The 21 Most Romantic Places to Elope in the World
If you are considering a destination elopement, you’ve come to the right place. This article covers some of the most romantic places to elope around the world. From beach ceremonies on tropical islands to off-the-beaten path locations with ultimate privacy, there is something for every taste.
Eloping to an overseas destination is a great way to design a ceremony that is meaningful and unique to you. Maybe you and your partner would like to exchange vows at a location you have a special connection to. Or you might simply want to combine a once-in-a-lifetime destination with a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
A destination elopement might also be more cost-effective compared to a traditional wedding. That means you will have more money for the honeymoon or for a down payment on your dream home.
The article also briefly touches on the marriage legal requirements. You will find that some destinations are more straight forward than others when it comes to paperwork. Once you decide on where you would like to elope, make sure to understand how the legal process works to avoid any unpleasant surprises. There is always the option of sorting the legalities at home and having a symbolic ceremony in your dream destination.
Already married? Not a problem. All the destinations on this list of the most romantic places to elope are perfect for a vow renewal ceremony.
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
When you are thinking of the most popular places to elope, Las Vegas is sure to come to mind. This glittering city was nicknamed the Wedding Capital of the World for a reason. Some people associate the city with tacky chapels, cheap decorations and Elvis impersonators.
However, ceremonies like that are mostly fiction. Instead, you can have a classy and stylish elopement of your dreams followed by a selection of fun activities that this larger-than-life city offers.
Las Vegas is home to a great range of wedding venues including small and intimate ones perfect for an elopement ceremony. Many of them don’t require much advance planning, so tying the knot can be an easy and fun thing to do. Some local wedding planners and chapels can organise a ceremony in a matter of hours.
Las Vegas elopements don’t always mean exchanging your vows in the city. There is desert, canyon and even winery locations that are perfect for an unforgettable ceremony.
The legal requirements for a marriage in the state of Nevada are straight forward. You will need to apply for a marriage license and then present proof of your identity (e.g., passport or driver’s license) at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau. They normally issue a license in no time.
If you are not based in the US, a spur-of-the-moment wedding might not be the best option if you would like for it to be legal in your home country. Make sure to check what documents your country requires before you head to the States.
Hawaii, USA
The tropical paradise of Hawaii is popular with honeymooners, but it is also one of the most romantic places to elope in the US. The islands boast a laid-back vibe, loads of sunshine and oodles of natural beauty. Diverse Hawaiian landscapes combine beautiful beaches, dramatic coastlines, tropical forests and volcanoes. The islands are also famous for their unique blend of cultures.
The first step for an elopement in Hawaii is to decide which island is the best fit for your special day. If you are after a city and beach combo then Oahu, home to Honolulu, would be a great choice. If you dream of a luxurious elopement with a stunning natural backdrop, consider Maui or the Big Island. They offer a great choice of indulgent resorts and stunning landscapes. For an off-the-beaten path experience, why not try Molokai? This island is one of the least visited and developed in Hawaii.
The legalities of marriage in Hawaii are simple. You just need a marriage license and a registered wedding officiant. Both US and overseas couples need to apply for a marriage license before their arrival. They will need to pick it up from an authorized marriage license agent after landing in Hawaii. The officiant then files all the legal documentation on the couple’s behalf after the ceremony. In a few weeks’ time the state then sends out the marriage certificate to the preferred address.
Moab, Utah, USA
Moab, a small town in Eastern Utah, is famous for its otherworldly desert scenery with dramatic red rock formations and vast canyons. It is a mecca for outdoor activities such as hiking, horse-riding and rock-climbing. The spectacular Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park are all within easy reach from the town.
Moab is undoubtedly one of the best places to elope in the US for those who love off-the-beaten track adventure and are looking for an outdoor ceremony in a jaw-dropping location. Choosing the exact location to exchange your vows will not be easy as there are so many to choose from. You can opt to have a ceremony in front of a stunning natural arch, on the edge of a cliff or with a mountain range as your backdrop.
It is important to note that you will most likely need to obtain permits to have an outdoor elopement in Moab. The type of permit will depend on your location (e.g., a national park or a state park). Some of these can be pricy and are not easy to obtain. It is essential to start looking into these as soon as you make the decision to elope in Moab. You might want to consider engaging a local photographer who offers elopement packages that include paperwork support. This should help reduce the stress and hassle.
You will also need to apply for a marriage licence from the Ground Country Clerk. Their website provides up-to-date information on the application process. For the ceremony itself, you will need to have an officiant and two witnesses.
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Banff National Park is an iconic destination famous for its towering mountains, pristine turquoise lakes, emerald forests and abundant wildlife. Thanks to its natural beauty, Banff is one of the most popular places to elope in Alberta. It is the perfect choice for an adventurous couple who would like to start their married life exploring a fascinating part of the world.
The national park is vast, so even though it is popular with tourists, you can still find spots away from it all for your special day. You can exchange your vows on the shores of an alpine lake, in front of a waterfall or on a mountain.
Getting to some remote locations may require a long hike or a helicopter ride. It is important to note that if you are having your ceremony at an outdoor spot, you will need to apply for a permit. You can find out more about how to apply for one on the Parks Canada website.
If you would like for your ceremony to be legally-binding, you will need to apply for a marriage license. If you don’t live in Alberta, you can apply for one, as well as submit the Statutory Declaration for Proof of Identity, on the Registry Connect website. You will also need to have an officiant authorised in Alberta and two witnesses for your ceremony.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Located on Mexico’s Carribean Coast, the region of Riviera Maya is home to popular holiday destinations such as Tulum and Playa del Carmen. It brings together stunning beaches, fascinating cenotes, Mayan ruins and incredible food and drink, making it a fantastic option for an elopement and subsequent honeymoon.
If you are after a beach elopement, Riviera Maya might be the perfect place for you. All beaches in Mexico are publicly accessible federal property. You can simply choose a quiet stretch of sand and have a small ceremony with your officiant there.
Alternatively, you can exchange your vows at a beach club or a villa. Many luxury resorts offer elopement packages that can take the hassle out of the planning process, but also increase the price tag. You’re not limited to beach ceremonies at Riviera Maya. Maybe, exchanging vows at a cenote or under water might be more to your liking.
If you would like to have a legal ceremony in Mexico, you will need to be resident in the country for at least three days prior to the ceremony. Contacting your local Mexican consulate is a good first step to obtaining the right information on the marriage process. Your chosen hotel may also assist with all the required documentation.
Antigua
If you are dreaming of saying “I do” in a tropical paradise, look no further than Antigua. This island boasts 365 beautiful beaches – one for every day of the year – complemented by a laid-back Caribbean vibe. So, if you are planning a beach elopement, Antigua deserves a spot on your shortlist of the best places to elope. Many resorts offer wedding packages to take the hassle out of planning.
The legal part of marriage in Antigua is relatively straight forward. There are no residency requirements prior to the day of the wedding, but it is always best to arrive at least a couple of days before the ceremony.
You will need to present the required documents, such as a passport and birth certificates, to the Ministry of Legal Affairs to get your marriage license. Then you will be good to go.
Saint Lucia
Famous for its idyllic scenery, Saint Lucia is arguably the most romantic island in the Caribbean. With its lush emerald rainforests, white-sand beaches and volcanic peaks, it is not surprising that this island is considered one of the best places to elope in the region.
To legally tie the knot in Saint Lucia, you will need to stay on the island for at least three days before the wedding date. This is a great opportunity to make the most of what Saint Lucia has to offer.
You may choose to simply relax at the beach and go for swims in the turquoise waters surrounding the island. Alternatively, if you are up for an adventure, there are great hiking trails in the rainforest and scuba diving spots waiting to be explored.
There is a variety of venues to choose from for your special day, from private villas with a rustic feel to luxurious resorts. The latter sometimes offer free wedding packages if you stay there for a certain number of days.
Scotland
I am a little biased because my own elopement took place in Scotland. Nevertheless, the country boasts wild scenery, stunning beaches, romantic castles and vibrant cities that all work so well as elopement destinations.
From the rugged Isle of Skye and breath-taking Glen Coe to the cobbled streets of Edinburgh and ancient aristocratic homes, Scotland will delight history buffs and adventure lovers alike. To top this off, you can get married pretty much anywhere, no matter how remote, without having to apply for a permit.
The paperwork to legally get married in Scotland is relatively simple. If you are interested in finding out more about this destination and legal requirements, check out this guide to elopements in Scotland.
The Amalfi Coast, Italy
Italy is packed to the brim with bucket list destinations many of which would be great for an elopement. Amongst those, one of the most romantic places to elope is undoubtedly the Amalfi Coast.
Located in southern Italy, this region is famous for its dramatic natural beauty, charming historic towns and villages and picturesque beaches. It was even named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When it comes to elopement venues, you are spoilt for choice in Amalfi Coast. The romantic towns of Positano, Sorrento and Ravello are all great options offering stunning coastal views, boutique hotels and cosy restaurants serving delicious Italian fare. For an exclusive elopement experience, head to the island of Capri popular with the rich and famous.
One thing to consider though is that the region gets incredibly busy during the summer months. It might be worth choosing the low season to have a more intimate experience.
There are no residence requirements to legally get married in Italy, so foreigners can officially tie the knot there. However, some admin prep is required.
Your nearest Italian consulate is the best source of information on the documents and steps required to make your dream Italian elopement a reality. It is important to note that if you don’t speak Italian, you will need to hire an interpreter for the ceremony.
Santorini, Greece
Visitors to Greece have been falling in love with the country’s history, culture and idyllic landscapes for centuries. The country boasts a raft of sandy beaches, charming seaside villages and beautiful islands, making it one of the most romantic places to elope in Europe. The jewel in the Greece’s crown is the island of Santorini located in the southern Aegean Sea.
Santorini boasts a dramatic volcanic landscape, epic sunsets, panoramic views of the caldera (volcanic crater) and whitewashed Cycladic architecture. The island’s immense beauty is complemented by luxurious hotels and villas, excellent restaurants and quality wine. It is not surprising that couples choose Santorini for their elopements and honeymoons.
For an elopement ceremony, why not exchange vows at a cliff-side venue with views of the caldera and the sea? Alternatively, you can have your ceremony at a blue-domed chapel, at a beach or even a vineyard.
Since Santorini is a popular destination, you might need to consider having your ceremony in April or October. They are much quieter than the summer months when the island gets crowded and accommodation costs go through the roof.
Foreigners can legally get married in Greece. As always, there is some paperwork to sort out first. Couples need to give wedding notice at a local Greek language newspaper or town hall at least eight days before applying for a marriage license. The names need to be phonetically spelled in Greek.
Once that is out of the way, the next step is to submit the required documentation (passport, birth certificate, an affidavit and a copy of the newspaper notice) in-person to the local Town Hall. Thankfully, an elopement planner can do this on your behalf, so it might be a good idea to engage one early in the process.
Iceland
This Northern European country is famous for its dramatic landscapes. Rushing waterfalls, black sand beaches, rugged cliffs and glaciers make Iceland one of the most beautiful places to elope in the world. The country offers completely different atmospheres throughout the year, with lush greenery and long days in the summer and a moody snow-covered scenery in the winter months.
With so many beautiful natural spots, an elopement out in the wild is the way to go in Iceland. Many couples choose to have their ceremony in Southern Iceland. The region is home to epic waterfalls, impressive black sand beaches, hot springs and the Golden Circle, a popular touring route that covers some of the country’s most famous sites. The hardest part of your Iceland elopement planning is to choose the location for your ceremony.
To ensure that your day runs smoothly, it might be worth engaging a specialist elopement planner early on. The logistics of an outdoor elopement in ever-changing weather will be easier to deal with when you have someone familiar with the unique Icelandic environment by your side.
They can also help submit all the documentation on time if you would like for your wedding ceremony to be legal. You can read more about the legal requirements on the District Commissioners website.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
South Africa offers so much for couples looking for a unique and adventurous elopement, followed by an unforgettable honeymoon. You can tie the knot at a boutique hotel, a stylish vineyard or on a beach. For something different, how about an elopement ceremony on a safari at the Kruger National Park?
The Kruger National Park is one of biggest Big 5 wildlife reserves in the world. Choosing to tie the knot there will allow you to combine two incredibly special experiences into one.
Imagine saying your vows surrounded by the beauty of South African nature followed by an evening game drive. You can complement your experience by staying at one of the luxury lodges or opulent tented camps available in the park.
The legal requirements for getting married in South Africa are straight forward. Compared to many other destinations, couples are not required to get a marriage license.
However, you will need to engage a marriage officer. They will assist with the legal requirements and ultimately marry you. The list of required documents is also available on the South Africa Department of Home Affairs website.
The Maldives
The idyllic Maldives is a popular honeymoon destination. With its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons teeming with marine life and luxurious private island resorts, it is not surprising that many couples dream of visiting these islands. But why not celebrate your marriage there too?
Before we get too carried away, please note that weddings in the Maldives are not legally-binding. Foreigners are not allowed to legally marry in the country.
However, this does not mean that you can’t have your dream elopement there. You will just need to sort out the legalities at home before you head out to the Maldives.
Now, on to the fun part. The island country offers many options for elopement ceremonies depending on your budget. From exchanging vows at a stunning beach at sunset to a ceremony on a luxurious yacht, there are so many ways to make your special day truly magical. Many resorts offer wedding packages, but they are by no means necessary.
Mauritius
The Indian Ocean is home to a raft of stunning island destinations and Mauritius is amongst the dreamiest. This island is famous for its beautiful golden beaches, dramatic mountainous landscapes and unique wildlife paired with laid-back French vibes.
Its many lagoons, waterfalls, coral reefs and hiking trails are waiting to be explored. It is not surprising that the island is one of the most top places to elope amongst couples looking for the perfect tropical island getaway.
The legalities for a Mauritius elopement are relatively straight forward. You will need to send a document pack containing things like passport copies to Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages in Port Louis four weeks before the wedding date. You will need to bring the originals with you to Mauritius. To minimise the paperwork hassle, you might want to consider sorting the legalities out at home first.
In terms of what your Mauritius elopement can look like, there are lots of options. Maybe you dream of saying your “I do’s” with your toes in the golden sand. Or an exclusive private island ceremony is more to your taste.
Just like with many other island destinations, many Mauritius resorts can assist you with organising the day. Some offer well-priced packages if you choose to stay with them for a certain number of days.
The Seychelles
The exclusive Seychelles, another gem found in the Indian Ocean, is the perfect choice for a luxurious elopement in paradise. Exchange your vows in an intimate ceremony on a pristine beach with a stunning natural landscape as your backdrop. Complete your experience with a stay at an indulgent resort.
The Seychelles are made up over 100 islands so choosing one for your elopement might not be an easy task. The largest island is Mahé. Victoria, the capital city, is located there. With 90% of the Seychelles population calling Mahé home, choosing to stay there means you can immerse yourself in the local culture.
However, many couples choose smaller islands such as Praslin or La Digue. But why limit yourself to just one island? If you are staying in the Seychelles for a honeymoon, you can choose to spend some time on different islands.
If you would like to register your marriage in the Seychelles, you need to stay in the country at least three days before the intended ceremony date (what a chore!). There are several documents that you need to submit to the local Registrar.
The full list is available on the official Seychelles Immigration and Civil Status website. A wedding planner or your resort can help with all the legalities.
Galle, Ski Lanka
Sri Lanka boasts golden sand beaches, spectacular landscapes, rich wildlife and a fascinating culture. With its wealth of natural beauty and fun things to do, it is not surprising that this destination is considered one of the best places to elope. Sri Lanka offers plenty of incredible locations that could serve as the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wedding ceremony.
If you are looking for a combination of nature and culture, then make sure to check out Galle, a historic city on the southwestern coast. Galle is a fort city surrounded by protective walls offering a raft of historic sites to explore while you are in the area. Outside the city you will find beautiful beaches dotted with luxury resorts and rustic villas perfect for an intimate elopement.
For your ceremony, you can choose to follow Western or Sri Lankan traditions. A local elopement planner can help make your dream day a reality. Some resorts offer wedding packages too.
For the most up-to-date legal requirements, contact your closest Sri Lankan embassy. They will advise on the documents that you need to ensure that your ceremony is legal.
Phuket, Thailand
Thailand is a firm favourite amongst both sun seekers and adventure lovers. The country boasts a raft of stunning beaches, breath-taking landscapes and vibrant cities. If you are looking to elope in Thailand, you have lots of choices when it comes to destinations, from idyllic islands to the mountains in the North.
One option that is sure to tick all the boxes for a dream elopement is Phuket. Thailand’s biggest island is home to luxurious yet affordable resorts, natural sights, delicious eateries and, of course, dreamy beaches. The actual wedding ceremony can follow Western traditions and incorporate Thai rituals if that’s your preference.
The paperwork does require a little work. First, you need to get an affidavit of freedom to marry from your country’s embassy. This document proves that you are not married to anyone else.
The next step is to translate your affidavit into Thai. Then you will need to notarise the original and the translated copy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office in the area you are staying at.
The last step is to register your marriage at the local District Office. Your marriage certificate will be in Thai so you may want to translate into your language. Thankfully, you can engage a local elopement planner who will guide you through this process.
These articles on the most romantic places to stay in Phuket and the best things to do in Phuket will be a great starting point for planning your Thailand elopement.
Bali, Indonesia
Rolling rice paddies, beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and unique retreats put Bali firmly on the map of the most romantic places to elope. You can have a magical ceremony of your dreams no matter the budget. Bali is also quite an affordable destination compared to many other countries on this list.
Bali offers a raft of romantic locations for a special ceremony. You can opt to exchange your vows on a beach at sunset, on a cliff top overlooking the ocean or in a secluded forest spot with a stunning waterfall as your backdrop. A ceremony can also take place at a luxurious resort or private villa. Some resorts offer elopement packages that include a wedding planner.
It is important to note that the legal requirements for marriage in Bali can be a little tricky. According to Indonesian law, the couple must practise the same religion. They also need to have a religious ceremony in order to legally marry.
That is why it might be easier to sort the legal part of the marriage process in your home country. You can then have a symbolic ceremony in Bali.
Once you tie the knot, you can spend more time exploring Bali or the many other Indonesian islands.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Despite its modest size, New Zealand is brimming with stunning scenery making it one of the best places to elope for adventurous couples. If you are dreaming of tying the knot there, it will not be easy to choose a specific location as there are so many to choose from.
One of the most scenic spots, which is arguably one of the most popular places to elope in the country, is Queenstown. This South Island town sits on the shores of an alpine lake surrounded by stunning mountains.
For an unforgettable day, why not go for a heli wedding? You can say your vows at the top of the mountain overlooking some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country.
This online document outlines all the requirements for a legally binding marriage ceremony. After you tie the knot, it will be time to explore this stunning part of New Zealand.
Discover what this part of the country has to offer in this guide to the best things to see and do in Queenstown.
Fiji
The remote archipelago of Fiji in the South Pacific Ocean is the ideal place for those looking to elope in paradise. The country is made up of more than 300 islands offering a variety of venues, atmospheres and activities.
Fiji is especially famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. But if you are after something more active, there are plenty of other activities on offer including hiking, cultural visits to local villages, surfing and more.
One of the most popular ways to elope in Fiji is on a beach at one of the country’s many resorts. Most of them will be happy to help with wedding planning, including assistance with the marriage license. There are resorts for every budget, so you can easily find the right fit.
If you would like to find out more about the best things to see and do in this country, check out this article on the best things to do in Fiji.
French Polynesia
No article on the most romantic places to elope would be complete without mentioning French Polynesia, a remote and utterly beautiful destination in the Pacific Ocean. Famous for its indulgent over-water bungalows, turquoise waters and beautiful landscapes, French Polynesia is popular for honeymoons and elopements.
The country consists of 118 islands and atolls with different characters and vibes. The most popular islands for elopements are Tahiti, Bora Bora and Mo’orea.
However, French Polynesia is not just about luxury resorts and relaxation. Staying there for both your elopement and honeymoon will give you more time to explore the islands. Go diving or snorkelling to experience French Polynesia’s rich marine life, immerse yourself in fascinating Polynesian culture, explore the many hiking trails and visit a vineyard or two.
Foreigners can legally marry in French Polynesia. However the admin part can take a few months to complete. You will need to put together a document pack and translate it into French.
You will then need to send it to the mayor’s office in your chosen region at least 45 days before the wedding date. The mayor’s office will confirm the date and time of your ceremony. Engaging a wedding planner familiar with the process will help avoid any potential pitfalls.
It is also worth noting that your ceremony will have to be in French. You can get an interpreter to help you on the day. It might be easier to sort out the legal part at home and have a symbolic ceremony there. This approach will remove the hassle of the paperwork.
FAQs: Romantic Places to Elope
There is a raft of romantic places to elope in every part of the globe. The ultimate choice is personal. Some may prefer a beach elopement and, as a result, gravitate to a tropical destination such as Antigua or Mexico. Others may see wild remote landscapes as the most romantic, so destinations like Scotland and Iceland would work better for them.
Yes, it elopements are romantic. There is something special about not worrying about traditions and simply focus on the experience. Elopements are more intimate and personal than the traditional weddings.
Elopements, even international ones, are generally cheaper than traditional weddings. However, they can still get expensive if you opt for the most exclusive resorts in far-flung destinations.
The main disadvantage of eloping is that you might not be able to bring all your loved ones with you to the ceremony. However, you can still have a casual celebration back home after your romantic elopement. Also, be prepared that not everyone might support your decision not to have a traditional wedding.
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