Info & Inspo for a Florida Beach Elopement
Dreaming of a Florida beach elopement that’s unique, wild, and way more “you” than a traditional wedding? Kyra and Steven’s sunrise horseback elopement on a secluded Florida beach is the perfect inspo for couples wanting ocean views, laid-back vibes, and unforgettable adventure. If you’re looking for the best beaches to elope in Florida, this one’s got everything: long stretches of beach, panoramic ocean views, luxury picnics, and post-beach celebratory cocktails.
Can you elope on a Florida beach?
Absolutely! With over 8,000 miles of shoreline along Florida’s perimeter, there’s TONS of options for your beach elopement. And while there are thousands of miles of beach, each city and county will have different rules and requirements with beach elopements. It’s important to know how to navigate those rules, regulations, and requirement. I will always, always, always recommend working with a local elopement photographer that can help you figure out what is needed to keep your ceremony legal. Nothing is worse than being kicked out mid-ceremony (or being unable to access the beach at all!).
What beaches can you elope on in Florida?
You can elope on almost any Florida beach! There are some locations like Rosemary Beach in the 30A area that have strict guidelines and requirements, but there are plenty of options when it comes to beaches. Some popular options include Washington Oaks State Park, Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine, Sebastian Inlet State Park, Smathers Beach in Key West, and Fort Pierce (where this elopement happened!).
Do I need a permit to elope on a beach in Florida?
Usually, yes, but it just depends on the location. Places like Rosemary Beach in 30A have strict requirements for when and where you can get married on the beach whereas places like Smathers Beach in Key West do not require permits (but it is first come, first served). It’s best to always check with local authorities and/or working with a local elopement photographer before getting your heart set on a location.
How much does a Florida beach elopement cost?
If a beach requires a wedding, event, and/or photography permit, there will be a fee. Costs vary from $25 all the way up to $500+ with private resort beaches being a few thousand dollars. However, you can expect an average cost of $100 for a simple elopement (no guests, no set up, etc.).
What are the best beaches to elope on in Florida?
This section breaks down my top 10 favorite beaches to elope in Florida after capturing dozens of Florida beach elopements. These aren’t your overrated tourists spots like Miami Beach or Daytona. They’re all hand-picked for couples who want something beautiful in a city that matches their post-ceremony vision.
Best Elopement Beaches in the Florida Keys
There’s a common misconception about the Florida Keys that they’re lined with long stretches of sandy beaches. In reality, most of the Keys are rocky or have small beach access points, so you won’t find the wide, powdery shorelines like in Clearwater or Siesta Key. But if the Keys still checks all the other elopement boxes, there are still some stunning beach spots!
Smathers Beach, Key West
Smathers Beach is one of the largest beaches in Key West and perfect if you’re after long stretches of sand with panoramic ocean views. It’s easy to access, has a palm-lined shoreline, and offers epic golden hour light for portraits. Since the beach faces south, this is a great spot for sunrise or sunset elopements.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, Key West
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is one of the most unique Florida beach elopement spots with tall Australian pines, and sandy beach areas backed by a historic Civil War fort. It’s ideal for couples who want a mix of adventure, scenery, and history.
Bahia Honda State Park Beach, Big Pine Key
Bahia Honda State Park Stands out for its historical charm and epic sunrise and sunset views. There’s an old train bridge that runs out of the park and acts as a historic backdrop along the beach.
Best Beach Elopements on the Gulf Coast
If you’re all about golden hour magic, soft white sand, and beach towns with a little bit of personality, the Gulf Coast is where it’s at. From the upscale charm of 30A to the lively energy of Clearwater and St. Pete, this side of Florida brings the sunset vibes in full force.
Rosemary Beach, Panhandle
When you think about long stretches of white sandy beaches, THIS is it. With a totally luxe feel, Rosemary Beach is nestled along scenic 30A and feels more like a European coastal town than your typical Florida beach. It’s ideal for couples who love upscale beach towns with charm and character.
Heads up! Permitting is very strict in the 30A area and they will kick you out if you aren’t properly permitted.
Clearwater Beach, Clearwater
Clearwater Beach is perfect for a mix of epic sunsets and nightlife! The beaches are super well kept with soft sand and long stretches to the water. Since this is a popular tourist destination, there’s not much privacy and parking is hard to come by. If you want more privacy, Sand Key Beach is a great option that’s right down the road from the popular beaches.
Permits: If your wedding will have less than 25 guests and does not require any setup (chairs, tent, etc.), there is no permit requirement. Check with the city’s website for how to obtain a permit if you don’t meet those criteria. No additional photography permits are required.
Best Elopement Beaches in South Florida
From secluded spots with rock formations and local charm to beaches where you can literally ride horses into your ceremony, South Florida offers a super chill alternative to the big-name tourist beaches.
Frederick Douglass Memorial Park, Fort Pierce
A local gem on the East Coast, Frederick Douglass Memorial Park is truly peaceful. However, it’s mention on this list is because it’s one of the only places in Florida where horseback riding on the beach is allowed! This makes it the perfect location if you want a horseback riding adventure as part of your wedding.
Permits: No permit required for photography or weddings, but check with St. Lucie County for up-to-date permit info.
Chastain Beach & House of Refuge, Stuart
Two locations right next to eachother: Chastain Beach and House of Refuge. Both of these locations hvae really neat rock formations along the coast which makes it feel like the west coast. Both locations are on a tiny barrier island so you can get sunrise and sunset images. Keep in mind that depending on the current, tides, and sand build-up, the rock formations might not be visible or accessible as shown below.
Permits: Generally, permits are not needed for small ceremonies or personal photography. If you want to use the House of Refuge Museum, there is a fee.
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, Fort Pierce
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is perfect for couples who are seeking a low-key, intimate elopement beach ceremony with epic sunrise and sunset views. Fort Pierce is one of the best-kept secrets of the East Coast which makes it great for avoiding tons of tourists and living like the locals.
Permits: For elopements with no setup, there is no wedding or photography permit required.
Sebastian Inlet State Park, Sebastian
Sebastian Inlet State Park is perfect for early-rising couples who are seeking a low-key, intimate elopement beach ceremony. SISP is another best-kept secret along the East Coast, which makes it great for privacy. It is close enough to big cities and offers an array of adventurous activities such as paddle boarding, boating, surfing, and so much more!
Permits: For elopements with no setup, there is no wedding or photography permit required.
Best Elopement Beaches in North Florida
Since North Florida doesn’t typically come to mind for beach wedding, this location feels a little more off-the-radar, which makes it perfect for couples who want a semi-private experience.
Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine Beach
Anastasia State Park is IT for couples that want a white sand beach ceremony in a historic town! The beach has long stretches of beach with not a ton of tourists. This is great for a semi-private location in a city with tons to do. There are also hardened pathways which make it great for accessibility.
Permits: Required, there is a $100 wedding permit and $50 photography permit for this location.
Washington Oaks State Park, Palm Coast
Washington Oaks State Park is split into two sides by A1A with one side being stretches of beach with stunning coquina rock and the other half a lush garden. This beach is off the beaten path so it’s typically pretty quiet. It’s a rare combo that can make your Florida elopement feel one-of-a-kind.
Permits: Required. Contact the park office for current fees and reservation info.
When’s the best time of year for a Florida beach elopement?
The best time of year for a Florida beach elopement is late November through early April. Generally, temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit with less humidity (your wedding day hair will thank you), but will depend on where you’re eloping. There are also lower rain chances during this time.
This timeframe also means fewer bugs! Mosquitos and no-see-ums plague the beaches, but they tend to go dormant during this time especially once the temps are under 50 degrees F. Fewer mosquitos and no-see-ums mean a much better elopement day.
If you’re considering eloping any other time of the year, it’s good to know that it WILL be hot and humid with the threat of an afternoon thunderstorm. If you’re considering any other time of the year, opt for a sunrise elopement to beat the heat and the rain. You’ll want to bring bug spray with you though since bugs are worst at dawn and dusk.
What’s the best time of day for a beach ceremony?
As a photographer, I’ll always recommend a sunrise or sunset ceremony for the best lighting. Since most beaches are full sun, the soft, even lighting of golden hour (i.e., the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset) will make photos gorgeous. The decision between sunrise or sunset will depend on if you’re an early riser or not. There are many factors that come into play when choosing a time of day: are you okay with people around? Will you be inviting guests? Do you want to roll right into portraits? What are you doing after your ceremony? Etc.
what do I do all day
activities we could do (swimming, horseback riding, scuba diving, sailing, picnic, etc)
Can you bring your dogs to your Florida beach elopement?
Depends! While there are tons of beaches in Florida, they’re not all dog-friendly. Before settling on a beach location, research to see if dogs are allowed there. Here’s a list of dog-friendly beaches in Florida.
What should we pack for our beach elopement in Florida?
Think lightweight wedding attire, reef-safe sunscreen, sandals, and maybe a change of clothes for that beach bar afterparty. If you’re planning on getting into the water, bring a towel, bathing suit, and change of clothes.
What should we know before planning a Florida beach elopement?
If you’re bringing your own horse, go for it (just make sure you get your horse used to the dress). But most commercial horseback rides don’t allow wedding dresses — they can spook the horses. Plan to bring something to change into that’s horse-back riding friendly.
What is the alternative if there is rain?
what if I want privacy?
Weather, shoes, attire (is there anything bad?)
how do I avoid having people in my photos
is it super windy always and should I have my hair up
Elope in Florida With An Expert
Elopement plans can shift, so it’s super important to double-check the most up-to-date info especially when it comes to permits. Everything in this guide was accurate at the time it was created, but always check with local parks or city websites before locking anything in. The last thing you want is a surprise rule or fee popping up the week of your elopement. And if you’d like to learn more about the legal aspects of eloping here, read through the how to elope in Florida guide!
The good news? As a Florida elopement photographer, I help every one of my couples figure out exactly what’s needed — permits, timing, location logistics — so you’re not left navigating all that alone. I’ll take care of the behind-the-scenes stuff so you can stay focused on what actually matters: each other.
Whether you’re dreaming of the soft white sands in Clearwater, the historic charm of St. Augustine, or the quiet seclusion of Bahia Honda, Florida has so many beautiful places to say “I do.”
And if you’re looking for someone to take the stress off your shoulders and help bring your beach elopement vision to life — allow me to introduce myself.
where it’s okay to bring alcohol to
maybe best beach communities if we wanted to do something near the beach for dinner/ drinks and cute town vibes, and maybe the best Airbnbs/ VRBOs or other accommodations on the beach – and whether they have private beach access or not for the ceremony.
Real Florida Beach Elopement Timeline
If you’re dreaming of a Florida beach elopement that mixes romance with adventure — sunrise vows, horseback riding, a beach picnic, and a spontaneous post-ceremony drink — this timeline gives you a real-life peek into how it can all come together.
Here’s how Kyra and Steven’s day flowed, from getting ready to sipping cocktails:
5:00 AM – Getting ready at their AirBnB
6:00 AM – Drive to the beach with coffee + gear in tow
7:00 AM – Sunrise ceremony on the beach (with their horses front and center)
7:15 AM – Portraits
8:00 AM – Horseback ride along the shore
9:00 AM – Luxury picnic on the beach, complete with breakfast boards + bubbles
10:30 AM – Head to a local beach bar
11:00 AM – Celebratory drinks + impromptu afterparty vibes
1:00 PM – Back to their AirBnB to chill, reflect, and soak it all in
Florida Beach Elopement Inspiration Photos
Meet Your Florida Beach Elopement Photographer
Hey there! I’m Anna — your go-to Florida beach elopement photographer and adventure guide.
If you’re dreaming of a laid-back, no-stress day that’s more about connection than tradition, you’re in the right place. I help couples plan and capture epic Florida beach elopements that feel true to them — whether that means riding horses at sunrise, picnicking in the sand, or wrapping it all up with a cold drink at a beach bar.
From finding the perfect stretch of shoreline to guiding you through permits, vendors, and all the little logistics that make a big difference — I’ve got you. Just tell me what kind of experience you’re craving, and I’ll take care of the rest.
Ready to start planning your Florida beach elopement? Let’s make it unforgettable.
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