How to Elope in Florida: A Complete Guide to Planning Your Epic Day

You and your partner are dreaming of an elopement full of sun, adventure, and all the good vibes Florida has to offer—but now you’re probably wondering how to elope in Florida and where to even begin. Sound familiar? That’s where I come in! I’ve helped tons of couples just like you plan their perfect Florida elopement, and I’ve created this guide to make the process simple and fun. From the best locations to the best time of year to say “I do,” I’ve got you covered.

Ready to dive into all the details for your dream day? Let’s get started!

In this How to Elope in Florida resource, we will cover:

• Where to Elope in Florida
• When to Elope in Florida
• How to Elope in Florida
• What To Do for Your Florida Elopement
• Example Florida Elopement Timelines 
• Florida Elopement Packages

Best Places to Elope in Florida for Your Epic Adventure

One of the hardest parts of planning your elopement is choosing where to elope in Florida—there are so many incredible options! Whether you’re dreaming of a laid-back beach day, exploring hidden springs, or vibing in a tropical paradise, Florida has something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best spots:

• Northwest Florida: 30A, Rosemary Beach, Pensacola, Tallahassee, etc.
• Northeast Florida: Jacksonville, Saint Augustine, etc.
• Central Florida: Orlando, etc.
• Central East (aka Space Coast): Cocoa, Melbourne, etc.
• Southeast Florida: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, etc.
• Southwest Florida: Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, etc.
• Florida Keys & Key West: Islamorada, Key Largo, Key West, etc.

Top Picks for Different Vibes

If you’re looking for amazing blue springs: Apopka, Deland
If you’re looking for long stretches of white, sandy beaches: Clearwater, Saint Petersburg
If you’re looking for historic small towns: Saint Augustine, Key West
If you’re looking for urban, big city vibes: Tampa, Miami, Orlando
If you’re looking for a tropical oasis: Florida Keys and Key West
If you’re looking for the best bar hopping: Key West, Saint Augustine
If you’re looking for the best breweries: Tampa
If you’re looking for upscale beach living: Rosemary Beach and 30A area, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale
If you’re looking to live like the locals: Vero Beach, Fort Pierce
If you’re looking for the best spots for boating: Fort Pierce, Florida Keys and Key West

No matter where you choose, don’t forget that some spots might require permits for weddings or photography. This is where working with a local Florida elopement photographer (like me!) comes in handy. I can help you navigate any permit requirements and recommend locations that align perfectly with your vision.

Here are some of my favorite elopement spots in Florida:

• The Florida Keys (in particular Key West)
• Saint Augustine
• Treasure Coast (Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, Jensen Beach, Stuart)
• Downtown Tampa
• Kelly Park Rock Springs
• Clearwater

Can You Elope on the Beach in Florida?

Yes! You can absolutely elope on the beach in Florida—and it’s one of the most popular options. With hundreds of miles of coastline, you have endless possibilities for your beach elopement, from the laid-back Gulf Coast to the vibrant Atlantic side.

Beach Elopement Hot Spots

• Clearwater Beach: Gorgeous white sands and crystal-clear water.
• Saint Pete Beach: Known for stunning sunsets and a relaxed vibe.
• The Florida Keys: The ultimate tropical beach elopement destination.
• Amelia Island: If you’re looking for something more private and secluded.

Things to Consider

Some beaches require permits for weddings, especially if you’re setting up decor or inviting guests. I can help guide you through which beaches require permits and what’s needed for a seamless experience. Plus, we can scope out quieter spots if you want a more intimate elopement without the crowds!

Need help finding the perfect Florida elopement location? Let’s plan something together!

When’s the Best Time to Elope in Florida?

Florida’s beautiful year-round, but there are some seasons that might be better suited for your elopement plans depending on what kind of experience you want. Here’s a quick rundown of when to elope in Florida:

By Season:

• Spring (March-May): Warm and sunny (70s-80s), but be ready for some rain by May. Perfect for exploring beaches or springs.
• Summer (June-August): Hot, humid, and thunderstorms like clockwork in the afternoon. If you’re eloping in summer, sunrise ceremonies are ideal!
• Fall (September-November): Cooler temps (80s) and less rain, especially after October. Just be mindful of hurricane season, which peaks in August through mid-October.
• Winter (December-February): Perfect elopement weather! Cool (70s), no bugs, and sunset is around 5 PM—great for those golden hour photos.

We can’t forget about our mortal enemies, the Florida mosquitos and no-see-ums. These biting insects are TERRIBLE in the hot summer months. If you want to avoid getting eaten alive, look to get married during the late fall/winter months (November through February).

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the peak from mid-August to mid-October. If you’re planning to elope during these months, I always recommend getting travel insurance and having a backup plan—just in case!

How to Avoid Crowds for Your Elopement Day

If you want to avoid crowds, plan your elopement for a weekday or during the off-season, and steer clear of major holidays. You’ll get more privacy and better availability for locations!

Need help figuring out the best time to elope in Florida? Let me help guide you!

How To Elope In Florida

Florida makes eloping easy—seriously! If you’re wondering how easy it is to elope in Florida, here’s a simple breakdown:

How to Get Legally Married in Florida

You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at any local Clerk of Court, which can usually be done online. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A driver’s license or state ID for both of you.
• No blood tests or medical exams required.
• For Florida residents, there’s a 3-day waiting period. But if you’re a non-resident, you can pick up your marriage license and get married on the same day! How cool is that?

The cost is around $80, depending on the county. Once you have your license, you can elope anywhere in Florida within 60 days.

Do You Need Witnesses to Get Married in Florida?

Good news: Florida doesn’t require witnesses! But there’s space for two witnesses on your marriage license if you’d like to include friends—or even your dog! (Yes, really!) Heart. Melted.

Finding an Officiant

You’ll need someone to make it official, whether it’s a judge, notary, or ordained officiant. Don’t want the hassle of hiring one? As a Florida notary and elopement photographer, I can make it legal while we’re out exploring together—one less thing to worry about!

Need help figuring out what you need and when you need it for your marriage license? Let’s plan your elopement!

What To Do For Your Florida Elopement

Florida is so much more than the beach! With a never ending supply of warm weather and sunshining days, adventuring outdoors comes easy in this state. While I have a running list of things to do for your Florida elopement, here are a few of my favorites:

• Get hitched at a spring head and kayak down the Emerald Cut
• Go horseback riding on the beach followed by a luxury picnic
• Horsesback ride the Florida Cracker Trail ending the night campfire side playing card games and drinking hot toddies
• Visit some breweries, eat some sushi, and run through fountains
• Sunrise ceremony over the ocean followed by outfit change into swimsuits for fishing and shotgunning
• Rent a charter boat, pop champagne, then meet friends and family for brunch
• Visit Night of Lights during Christmas and drink martinis
• Play video games, eat pizza, and jump in a pool
• Island hop, mix cocktails, eat PubSubs, and jump in the water
• Cruise around, drink beers, and visit a boat access only bar

There’s endless opportunities to make your Florida elopement exactly how you want it with YOUR kind of adventure!

Need help brainstorming ideas? Let’s create something epic together!

Example Florida Elopement Timelines

Your Florida elopement can be as epic as you want, but how exactly does that look? Below are three options to give you an idea!

4-Hour Elopement Timeline

Hour 1: Getting ready, details, & first look
Hour 2-3: Ceremony & mini adventure
Hour 4: Portraits at golden hour

8-Hour Elopement Timeline

Hour 1: Getting ready, details, & first look
Hour 2-6: Ceremony & half day adventure
Hour 7: Portraits at golden hour
Hour 8: Dinner & drinks

12-Hour Elopement Timeline

Hour 1: Getting ready, details, & first look
Hour 2-5: Ceremony, lunch break, & adventure at first location
Hour 6-12: Adventure & portraits at second location

Florida Elopement Photographer

If you’ve made it this far, it means you’re ready to elope in Florida, but maybe you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with all that’s involved? If that’s you and you would love for someone to help brainstorm ideas, plan out the logistics, give you recommendations, andddddddd capture epic photos, then I’m your girl!