Best Time to Elope in Florida | 2024 Edition
Best Time of Year to Elope in Florida: January through March
Florida is well-known for its year-round tropical climate. Still, many travelers need to remember that while Florida doesn’t have the typical four seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter, it still has a wet and dry season. And because of these two seasons, you can experience Florida in many different ways depending on when you want to elope!
But when is the best time to elope in Florida? As a Florida native and Florida elopement photographer, the answer is clear: January through March. In this guide, I’ll walk you through why these months are ideal for your elopement!
And if you’re looking for more hands-on help, I invite you to read through my elopement experience where I’ll show you how I can personally help you curate and capture your Florida elopement day!
Why January through March is the Best Time to Elope in Florida
When planning your Florida elopement, the weather is one of the main things to consider. Since Florida is known for its tropical climate, it can also mean unpredictable weather patterns if you need to be more careful. Think torrential downpours, afternoon thunder and lightning storms, and maybe even an unexpected hurricane. However, in the sweet spot from January through March, you can expect cooler, drier weather conditions, making it the best time (and my favorite time for couples) to elope in Florida.
Florida’s weather from January through March is arguably the most pleasant you’ll find all year. Temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit with minimal humidity (your hair will thank you), and lower rain chances offer a comfortable climate for an outdoor ceremony at the beach or on the boat. If you don’t want to feel like you just stepped out of the hottest shower of your life on your elopement day every second of the day, then you’ll want to elope during this time.
Let’s remember that cooler weather also means fewer bugs! Fewer mosquitos and no-see-ums equal a much better elopement day.
Top Florida Elopement Locations for January through March
St. Augustine
St. Augustine is the top choice for couples who love history and architecture. As the oldest city in the United States, it offers a blend of historic landmarks, charming streets, and epic coastal views. Imagine saying “I do” in one of the city’s historic chapels or gardens, exploring the cobblestone streets, stopping for a tour at St. Augustine Distillery, or visiting some of its iconic landmarks.
Florida Keys & Key West
If you’re dreaming of a tropical paradise, look no further than the Florida Keys and Key West. This area of Florida is known for its endless summer vibes and tons of adventures along the coast. Imagine eloping at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park or on the bow of a boat, then sport fishing in Islamorada or bar hopping down Duval Street.
The Treasure Coast
The Treasure Coast, stretching from Vero Beach to Jupiter, is a hidden gem for Florida elopements. Known for its uncrowded beaches, clear blue waters, and charming coastal towns, this area offers a peaceful and intimate setting…with wayyyyy less crowds. Imagine eloping at one of the jetties at sunrise, renting jet skis, and taking in the sights of the Indian River Lagoon at your own pace.
Florida Elopement Activities for January through March
Eloping in Florida isn’t a quick ceremony on the beach. Around here, we are all about creating an unforgettable, truly unique experience. That’s why I encourage my couples to include an adventure during their elopement day. Here are some of my favorite adventures:
- Rent jet skis
- Hire a fishing charter
- Have a beach picnic
- Go horseback riding on the beach
- Explore Florida’s natural springs
- Attend Gasparilla in Tampa
- Book a sunset sail (cocktails in hand, ofc)
- Brewery hop in Tampa
- Visit the Strawberry Festival in Lakeland
- Go on a wildlife tour of the Indian River Lagoon
- Visit the South Florida Fair
What to Know About Eloping in Florida During This Time
While January through March is the best time to elope in Florida, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Permit and Vendor Availability
Since this is a popular time for weddings and elopements because of the weather, you’ll need to secure any necessary location/wedding permits and book your vendors early – I cannot stress this enough. If you are considering this time for your elopement, reach out to your vendors at least six months in advance. Less than six months out? No worries! You can still reach out, but some of your top picks might be booked already. Be flexible with your date, and you might get lucky!
Daylight Hours
Florida enjoys plenty of daylight during these months, but the days are shorter than summer. Plan your ceremony and activities with sunset and sunrise times in mind, especially if you want to capture the golden hour in your photos.
Local Events & Festivals
Florida hosts several events and festivals in the early months of the year. While these can be part of your elopement experience, they also mean more people and higher travel costs. Before picking a date, check the local event calendar to avoid any surprises.
Ready to elope in Florida? Let’s start planning!
If you’ve made it this far, that must mean you’re ready to elope sometime between January and March! Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of St. Augustine, the tropical vibes of Key West, or the adventurous spirit of the Treasure Coast, Florida has the perfect spot for your early-year elopement.
Looking for a Florida Elopement Photographer?
I’m Anna, your Florida elopement photographer, planner + biggest fan to make it all happen.
I l o v e showing rad folks like you just what makes this place special. In fact, I geek out over discovering what makes every place special when I’m planning elopements, whether you’re hoping for party vibes of Duval Street or a laid back chill on a catamaran.
Tell me what you want your day to feel like, and I’ll take the wheel. I legit can’t wait to start researching and planning to create exactly what you want.
