Some couples dream of hosting a big white wedding with hundreds of guests. Others can’t fathom the idea and would prefer to celebrate in a much more intimate setting. While it might be tempting to simply say “I do” at city hall, an elopement offers the opportunity to mark this important life event at an amazing destination. Since elopements can include just the two of you—and sometimes with the addition of a few lucky guests—you can use the budget that might have been spent on a much pricier wedding and instead take a romantic trip to a dream vacation spot.
Even better, the best places to elope around the world can serve as a honeymoon and wedding all in one, with gorgeous ceremony backdrops and luxury accommodations. Want to see some destinations to consider? Here, a guide to the best locations to run off to with your beloved and exchange vows.
Las Vegas
Couples who love the nostalgia and kitsch of a Las Vegas wedding should definitely consider tying the knot in Sin City. The Little White Chapel is obviously the best choice for a quick elopement—possibly officiated by an Elvis impersonator—with a storied history. Judy Garland, Rita Hayworth, Paul Newman, and J. Lo all tied the knot at this petite chapel in the desert. Couples on the go can even do a drive-thru wedding if they so choose.
Hawai’i
If you want to get married in a stunning tropical island destination without a passport or having to worry about an international marriage license, book a flight to Hawai’i. Elopements on the islands are absolutely stunning with the beautiful tropical backdrops and ocean views. From Oahu to Kauai, there are plenty of elopement planners, photographers, and unique venues that will tailor your celebration to your liking. Hawai’i is already a famed honeymoon destination—so, you can instantly transition into vacation mode after you tie the knot.
New York City
Whether you’re a New Yorker or a visitor, NYC is a surprisingly fun place to elope. Couples can head to city hall or host a small ceremony at locations around the boroughs like Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, or a rooftop with skyline views. Then, take to the streets for a wedding photo shoot in your favorite neighborhood and enjoy a dinner party for two at one of the city’s incredible restaurants to round out your big day.
San Francisco
If you want to enjoy one of the best city hall venues in the country, head to San Francisco for a truly beautiful courthouse backdrop. Photos in front of this iconic building are simply stunning and absolutely worth the trip. Speaking of photos, newlyweds should definitely work with a photographer to snap portraits around the city at sites like the Palace of Fine Arts, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Painted Ladies. While couples might enjoy a few nights dining at the great restaurants in town, a short drive to Napa can turn your honeymoon into a wine country affair.
Big Sur
Head down Highway 1 from San Francisco to one of the most incredible natural backdrops on the West Coast. Big Sur provides sweeping ocean views and dramatic cliffs to serve as the picturesque scenery to your vows. This destination is also an incredible spot for a romantic getaway with plenty of beautiful, eco-focused hotels like the Post Ranch Inn and Ventana Big Sur.
Grand Canyon
The gorgeous red rock formations of the Grand Canyon have served as the background for many elopements over the years. Luckily, you can get married in the national park with only a permit for a small fee. Couples can enjoy world-class hiking around the region and kick back at one of the area’s elevated glamping sites for an outdoorsy honeymoon.
Saint Barthélemy
St. Barths is not only one of the most beautiful and fun islands in the Caribbean, but it is also one of the few countries in the Caribbean where same-sex couples can legally marry. To-be-weds can host a small beach wedding, then enjoy a relaxing honeymoon at a private villa or at one of the island’s luxe hotels. Couples can take advantage of vibrant beach clubs on their trip, or kick back and enjoy some R&R before heading home to begin married life.
Tulum
The jungle backdrop, unique architecture, exciting food scene, and turquoise ocean views make Tulum an incredibly romantic place for couples to escape. It’s also a hot spot for honeymoons, big weddings, and intimate elopements. With plenty of lush retreats throughout the area, there’s no shortage of beautiful spots to exchange vows.
Paris
Quelle surprise! The city of love is a favorite spot for couples looking to elope. After saying “I do,” newlyweds can take photos strolling along the Seine, through the beautiful gardens, or inside the French capital’s world-class museums. If you’re heading to Paris, consider extending your trip to explore the rest of France to make the most of your honeymoon.
Greece
If you have always dreamed of tying the knot in Greece, make sure to head to the islands for a summertime elopement. To-be-weds can exchange vows in one of the islands’ hundreds of charming chapels or on cliffsides with views of the gorgeous blue Mediterranean. Plenty of hotels amongst the isles are designed for romantic couples retreats making it easy to transition your trip into an unforgettable honeymoon.