Best 30A Elopement Locations in 2026

Looking for the best 30A elopement locations? You’re in the right spot! As a 30A elopement photographer that helps couples dream big for their wedding day, this elopement location list includes all the best spots that you’ll find along the 30A highway for eloping couples – from beachside spots to luxe coastal venues offering intimate wedding packages.

Many of my couples start dreaming up a 30A elopement, then quickly realize there’s many more rules and restrictions than they expected. So this guide is designed to pull back the curtain and help you find a a ceremony location based on your vision.

30A Elopement Locations Overview

• Private Residences Along 30A
• Private Boat Charters
• The Chapel at Seaside (Seaside)
• Grayton Beach State Park (Grayton Beach)
• Topsail Hill Preserve State Park (Santa Rosa Beach)
• Deer Lake State Park Dune Lake (Santa Rosa Beach)
• Eden Gardens State Park (Point Washington)
• FAQs for 30A Elopement Couples
• Meet Your 30A Elopement Photographer

Private Residences Along 30A

Vibe: Exclusive, private, luxe

This is my personal favorite for elopement options along the 30A. If you’re dreaming of a ceremony right on the beach a private residence might be your best bet. These vacation homes often include beach access, rooftops, courtyards, or boardwalks, offering a completely private and customizable space. It’s important to note that some communities do not allow ceremonies on the beach (like Alys Beach); however, some communities will allow photography with pre-approval.

Estimated Cost: Varies widely ($1,000–$10,000+) depending on property size, time of year, and access
Guests Max: Usually 10–30 guests depending on home/community rules and space
Pets Allowed: Often yes, but depends on the rental policy.
Permit/Application: You’ll need both the homeowner’s permission, the applicable community’s permission, and possibly a beach use permit from Walton County. Some HOAs also require event approval. It’s best to check the communities rules and regulations before booking your stay.

Private Boat Charters

Coming in second for favorite 30A elopement locations, private boat charters are perfect for couples seeking a truly adventurous and intimate elopement. A private boat charter is a great way to exchange vows surrounded by the emerald waters of the Panhandle. With a range of vessels from sailboats to luxury yachts, you can get married at sunset or anchored near a secluded sandbar. Here are some of my favorite rental companies for couples wanting a more curated experience:

30A Yacht Charters
Parrot Head Yachts
Paradise Adventures
Private Luxury Yacht Cruise up to 13 guests
38′ Yacht
KiKi Yacht

Estimated cost: Charter costs vary depending on the type of boat and duration. Most packages start around $2,000 for a few hours.
Guest Max: Varies depending on boat size and USCG classification, but most charters can only accommodate 6 or 12 guests per USCG regulations. This number includes captain, deck hand(s), guests, and wedding vendors.
Pets allowed: Some boat charters allow pets.
Permit/application process: No permits are needed, but advanced booking and ceremony permission with the charter company is required.

The Chapel at Seaside (Seaside)

Vibe: Classic, luxe architecture with total privacy

The Chapel at Seaside is the only true traditional church venue available right along 30A for couples who want a intimate ceremony in a stunning interfaith chapel with vaulted ceilings and an iconic bell tower. Nestled in the heart of Seaside, it brings timeless elegance and neighborhood charm just steps from the Gulf. This is a great option for couples that want an indoor space along the 30A coast. Keep in mind that it’s one of the few venue options for elopements and intimate weddings in this area. Many other locations have an extremely high minimum spend requirement.

Estimated Cost: Weekday ceremonies starting at $4,500; Weekend and holiday elopements starting at $8,500
Pets Allowed: Pets are not allowed.
Permit/Application Process: Yes; you’ll need to book through their website.

Grayton Beach State Park (Grayton Beach)

Vibe: Outdoors and intimate

Grayton Beach State Park is the place to go if your idea of a panhandle elopement is about intimacy intertwined with outdoor beauty. Grayton Beach State Park is wild and serene, with large dunes, coastal forests right on the Gulf. There’s even camping and cabin options on-site! Since this state park doesn’t promote weddings, it’s best to double check with the park service before deciding on this location.

Estimated Cost: $5 per vehicle
Guests Max: Less than 10
Pets Allowed: Yes, on leash; but dogs are not allowed in the cabins.
Permit/Application: Florida State Parks special use event and photography permit required. Contact the park for the most up to date information about permits and fees.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park (Santa Rosa Beach)

Vibe: Outdoors and intimate

If you’re looking for a more secluded, outdoor 30A elopement spot, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a great location. With white sand dunes, coastal dune lakes, and miles of shoreline, it’s perfect for couples who crave natural beauty with some privacy. It’s also one of the few state parks in the area offering glamping and cozy cabins, which make it perfect to wake up just steps from your ceremony location. Since this state park doesn’t promote weddings, it’s best to double check with the park service before deciding on this location.

• Estimated Cost: $6 per vehicle
• Guests Max: Less than 10 guests
• Pets Allowed: Yes, on leash; but dogs are not allowed in the cabins.
• Permit/Application: Florida State Parks special use event and photography permit required. Contact the park for the most up to date information about fees.

Deer Lake State Park Dune Lake (Santa Rosa Beach)

For couples open to a beautiful short drive, Deer Lake State Park offers one of the last dune‑lake ecosystems in the area. This is pure outdoor elopement magic with turquoise water, sandy dunes, and woodlands. There are bathrooms and parking available, but you still feel miles away from crowds. Since this state park doesn’t promote weddings, it’s best to double check with the park service before deciding on this location.

Estimated Cost: $3 per vehicle
Guests Max: Less than 10 guests
Pets Allowed: Yes, on leash; dog-friendly lake access.
Permit/Application: Florida State Parks special use event and photography permit required. Contact the park for the most up to date information about fees.

Eden Gardens State Park (Point Washington)

Vibe: Historic, garden, romantic

Not all 30A weddings have to be oceanfront! Eden Gardens State Park Website brings you classic garden romance. A cypress‑lined historic home with a cute gazebo under oak trees, this location is a total romance novel. Ideal for couples imagining vintage romance within a garden. Since you’ll have to reserve this location, it offers some level of intimacy and privacy.

Estimated Cost: $3000
Pets Allowed: Yes, on leash (both lawn and garden areas); not allowed in the buildings.
Permit/Application: Reservations required through their wedding coordinator (850-267-8320) up to 11 months in advance and they only permit one wedding per day regardless of size.

FAQs for 30A Elopement Couples

Q: Which 30A communities can we elope within?
There are tons of communities along 30A and they all have different rules for elopements and photography. Here’s a complete guide on the different communities and their rules and regulations. Always double check rules and restrictions with the applicable property management company before booking a rental.

Q: Do I need permits to elope on 30A?
It depends on the elopement location. Many venues (beaches, state parks, etc) require permits through the Florida State Parks whereas communities may require a photography permit through their HOA. Permits is something that I help walk my couples through when they’re planning their 30A elopement!

Q: Can we include our dog?
Absolutely. Many state park locations allow dogs on‑leash. For beach ceremonies, you’ll want to make sure you find a dog-friendly beach. Most community beaches do not allow dogs.

Q: How long do we need to plan for a 30A elopement?
Depends. Some couples book a few months out while others book a year in advance. I recommend for couples to start locking things down at least 6 months in advance.

Meet Your 30A Elopement Photographer