Florida Beach Elopement with Horses | Kyra + Steve

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.

Why Elope on a Florida Beach?

There’s a reason so many couples are ditching big weddings for a Florida beach elopement. Actually, there are a ton of reasons — but here are a few that might hit home for you:

1. You LOVE the beach.

Whether you’re into wide open stretches of untouched sand or want something a little more tropical with palms and turquoise water, Florida beaches feel like home. Every vacation you’ve ever been on (or dreamt of) includes sand, sun, ocean, and a cold drink in your hand.

2. It’s laid-back and easy.

A beach elopement in Florida is one of the chillest ways to get married. You don’t need much — just your partner and a killer view. There’s no need for extravagant set ups when your backdrop is the Atlantic ocean. It’s simple, beautiful, and low-stress.

3. Florida weather is made for eloping.

Florida’s warm climate makes it perfect for year-round beach elopements. Even in winter, you can pull off a barefoot ceremony on the sand. And yeah, summer has its quirks (hi, afternoon thunderstorms), but that’s why we shoot at sunrise or have a back up plan in hand — cooler temps, softer light, and fewer people around.

4. Endless ways to make it your own.

Want to ride horses like Kyra and Steven? Go for it. Want to paddleboard, bring your dog, or mix cocktails on the sand? Also yes. A Florida beach elopement is whatever you want it to be — no rules, no expectations, just a day that feels like you.

5. Tons of hidden gem locations.

Beyond the touristy beaches, there are some seriously stunning hidden spots along both coasts. Think quiet dunes, driftwood-strewn shores, and state parks where you can have total privacy. As a local Florida elopement photographer, I help couples scout out the perfect location based on their vibe, the season, and what kind of experience they want.

How K+S Eloped on a Horseback Riding Beach in Florida

Kyra and Steven knew a traditional wedding wasn’t for them. They wanted something that felt like an adventure — something personal, peaceful, and connected to what they love most. As horse trainers, they chose one of the only Florida beaches where horseback riding is actually allowed. It’s one of the few spots in the state where you can legally ride horses on the beach, and it’s seriously stunning at sunrise.

K+S brought their own horses for the day, which made it even more meaningful. They got ready together in the cozy cabin of their horse trailer — Kyra hung her dress on a tack hook while Steven prepped the horses. The morning was slow, overcast, and full of quiet anticipation.

As the sun started rising over the ocean, they rode out together toward the shoreline for their ceremony. It was just the two of them, their horses, and the sound of waves. At one point during their vows, one of the horses even tried to sneak a bite of a rose from Kyra’s bouquet.

After their vows, they took off down the beach, racing in the sand and soaking in the view. It was private, playful, and full of those just-married vibes.

? Quick tip if you’re dreaming of your own horseback beach elopement:
Yes, you can book a guided horseback excursion at this beach even if you don’t have your own horses — but wedding dresses usually aren’t permitted on group rides because horses can get spooked by dresses with a ton of fabric. You’ll want to wear something horse-friendly for the ride and bring your outfit to change into for the ceremony and photos.

Luxury Picnic on the Beach After Eloping in Florida

After their sunrise ceremony and horseback ride along the shoreline, Kyra and Steven headed back to the dunes for a luxury beach picnic. Think champagne, sparkling water, fresh strawberries, a full breakfast cheese board, and the prettiest boho setup. Total beach elopement goals.

The best part? They didn’t have to lift a finger. The S&E team had everything styled and ready for them to kick back and soak in the moment. It was private, intentional, and such a peaceful way to celebrate being newly married — toes in the sand, drinks in hand, and nowhere else to be.

And just when you thought the day couldn’t get better… K+S wrapped it all up with a stop at a nearby beach bar for celebratory drinks. I loved watching the bartenders’ faces light up when they walked in wearing their elopement attire — something about seeing a couple just married always makes people smile. Who needs a big reception when you’ve got good drinks, ocean air, and that just-married high?

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 FAQ

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!).

Can we bring our dogs to our 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.

Can I wear a wedding dress on a horseback beach ride?

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.

Do I need a permit to elope on a beach in Florida?

Usually, yes. 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). If you need help sorting through permitting requirements, learn more about my elopement experience!

How much does a Florida beach elopement cost?

Each beach is different from $25 all the way up to $500 with private resort beaches being a few thousand dollars. But that’s just the beach permit! If you want to learn more about the entire cost, click here to read more about how much it costs to elope in Florida!

Florida Beach Elopement Packages

Are you feeling inspired by this Florida beach elopement adventure, but have zero idea where to start? Reach out and let’s start planning! As a Florida native and Florida elopement photographer, I have tons of knowledge and expertise of the state to help plan an epic Florida beach elopement while capturing the entire adventure! From choosing the best beach location to recommending vendors for your luxury picnic, I am here to guide you every step of the way.

Beach elopement packages include:

• Location help and recommendations (best beaches, dog-friendly options, etc.)
• Planning & timeline support
• Photography coverage
• Vendor recommendations (officiant, florals, etc.)
• Activity ideas and guidance
• Good vibes only

Florida Beach Elopement Vendor Credit

Photographer: Anna Holden Photo
Location: Fredrick Douglass Memorial Park (Fort Pierce, Florida)
Florals: Fern & Curl Designs
Picnic: S&E Picnics
Hair & Makeup: Wild Tress Studios
Dress: Rue De Seine from Olivia Bowen Bridal
Beach Bar: Square Grouper Fort Pierce
Cake: Sweet and Savage Bakes
Elopement Sign: Lazy K Leather

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