Top 10 Dreamy Elopement Spots
Eloping offers couples a unique opportunity to choose a breathtaking location without the constraints of traditional wedding venues. Some of the best places to elope for stunning photos include:
Santorini, Greece
Santorini, known for its iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, offers breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea. The island’s dramatic cliffs and stunning sunsets provide a picturesque backdrop. Imagine exchanging vows with the sun setting behind you, casting a golden glow over the caldera. The best time to visit is between late April and early November, when temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), ensuring clear skies and warm weather. You can learn more about Santorini and plan your visit here.
Banff, Canada
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers majestic mountain views, turquoise lakes, and lush forests. Lake Louise, with its emerald waters and surrounding peaks, is a particularly popular spot. The area receives over 4 million visitors annually, drawn by its stunning scenery (Banff National Park). The best time to visit is June to August and December to March, with temperatures ranging from -15°C to 20°C (5°F to 68°F), making it ideal for both summer and winter elopements. For more information, you can contact Banff National Park:
– Address: Banff National Park, Banff, AB, Canada
– Customer Service Phone: +1 403-762-1550
– Email: banff.info@pc.gc.ca
– Official Website: Parks Canada
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Combining charming coastal towns with dramatic cliffs, the Amalfi Coast is a blend of romance and adventure. Positano, with its colorful buildings cascading down to the sea, is perfect for an intimate elopement. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F) from April to October, providing the best weather for outdoor ceremonies (Positano). For more information on the Amalfi Coast, you can contact:
– Address: Amalfi Coast, Campania, Italy
– Customer Service Phone: +39 089 875067
– Email: info@amalficoast.com
– Official Website: Amalfi Coast
Iceland
Iceland’s unique landscapes, including waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches, create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. Skogafoss, a 60-meter (197 feet) waterfall, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon are popular choices for adventurous couples. The island’s weather is unpredictable, but the best time to visit is June to August, with temperatures averaging 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), offering the longest days and mild weather (Inspired by Iceland). Contact information:
– Address: Inspired by Iceland, Borgartún 35, 105 Reykjavik, Iceland
– Customer Service Phone: +354 511 4000
– Email: info@inspiredbyiceland.com
– Official Website: Inspired by Iceland
Maui, Hawaii
Maui boasts tropical beaches, lush greenery, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. The Road to Hana, with its scenic views and waterfalls, and the summit of Haleakalā, standing at 3,055 meters (10,023 feet), are stunning locations for an elopement. Maui’s temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) year-round, making it a perfect destination for any season (Go Hawaii). Contact information:
– Address: Maui Visitors Bureau, 1727 Wili Pa Loop, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA
– Customer Service Phone: +1 808-244-3530
– Email: info@gohawaii.com
– Official Website: Go Hawaii
Paris, France
Paris, the city of love, offers historic landmarks, romantic streets, and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Exchanging vows in front of this iconic structure or in the gardens of Luxembourg provides an unforgettable experience. The best times to visit are April to June and October to early November, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F), avoiding the peak tourist seasons (Paris Info). For more information, you can contact:
– Address: Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de Paris, 25 Rue des Pyramides, 75001 Paris, France
– Customer Service Phone: +33 1 49 52 42 63
– Email: info@parisinfo.com
– Official Website: Paris Info
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is known for its exotic temples, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches. Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, and the rice terraces of Ubud offer unique and enchanting settings. The best time to visit is from April to October, during the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), ensuring clear skies and pleasant weather (Bali Tourism). Contact information:
– Address: Bali Tourism Board, Jl. Raya Puputan No.41, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
– Customer Service Phone: +62 361 235600
– Email: info@balitourismboard.org
– Official Website: Bali Tourism
New Zealand
New Zealand offers diverse scenery, from mountains to beaches. Queenstown, known as the adventure capital, and Fiordland National Park, with its dramatic fjords, are perfect for breathtaking elopements. The best time to visit is November to February, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), providing the best conditions for outdoor ceremonies (New Zealand Tourism). For more information, you can contact:
– Address: Tourism New Zealand, 147 Victoria Street West, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
– Customer Service Phone: +64 9 914 4780
– Email: info@tnz.govt.nz
– Official Website: New Zealand Tourism
Big Sur, California
Big Sur features rugged coastline, towering redwoods, and dramatic cliffs. Locations like Bixby Creek Bridge and Pfeiffer Beach offer iconic views. The best time to visit is from April to October, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), ensuring clear skies and mild weather (Visit California). Contact information:
– Address: Visit California, 555 Capitol Mall, Suite 1100, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
– Customer Service Phone: +1 916-444-4429
– Email: info@visitcalifornia.com
– Official Website: Visit California
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh combines historic castles with stunning countryside. Exchanging vows at Edinburgh Castle or on Arthur’s Seat provides a blend of history and natural beauty. The best time to visit is May to September, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), offering the best weather for outdoor elopements (Visit Scotland). For more information, you can contact:
– Address: Visit Scotland, Ocean Point One, 94 Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, EH6 6JH, Scotland
– Customer Service Phone: +44 131 473 3800
– Email: info@visitscotland.com
– Official Website: Visit Scotland
Affordable and Accessible Destinations
Planning an elopement doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable and accessible destinations that offer beautiful settings without the high cost.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and vibrant arts scene. The Blue Ridge Parkway, spanning 755 kilometers (469 miles), and the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately-owned house in the U.S. with 16,622 square meters (179,000 square feet), provide stunning backdrops. The best time to visit is from April to June and September to November, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), avoiding the peak tourist seasons (Explore Asheville). For more information, you can contact:
– Address: Explore Asheville, 27 College Place, Asheville, NC
28801, USA
– Customer Service Phone: +1 828-258-6101
– Email: info@exploreasheville.com
– Official Website: Explore Asheville
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is famous for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy. Locations like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock offer dramatic views. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F), providing the best conditions for outdoor ceremonies (Visit Sedona). Contact information:
– Address: Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau, 45 Sunset Drive, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
– Customer Service Phone: +1 928-204-1123
– Email: info@sedonachamber.com
– Official Website: Visit Sedona
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe offers a range of budget-friendly options with breathtaking views. Whether you choose a lakeside beach or a mountain overlook, Tahoe provides a picturesque setting. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, with temperatures ranging from -3°C to 24°C (26°F to 75°F), avoiding the peak tourist seasons (Visit Lake Tahoe). For more information, you can contact:
– Address: Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, 169 Hwy 50, Stateline, NV 89449, USA
– Customer Service Phone: +1 775-588-4591
– Email: info@tahoesouth.com
– Official Website: Visit Lake Tahoe
Opting for off-peak seasons can significantly reduce travel and accommodation costs. Many locations offer all-inclusive elopement packages that provide excellent value, covering essentials like photography, officiants, and permits. Consider beautiful local parks, botanical gardens, or historic sites in your region. These locations can provide stunning backdrops without the need for extensive travel, making them ideal for couples looking for a convenient yet memorable elopement.
Unique and Unconventional Elopement Locations
For couples seeking a one-of-a-kind elopement experience, unique and unconventional locations offer the perfect solution. These destinations provide a distinct and memorable backdrop for your ceremony, ensuring your elopement stands out.
Joshua Tree, California
Joshua Tree is known for its unique desert landscape and surreal rock formations. The park’s iconic Joshua trees and dramatic sunsets create an otherworldly atmosphere. The best time to visit is from March to May and October to November, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), avoiding the extreme summer heat (Joshua Tree National Park). Contact information:
– Address: Joshua Tree National Park, 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA
– Customer Service Phone: +1 760-367-5500
– Email: jotr_info@nps.gov
– Official Website: Joshua Tree National Park
Ubud, Bali
Ubud offers lush rice terraces, exotic temples, and vibrant culture. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, provide unique and enchanting settings. The best time to visit is from April to October, during the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), ensuring clear skies and pleasant weather (Ubud Bali). For more information, you can contact:
– Address: Bali Tourism Board, Jl. Raya Puputan No.41, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
– Customer Service Phone: +62 361 235600
– Email: info@balitourismboard.org
– Official Website: Ubud Bali
Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands feature dramatic cliffs, remote locations, and stunning seascapes perfect for an adventurous elopement. Locations like Gasadalur and Mulafossur Waterfall provide breathtaking views. The best time to visit is from May to September, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), offering the mildest weather and longest days (Visit Faroe Islands). For more information, you can contact:
– Address: Visit Faroe Islands, Bryggjubakki 12, P.O. Box 118, 110 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
– Customer Service Phone: +298 306565
– Email: info@visitfaroeislands.com
– Official Website: Visit Faroe Islands
Choosing an unconventional elopement destination involves considering what unique elements you want for your ceremony. Whether it’s a desert, jungle, or remote island, look for places that offer a distinct and memorable experience. Hidden gem elopement locations, such as the Faroe Islands or remote parts of Scotland, offer stunning scenery without the crowds, providing a sense of adventure and intimacy.
Tips for Capturing Perfect Elopement Photos
Capturing perfect elopement photos is an essential part of ensuring your special day is memorable. Following these tips can help you achieve stunning results:
Communicate with your photographer about your vision and preferences. A good photographer will work with you to understand your style and the types of shots you want. Sharing examples of photos you like can help convey your vision and ensure your photographer captures the moments that matter most.
Scheduling your ceremony during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—provides the best natural lighting for photos. The soft, warm light during these times enhances the beauty of your surroundings and creates a romantic ambiance.
Finding a good elopement photographer involves looking for professionals who specialize in elopements and have experience in your chosen destination. Check their portfolios and reviews to ensure their style matches your vision. Reaching out and discussing your ideas will help you determine if they are a good fit.
Preparing for your elopement photo session involves several key steps. Prepare a list of must-have shots and share it with your photographer. Plan your attire and any additional props or decorations that will enhance your photos. Consider the weather and have contingency plans for unexpected changes, ensuring you can adapt and still capture beautiful photos.
Planning Your Dreamy Elopement
Planning your dreamy elopement starts with discussing your vision and preferences as a couple. Research destinations and decide on a location that resonates with both of you. Setting a budget and timeline for your elopement helps keep the planning process organized and stress-free.
Essential steps in elopement planning include choosing a destination and date, hiring a photographer and any other vendors you need, and planning the details of your ceremony. This includes selecting your attire, writing your vows, and incorporating any special rituals or elements that are meaningful to you. Arranging travel and accommodation is also crucial to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Making an elopement stress-free and memorable involves keeping your plans simple and focused on what matters most to you. Choose a location that is meaningful and offers natural beauty, allowing the setting to enhance your experience. Take time to enjoy the moment and create lasting memories together, focusing on the love and commitment you are celebrating.
By choosing the perfect elopement destination and following these tips, you can ensure that your special day is not only romantic but also beautifully captured in stunning photos. Whether you prefer a scenic mountain backdrop or an exotic beach, there is a dreamy spot waiting for you to say “I do.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to elope in Santorini, Greece?
The best time to elope in Santorini is between late April and early November, when temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), ensuring clear skies and warm weather.
How do I choose the right elopement photographer?
Look for photographers who specialize in elopements and have experience in your chosen destination. Check their portfolios and reviews to ensure their style matches your vision, and discuss your ideas to see if they are a good fit.
What are some affordable elopement destinations in the United States?
Asheville, North Carolina, Sedona, Arizona, and Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada are affordable and accessible destinations that offer beautiful settings without the high cost.
How can I make my elopement stress-free and memorable?
Keep your plans simple and focused on what matters most to you. Choose a meaningful location with natural beauty, and take time to enjoy the moment and create lasting memories together.
What are the benefits of eloping during the golden hour?
Eloping during the golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides the best natural lighting for photos. The soft, warm light enhances the beauty of your surroundings and creates a romantic ambiance.
What should I consider when choosing an unconventional elopement location?
Consider the unique elements you want for your ceremony, such as a desert, jungle, or remote island. Look for places that offer a distinct and memorable experience, and ensure they align with your vision and values.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect elopement destination can make your special day truly unforgettable. By selecting a location that resonates with you and following these tips, you can ensure that your elopement is not only romantic but also beautifully captured in stunning photos. Whether you prefer a scenic mountain backdrop, an exotic beach, or a unique and unconventional
setting, there is a dreamy spot waiting for you to say “I do.”
