The 45 Best Places to Elope in the World

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Wondering where the most romantic elopement destinations are? Well, here's the thing: romance is subjective. For some, the best places to elope might mean a barefoot ceremony on a tropical beach or a secluded island in the Caribbean. For others, their perfect destination elopement is a winter escape to a snowy chalet in the Swiss Alps. The ceremony could be intimate and subtle, like a city hall elopement, or it could be swoon-worthy, lavish and extravagant.

Whatever the style, couples often elope to create an experience that feels intentional and deeply personal—something that's just for them. The best elopement locations reflect that spirit. While many plan to celebrate with loved ones back home later, the elopement itself tends to be a moment they keep entirely to themselves. And really, what could be more romantic than that? So if you're searching for inspiration, we've rounded up the most romantic elopement destinations around the world. From wild coastlines to charming old-world cities, these are the best places to elope.

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In this Article:

• Best Places to Elope in the US
• Best Places to Elope Around the World
• Best Places to Elope Near You
• How to Choose the Best Place to Elope

Best Places to Elope in the US

When it comes to the most romantic places to elope, the options in the US are as dreamy as they are diverse. From mountaintop ceremonies in Colorado to intimate desert escapes in Arizona, the best places to elope in the US offer stunning backdrops and just the right amount of magic for your "just us" moment. Here are our top picks.

Colorado & Rocky Mountain National Park

The most popular state to elope in the US, according to Simply Eloped, is (drumroll, please) Colorado. Couples, specifically, flock to Rocky Mountain National Park, which is a convenient drive of under two hours from Denver. Last year, the park recorded an astounding 4.1 million visitors, a number that peaks during the summer months. "Our top five locations in the US are in Colorado, specifically the Rockies," says White. It isn't surprising to hear this as the park itself boasts rugged peaks, alpine lakes, sprawling meadows and all sorts of wildlife. After all–who doesn't want to be photobombed by elk? And if you don't believe in the effort that goes into planning (or hiring a well-versed planner), simply take it from the NPS. "Applications are accepted one year in advance of your desired wedding month. The review of applications begins the first of the month, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis," it reads on the website.

Additionally, couples will find diverse landscapes across Colorado, including the all-knowing white-bark "eyes" of Aspen trees, dramatic sand dunes, hot springs, and arid red rocks of the Garden of the Gods. One key reminder about national and state park elopements: Leave it to the professionals to arrange permits, select optimal time slots and more. The Rockies, for example, requires a timed permit, which you must snag well in advance for even the opportunity to make it through the front gate. A separate timed entry is required to enter Bear Lake.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee & Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Known as the "gateway" to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the town of Gatlinburg is conveniently located close to the breathtaking ridges of the Appalachian Mountains. "This one surprised me," says White. But to those familiar with the Tennessee towns, both Gatlinburg and its sister city of Pigeon Forge are suitable fits for elopements. Not only do these towns afford couples scenic stays in nature, but they're also located near Dolly Parton's Dollywood. (A win-win!)

Yosemite National Park, California

Photo: tiffanynguyen / Getty Images

While there's no shortage of beautiful national parks across the country, each destination boasts unique hidden gems and outlooks perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime, say, elopement. For example, Yosemite National Park is considered a top elopement destination for nature-loving couples who want to exchange vows in the open lands of the US. Many return to Yosemite for its trails and beauty, with a bucket list item occurring every fall: For a fleeting window of time, Yosemite's Half Dome gives the illusion that it's on fire. If that isn't the time and place to elope in Yosemite, couples can certainly find a spot across the US National Park's sprawling and nearly 760,000 acres. Just remember to hire a seasoned professional to help with the planning (especially, permits), as well as a destination wedding photographer.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Photo: RebeccaAng / Getty Images

Arguably the best elopement destination of the country is none other than a town that's nicknamed Sin City. Vegas, with its numerous drive-through wedding spots and accessible chapels, makes it simple for easy, legal and hassle-free options for elopement packages. There are plenty of local landmarks and venues too, including the Fountains of the Bellagio, the High Roller, and the Venetian's ornate lobby. "Couples who want a more iconic experience, with a VIP feel, often choose the Terrazza di Sogno, which overlooks the fountains," says Daniella Cracco, Manager of Special Events at Bellagio Resort & Casino. For couples who want photos in nature, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is just 30 minutes away from the Strip and another beautiful setting to commit to each other.

Maui, Hawaii

Photo: Pamela Hanson,Venue: The Four Seasons Maui

Maui was practically made for romance, starting with the beloved Makena Cove, where eloping couples exchange vows between lava rocks and golden stretches of sand. The Kapalua coast is also arguably one of the prettiest spots for elopements, especially if you want to commit to a natural setting along D.T. Fleming Beach with a sporadic rainbow sighting. Photographers and property events teams are particularly well-versed in selecting the best places to elope on the island, including coveted sunrise vows at Haleakalā National Park. After your vows, celebrate with brunch at your hotel or a memorable first dinner as newlyweds. (This editor swears by the iconic Banyan Tree at the Ritz-Carlton Maui.) If you're closer to the southern coast, take in the sunset by reserving the best seat in the house at Ferraro's Bar e Ristorante or Waicoco in Ka'anapali. Properties like the Four Seasons Wailea and The Westin Maui (the latter, which partners with local wedding planner White Orchid Wedding, Inc.), all offer comprehensive elopement packages.

Kauai, Hawaii

Photo: Meritage Resorts Collection

Kauai is often considered a spiritual experience for those who embrace the wilderness. One boat ride past the Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park will convince couples that the mythical-level Northern shore of the island is the perfect place to elope. Reaching the destination is, however, quite a trek (whether by foot or by boat), but the hulking and verdant volcanic coastline will make your jaw drop in awe. If you plan to top the experience off with a Kauai honeymoon, one of the most well-regarded romantic resorts on the island is Ko'a Kea on Poipu Beach.

New York, New York

Photo: Peter Adams / Getty Images

With so many iconic restaurants and properties, a City Hall elopement comes with all kinds of perks in the City That Never Sleeps, including photo opportunities on the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, before the steps of the New York Public Library or overlooking the entire island of Manhattan from Summit One Vanderbilt and the Top of the Rock. For the festivities that follow a New York elopement, indulge in an intimate dinner or lunch at Bemelman's at The Carlyle, which Princess Diana once described as her favorite place in NYC or your favorite spot in Soho or the West Village. If there's one fact, it's that the choice will be tough to narrow down given New York's top fine dining scene.

San Francisco, California

Photo: Spondylolithesis / Getty Images

City Hall in San Francisco takes on its personality. The ornate building from 1915 was designed by architect Arthur Brown Jr., also the mastermind behind the city's Opera House and New York City's 50 United Nations Plaza. Now a national landmark, West Coast couples often take note of the venue for their elopements. Following the ceremony, couples will often head to the San Francisco Botanical Garden and celebrate with views at La Mar Cebicheria Peruana or in one of the intimate spaces at Wayfare Tavern.

Santa Barbara, California

Photo: Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Quiet, dreamy and undeniably beautiful, Santa Barbara is a coveted elopement destination in the US. Proximate to both the beach and the beautiful vineyards nestled along Santa Ynez Valley and exclusive Montecito, it feels as though most venues and properties were tailor-made for elopements. Couples can take their pick between the storied San Ysidro Ranch and The Hotel Californian, or they can exchange vows at the famed Santa Barbara County Courthouse, erected in 1929. For something even more secluded, they can head north to sleepy Big Sur.

Big Sur, California

Photo: Alila Ventana Resorts

The astounding coastline of California is most extraordinary, arguably, along the state's central coast, culminating along Big Sur. Couples can select from plenty of unique places to elope when it comes to this remarkable region, including five-star properties like Post Ranch Inn or the Alila Ventana Big Sur, modern marvels like Bixby Bridge, and natural spectacles like the looming rocks of Pfeiffer Beach. If you both consider yourselves forest fairies, you'll want to exchange vows in concealed clearings under hulking redwoods.

Lake Tahoe, California

Photo: Kevin Thrash / Getty Images

This crown jewel of a US elopement destination—featuring alpine lakes (and the largest in the country) and dramatic mountainous landscape—surprisingly isn't considered a national park. Tahoe, however, welcomes twice as many visitors each year over Yosemite National Park. With featured blue waters, hamlets and stunning views of capped mountains, Tahoe is a top choice for couples seeking a lake or mountain elopement. The only thing you'll have to worry about is the sheer beauty of your wedding announcements, once the news is out to your loved ones.

Palm Springs, California

If the desert beckons for your unique elopement destination, then Palm Springs is central to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country. Some couples say Joshua Tree National Park is a spiritual experience, one that combines the arid desert with the untainted beauty of the wilderness. Palm Springs, itself, is home to unique properties that offer backdrops of Palm Springs' iconic pink hue, as well as the three-mile-long Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which is considered the world's largest rotating tram. (How's that for cool places to elope in the US?)

San Diego, California

Photo: Sean Pavone / Getty Images

Rounding out the list of elopement options in California is sunny San Diego. Home to cool places to elope like Balboa Park and Coronado Beach, this Southern California city offers a lighter and more relaxed setting for couples who prefer a more subdued and carefree ceremony.

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Photo: Aman Resorts

The question is: arches or canyons? For an otherworldly and unexpected destination, the dramatic buttes and canyons carved from millennia of river formation of the Canyonlands also reflect your love: breathtaking and one-of-a-kind. The application fee for a wedding at the Canyonlands is $185, and you'll certainly want to do your research beforehand. Well-traveled couples from around the world will specifically head to one particular property located close to the iconic Mesa Arch for a romantic getaway, ceremony or elopement. Blending into the landscape, Amangiri is a highly sought-after place to elope in the US for its sheer beauty combined with its convenient location in the Colorado Plateau (the hotel is within driving distance of Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon). With the help of an officiant and a guide, to-be-weds can exchange vows within the slot canyons or overlooking the awe-provoking surrounding landscape. All in a day's work, newlyweds can easily transition from elopement to honeymoon with spa treatments and celebratory dinners under the stars at the resort or at Camp Sarika. Remote, rugged and resplendent, a Canyonlands elopement is tough to beat.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

A beloved US National Park, Mount Rainier is one of the most romantic elopement destinations for outdoorsy couples. Astounding beauty awaits couples eloping on the highest volcanic elevation in the continental US including lush meadows of wildflowers, glacier-tipped peaks, and verdant greenery. A note of consideration (and encouragement) is to hire a professional planner as some couples won't even realize that an elopement here requires a $175 special event permit. There are many factors to consider, including weather patterns and other professional needs to successfully pull off a Mount Rainier elopement.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Photo: Peter Unger / Getty Images

Topping your vows with beignets and lively jazz is the way to do it in New Orleans. Couples who appreciate good food, Bayou culture and something slightly beyond the standard concept of an elopement will want to consider this city for their ceremony.

Savannah, Georgia

Southern, sweet and sometimes spooky, Savannah is an ideal destination elopement option for couples who want to combine the charming cobblestone streets with the pretty parks of Georgia's oldest city. A few of Savannah's most popular elopement locations include Forsyth Park and Tybee Island, while generally, it's an all-around perfect place to elope, especially in the fall.

St. Augustine, Florida

Photo: John Coletti / Getty Images

The oldest city in the US, which dates back to the mid-1500s, is considered one of the best elopement destinations in Florida for several reasons. The Spanish colonial architecture alone evokes the look and feel of a European elopement. The Peña-Peck House is a local favorite, as is Washington Oaks Gardens State Park for its variety of backdrops (couples can choose between the gardens or the beach). Overall, Florida offers plenty of variety (and types of venues), spanning from Palm Beach to Orlando.

The Hudson Valley, New York

During the fall when emerald leaves turn to shades of brilliant marigold and deep hues of oxblood, New Yorkers flock to the Hudson Valley for toasty autumnal celebrations. There are plenty of local venues, luxury hotels and overlooks along trails to select from, making the Hudson Valley a versatile option for couples who revel in the season. The region is considered one of the best places to elope in the fall.

Sedona, Arizona

Photo: John Coletti / Getty Images

The Verde Valley's red-rock canyons and buttes are noteworthy backdrops for any special occasion (proposals, weddings and more), but especially for elopements. It's worth noting that there's even a trail known as the Courthouse Butte near Bell Rock. Couples who want to exchange vows surrounded by colorful vistas should consider Sedona for their elopement. After all, they can follow it up with a couple's treatment at a local spa.

Glacier National Park, Montana

If fly fishing, horseback riding, and enjoying quiet nature out West all sound like a dream elopement, then Glacier National Park may be just the spot for you. Before you pack your bags, however, you'll want to apply for a Special Use Permit and familiarize yourself with the areas that allow weddings. More than anything, respect nature while exchanging your vows.

Best Places to Elope Around the World

The best places to elope around the world span every kind of landscape and vibe, from sun-drenched beaches to dramatic mountaintops. Picture saying "I do" on a cliffside in Santorini, beneath a waterfall in Iceland or on a gorgeous Caribbean beach. Whether you're drawn to the lush jungles of Costa Rica, the elegance of a Parisian courtyard or the beauty of New Zealand, the most romantic elopement destinations are the ones that feel just right for your story. Here are the top places to elope abroad.

Antigua and Barbados

Photo: Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld / Getty Images

This British Virgin Island is reputable for its beautiful beaches, world-class sailing, snorkeling and private island experiences. Couples will want to experience the luxury elopement experience on the powdery beaches of Jumby Bay Island or Hermitage Bay. There's also the all-inclusive route at Sandals Grande Antigua.

Aruba

Photo: Mark A Paulda / Getty Images

Just north of Venezuela is the Dutch-Caribbean island of Aruba, a country known for its diversity, hospitality and the largest vow renewal in the world. Aruba's acclaimed Eagle Beach also happens to be the defending champion of the best beaches in the region, if not, the world. For something more secluded and experiential, the Renaissance Aruba has its own private island elopement package with only flamingoes roaming its white-sand beaches to witness your vow. Aruba Bell Tents can design a dreamy, oceanfront ceremony complete with a multi-course private dinner prepared by a chef. If you prefer an aquatic experience, the Monforte Luxury Cruise is one of the top-rated sailing excursions on the island.

Belize

Photo: Michael Godek / Getty Images

Nature lovers will deeply appreciate Belize's rugged beauty, especially for a lush jungle elopement surrounded by deep and emerald greens. Couples can choose between an intimate natural ceremony on the romantic hanging bridge at Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge–an eco-resort in Belmopan–or an oceanfront elopement at its bohemian sister property of The Lodge at Jaguar Reef in Hopkins. If you want even more dramatic wedding photos, ask the events team to arrange an elopement by the Belize Barrier Reef, the biggest in the Western hemisphere.

Costa Rica

Photo: Jose Torres Gomez / 500px / Getty Images

Imagine exchanging vows in a cloud rainforest or committing to a lifetime of love at sunset at a UNESCO site on the beach. Costa Rica is the most biodiverse country in the world boasting scenic Caribbean and Pacific beaches, volcanoes, and all kinds of wildlife, including sloths and macaw pairings (the birds' partner for life). Couples can choose to elope in Papagayo at the Four Seasons or the Andaz for a classic beach ceremony or they can head inland to the rainforests for a seductive and elevated elopement at Origins Lodge in Alajuela or one of the luxury tented resorts near La Fortuna waterfall.

Jamaica

Photo: Stock Photos Jamaica / Getty Images

Between bob-sledding, ziplining, snorkeling, and lounging on the beach, it's hard to beat this Caribbean elopement destination. Not only is Jamaica teeming with oceanfront all-inclusive resorts across Ochos Rios, Negril and Montego Bay, but it's arguably home to one of the most renowned properties in the Caribbean: GoldenEye, where Ian Fleming wrote the James Bond novels. For couples who want to take the stress out of planning an elopement, the best option is to turn to an event planner at your resort. Recommended options include Half Moon or the iconic over-the-water, white chapel at Sandals South Coast.

St. Lucia

Photo: David C Tomlinson / Getty Images

There's a reason why St. Lucia is one of the most romantic elopement destinations in the Caribbean. With its pristine beaches and hulking twin Pitons, you feel transported to an even more distant location. Thankfully, it's only a short flight away from the US and hotels cater to celebrations and special events, including elopement packages. Couples will want to stay at Jade Mountain or Sandals for an ultra-romantic experience. For those who want a nontraditional concept of elopement, exchanging vows on a catamaran in Soufriere is quite enticing. Otherwise, gorgeous backdrops are guaranteed at Vigie Beach Blow Hole or the Cove Beach Blow Hole at Cap Maison. The more adventurous may want to stand before the roaring Superman Waterfall or Sapphire Falls.

Turks & Caicos

Photo: Matt Anderson / 500px / Getty Images

Turquoise water, five-star properties and secluded beaches make the Caribbean island of Turks & Caicos a worthy destination for elopements. For couples who value solitude and privacy, Amanyara, an Aman property on the west coast of Providenciales, and COMO Parrot Cay, a private island resort, both offer elopement packages. Those who prefer an all-inclusive element can turn to Ambergris Cay, especially if you want to enjoy a stress-free minimony or reception with your loved ones.

US Virgin Islands

Photo: Jim Kruger / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Perhaps the easiest and best place to elope in the Caribbean, logistics-wise, is the US Virgin Islands (USVI). Comprised of St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix, the three islands offer dramatic overlooks, clear blue water and white sand beaches. Plus, did we mention they're passport-free destinations?

Mexico

Photo: Kelly Cheng Travel Photography / Getty Images

From the Riviera Nayarit to the mountains of San Miguel, an elopement in Mexico can range dramatically per couple. The country boasts diverse and dramatic landscapes, unique culinary experiences and high-end resorts dotting open acres of stunning beaches in toney enclaves like Punta de Mita and Los Cabos.

The Canary Islands, Spain

Photo: Secrets Resorts & Spas - Hyatt Inclusive Collection

While its Balearic cousins get more love, the Canary Islands are wild and beautiful, making it one of the best places to elope in the world. The destination is home to a grouping of eight diverse islands, including Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and La Palma. The lesser-known and smaller destinations include La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa. Off the coast of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote is a remote fishing island known as Lobos Island. It takes about an hour sail to reach the destination or you can marry at Secrets Bahia Real, which arguably has the best pier for photography, all-inclusive dining options, and easy access to the exotic Parque Natural de Corralejo, where miles of pristine white sand have gradually drifted from the Sahara and settled against the electric teal Atlantic Ocean. The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama on the island of Tenerife is another elopement option as the resort is placed against a dramatic, moon-like backdrop of natural landscape.

London, England

Photo: Scott E Barbour / Getty Images

A guaranteed timeless location for elopements, London's appeal is multi-fold for couples. The city is sophisticated and modern–its hotels and properties on arguably a different playing field among service, amenities and design. Plus, there are plenty of beautiful parks and iconic landmarks to feature in your elopement photos. Depending on your aesthetic, each neighborhood appeals to somebody.

Madrid, Spain

Photo: Jorg Greuel / Getty Images

A newcomer to the list of urban elopement destinations, Madrid is well-deserving of this accolade for multiple reasons. The city is incredibly clean and offers architectural feats from the Neo-Mudéjar period in the 19th century, expertly blended against city plazas and parks, for gorgeous photography. Couples will especially love chasing their newfound marital status down with cava and churros con chocolat. The best places to elope in the city include the Rosewood Villa Magna, a dramatic and exclusive hotel with refined finishes and interiors. For something even more historic, turn to the Hotel Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá. (Did we mention that credit card points are a plus here? American Express cardholders will be pleased to find it's under the Leading Hotels of the World umbrella, whether they plan to store or use those points.)

Paris, France

Photo: Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Where better to elope than the City of Love… and Lights? With its charming facade buildings, cobblestone streets, world-class museums and palaces, historic windmills, as well as the Eiffel Tower, Paris oozes romance just about everywhere. Coupled with delicious fare and its accessibility from the East Coast, Paris is a dream destination for romance. Couples will want to hire an elopement photographer to capture their Parisian fairytale elopement.

Rome, Italy

Photo: Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Among ancient ruins, classical fountains designed by the likes of Bernini, charming cobblestone alleys and the rustic sun that cascades across Roman rooftops are couples sprinkled through just about every pocket of the city. Rome was made for love… and copious amounts of pasta, gelato or both. Between the Colosseum, the Piazza Navona (where this editor once resided), the Pantheon, and numerous five-star properties with views of these landmarks, there are plenty of elopement locations to consider in Roma.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Photo: Harald Nachtmann / Getty Images

"Otherworldly" is often used to describe Iceland. With its dramatic waterfalls, natural hot springs and unadulterated scenery, Iceland beckons adventurous and outdoorsy couples from around the world. Those who like dramatic backdrops will find an Icelandic elopement to be right up their alley. Couples who want a full-service experience can exchange vows at the iconic Blue Lagoon at sunrise. Those who prefer something more rugged can take a Jeep to Snæfellsnes National Park or the breathtaking black-sand beaches and waterfalls dotting the Golden Circle. Maybe the Northern Lights will dance for your newlywed status (pending seasonality).

Santorini, Greece

Photo: Andronis Luxury Suites

Peak tourism season isn't the ideal time to elope in beautiful Santorini, famed for its breathtaking sunsets and blue dome rooftops and white-washed buildings. The bougainvillea lives on even after the summer crowds diminish and the quieter moments of Santorini draw the destination's true nature to light. Couples may want an expert-driven ceremony for two held on the captivating events deck of Andronis Luxury Suites, an all-inclusive elopement destination package offered by wedding planning company Vanilla Sky. Another option for couples is the Aegean Love Affair elopement package offered directly by The Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, which promises to capture your intimate elopement and the dramatic seaside town. Complete with three nights in a suite, an outdoor ceremony, couples massage, wine tasting, private dinner at Varoulko Santorini, and a private boat tour, this package is complete with a professional photography session—what's not to love about that?

Tuscany, Italy

Photo: Gary Yeowell / Getty Images

Manicured Renaissance gardens, historical villas and delicious farm-to-table dining are just a few pros to weigh when considering a Tuscan elopement. A tried-and-true destination for weddings, honeymoons and elopements, Tuscany beckons–especially if you enjoy the aromatic experience of indulging in quality wine, olive oil and pasta.

Antarctica

Photo: Ashley Cooper / Getty Images

Can you get married in Antarctica? Yes, though getting there will cost a pretty penny. An elopement in Antarctica makes for a great storytelling opportunity, especially since it's hard to reach and has a population of zero. While your extended family and colleagues may have to decline the invitation to witness your nuptials on an uninhabitable continent, you can come home with the wedding photos and marriage certificate now thanks to Atlas Ocean Voyages. Plus, the bragging rights since only 30,000 visitors make it to Antarctica each year, making it the most unusual and unique elopement destination on our list.

Bali, Indonesia

Photo: Sirintra Pumsopa / Getty Images

Rated by numerous experts and destination wedding planners as the top elopement location in the world, beautiful Bali is for couples from all parts of the world. With its unique vegetation, heritage and natural beauty, the "Island of the Gods" is notably a far trek from the US–but rather cost-effective once you're there. Even for five-star experiences, your money will stretch among the lush tropical gardens and vast breaks of the Indian Ocean. Couples can find their zen elopement at the discreet and luxurious suite-only Raffles Bali or among the famous rice paddies at Tanah Gajah Ubud, a five-star resort in the spiritual hub of Bali.

Anambas Islands, Indonesia

Photo: Bawah Reserve

You've likely seen Bawah Reserve all over Instagram and it lives up to the hype. A remarkable option for romance and special events, most couples who want to quietly elope in a fabulous destination will first need to experience getting to this remote paradise. From Singapore, couples will take a ferry to Batam in Indonesia, followed by a private seaplane to the Anambas Islands. Depending on the number of guests (if any), booking festivities at Elang Private Residence will guarantee that your secret's safe with only your crew of loved ones.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Photo: Connect Images / Getty Images

Couples love to elope in Tahiti. The island's sultry and exotic landscape and seascape are a dream for couples considering a wow-worth destination elopement. It checks just about every box. The best part is taking an extended honeymoon after you exchange your vows.

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Photo: Desert & Delta Safaris

One visit to Chobe National Park in Botswana will explain why Elizabeth Taylor chose to secretly marry her ex-husband, Richard Burton, on the banks of the Chobe River. Liz and Dick celebrated their repeat nuptials (yes, love is tricky) at the five-star Chobe Game Lodge in October 1975. "We exchanged rings, fathomless looks, and were married once again, back where we belonged. Always belonged," the bride wrote in her diary of the experience. The destination speaks for itself between the thriving population of elephants and hippos that sleep on the banks of that very river.

Naboisho Conservancy, Kenya

Photo: Basecamp Explorer

Quieter and more private than the dramatic and bustling Masai Mara National Reserve, Naboisho is a private conservancy located adjacent to the neighboring Mara and is known for offering more private experiences for guests. The region is also known for having the largest concentration of lions in all of Africa, making it an especially exciting yet intimate location for wildlife lovers. In terms of ideal elopement destinations, we recommend Basecamp Eagle View, which was named appropriately as it has the "eagle view" of the entire region. Nestled well above the Koiyaki River, the safari encampment is perched on the edge of a hill where couples can exchange vows against a diverse landscape of acacia trees, grassland, watering holes and rocky formations, all under the blue safari sky. This destination is also a picturesque choice for an elopement due to its prime views and expert-led expeditions from Maasai guides and drivers. The team can take you on an exhilarating post-sunrise ceremony walk in the bush or a romantic post-elopement evening game drive (sundowners, included).

Queenstown, New Zealand

Photo: Matthew Micah Wright / Getty Images

Imagine saying you eloped in "The Remarkables." That's exactly the case in Queenstown, New Zealand, where the dreamy Southern Alps drape backdrops of wedding photos, while the stories are a tad dramatic–this city is all about the adventure elopement. Exchange your vows and bungee jump with your officiant since, you know, you took the plunge.

Best Places to Elope Near You

Photo: Dunton Hot Springs

If you're searching for "best places to elope near me" or you have a particular state in mind, we've got you covered with our destination elopement guides for the most popular states in the US.

• Best Places to Elope in California
• Best Places to Elope in Colorado
• Best Places to Elope in Vegas
• Best Places to Elope in Florida
• Best Places to Elope in Hawaii
• Best Places to Elope in Texas
• Best Places to Elope in Arizona
• Best Places to Elope in Georgia
• Best Places to Elope in Michigan
• Best Places to Elope in Ohio

How to Choose the Best Place to Elope

Photo: Matt Anderson Photography / Getty Images

While you consider the best places to elope, some decision-making factors could influence how you narrow down the decision. An elopement ceremony is intimate by nature, so couples will want to be in a place that feels remote and secluded. It's also important the environment is comfortable, the weather is idyllic for the seasonality, and local vendors have the experience to provide services to pull off the elopement of your dreams. Read our tips below to help you refine whether you want a classic beach elopement, a secluded safari ceremony, or an intimate five-person destination wedding.

Stick to Your Budget

Elopement packages are common with properties and resorts that cater to romantic experiences. Some start as low as $500, while all-inclusive luxury experiences (including catering, photography, and a multiple-night stay) can hover at around $10,000. If your budget is important, your options are still vast as elopements are generally more cost-effective given the lack of guests.

Research Local Vendor and Travel Logistics

Getting there, meaning your version of paradise may be complicated for busier couples, which is why a local city hall is preferred, especially by those who cannot take the time off. However, if your destination of choice is a remote island or culturally relevant to you in a distant country, you'll want to weigh the logistics of getting there as part of the experience. Explore our elopement checklist for more details.

Source a Location of Sentiment and Importance

Whether it's the first vacation destination you experienced together as a couple or a country that holds personal and cultural value to you, the sentiment tethered to a location particularly comes into play when it comes to narrowing down the most romantic elopement destinations. For example, a park ranger may want to exchange vows at the scenic lookout point of their favorite national park.

Explore Photography Options

Elopement photography is important to couples since the private moment is theirs to cherish and keep forever. Many couples end up choosing a venue, space, or location based on its photogenic qualities.

Consider the Time of Year

Some destinations are overrun with tourists during peak season—to the point your elopement may be not-so-intimate. You'll also want to consider your dream destination's weather patterns, especially if there's a designated monsoon or extreme weather season.