a safari tour in an open air 4X4 here and see them in action along with leopards, sloth bears, and the barasingha that they successfully repopulated in the area after being endangered. This spot has a little of everything for your elopement day, including luxe stays near the park, crazy cool activities, and a beautiful natural space.
Looking for the best places to elope in Asia & the Pacific?
Browse my country-specific location guides to find the best elopement locations in:
Best places to elope in the Caribbean & Central America
Elope in this region of the world for relaxation, tropical vibes, and incredible food. Locations here are packed with everything from ancient history to super modern resorts and bustling cities, all in lush natural landscapes. Here are some of my picks:
Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
This park feels almost custom-made for elopements. There are relatively few trails here, and the ones that are there are short and cut through swaths of insanely beautiful rainforest and coastline, giving you the best of the best without a strenuous double-digit mile hike. After you’re done, hop on a boat tour of the mangroves to see tons of wildlife native to the park—including monkeys and sloths!
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Los Cabos—arguably most commonly associated with its beach town of Cabo San Lucas—sits at the tip of Baja California off the west coast of Central America. The scenery here is dominated by white rock cliffs and arches that rise up out of bright blue waters. They make for great backdrops while you’re riding horses on the beach or staring out at the sea from a luxe resort lounge chair. The magic here is in the blend of being outside and feeling pampered!
Gros Piton, St. Lucia
The larger of the two twin formations on the island’s shoreline, it clocks in at over 2,500 feet right out of the water. It’s a strenuous hike, to be sure—but at the top, you get insane views of the tropical scenery all around you. For a couple that loves mountains and palm trees, you’d be super happy with spending part of your elopement day here! Even if you don’t scale the piton and just gaze up at it from down below.
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
This beach has quite literally won awards for its beauty. This has that “no way this is real” look to it. The sand is super pure white, the water is ridiculously vibrant, and taking it in with a bright blue sky and palm trees gives everything an extra air of paradise. This is a popular beach here, so amenities are never far, but it’s also long enough that you can always find a spot for just you two along the way!
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
This super dark blue lake is the deepest one in Central America and is surrounded by stunning volcanic peaks all around. That means that, pretty much no matter where you pick in this area, you’re going to be treated to a spectacular view. If you love paddling, you can totally make an excursion out of it as part of your wedding day… or ditch the physical labor and hop on a guided cruise to soak it all up. There’s no wrong answer.
Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico
You’ve likely heard of this stretch of the Yucatán Peninsula for its famous beach towns like the resort-filled Playa del Carmen and the more local and wild-feeling Tulum. But everything in between is pretty great, too! Like about a dozen cenotes that you can soak in or explore (all with different vibes!) or ancient Mayan cities. You will remember sunrises here above the turquoise waters for the rest of your life, I promise.
The Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
Endless serene waves and pure peace. That’s the energy of Grace Bay. This is a beach perfect for elopers who want to let everything else go and focus on nothing but each other, the sand under their feet, and the waves at their back. There’s also a barrier reef just off the coast here, giving you calm waters for swimming, kayaking, or wading in!
El Yunque Rainforest, Puerto Rico
This is the best rainforest you’re going to find without using your passport if you’re a US citizen! Perfect tropical jungle vibes with hidden nooks for you and your spouse-to-be to hide away in and find some quiet moments together. Think of waterfalls with wading pools, forested hiking trails, and about 100 different kinds of birds. This is a stellar option for folks traveling from the US who don’t have a ton of time to fly but still want to go somewhere totally incredible.
St. John, US Virgin Islands
St. John manages to be the smallest US Virgin Island while also having its own national park (more on that below)! This one would be awesome for elopers looking for something that feels totally natural and lets them do things like spot turtles and go stargazing at night. Nature lovers in love will have the elopement of their dreams here!
Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands
This national park on the island of St. John is an awesome place to start if you’re interested in eloping in the USVI. Kayaking, sailing, hiking, and snorkeling on the coral reef national monument are all popular activities here that would be awesome with your partner. Or if sleeping oceanside sounds appealing, the Cinnamon Bay beach campground would be a beautiful place to wake up on your wedding day!
Looking for the best places to elope in The Caribbean & Central America?
Browse my country-specific location guides to find the best elopement locations in:
Best places to elope in South America
South America is home to some of the most gorgeous—and most extreme—places on the planet. Here are my favorite adventure-ready places perfect for elopements.
Patagonia, Chile
Patagonia is notorious for having unpredictable weather, but if you know how to time it right and come prepared, you’ll also be treated to some of the most wild places on the planet. Picture towering peaks, bright blue alpine lakes, glaciers everywhere, and an untouched landscape that you’ll feel totally blown away by. And as a bonus, if you’re looking for penguins, you can find them here!
Sacred Valley, Cuzco, Peru
Of all the places in the world, this is the one I picked to elope in when it came time for my own wedding! What makes this valley so amazing is the heights of the Andes around it, which get up to 19,000 feet in elevation and create some truly incredible cloud inversions when you’re up at altitude. Incan architecture shapes the hillsides here, with stone steps and tucked away archways all over the green valley. It’s truly breathtaking (and I’d elope here again!).
Atacama Desert, Chile
If at any point of your planning process you’ve felt like everywhere on Earth has been done and you just wish you could elope in outer space, this is the closest you can come! The Atacama Desert is so known for being Mars-like in its landscape that NASA tests tools going to the red planet here. Red rock formations and matching sands, great stargazing at altitude, and an overall crazy distinct landscape that will have you thinking you’re off-planet entirely.
Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
This is the largest salt flat in the world! You can elope here to feel like you’re out on an endless sea of sparkling, cracked white sands. This is a gorgeous place all year round, but if you want to make it extra special, come here over the winter when the pan floods and turns the entire surface into a perfect mirror of everything above it. Hollywood blockbusters have filmed here over the years and it’s made countless lists of the most unique places on Earth.
Torres Del Paine, Chile
Within Patagonia, Torres del Paine is one of the most popular destinations. What does it take to earn that title in an area so known for its beauty? An edge-of-the-world landscape that takes you all the way from glaciers to black sand beaches to thick towers of rock that form huge vertical pillars. The hikes here are world-famous for a reason and it also offers truly amazing opportunities for rock climbers.
The Galapagos, Ecuador
Nature and animal lovers, this spot needs to be on your list. With incredible conservation projects and rare species that can only be found on these islands, safari and water tours are really special here. Local guides work to protect the animals habitats while also letting you have some encounters that you will be talking about for the rest of your life. This is a super special place.
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
Settled in the shadow of the massive 22,000+ foot mountain Aconcagua, the Uco Valley is full of vineyards where some of the best Malbec in the world is produced. That makes this a truly incredible spot for people who love both great mountains and great vino! Take a 4X4 up into the hills in the morning to say your vows and then have a private dinner in the vines after where you create your own custom blend as a unity ceremony.
Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
If you want as much ice as possible without going to Antarctica, this is your place. This is the largest continental ice extension after the seventh continent, and there are hundreds of glaciers to choose from here. There are hiking trails with great views as well as dozens of excursion options ranging from letting you stand on the glaciers themselves, to kayaking through icebergs, to 4X4 vehicles. Perito Moreno is the most popular stop!
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
Right after the rainy season ends here in February or March, you can hop on a 4X4 and find some wild, gorgeous landscapes. Endless freshwater bright blue pools form in between the soft white dunes, creating private swimming holes for you and your partner to take a dip in, lounge by, or splash through on your elopement day! This is an ideal pick for the couple looking for something beautiful, unique, and ephemeral.
Aconcagua, Argentina
This is one of the Seven Summits and stands as the tallest point in all of South America at nearly 23,000 feet in elevation. This would take close to three weeks to summit, but you can still get some great views either from it or with it on your wedding day! Try hopping on a helicopter to get to higher altitudes or exploring passes outside of Mendoza to find a spot to take it all in from. This is a beautiful mountain to include in any way as part of your elopement.
Best places to elope in Africa
It’s impossible to distill Africa down to one energy or place. As the second largest continent on Earth, you can find so many different breathtaking and distinct landscapes to be a part of your elopement day. Here are just a few options:
Sossusvlei, Namibia
Even if you don’t recognize the name of this section of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, you might recognize a photo of it! This is a super distinct area—a white salt pan dotted with twisted black trees that are hundreds of years in age, all backed by giant red sand dunes. The blue sky is usually super bright, which just makes all of these colors pop even more! When you’re done exploring between the trees, you can have fun running up and down the dunes.
Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles
This beach has a reputation that precedes it—it’s said to be one of the most photographed in the world, and it’s pretty easy to see why. Picture soft golden sand, smooth boulders, perfectly shaped palms, and crystal clear water. It’s an eyeful in the best way. After you’ve said your vows, you can walk through the shallow water here or wade further out to take a dip. This is one of those places you’ll remember long after you’re gone.
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Etosha offers a beautiful blend of luxe accommodations and absolutely incredible chances to see wildlife in action! After the rainy season, the watering holes that form here on the Etosha salt pan give park visitors epic ways to see the animals in their habitat, either from safari tours or from the balconies of their rooms.
Marrakech, Morocco
If you’re looking for a ton of culture in one place, proximity to beautiful natural surroundings, and lots of art and architecture, you should consider Marrakech. Activity is always thriving in the stone streets of the Medina, where you’ll find marketplaces, food vendors, and architecture from nearly 1,000 years ago. There are lots of activities on offer here, from museums, to camel tours of the Sahara, to 4X4 excursions, to cooking classes!
Luxor, Egypt
Sorry, Vegas, but imitations do not compare. The ruins here are from the city of Thebes and date back to 1500 BC—over 3,500 years ago. This would be a good pick for elopers with a love and respect for ancient history who want to feel small in a big way to put how rare their bond is into contrast. Hot air balloon rides are really popular here! They let you get an aerial view of some of the super famous sites and monuments so you can take it all in.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
If your whole reason for coming to Africa is to see animals, this is the spot for you. Home to all of Africa’s “Big 5”—lions, leopards, elephants, Cape buffalos, and rhinos—Serengeti is a perfect place to take a safari tour. You’ll also find giraffes, zebras, hippos, and cheetahs! Every year the park is also a site of the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest and gazelles move through the park. For wildlife lovers, there’s no better place to be.
The Sahara Desert, Morocco
The Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world, so this recommendation is a broad one… but take it from me, there is so much to uncover here! Start in Morocco, which will put you in proximity to some seriously beautiful places, like the bright red Erg Chebbi sand dunes, along with vendors offering excursions. Sunrises and sunsets are especially gorgeous out here, with nothing obstructing your view as you watch the sky and sand change colors.
Masai Mara, Kenya
If you’re looking at the other safari options on this list and thinking they’re just not exciting enough for you, let me point you in the direction of Masai Mara. This spot is in the middle of a national reserve and offers hot air balloon safaris! Wake up at sunrise and have breakfast and champagne from the basket of a hot air balloon while you overlook big cats and sights from the Great Migration. It’s unforgettable.
Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa
Take the aerial tramway right to the top of this 3,500 foot mountain and get great views from above! This solid force of a plateau is located right behind Cape Town and is named after the cloud layer that forms on top of the stone that looks like a tablecloth. If you want to make your trip here extra special, you can even rent a private cable car to take you to and from, letting you skip the lines and spend some quiet moments enjoying the view with just the two of you.
Cape Winelands, South Africa
Elope here to say your vows in a historic wine making region with its own glass of regional bubbly. There are tours here that will take you through all of the vineyards or you can pick just one to stay at the whole time so that you can take things at a slower pace. Between the picturesque vines, the green valleys, and the gorgeous boutique hotels, you’ll be totally surrounded by beauty on all sides.
Looking for an urban adventure in an old or new city?
Best Cities to Elope in
Looking for bright lights and exciting cities to elope in? These are some of my favorite places around the world to find beautiful accommodations, rich art and cultural experiences, and an unbeatably romantic energy. For an urban elopement that keeps you out of the mud and in incredible locations, here are my top picks:
01
New York City, New York
New York City is renowned around the world for its vibrant culture, world-class museums, incredible theater scene, and truly amazing dining. If you’re a couple that loves the city and wants a crazy memorable elopement day, New York is a great pick! Whether you’re recreating movie scenes, going on a pizza slice crawl, stopping at all the classic (great!) tourist attractions, seeing a Broadway show, or going to a unique activity that you can only find there, you’re sure to have the adventure of a lifetime. Another great thing about New York is that you can make it as luxurious as you want—or mix it up! Stay at the Plaza Hotel and only eat from hot dog and pretzel carts. The world is your oyster.
03
Las Vegas, Nevada
This is one city with a serious reputation around eloping! If you want to do the classic Sin City elopement with Elvis and the drive through chapel, this is the place to do it. But even if not, there’s a lot here to have fun with! You can have your ceremony just outside the city in Red Rock Canyon and then venture back to the strip for luxe stays, fine dining, and world-class entertainment. This is a great spot for that “the world is our oyster” feeling.
05
New Orleans, Louisiana
Nothing says “elopement PACKED with experiences” like the Big Easy. New Orleans is most famous for its brightly colored French Quarter, air filled with jazz, powdered sugar coated beignets, and proximity to the occult with above-ground cemeteries and psychics. This is a super self-paced city—you can fill your day with as few or as many things as you want! Making it perfect both for couples looking to experience as many things as possible and couples who want a beautiful, memorable location that they can move slower in. Party your way down Bourbon Street after getting married or get Creole food and go to a show. It’s totally up to you.
02
Paris, France
You already know that the City of Love is one romantic place, and that stays true for couples looking to elope there. Picture long walks through historic architecture, ducking into cafes for a pastry and cup of coffee with your partner, and sprawling gardens and paths along the Seine. After dusk, make sure to catch the Eiffel Tower lit up at the top of every hour. Or, if you’ve seen your fill of that, grab a bottle of wine and picnic along the Canal Saint-Martin.
04
London, United Kingdom
For a great mix of greenery, history, and the arts, you can always elope in London! What makes this city so vibrant and unique is not only its interesting architecture and cobblestone streets, but also the super wide variety of landscapes you can get here. From the gardens of Hyde Park, to the stone walls of the Tower of London, to the quirky charm of the Carnaby Street arts district, there is truly something for everyone here. Winter can bring a near constant drizzle, so if you want to avoid that, visit in the nicer months of May-August when the weather is mild but dry.
06
Miami, Florida
Full of culture, temperate waters, and endless activity, Miami is a great place to elope! It’ll put you in close proximity to the beaches of your dreams—with clear waters, white sands, and palm trees—while giving you big city resources and options for lodging. If you’re looking for a spot with a vibrant nightlife and arts scene, this is the place for you! There are also some top notch parks around here, like Bill Baggs Cape State Park and Biscayne National Park.
01
New York City, New York
New York City is renowned around the world for its vibrant culture, world-class museums, incredible theater scene, and truly amazing dining. If you’re a couple that loves the city and wants a crazy memorable elopement day, New York is a great pick! Whether you’re recreating movie scenes, going on a pizza slice crawl, stopping at all the classic (great!) tourist attractions, seeing a Broadway show, or going to a unique activity that you can only find there, you’re sure to have the adventure of a lifetime. Another great thing about New York is that you can make it as luxurious as you want—or mix it up! Stay at the Plaza Hotel and only eat from hot dog and pretzel carts. The world is your oyster.
02
Paris, France
Another iconic area in Colorado, Maroon Bells is famous for amazing sunrises amongst photographers from all over the world. “The Bells” have a unique red hue which is amplified at sunrise, and in the reflections of the lakes in front of the peaks. This area is popular for aspen trees, and just absolutely breathtaking. Though this is a popular spot, ask me how to best avoid crowds here! I have a few secret spots up my sleeves. In the wintertime, this area is accessible by snowmobiles too!
03
Las Vegas, Nevada
Another iconic area in Colorado, Maroon Bells is famous for amazing sunrises amongst photographers from all over the world. “The Bells” have a unique red hue which is amplified at sunrise, and in the reflections of the lakes in front of the peaks. This area is popular for aspen trees, and just absolutely breathtaking. Though this is a popular spot, ask me how to best avoid crowds here! I have a few secret spots up my sleeves. In the wintertime, this area is accessible by snowmobiles too!
04
London, United Kingdom
For a great mix of greenery, history, and the arts, you can always elope in London! What makes this city so vibrant and unique is not only its interesting architecture and cobblestone streets, but also the super wide variety of landscapes you can get here. From the gardens of Hyde Park, to the stone walls of the Tower of London, to the quirky charm of the Carnaby Street arts district, there is truly something for everyone here. Winter can bring a near constant drizzle, so if you want to avoid that, visit in the nicer months of May-August when the weather is mild but dry.
05
New Orleans, Louisiana
Nothing says “elopement PACKED with experiences” like the Big Easy. New Orleans is most famous for its brightly colored French Quarter, air filled with jazz, powdered sugar coated beignets, and proximity to the occult with above-ground cemeteries and psychics. This is a super self-paced city—you can fill your day with as few or as many things as you want! Making it perfect both for couples looking to experience as many things as possible and couples who want a beautiful, memorable location that they can move slower in. Party your way down Bourbon Street after getting married or get Creole food and go to a show. It’s totally up to you.
06
Miami, Florida
Another iconic area in Colorado, Maroon Bells is famous for amazing sunrises amongst photographers from all over the world. “The Bells” have a unique red hue which is amplified at sunrise, and in the reflections of the lakes in front of the peaks. This area is popular for aspen trees, and just absolutely breathtaking. Though this is a popular spot, ask me how to best avoid crowds here! I have a few secret spots up my sleeves. In the wintertime, this area is accessible by snowmobiles too!
Best Places to Elope
for Specific Activities & Experiences
What would be fun & exciting to do on your wedding day?
Best Helicopter Elopement Locations
Helicopters are like a “cheat code” to elopements if you want completely secluded, remote wilderness locations all to yourselves, but not have to hike anywhere. Due to laws and regulations around where helicopters can land, there are more limited places you can elope with a helicopter world-wide, but don’t worry, they’re all absolutely stunning.
Learn more about my favorite places to do helicopter elopements, things you should consider beforehand, and how to know if it’s right for you in my:
Chugach National Forest, Alaska
With so much of Alaska dependent upon helicopters, float planes, and bush planes, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that helicopters can be super useful here! Go from sea level, to standing on a glacier, to a mountain peak all in one day.
Santorini, Greece
For the best views in the house of this volcanic caldera, you’ve gotta check it out from a helicopter. The cliffs here are dramatic and the quality of the light is so beautiful, all of which is only accented by an aerial tour.
Interlaken, Switzerland
Glacier and mountain peak lovers, this is your tour. Explore the Alps in a whole new way and see some of the most beautiful alpine lakes along the way! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves the Alps, whether you’ve never been or it’s an old favorite.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
“Epic” doesn’t cover this. Getting a bird’s eye view is, in my opinion, one of the only ways to truly understand the magnitude of this massive place! Hop in a tour and see the hundreds of miles it takes up in style.
Milford Sound, New Zealand
Helicopter tours of Milford Sound will take you by the highest peak that goes directly into the ocean in the world, so expect great scenery here! The beauty is unreal, and I love how you have to drink it all in when you’re looking at it from above.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Helicoptering in Amalfi is a form of transportation that pays attention to form as well as function. Whether you want to take in the colorful buildings of the coast and beautiful blue water or just want to get from one town to another in a quick and easy way, this is the move.
Best Jeep/4×4 Elopement Locations
If you aren’t a hiker (or just don’t want to on your wedding day!) but are still craving epic mountain views during your elopement, a 4X4 is the way to go. 4X4 operators know back channels and the local terrain like the backs of their hands and can deliver you safely and easily to everything from beautiful mountain passes to secluded desert dunes. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy.
Steal my pro-tips for 4X4 elopements including how to pick the best operator, my favorite spots in the world for them, and what to wear in my:
San Juan Mountains, Colorado
The San Juans are one of my favorite places on Earth to take a 4X4 because they’re lined with old gold mining trails that empty out right onto breathtaking passes. You’ll be totally immersed in Alps-like peaks and wildflowers—just a few feet from the vehicle.
Moab, Utah
There’s so much to explore here outside of the national parks, so you can head out on a trail and not see another person the whole time! This is an easy way to get backcountry access without backpacking.
Namib Desert & Sandwich Harbour, Namibia
Take a Jeep from the Namib Desert, through massive sand dunes, and right up to the coasts of Sandwich Harbour. What makes this tour so special is the wide variety of terrain you can tackle in just one day, so you get a sense for a large section of Earth in a small amount of time!
Monument Valley, Arizona
4X4 tours of Monument Valley is one of the best ways to see all of the history, variation, and beauty this stretch of land has to offer. Guided tours provided by the Navajo people offer so much cultural detail about the valley and enrich the experience.
Wadi Rum Protected Area, Jordan
Trust me, you’re going to want a sunset tour of this area. With nearly 200,000 acres filled with beautiful stone formations, this desert landscape is incredibly colorful when the sun starts to sink! There’s also tons of ancient human history here to make your day extraordinary.
Rubicon Trail, California
This is one of the most famous 4X4 trails in the country and is as notoriously difficult as it is absolutely stunning. Hire a local guide to take you on the trip of a lifetime through the wilderness and then head back to Lake Tahoe for even more beautiful California scenery.
Best Hiking Elopement Locations
My love of hiking elopements is what started my whole company! There’s something magical about taking on a beautiful trail with your partner that ends in a gorgeous spot to say your vows. No matter what kind of terrain you love or what continent you’re eloping on, there’s an epic hike waiting for you!
Get started with everything you need to know about what gear you’ll need, my favorite hikes in the world, and even how to pack a wedding dress in a backpack in my:
Colorado Rockies
This is my backyard mountain range and it will always have my heart. The Rocky Mountain Range is at some of its finest in the state of Colorado, with 58 14ers that are perfect for hiking. Not to mention mountain passes full of greenery in the summer!
Swiss and Italian Alps
The Alps are full of fantasy settings for hikes, with infrastructure that lets you trek from gorgeous peak to gorgeous peak. The prevalence of lifts up the mountains also means you can spend your full hike already on top of the ridge!
Yosemite National Park, California
This national park is FULL of iconic sights, like Glacier Point, Half Dome, and El Capitan—which means the trails here are literally breathtaking. Hikes in Yosemite are ones you’ll remember forever with epic views, waterfalls, and yawning valleys.
Patagonia, Chile
Full wilderness immersion at work and packed full of peaks and glaciers, hiking in Patagonia feels like hiking on the edge of the world. If you feel like you and your partner have tackled every other kind of terrain, this would be perfect for you.
North Cascades National Park, Washington
Pure magic. Think hikes through flower-filled meadows and past bright blue alpine lakes. The season here is short and at its best July through October—but when all the trails and passes are open, this is a hikers haven.
Himalayas, Nepal
If hiking through the tallest mountains in the world sounds like your perfect elopement, you’ll be at home here in the shadow of Mount Everest. But you don’t need to actually climb 29,000 feet to get great views! Neighboring hikes are super stunning.
Tour du Mont Blanc, Chamonix, France
Hiking around the tallest mountain in Western Europe will have you getting up close and personal with beautiful glaciers. This specific hike in total takes a week to complete at 103 miles, but you don’t have to do all of it!
Best Hot Air Balloon Elopement Locations
Hot air balloons are an amazing elopement day activity. It’s one of the most romantic ways to get above it all and see jaw-dropping views with your partner. And as a bonus, it’s also super peaceful! There’s almost no sound, making it truly profound in our noisy lives. If you want an activity that will feel really special without the adrenaline of a helicopter or the physicality of a hike, this is for you!
Learn more about what you need to know to find a great hot air balloon operator, the best attire to wear, and more how-to’s in my:
Cappadocia, Turkey
Known for fairy chimneys and mushroom-like hoodoos, this sculpted valley is one of the most unique places on Earth to hot air balloon over. Hot air balloons here can come with amenities like sunrise breakfast specials to make it extra special.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
This city LOVES its hot air balloons—so much that they made a whole festival about them. The largest one in the world! 500+ hot air balloons take over the riverfront for a week in October and it is one of the most special times to be in the city.
Moab, Utah
Taking a hot air balloon over this area is the ONLY way to see some of the delicate stone arches and towering red rocks from above, as drones and helicopters are banned in the national parks in the area. And it is SO worth it.
Serengeti National Park, Kenya
If you’ve ever been curious about a safari but want something extra unique (or just a degree of separation from the animal kingdom), consider seeing wildlife from a hot air balloon! This is an elopement day you will never forget.
Sedona, Arizona
Taking to the skies is one of the most impressive ways to see the Painted Desert and the red rock of Sedona. Take a tour during the spectacular sunsets the state is known for and watch the valleys light up in bright colors.
Luxor, Egypt
Sail over ancient ruins from the City of Thebes dating back to 1500 BCE and take in human history from the air. Plus, you’ll get views of the Nile and the Valley of Kings for more historical wonders!
Best Seaplane Elopement Locations
Seaplanes serve a key role in any remote water-based elopement, as they combine the functionality of a boat and a helicopter. Their small size and ability to land on water will give you endless opportunities when it comes to where to elope! But the epic views and private, romantic ride with your partner don’t exactly hurt, either. This is a form and function activity.
Get my pro-tips on how to know if a seaplane is right for you, what special considerations you should make, and other must-read tips in my:
Seattle, Washington
Taking a seaplane tour in Seattle will give you panoramic views of the city and Puget Sound as you fly to destinations like the San Juan Islands or North Cascades National Park. Whether you’re staying local to the area or taking off into other extremely scenic parts of Washington, you’ll love this.
Anchorage, Alaska
In Alaska, where large parts of the state are inaccessible by car and have no roads, seaplanes have a special role. Seaplanes offer beautiful sights of hard to access places like icefields while also connecting remote areas of the state. It’s a perfect choice for an Alaska elopement!
Maldives
One of the best ways to get from the international airport in Male to your resort of choice is via seaplane. This gives you a spectacular birds-eye-view of the area and delivers you right to your bungalow door in style.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
One of the quickest and most scenic ways to see one of America’s least visited parks is by seaplane. Take a plane in and snorkel or kayak the day away. You can even camp here for a night and take a night dive under the plentiful stars.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Take a seaplane over swirling sands, turquoise waters, and a naturally heart shaped reef here! This is a great access point to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can elope next to one of the seven wonders of the natural world.
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
You can go to Isle Royale via ferry, but it’s faster and much more fun via seaplane. This uninhabited island has a lodge you can stay at and is surrounded by the vast, sea-like horizons of Lake Superior and is full of unique sandstone formations.
Best Safari Elopement Locations
For nature lovers and adventure lovers, there are few things as cool and unique to do on your elopement day as a safari tour. Picture going on a private drive with you and your partner on your wedding day and having lions 20 feet from your truck! These are just a few of my favorite spots for those looking to see animals in their habitat:
Wondering what kind of animals you can find, how to pick a good lodge, or when to time your tour? Find more answers in my:
Etosha National Park, Namibia
When the Etosha Pan floods after the rainy season, it forms watering holes that attract animals from all over! You can find 114 different species here as well as water spots you can see from the balcony of your lodge.
The Galapagos, Ecuador
The Galapagos have played no small role in our knowledge of evolution and speciation, and it’s a great place to see conserved wildlife even now! If land safaris aren’t your thing, consider a water excursion here to see oceanic animals you can only find here.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
If you’re looking for tons of options for incredible 4X4 game drives, this would be a great park for you. Choose from night drives, morning drives, or even all-day outings that allow you to see different wildlife at varying times of day!
South Georgia Island, British Overseas Territory
If you love Arctic animals (or Antarctic, in this case), then you should check out South Georgia Island! Include this as a stop on your elopement day to find an island where the only permanent inhabitants are penguins and seals who have no predator animals nearby and are free to relax.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Home to all of Africa’s “Big 5”—lions, Cape buffalo, rhinos, leopards, and elephants—this park is a natural go-to for wildlife lovers! Not to mention other favorites that are frequently found here like hippos, wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and cheetahs. You’re bound to spot something cool!
Kanha National Park, India
This park is famous for its enormous tiger reserve! So if you’re looking for majestic big cats during your elopement day, you’ll find them here. The tigers here are in a protected area along with panthers, hyenas, and boars.
Best Stargazing Elopement Locations
There are few things in the world that are as romantic as looking up at the stars with your partner, especially on your wedding day. It doesn’t matter if you’re seasoned space enthusiasts or if you’ve never seen the full Milky Way before, stargazing at the end of your elopement can be the perfect note to end on. And no matter where in the world you are, there will be beautiful stars overhead that you can spot!
Learn my best tips for things like timing, seasonality, and what gear to bring with you in my:
Atacama Desert, Chile
The closest you can come to standing on Mars, this desert is where NASA tests equipment going to the Red Planet. The dry atmosphere and high elevation also mean that the views of the real stars from here are absolutely incredible.
Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Enjoy clear, high elevation dark skies with the full Milky Way on display over your head. If you’re coming from the continental United States, you’ll be surprised at how different the stars look here!
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Home to its own astronomy festival, Rocky Mountain National Park draws space lovers from all over the country. The park’s vast size allows for plenty of room to spread out and find star lookouts all to yourself.
Death Valley National Park, California
This park has been awarded at the Gold Tier level (that’s the highest one!) by the International Dark Sky Association. Meaning that the views of space from here are quite literally world class! It’s even part of an astro-tourism route called Park to Park in the Dark.
Teide Observatory, Tenerife, Canary Islands
This observatory has made astronomical history and is home to some incredibly powerful telescopes! If you want to get a closer look at the stars than you can with the naked eye, this would make for an incredibly special stop—especially via private tour!
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand
As one of the largest dark sky reserves in the world, this is a region that draws tourism in from around the world. Laws around the reserve support the low light pollution levels that you’ll find here, allowing you to see many space objects with the naked eye!
How to
Pick the Best Elopement Location for YOU –
7 Factors to Consider
01 Scenery & Views
Obviously one of the major benefits of eloping is the option to be surrounded by the most incredible, jaw-dropping scenery in the world. So what’s your favorite type of scenery? Do you like the feeling of being on top of a mountain? What about a super old and magical forest with trees towering above you? You could also elope at the base of a powerful waterfall, the edge of a canyon, or cliff going straight into the sea. Think about the places that you two love and have enjoyed being the most—the places that inspire you, humble you, and make you feel happy and at peace.
Depending on the location, it’s also entirely possible to get multiple types of your favorite scenery in one day. Check out this helicopter elopement on Vancouver Island, B.C. that included a snowy mountaintop, a magical forest, and a private shell island, and a secluded rocky beach all in one day.
Ask yourself these questions:
02 Seasonality
Choosing a season you want to get married in – or, a seasonal quality (hot, cold, snow, etc.) actually doesn’t limit you to any time of year! How? Well, we photograph elopements ALL OVER THE WORLD! So, when it’s snowing in Colorado, it’s sunny in New Zealand. Whenever you want to elope, we can match that date with your ideal season! Choosing a season is an important part of elopement planning because it will determine what you wear, what activities you can do, and how accessible a lot of outdoor areas are. Though, if you don’t mind an unconventional mode of transportation, we can get many places year-round!
Being honest with yourself about seasonality can be the deciding factor for how fun your elopement is! If you absolutely hate extreme heat or cold, you’ll have a lot more fun if we put in the effort to choose a location and date with more mild weather. Also, seasonality will really affect the view from your location. If you’ve fallen madly in love with a photo of an alpine meadow covered in flowers, you’re going to have to plan an elopement for the exact same time of year that image was taken. But, if you love the beaches of Hawaii, they remain almost exactly the same year-round, and we’ll take those desires very seriously when choosing YOUR perfect destination!
Ask yourself these questions:
03 Accessibility
Once you’ve thought about what type of scenery you want to be surrounded by when you say your vows, another important consideration is how far you want to travel to get to that dream spot. Certain types of scenery can only be found in specific parts of the world, which may require a lot of travel. Do you want to go to the Faroe Islands to get married next to a waterfall that flows straight into the sea? What about Milford sound in New Zealand? Or do you want to have the impossibly jagged peaks of the Patagonia mountains be witnesses to your vows? Or a massive glacier in Alaska? In addition to international flights, some locations may require driving 4-8 hours from the nearest airport, taking a ferry, bush plane, helicopter, or a long hike to reach. Knowing how far you’re willing to travel, and what adventure you want to undertake to get to your destination, will help narrow down your options.
Also, if you or any guests you hope to invite have difficulties with strenuous terrain, you’ll want to think about whether a place should be considered, even if it technically can be reached. Be honest with yourself about your priorities and abilities. For example: if you live at sea level and don’t enjoy hiking regularly, Everest base camp shouldn’t be your elopement destination. Mobility and accessibility go hand in hand, and while we’re guilty of enjoying quite a bit of type 2 fun, we acknowledge there’s a line between adventure and sufferfest. We’d like to ensure you remember your elopement fondly!
Ask yourself these questions:
04 Seclusion
Another extremely important consideration when picking a location to elope is seclusion. In this age of Instagram, where previously unknown beautiful spots are being geo-tagged, and subsequently flocked by tourists from around the world—privacy is becoming tougher and tougher to find. The ideal combination of factors in the perfect elopement spot is stunning scenery, easy accessibility, and seclusion—but these days, you usually have to pick two of those three.
We have found there is usually a direct trade-off between accessibility & seclusion. The farther you are willing to travel to an amazing spot (especially if you’re willing/able to hike), the better the chances are you can have it to yourself. For example, everything else equal, a location up a 5-mile hike at sunrise in Yosemite National Park, is going to be WAY more secluded than going to a popular overlook you can drive to. There are of course exceptions to this rule, and this definitely doesn’t mean you have to hike somewhere in order to get seclusion for your elopement. You can also find seclusion up 4×4 roads, by taking a helicopter, or simply going at a non-popular time of day (like sunrise on a weekday), and avoiding peak season.
A good trick to see how busy a place might be is to search the location on Instagram—if you find thousands of photos tagged to that spot, you’ll want to think about finding somewhere more secluded (or going at a very non-peak time of day/year).
Finding an incredibly beautiful secluded spot is probably the biggest challenge we help couples overcome—and it often requires deep digging and intense research to find those lesser-known, still hidden gems (which there still are plenty of in the world!). You likely won’t find a secluded spot on easily google-able, or Pinterest-able lists like “10 must-see places in Iceland”.
Ask yourself these questions:
05 Meaning
Of course your elopement will be full of meaning, as it should be. A way to add another layer of meaning and intention to your wedding celebration is choosing a location that means something to you. It can be a place you’ve already traveled to with your partner, or a place you’ve always wanted to go! Maybe it’s a place that holds deep sentimental value to one of your families, or it’s been the subject of a photograph always hanging on your wall. Maybe it’s a place you never knew existed until we sent you the coordinates, but upon viewing it felt immediately right! Maybe the rush of an exciting new place is exactly what defines your adventurous relationship, and the most YOU thing would be to elope somewhere totally foreign.
Incorporating a meaningful importance to your elopement location also doesn’t have to come before the wedding! You could choose a place that later develops meaning because you travel back to visit for your anniversary. The fact is, eloping somewhere you’ve intentionally chosen for its natural beauty will anchor you there. We’ve witnessed it happen hundreds of times – a couple will arrive to their elopement with so much love in their eyes, and by the end of the day they will be staring at the scenery with a sense of respect and longing so deep, we know they’ll always remember what it felt like to stand in that exact spot. Outdoor elopements combine our love for our partners with our love for life on this gorgeous planet – that itself means so much!
Ask yourself these questions:
06 Experience & Activities
You’ve got a whole day, maybe even a whole weekend or longer, to celebrate getting married to the love of your life – what are you going to do? Yes, you’ll share vows and take photos but this is your chance to get truly imaginative and make a to-do list of dream elopement activities! You can go drive 4×4 back roads, summit a mountain you’ve always wanted to climb, jump out of an airplane, go swimming with sharks, get matching tattoos, plant some trees, or go deep into the backcountry and set up camp. When we say the possibilities are endless when it comes to your elopement – we mean it!
Whether your elopement is a single trip or being combined with your honeymoon, we highly recommend that you first and foremost let your imagination run wild! What are some activities you’ve always dreamed of doing? Once you’ve considered all the possibilities, narrow it down to a handful of do-able things and be sure to plan buffer times. Don’t make the mistake of trying to do too much in one trip – instead, make sure what you do is enjoyed at 110%!
Ask yourself these questions:
07 Guests
Bringing along your loved ones can change the vibe of your elopement – but there are still many ways to include guests without feeling like you’ve sacrificed the intimacy and privacy of an elopement experience. If you are inviting guests to the ceremony itself, plan a time away afterward to enjoy the immense commitment you’ve made to your partner. If you want to say vows in privacy, but still want to share the moment with family and friends, return from your ceremony to a reception. The number of guests you bring will significantly affect your options for ceremony locations, and that definitely needs to be considered. But, having guests doesn’t mean you can’t elope in a stunning place! We’ve photographed elopements with up to 25 people present that felt just as intimate and special, while also somewhere with a mountain backdrop.
Some locations will have very specific limits when it comes to the number of guests you can invite. Some backcountry trails limit groups to 10 or less, whereas other locations in national parks say they will accommodate up to 50! We only photograph small weddings, with up to 25 people present, and we’ve found the biggest limiting factor to be the willingness and ability of guests to access the space. That said, we’ve witnessed grandparents hike miles up a trail to witness a cliffside ceremony. We’ve also found ways to drive guests in via backroads to reach a summit that a couple hiked to. If you want to invite guests to your elopement ceremony for it to be the perfect day – we will find a place where everyone can be present!
Ask yourself these questions:
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I’ve traveled to 41 countries, all 7 continents, and personally planned and photographed over 300 elopements worldwide—I’ve got you covered.
Maddie Mae of Adventure Instead is a destination elopement photographer based in Colorado, USA. She’s been to 40 countries and all 7 continents. She designs, plans, & photographs adventure elopements worldwide.
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