August 1, 2024

Best Elopement Destinations

Tips & Guides

I am a destination wedding + elopement photographer based in the Midwest but open to traveling anywhere your love story might take me! Thanks for being here on my little corner of the internet, stick around a while!

I'M CASSIE.

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If you’ve been planning to elope, but don’t want to have it in your home town, I totally get it! I LOVE to travel and traveling to celebrate your love is all the more special. To help you plan your day, I’ve rounded up some of the best elopement destinations for you.

But before you dive into this blog, check out this destination elopement planning guide where you’ll find questions to consider before choosing one of these locations!

Best Elopement Destinations I’ll Be Going Over

  • Greece
  • Italy
  • New Zealand
  • Mexico
  • Iceland
  • Banff National Park, Canada
  • Spain
  • Hawaii, USA
  • Portugal
  • Ireland
bride and groom in a vintage car at one of the best elopement destinations

Greece

Nestled in southeastern Europe, Greece is a Mediterranean paradise with warm, sunny weather, especially in the summer months, making it perfect for outdoor elopements. Picture white-washed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic views of Santorini or the historical charm of Athens, Greece is pure magic. While you’re there, explore ancient ruins, sail around the islands, or simply enjoy delicious Greek cuisine by the sea.

Italy

Situated in southern Europe, Italy is bordered by France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia, offering diverse climates from Mediterranean warmth in the south to cooler alpine weather in the north. From the romantic canals of Venice to the rolling hills of Tuscany, Italy provides a variety of stunning backdrops for your elopement. Here you can enjoy historic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and leisurely gondola rides.

One of my favorite places on earth is the Amalfi Coast in Italy. If you’d like to learn what it’s like to elope there, check out this guide!

amalfi coast, italy, one of the best elopement destinations

New Zealand

Located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia, New Zealand boasts generally mild weather with plenty of sunshine, although it can be quite cool in the southern regions. Home to jaw-dropping landscapes like the fjords of Milford Sound and the rolling hills of Hobbiton, New Zealand is an adventure lover’s dream. Here you could go hiking in national parks, explore vibrant cities like Wellington and Auckland, or even try activities like bungee jumping or skydiving! New Zealand is definitely for the adventure-loving couples!

elegant boho bride and groom

Mexico

Mexico offers warm and sunny weather, especially in coastal areas, making it ideal for beach elopements. From the white sandy beaches of Cancun to the cultural richness of Mexico City, there’s something for everyone. Here you can relax on the beach, explore ancient Mayan ruins, and try out the delicious street food.

beautiful palm trees in mexico

Iceland

Situated in the North Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America, Iceland is known for its unpredictable weather, but summer offers milder temperatures and nearly 24 hours of daylight. With dramatic waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes, Iceland feels like stepping onto another planet! If you’re choosing Iceland as your elopement destination, I recommend visiting the Blue Lagoon, timing your elopement to see Northern Lights, and enjoy exploring ice caves and glaciers!

bride and groom looking at their wedding rings

Banff National Park

Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is one of the best elopement destinations! It’s known for turquoise lakes, dramatic mountain views, and lush forests. Banff is seriously any nature lover’s paradise. When you’re here, I recommend going hiking, canoeing or maybe taking a scenic drive!

And if you’re considering eloping in Banff, here are some of my best tips to help you!

beautiful sights of banff national park, one of the best elopement destinations

Spain

In southwestern Europe, Spain enjoys generally warm and sunny weather, especially in the coastal areas. From the beaches of Costa del Sol to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Spain is full of life and color. Here you can explore historic sites, enjoy the culture, relax on the beaches, and, of course, have some amazing tapas!

One of the best elopement destinations in Spain is Seville! It is such a beautiful, yet underrated city, offering great food, wonderful people and also lesser crowds than other big Spanish cities. If you’d like to learn more about eloping in Seville, check out this guide!

the cozy streets and horse carriages in seville, spain

Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular elopement destinations, and honestly, I can see why! Hawaii boasts a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Here you can find stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic landscapes. It really is an adventure paradise! If you’re eloping in Hawaii, I recommend trying out surfing, snorkeling, going on a helicopter tour or hiking to a waterfall!

palm trees in hawaii

Portugal

Located in Europe, bordering Spain, Portugal enjoys a mild climate with plenty of sunshine, especially in coastal areas. With beautiful beaches, charming villages, and historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, Portugal is definitely one of the best elopement destination. Here you can explore castles, enjoy walks through the colorful cities, and enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine.

Ireland

Ireland has a mild but often rainy climate that adds to its lush green landscapes. With rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and ancient castles, Ireland feels like a fairy tale come to life. Here you can visit the historic sites, enjoy traditional Irish music in a cozy pub, and take a scenic drive to your chosen elopement spot!

Cassie Beth Photo | Destination Elopement Photographer

destination elopement photographer in italy

If you’re planning your destination elopement, let’s make it happen! This list of best elopement destinations comes from plenty of experience as an elopement photographer, and I’d love to make your dreams a reality at one of these locations! If you’re reading this blog, you may be on the lookout for THE photographer to capture your day. I specialize in capturing candid moments and unique details that make your wedding day truly unforgettable. Let’s create something beautiful together!

You can learn more about me here. If it sounds like I’d be the perfect photographer for you, then inquire with me here. I’d love to hear from you!