August 21, 2025

How to Kayak, Canoe, SUP, or Packraft on your wedding day

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It doesn’t matter if you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing, paddling is such a great activity to work into your wedding or elopement! It’s versatile, relatively inexpensive, and usually only has room for 2 people max. What more could you ask for in a wedding day adventure? 

I love taking the couples I work with out on paddling adventures, especially when it’s off to packraft in glacial meltwater pools in Alaska or paddleboard through the world’s most productive icefjord in Greenland. Your adventures can be as epic or peaceful as you want! I’ve documented 300+ elopements, so I know exactly how to plan a paddle into your day with ease! 

In fact, I love it so much that I have it as a whole filter on my interactive best places to elope map! You can head to the map to filter through over 600 locations, looking only at where you can head out on the water. 

This guide will walk you through everything I know about how to pack, what to wear, and how to make sure this is the right activity for you. 

Let’s get started! 

Two people in red kayaks paddle through bright blue glacial water surrounded by large chunks of white ice, viewed from above.

Pros of kayaking or paddleboarding on your wedding day

Available in many settings

Oceans, rivers, lakes, ponds, and even small pools of water can all provide great options for paddling around! I’ve had couples incorporate this as easily off a Greek island as they have on an alpine lake in Colorado. There are so many places where this is a possibility! 

Inexpensive & lightweight

Renting a kayak or paddleboard to go out on is usually pretty affordable and the availability of inflatable options means you can bring rafts with you to places you may not be able to usually! It can be a much more accessible option than going out on a pontoon or sailboat, for example. 

Privacy with just the two of you

Even when you rent a boat, you’ll have a photographer and a captain on board, usually. Paddling necessitates that it’s just the two of you! I’ll stand back and snap pictures from shore or a nearby vessel, but it’ll basically be just you. 

A moment to soak it all in

Paddling through the water in nature is usually a super zen activity. It’s quiet, you’re close to the water itself, and there’s often no one around! I’ve found these moments are really special to eloping couples and give them a chance to really connect. 

Relaxing properties

If you’re the type to get anxious or stressed on your wedding day, getting in the water and paddling off the nervous energy helps significantly! This is a great way to build in time to take a deep breath, get some excess energy out, and realign before you continue on with your day. 

A woman in a white swimsuit paddles a blue and white Aqua Plus paddleboard on calm water near rocky cliffs.

Cons of kayaking or paddleboarding on your wedding day

You might get wet

Any time you’re going out in a craft that close to the water, you run the risk of a splash or two. If you’re not looking to get any water on you, you may want to opt for a full boat instead! You can find my guide on that here. 

A change of clothes might be necessary

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had plenty of couples out in pack rafts, canoes, paddleboard, and more in full wedding attire! But if you’re worried about getting your clothes wet or falling in, a change may be in order. 

It can be hard work

Depending on where you’re paddling and what craft you’re in, your experience can range from leisurely and slow to fighting currents. If you’re not looking to do anything super physical on your wedding day, a different type of boat (like I reference above) may be a better choice.

Weather may disrupt your plans

Any time you’re out on the water, a turn in the weather can nix your plans quickly. Make sure you’re comfortable with a back-up plan or pivoting your plans to a different day if you need to. Always make sure you’re evaluating the conditions of the water before heading out. 

Steps to plan a paddleboarding or kayaking elopement

Putting together an elopement day that involves a paddling excursion can take some planning, but likely not as much as you may think! I’ve designed dozens of wedding days where couples head out on the water, so I’m happy to guide you through the process! 

1. Pick your wedding location and date (in that order)

This can be as general as a region of the US or as specific as a town or resort you really want to go to. Once you’ve decided, look up the weather conditions in that region and pick a general timeframe when the water will be at its best. Try picking one of the more popular lakes or rivers in the area and searching for when the locals head out on it. 

For example, if you’re eloping in Northern California, you may be drawn to Lake Tahoe. If you search for the best times to paddleboard on Lake Tahoe, you’ll find that it’s generally most favorable in July & August. If you take into account that this is also the lake’s busiest season, that leaves you with a weekday morning paddle in the area in one of those months. 

2. Research local rental spots if you need to

For some elopements & intimate weddings, if you live close to the area you’re getting married in, you may be able to take your own kayak, paddleboard, or canoe with you! If this is your plan, you can skip over this step. If not, look into various rental companies in the area and compare rates. I’ll talk more below on how to pick the best one for you! Don’t be afraid to search outside the box (like with helicopter companies for Alaska, for example) and remember that some remote places may have one or no direct options! If you have a specific date in mind, make sure they are available on that date. 

🛑Do not book them until after the next step! 🛑

3. Decide on a photographer

Do your research into some local photographers and decide on someone who you want to work with. Working with a local photographer can be incredibly helpful during this process. Cross reference their availability with any rental need availability before you book with anyone. 

Once you’ve got everyone lined up on the same day, you’re good to lock everything in! You can book with both parties. 

Pro Tip: If you want, you can also switch step #2 and step #3. When you work with me, I’ll give you links to all of my favorite vendors, including activity vendors that are perfect for your day. You’ll also get all of my advice and top tips built on over a decade of experience. That way you never have to navigate these waters (pun intended) alone. 

4. Fill in other vendors & travel plans

Now that you have your date and the two most date-sensitive vendors locked down, you can start hiring anybody else you may need for your day. Think about things like florals, catering, wedding attire, rental vehicles if needed, etc. This is also the stage to start looking at travel if you need it, including lodging and flight or drive options. 

When you work with me, I’ll give you all of my favorite unique and picturesque stays in the area as well as connections to vendors nearby! I’m always on hand to consult with through this process and answer any questions, share advice, or help you arrange logistics. 

As you think about travel, keep in mind that the best time to book a flight is about 6 weeks before on average and the best time to book a hotel is generally either very early or very close to your date (though this can vary greatly on the lodging).  

5. Consider what to pack

When you’re planning on going in the water, you’ll need to pack more carefully than you would otherwise. I provide custom packing lists to all of my couples, but you can read on for a summary list of some items to consider below!

6. Prep & sign your paperwork—and you’re married!

As your wedding day approaches, you’ll want to look into the application and marriage license process for wherever you’re getting married! This is usually done at the nearest county clerk’s office. Different states have different laws about witnesses, officiants, timing, and costs, so make sure you start looking into this before you need to. 

On the day, all you have to do is have your ceremony, sign your license, enjoy your paddling adventure, and ta da! One wedding day perfect for you.

A small canoe with two people floats on a calm, forested lake surrounded by tall pine trees and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

What’s the best time of year for a kayaking elopement

The best time of year for most paddling elopements is going to be summer. For the US specifically, southern bodies of water are better in the early summer and the farther north you go the later in the summer you should go. In general, for most US based locations (including Alaska), July is the most reliable month of the year to find good conditions for getting out on the water. 

This will vary some depending on where else in the world you are, though. If you’re on a kayak tour around the Perito Moreno glacier in Argentina, you’ll likely want to go during January, when their weather is the warmest. Or, if you’re paddling around the Maldives, the weather is really consistent, so you’re better off visiting over the winter months when there are way less people and prices are lower. 

I can help you figure all of this out! I’ll listen to what you want out of your day and help you find the best combination of beautiful scenery, low crowds, and great paddling conditions. 

Best locations for kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding around the world

Sardinia, Italy

A person paddles on a stand-up paddleboard in clear, deep blue-green water, viewed from above. The water is calm and textured, and the paddleboard features a brown and white design.

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with the gorgeous geologic formations and pristine beaches of Sardinia, a kayak is the best way to do it! You may even see dolphins along the way, especially if you take a tour with a local guide who can usually lead you straight to where the pods migrate. You can even hop off of the kayak for a quick snorkeling detour or paddle yourself straight into one of Sardinia’s beautiful sea caves. The Golfo Di Orosei is one of my favorite places to paddle through, and you can find tons of tucked away coves that you can pull off on and explore!

Best for: Coast, Rocks, Beaches and Caves

Best months to get married here: May to September

My favorite activities to do here: Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Sail boating, Paddleboarding, Hiking

Lake Powell, Utah & Arizona

People kayaking through a narrow, scenic canyon with steep rock walls on a calm body of water. Bright daylight highlights the natural colors of the canyon's stone.

For the perfect water-based adventure elopement, Lake Powell basically hands it to you on a silver platter. This massive reservoir is packed with hidden coves, slot canyons, and towering red rock walls that you can explore by kayak or paddleboard. Paddle to your own private beach for a just-us ceremony or float through narrow canyons where the walls rise straight up around you. You can even camp on the shores, stargaze after sunset, and wake up for a sunrise paddle. It’s the kind of place that feels like it was made for wild-hearted adventures!

Best for: Canyons, Desert, Lake, Slot Canyons

Best months to get married here:
March to October

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Camping, Helicopters, 4×4/Jeep, Houseboats

Ilulissat Icefjord, Ilulissat, Greenland

A bride in a white gown and a groom in a white suit paddleboard on calm water surrounded by icebergs under a partly cloudy sky.

The Illulissat Icefjord is one of my all-time favorite elopements spots and the site of one of the bravest, most daring things I’ve ever seen a couple do on their wedding day. I had a couple stand up and paddle board here, which was crazy given the ocean currents, waves from apartment-sized icebergs, the cold, and all the weight of their wedding attire! If you’re not quite up for that, there are other kayaking and paddling options here that are just as breathtaking to get you up-close-and-personal with insane glacial ice.

Best for: Coast, Whales, Glaciers, Icebergs!

Best months to get married here:
July and August

My favorite activities to do here: Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Hiking, Boating, Helicopter

Lake Tahoe, California

A couple paddleboarding on a lake, both wearing sunglasses. The woman is in a wedding dress seated on the board, and the man, in a shirt and pants, is kneeling. The background shows calm water and distant mountains under a clear sky.

Lake Tahoe is just begging you to grab a kayak or paddleboard and get out on that insanely clear blue water. It’s seriously so pure you can see 60 feet down. What better way to elope than gliding over glassy turquoise with snowy peaks in the background and pine forests wrapping around the shoreline? You could kick off your elopement day with a sunrise paddle at Sand Harbor or Secret Cove, or book a kayak tour around Emerald Bay for crazy scenic views. Calm mornings are your golden window, so take the opportunity to enjoy the lake with no crowds, just you two and that unreal water.

Best for: Lake, Desert, Waterfall, Rocks, Mountains

Best months to get married here: May to October

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Camping

Chugach National Forest, Alaska

Aerial view of two people in red kayaks on a blue, textured icy water surface. They paddle in opposite directions, dressed in winter clothing. The water features dark and light patches, creating an abstract pattern.

If your dream elopement includes paddling through wild Alaskan landscapes (and, let’s be real, whose isn’t?) Chugach National Forest is seriously next level. With rivers, lakes, and access to Prince William Sound, you can kayak through calm waters surrounded by glaciers and thick green forests. Rent a remote cabin, launch your packraft right outside, and spend your day floating through scenery packed with moose, bears, and bald eagles. Plus, you’re less than an hour from Anchorage, which means you get that wild, remote feeling without needing a full expedition to get there.

Best for: Mountains, Rivers, Forest, Wildlife, Glaciers, Icebergs!

Best months to get married here:
June to September

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, Jeep/4×4, Packrafting, Helicopters

Milos, Greece

A man and woman on a paddleboard in clear turquoise water near a rocky coastline. The man is paddling while the woman sits on the board, wearing a hat. The backdrop features rugged hills under a clear sky.

Move over, Santorini. Milos is the next big name on the Greek Islands. It’s the one you’ll want to tell all your friends about… after you get back, anyways, so you can keep it all to yourself. It’s got all the classic Cycladic magic: whitewashed houses, colorful flowers, teal seas, but without the Santorini crowds. Paddleboarding here feels like a dream, especially around Sarakiniko Beach. Another option is to rent an ATV for the day to explore the little fishing villages. Oh, and don’t leave without trying the local wine and seafood! Milos has this sleepy, romantic vibe that makes you feel like you found your own private slice of Greece.

Best for: Beach, Island, Desert

Best months to get married here:
Year-round

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Swimming, Sailboats, Paddleboarding, Cliff-jumping

Buena Vista, Colorado

A woman with curly hair and a floral headband smiles cheerfully while rowing a canoe on a lake. A man in a hat sits behind her. The canoe carries a bouquet of flowers. Mountainous scenery and trees are in the background.

Buena Vista isn’t just about those giant 14ers – you’ve also got the Arkansas River running right through town. Perfect for getting out on the water! Whether you want a calm float, a SUP (stand-up paddleboard) adventure, or a whitewater packrafting experience, there’s something here for every kind of paddler. After a morning on the river, you can soak off the adventure at Mount Princeton Hot Springs nearby. The whole area is a dream for couples who want a mountain-and-water combo for their elopement without feeling like they have to choose one or the other.

Best for: Mountains, River, Hot Springs, Forest, Wildflowers, Lakes

Best months to get married here:
June to September

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Jeep/4×4, Camping, Soaking, Paddleboarding, Packrafting, White Water Rafting

Telluride, Colorado

A couple in wedding attire is stand-up paddleboarding on a calm lake surrounded by evergreen trees and snow-dusted mountains. The bride is in a white dress, holding a paddle, while the groom in a black suit smiles at her. The scene is serene and picturesque.

Telluride is known for its rugged mountains and crazy scenic gondola rides, but what a lot of people miss is how good the paddling is around here. Mountain lakes like Alta Lakes and Trout Lake are just a short drive out of town and perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding in the middle of the mountains. You’ll feel like you’re in your own alpine postcard! You could hit the water after your ceremony for a quiet paddle or plan a whole adventure day, mixing in some waterfall hikes and high-country lakes. It’s pure Colorado heaven, no matter the season.

Best for: Urban, Forest, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Lakes, Mountains

Best months to get married here:
December to March and June to October

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Jeep/4×4, Rock Climbing, Paddleboarding, Skiing, Snowboarding

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

A couple sits in a canoe on a tranquil lake, surrounded by lush greenery. Snow-capped mountains rise majestically in the background under a clear blue sky.

Sure, the Tetons are insane for hiking, but the lakes here are pure magic too. Paddleboarding or kayaking on Jenny Lake or Jackson Lake gets you jaw-dropping mountain views from the water, with fewer crowds than the trails. It’s seriously hard to beat the feeling of floating quietly with the Tetons towering above you. Bring a board or kayak for a chill, unforgettable ceremony moment, or spend the whole day mixing paddling with wildlife spotting (hello, moose!) along the shores.

Best for: Mountains, Lakes

Best months to get married here:
July to October

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Stargazing

Grand Lake, Colorado

A couple paddles in a white canoe on a calm lake, surrounded by forested hills and distant mountains under a cloudy sky. The water is smooth and reflects the muted colors of the landscape.

Grand Lake feels like Colorado’s best-kept secret. It’s right by Rocky Mountain National Park but way less busy than Estes, which means you actually get to breathe and take it all in. The lake itself is massive (the biggest natural lake in the state!) and it’s made for paddleboarding and kayaking. Glide across glassy water with mountain views on all sides, then grab a coffee or ice cream in town without a tourist mob in sight. There’s this perfect slow, easy vibe here that makes it feel like you’ve got the whole place to yourself.

Best for: Mountains, Forest, Lakes

Best months to get married here: June to October

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Boating, Canoeing, Paddleboarding

San Juan Islands, Washington

A couple in formal attire, including a wedding dress, paddles a yellow kayak across the open water. The sea is calm under a clear sky, and rocky islands are visible in the distance.

The San Juan Islands were practically made for kayak adventures. Paddleboarding through misty coves, weaving between little uninhabited islets, and spotting seals, otters, and even whales! This is the kind of place where the water is the adventure, and I seriously don’t think there’s anything better than gliding through calm waters with nothing but quiet and ocean air around you. Bonus: because ferry-hopping between islands is so easy, you can piece together a bunch of little paddle adventures into one epic day.

Best for: Island, Ocean, Coast, Forest

Best months to get married here:
June to October

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Boating, Kayaking, Seaplane

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

A couple in a yellow inflatable kayak paddles on a serene mountain lake at sunset. The surrounding landscape features rocky cliffs and evergreen trees, with the warm glow of the setting sun on the peaks.

Steamboat is basically Colorado’s laid-back overachiever. It’s got killer ski slopes in the winter, lush hiking trails in the summer, and a historic downtown that’s actually charming without trying too hard. It also doesn’t hurt that the water scene here is next level. Between paddleboarding on Stagecoach Reservoir, soaking in Strawberry Park Hot Springs, and floating down the Yampa River, it’s basically impossible not to have a good time. If you want your elopement to feel like a mountain adventure and a chill weekend getaway rolled into one, Steamboat’s got you.

Best for: River, Lakes, Mountains, Forest, Hot Spring

Best months to get married here:
May to September

My favorite activities to do here: Jeep/4×4, Paddleboarding, Packrafting, Hiking, Soaking, River Tubing

San Juan Mountains, Colorado

A person in a kayak paddles on a calm lake against the backdrop of a large, green and brown mountain under a clear sky.

If I had to pick one mountain range to get lost in forever, it might just be the San Juans. These peaks are absolutely crazy: sharp, rugged, and way less crowded than spots like Rocky Mountain National Park. They’ve got that dramatic, almost-too-beautiful energy without feeling touristy. Plus, this is serious off-roading and paddleboarding territory. One minute you’re bouncing down old mining trails in a Jeep, and the next you’re gliding across a remote alpine lake so clear it feels fake. It’s the kind of place where you actually feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.

Best for: Mountains, Hot Springs, Wildflowers, Alpine Lakes

Best months to get married here:
June to September

My favorite activities to do here: Jeep/4×4, Hiking, Soaking, Stargazing

Willamette National Forest, Oregon

A couple in formal attire sits in a small rowboat on a calm lake surrounded by trees and distant mountains. The man rows while the woman gazes at him, both enjoying a sunny day under a clear blue sky.

Willamette National Forest is basically a giant playground for elopers who love being out in nature, with old-growth forests so thick and green it feels like stepping into another world, swimming holes so clear you’ll actually want to jump in, and trails that pop you out onto wildflower-covered mountains. Paddling here is seriously next-level. You can float down rushing rivers, tuck into quiet lake coves, or even paddleboard past hot springs. Plus, with the mountains like Mt. Jefferson and Three Fingered Jack in the background, it’s kind of impossible to take a bad photo.

Best for: Mountains, Forest, Waterfalls, Wildflowers, Lakes, Rivers, Hot Springs

Best months to get married here: June to September

My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Canoeing, Paddleboarding

Ouray, Colorado

A couple sits and kisses in a small canoe on a calm mountain lake surrounded by pine trees and steep, rocky hills under a cloudy sky.

Between paddling opportunities on the Uncompahgre River and plenty of alpine lakes to choose from, Ouray has some absolutely gorgeous spots for kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing! That goes for all levels of skill… you don’t have to tackle rapids here unless you really want to! You’re also close by to Ridgway State Park Reservoir, which regularly hosts classes and provides tranquil waters to get out on if you’re looking for a peaceful paddle on your wedding day. All surrounded by top-notch mountains, of course.

Best for: Mountains, Alpine Lakes, Wildflowers

Best months to get married here: July to September

My favorite activities to do here: Jeep/4×4, Canoeing, Hiking

North Cascades National Park, Washington

A wedding couple paddle separate inflatable kayaks on a calm lake, surrounded by evergreen trees and mountains under a clear blue sky.

Washington in general is a dream destination for all things paddling, but especially North Cascades National Park. With multiple rivers and lakes (including options for camping IN your canoe), there’s no shortage of options here for getting out on the water. Check out Diablo Lake with its seafoam colored water and big mountain views and Lake Chelan, the third deepest lake in the entire country. It’s also one of the northernmost points in a national park you can access before Alaska, so the scenery here is truly something you won’t want to miss.

Best for: Mountains, Forest, Lake, Waterfalls and Wildflowers

Best months to get married here: June to September

My favorite activities to do here: Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Floatplane, Hiking, Camping, Boating

Durango, Colorado

A group of people wearing life jackets sit in an orange inflatable raft on a river, smiling and waving at the camera. Other rafts and lush green trees are visible in the background under a sunny sky.

Durango is a hot spot for whitewater rafting along the Lower Animas River, which has its own whitewater park! You can even try to surf down the rapids on your paddle board or kayak if you’re feeling extra adventurous. The rapids here range from classes I – III, so there’s something in the river for anyone at any skill level. And you don’t have to do it alone—there are tons of great excursion providers around town who are experienced at doing this safely and can give you a great time on the river.

Best for: Mountains, River

Best months to get married here: June to October

My favorite activities to do here: White water rafting, hiking, Jeep/4×4, Steam train

Best time of day for a kayaking elopement 

The best time of day for a wedding day paddling excursion is going to be either early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Sun is less harsh and overhead, there are generally less people out on the water, and the weather tends to be at its most temperate. All of which make for a better experience as well as better photos. 

Again, though, there’s variation here depending on what you’re doing and when! If you’re aiming to raft on a glacial meltwater pool, the part of the day with the most direct sun is going to be exactly what’s most useful.  

How to choose the right company for renting a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe 

There are a handful of reasons you may need to work with a company if you’re doing a paddling excursion, including guided tours and rental needs. And as with any vendor you’re looking to hire, a good amount of research will ensure that you have the best possible fit for your day! 

Note; If you’re bringing your own equipment, I’d still encourage you to look over this section! It can be a good way to make sure you’ve thought through the logistics and are doing things the best way possible!

Here are a few key questions to consider when you’re agreeing to work with a company: 

  1. What safety measures do they have in place?

Are life vests necessary to wear the entire time or just have on board? Do you need to sign a waiver? Is anyone trained on first aid? Are there any risks on the body of water that they know about? Safety is always top priority on the water, so make sure they know their stuff. 

  1. If they’re a tour company, how big are the outings? 

If you’re a couple that loves privacy, you likely won’t be as happy with a 10 person tour as a solo tour with just you two. 

  1. Do you want to eat while you’re on the water?

That may affect what gear you bring. Consider dry bags, weight limits, etc. 

  1. What routes do they recommend or usually take?

Do they stop for sight seeing? Can you take time to explore? Do they know the area well enough to tell you where is worth heading out to if you’re guiding yourself? 

  1. How long are the trips? 

Do they rent in certain chunks of time, like 2 hours or 4 hours? Would you be due to the marina or rental office at any specific time? This can affect your timeline greatly, so make sure you have those details in mind while you research. 

  1. What’s your comfort level on the water? 

If you’re an experienced boater, being able to grab a rental and head out wherever you want is probably fine! If you’re newer or are working with unfamiliar terrain, having a guide with you may help significantly. 

  1. What’s their cancellation policy? Do they have a back-up plan? 

In case of inclement weather, flight delays, family emergencies, or anything else, know what’s in store for your day if something goes astray. A booking with some flexibility can be super reassuring. 

  1. What skill level do they recommend for their body of water? 

Not all lakes are created equal! Dillon Reservoir in Colorado has some of the strangest currents and is notoriously hard to sail because of the mountain ranges around it. If it’s above your comfort level, they may be able to recommend something else nearby! 

It comes down to three main subject areas: safety, flexibility, and logistics. Everyone’s balance of those three factors will be different, but make sure that no matter where you are, you’re accessing the water safely. 

Pro tips for a kayaking elopement 

I’ve got extensive experience both in taking couples out paddling on the water and with getting around on my own paddle board! Here are my best pro-tips that I would pass along to anybody getting out on the water on their wedding day: 

  • Stay hydrated—more than you think you need

Getting out in the sun, especially at altitude, can dehydrate you fast. Which can pose a serious safey risk on land, let alone on the water. Drink a ton of water the day before and don’t let yourself get dehydrated during the day before you head out. 

  • Be aware that you might go in

No matter how experienced you are, there’s always a chance you may fall in. I’ll share tips in the next section on how to dress to make sure you’re not at risk if this happens on accident! 

  • Gauge your experience and currents in the area

If you’re new to kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding (or are just seeking a more peaceful paddle), aim for water that doesn’t have any strong current. The stronger the flow of the water is, the harder you’re going to have to fight it. 

  • Build a backup plan that you love

Like I’ve mentioned, there’s always a chance that weather or water conditions will disrupt your plans. Make sure you have an alternate activity that you can switch to that you won’t be disappointed by if your plans need to change. 

  • Don’t do it for the first time on your wedding day!

I love the idea of a new adventure on your elopement or wedding day, but paddling can be hit or miss for some folks. Get out at least one time before your wedding day to make sure you enjoy it and are comfortable doing it so that you have fun day-of! 

What to wear for kayaking or paddle boarding on your wedding day

When you’re deciding to go out on the water during your elopement, be aware that a change of clothing may be in order. It’s not strictly necessary—I’ve had couples go out in full wedding attire in the middle of the most productive icefjord in the world, so anything is possible! But I also have many couples either intentionally choose water-friendly wedding attire, plan a change of clothing beforehand, or get ready after being out on the water. 

If you’re looking for wedding attire that’s going to pose the lowest risk of weighing you down too much while you’re out on the water, the name of the game is going to be avoiding density. That can include heavy fabrics, lots of layers, or weighty embellishments like crystals. 

Lightweight fabrics like organza and silk for a dress or linen for a suit are great when it comes to both flexibility to maneuver well on the boat and safety if you end up in the water (accidentally or intentionally!). 

I also can’t recommend enough looking for wedding-day-worthy versions of sun protection, like hats & sunglasses! If you’re going somewhere cold, wear nude colored leggings under any skirts/dresses and long thermals under any suits for an insulating layer. 

The last thing you should consider is waterproof shoes. I’ve had many folks wear bridal hiking boots or other cream colored shoes that stand up to water. It’s totally possible to stick to any theme you feel called to while also having the right soles to keep your feet from getting wet! Trust me, you don’t want damp socks on hour 4 of a 12 hour elopement. 

Keep reading for some other things to make sure you pack to set yourself up for success!

A bride and groom in wedding attire sit together in a small canoe on calm water. The bride holds a bouquet, and both wear sunglasses, smiling as they paddle gently.

Things to pack for a kayaking elopement

I give all of my couples custom-made packing lists tailored to their activities, location, and any other special considerations we’ve talked about. Here’s a summary though of some of my absolute must-haves for every kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding elopement! 

For any Location: 

  • Sunscreen
  • Dry bag
  • Waterproof shoes
  • Dry socks for after
  • Sunglasses
  • Hand towel
  • Chapstick
  • Water & hydration packs for after
  • Life vests

For Warm Locations:

  • Sun hat
  • Lighter layers if needed 
  • Cool-down aids if needed

For Cold Locations: 

  • Thermal layers 
  • Warm hat
  • Fingerless gloves
  • Hot packs for hands/body
  • Dry clothing for after

Ultimately, staying prepared comes down to making sure you’re protected from the sun during your outing, have ways to stay comfortable after, and are staying safe while you’re out! 

Costs of kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing

The average cost to rent a kayak, paddle board, or canoe in the US for 2 hours is around $50. Making this, on average, a pretty affordable option for your wedding day! This cost can vary based on a few things like permits, parking fees, and tour group costs if you’re going with a guide. 

There are some spots that are so remote that you’ll need to hire help getting there, like with glacial meltwater pools in Alaska that you need a helicopter to access. 

I can help you assess all of these factors and come up with the best solutions for you as well as connect you with vendors that serve your location of choice. 

Conclusion

A paddling excursion is a great way to make your day memorable, see beautiful scenery, and connect 1:1 with your partner on your wedding or elopement day! If this sounds like your dream, I’d love to help you make it happen. I’ve photographed over 300+ couples in countries all over the world, and it would be an honor to get to design your experience. 

I can help you build the wedding day of your dreams, no matter what stage of the planning process you’re in right now. Reach out to me and tell me all about you and your partner! Together we’ll plan the experience of a lifetime.  

Hey there!

I’m Maddie Mae

Your Elopement Photographer, Experience Designer & Planning Consultant



For the last 14 years I’ve traveled to 40 countries, all 7 continents, and planned & photographed over 300 elopements all over the world.

A woman with long brown hair and glasses smiles at the camera. She wears a black blazer, a black top, and a pendant necklace. The background is a plain light gray wall.

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Ready to start planning your dream destination elopement?

Hey, I’m Maddie Mae

Your Elopement Photographer, Experience Designer & Planning Consultant

A person with long hair and glasses is sitting on sand, smiling at the camera. They are wearing a black lace cardigan over a beige top, with hoop earrings and a necklace. The background is a sandy expanse.

“The woman who sparked the adventure
elopement trend”  – Forbes

I don’t just photograph elopements –
I design and plan a curated, unique experience around the two of you—one you’ll enjoy every minute of.

I want to get to know what makes you two feel alive and create an experience worthy of this
incredible love you’ve found

“The woman who sparked the adventure elopement trend”  – Forbes

40

countries and 7 continents worth of travel experience and knowledge

13

years experience planning and photographing elopements & weddings

300

one-of-a-kind elopements & intimate weddings planned & photographed

2019

the year I eloped too (after planning my own destination elopement in just 6 weeks)

What makes my elopement packages different?

Every Adventure Instead elopement experience includes:

Reach out & we’ll start planning your dream elopement

Don’t worry, most couples who inquire with me have no plans at all. 
Helping turn vague ideas into a thrilling plan is my specialty.

I can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life

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Note: I usually only photograph weddings with 25 guests or less
A laptop displaying a planning guide and checklist titled "How to Plan Your Elopement" sits next to a plant and mug, setting the scene for an inspired workspace. A smartphone with text rests on the desk, hinting at an adventure instead of tradition.

Not quite ready to reach out, but want help planning your elopement?

I created the ultimate destination elopement planning guide & checklist to help you get started