How to Elope in Tampa
You’re probably here because you and your partner want to elope in Tampa and honestly, you’ve got great taste. With year-round sunshine, city-meets-coastline vibes, and endless options for adventure, Tampa elopements are perfect for couples who want something relaxed, personal, and fun.
But you might be wondering: where do we even start?
That’s where this resource comes in! As a Tampa elopement photographer and Florida native who’s helped tons of couples bring their intimate wedding dreams to life, I’ve put all my knowledge into this guide to help break down everything from the best places to elope in Tampa to timelines, legal steps, and what to do for a totally unforgettable wedding day.
Table of Contents
- How To Elope In Tampa
- When To Elope In Tampa
- Where To Elope in Tampa
- What To Do For Your Tampa Elopement
- Tampa Elopement Packages
- Ready to Elope in Tampa?
How To Elope In Tampa
Florida keeps it simple, which makes planning a Tampa intimate wedding easy!
Steps to Get Married in Tampa
- Apply for a marriage license through the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court. You can either apply online to get a jump start or in person. There’s an $80 fee once you pick up your marriage license from the Clerk of Court.
- You’ll both need to bring your IDs. There are no blood test needed.
- If you’re a Florida resident, there’s a 3-day waiting period. Out of state couples can get married the same day.
- Once you have your license, it is valid for 60 days.
- Now that you have your license, you can get married anywhere in the state! However, the license must be returned to the original Clerk of Court within 10 days of making it official.
Who Can Officiate?
Florida allows notaries, judges, clergy, and ordained ministers to legally marry a couple. As a Tampa elopement photographer and Florida notary, it’s my mission to make the legal part as seamless as possible by helping marry you without needing to hire another vendor for your elopement day. Alternatively, you can get married at the Clerk of Court (additional fees apply).
And here’s a fun fact: Florida doesn’t require witnesses, but there’s room for two. Did you know that your dog can sign in this spot? Heart. Melted.
When To Elope In Tampa
You can technically elope in Tampa any time of year, but each season has its pros and cons. Here’s what you need to know:
Tampa Elopement by Season
- Spring (March through May): Mid 70s–80s, beautiful light, but rain picks up in May
- Summer (June through August): HOT (like 90s), super humid, daily thunderstorms—sunrise elopements are best
- Fall (September through November): 80s and breezy, less rain after October
- Winter (December through February): Ideal! 70s, low bugs, golden sunsets around 5 PM
Florida Hurricane Season
Before setting your date, remember that hurricane season runs June through late November, with peak activity in mid-August to October. If you’re planning a Tampa elopement during that window, I highly recommend travel and/or wedding insurance and a flexible game plan (which I can help build!).
Avoiding Bugs + Crowds
- To avoid mosquitos + no-see-ums, elope between November–February. The cooler weather keeps them at bay.
- To avoid crowds, aim for weekdays, non-holidays, or off-season (Easter through Thanksgiving). If you’re thinking about popular tourist destinations like Orlando, Tampa, or Miami, avoid spring break timeframes or the week between Christmas and New Years.
Where To Elope in Tampa
Tampa’s neighborhoods each have their own vibe, which makes picking the right elopement location a fun part of the planning process. Here’s a quick breakdown of Tampa’s districts and what they offer:
Best Tampa Elopement Areas by Vibe
- Downtown Tampa: Rooftops, fountains, murals, urban energy
- Ybor City: Rich in history, colorful streets, vintage charm
- Soho / Hyde Park: Trendy, walkable, amazing dining
- Seminole Heights: Hip breweries + a creative scene
- South Shore: Gorgeous beaches + sunset views
- Channel District/Islands: Waterfront elopements + luxury touches
- Westshore / Airport: Near the airport, modern + convenient
Best Places to Elope in Tampa
Tampa has no shortage of pretty spots, but these are some of the best (and my absolute favorite) locations for a Tampa elopement. Whether you’re going for modern city vibes, historic charm, or quirky and intimate, these spots deliver on aesthetics and experience.
Le Meridien Steps – Downtown Tampa
Once a historic federal courthouse, now a boutique hotel, Le Meridien Tampa has dramatic white marble steps and tall columns that scream timeless elegance. Perfect for couples who want those iconic courthouse vibes with a modern twist—without the crowd. Heads up – this location does require a photography permit to elope here!
Hillsborough County Courthouse – Downtown Tampa
Yes, it’s an actual courthouse—but don’t sleep on the charm! The exterior is clean and classic, and it’s a great option if you’re going for a quick legal ceremony with a few portraits afterward. The courthouse offers a private ceremony spot within the building for an additional fee. There’s a few chairs to invite guests. Pair it with downtown exploration or drinks nearby to make it a full experience.
Rooftop 220 – Tampa Heights
This venue gives you gorgeous views of the Hillsborough River and Tampa’s skyline, especially during golden hour. It’s modern, minimal, and totally customizable if you want a little more structure to your elopement. Plus, it’s connected to Armature Works, which means you’re steps away from cocktails and good eats post-ceremony. This spot is great for larger wedding parties.
Oxford Exchange – Downtown Tampa
If you’re dreaming of something sophisticated, charming, and a little upscale, Oxford Exchange is that girl. With its black-and-white tile floors, glass conservatory, and moody bookshop vibes, this spot is perfect for couples who want a timeless, editorial-style Tampa elopement. Whether you’re exchanging vows over brunch in the atrium or sneaking portraits by the staircase and café, it’s got a European feel without ever leaving Florida. Bonus? The food and coffee are amazing—make a full date out of your elopement day. Heads up – there is a permit required to photograph at this location!
Tampa Murals – Tampa Heights/Downtown Tampa/Seminole Heights
For couples who want something bold and colorful, Tampa’s mural scene is incredible. Seminole Heights and Downtown are packed with street art that adds personality and edge to your photos. It’s a laid-back, fun way to elope in Tampa without needing a full setup.
Wild Roots Plant Shop – Seminole Heights
This is for the plant lovers! Wild Roots has cozy, green vibes and lots of charm for a super intimate indoor elopement. Imagine saying your vows surrounded by tropical leaves and sunlight pouring in—it’s artsy, earthy, and totally unexpected. A reservation is required to have your ceremony at this location.
Fancy Free Nursery – Tampa Heights
Whimsical, lush, and full of character, Fancy Free Nursery is a hidden gem that makes you feel like you’re in a secret garden tucked inside the city. It’s one of the best intimate wedding spots in Tampa for couples who want something fresh and non-traditional. A reservation is required to have your ceremony at this location.
Keep in mind that some location will require a permit or reservation to elope there. Working with a Tampa elopement photographer (hey, that’s me!) means you get the inside scoop on best locations within those areas, private spots, and permit details so you don’t have to stress about logistics.
What To Do For Your Tampa Elopement
A Tampa elopement can be as laid-back or as extra as you want. Whether you’re bar-hopping downtown or kayaking through hidden mangroves, the vibe is entirely up to you. Looking for more ideas? Check out my full list of Florida elopement ideas!
My Favorite Tampa Elopement Ideas
- Grab brunch and drinks at Armature Works
- Brewery-hop through Seminole Heights
- Hit the food scene in Hyde Park
- Explore downtown murals and fountains
- Charter a boat + pop champagne at sunset
- Sunrise ceremony + beach day
- Visit a boat-only-access bar
- Island-hop, eat PubSubs, jump in the water
There’s endless opportunities to make your Tampa elopement exactly how you want it with YOUR kind of adventure! Need help brainstorming ideas? Let’s create something epic together!
Tampa Elopement Packages
If you’re still here, you know you want to elope in Tampa and you want to do something fun, but you have no idea how to pull it off. You’re not here for just any elopement. You want something bold, unique, and unforgettable. But how do you actually make that happen? Where do you even start? You don’t know the area, the logistics feel overwhelming, and suddenly this “stress-free” elopement is starting to feel like a lot.
That’s where I come in. It’s literally my job to take your ideas – no matter how wild or uncertain – and turn them into reality. I’ll find the perfect spot, handle the logistics, and craft an experience that’s so damn incredible you’ll wonder why you ever considered anything else. Oh, and I’ll capture every second of it so you can relive the magic forever.
“I can’t say enough about Anna. She literally knocked it out of the park. If you’re contemplating an elopement, do it! If you’re contemplating Anna as your photographer, don’t even think twice, do it. I promise you won’t regret it! I don’t warm up to people quickly and as soon as I met Anna I felt like I had known her for years. Anna is so down to earth and easy to work with. Her ability to make you feel like you and your spouse are the only people that exist in a crowded room is impeccable. Nothing about the day was awkward or felt staged. We just did our thing, had fun and Anna was there to capture all of it. We truly had the time of our life. I love looking back on our photos and being reminded of how much fun that we had. I can’t wait for Anna to capture every season of our life.”
Tami + Mason
See their elopement day!
“How do I even begin to review Anna?! (…) She was instantly our best friend! We both truly could not believe how comfortable she made us through the MULTITUDE of photoshoots we booked. (…) We eloped in urban downtown Tampa, had a day after session in Stuart on a magical beach that reminded of us North Cali. I also was DYINGGGG to “trash my dress” WE ran through magical fountains in Tampa and jumped in the pool to finish the night. She bar hopped with us the whole time, caught our love on camera while sharing intimate vows in a way I didn’t know possible. It all started with a cozy zoom call of cracking jokes, a little cussing, lots of beer talk and the feeling of home. She took care of everything and it was magic. She has made our hearts and ideas come to life with every shoot we have booked. We love you Anna, will you stay with us forever?”
Kenzie + Thomas
See their elopement day!
Ready to Elope in Tampa?
If you’ve made it this far, it means you’re ready to elope in Tampa, 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!
Hey there! I’m Anna, your Tampa elopement photographer, adventure guide + native Florida! I’m based in Florida, where the water is always close and the vibes are chill and tropical. Tampa is so much more than a big city, and I l o v e showing rad folks like you just what makes this place special. From choosing the perfect location to figuring out those pesky permits to ensuring every detail aligns with your vision, I’ve got you covered. There’s a lot to consider ahead of your Tampa elopement and I’m here to guide you through it all.
PRIVACY POLICY | ©2023 ANNA HOLDEN PHOTO | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | BRAND AND SITE BY BELLA MAVEN