The Best Places to Elope in Key West

If you’re searching for the best places to elope in Key West, you’re in the right place. This island is packed with charm, adventure, and epic views – many of which fly under the radar. And as a Key West elopement photographer who’s helped dozens of couples pull off fun and fearless Florida elopements, I’m here to share all the details.

You’ll find a mix of iconic landmarks, waterfront spots, and adventurous options. Whether you want to keep it simple or go all out (think snorkeling, rooftop vows, or bar-hopping after your ceremony), this guide will help you find the perfect place to elope in Key West.

✨ Bonus Tip: If you’re still early in the planning process, check out my full How to Elope in Key West Guide for everything from permits to timelines!

Quick List: Best Places to Elope in Key West

For the skimmers out there, here’s a list of the best places to elope in Key West that are covered within this blog! Scroll down to explore what makes each of these elopement locations special—and figure out which one fits your vibe.

• On A Boat
• Dry Tortugas National Park
• Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
• Monroe County Courthouse
• Smathers Beach
• Garden of Eden Rooftop Bar
• Duval Street & Mallory Square
• Southernmost Point
• Key West Garden Club
• The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Need help figuring out which location best suits your Key West elopement vision? Let’s start planning!

What to Consider When Picking a Key West Elopement Location

Before you dive into the Best Places to Elope in Key West list, ask yourself:

• Do you want to elope on the beach, on a boat, or in a garden?
• Do you want a secluded spot or to be in the middle of the Key West energy?
• Are you planning around a specific season or event?
• What kind of activities do you want to include (boating, bar hopping, snorkeling, sunset cruising)?

Once you’ve got some of those answers, let’s find the place that brings it all to life.

Still need some help? Feel free to reach out to see how I can help bring your Key West elopement vision to life!

Where to Elope in Key West: Top Elopement Locations for Your Dream Day

Here’s a breakdown of the best places to elope in Key West, complete with tips, permit information, and what kind of couple each spot is best for. Whether you’re into beach views, city vibes, or lush gardens, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.

Elope On A Boat

If you’re looking for one of the most unique places to elope in Key West, this is it. Boat elopements are private, intimate, and exciting. With being the most adventurous option in Florida, it’s set on making your elopement epic.

Things to Know:

• There are tons of boat types to choose from. Make sure you pick one that aligns with your invite list and the types of activities you plan to do throughout the day.
• If you plan on fishing, some charters require permits or follow fishing seasons. Check with your charter captain to coordinate the fishing seasons.
• Many boats will let you customize the vibe—fishing, snorkeling, cruising, or just saying your vows at golden hour. Know in advance what you’d like to do before calling around.
• No photography or wedding permits are required for this option; however, you will need to book the boat for your adventure.

Perfect For: Couples that want to be a little adventurous and snorkel, fish, or cruise around.

Read more: How to Elope on a Boat in Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park

Seeking a little more adventure as part of your elopement day? The Dry Tortugas offer just that! As the nation’s most remote national parks, the Dry Tortugas offers a completely unique elopement adventure with accessibility only available by boat or seaplane.

Things to Know:

• This is a completely remote location! There are no facilities on-site for food or drinks so you’ll need to prepare well in advance.
• To get to the Dry Tortugas, you’ll need to make a boat or seaplane reservation. My personal favorite is a seaplane for all the sightseeing you’ll do!
• Wedding permit are required through the National Park Service. This runs about $100.

Perfect For: Couples that want to be adventurous and check off a bucket list location at the same time!

Read more: Dry Tortugas Elopement Guide

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park – Historic Elopement Location in Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is the perfect mix of Florida history and Florida! This park is on the smaller side, but it packs a punch with the views. There’s ocean views, palm trees, and Civil War-era architecture, which make this location great for beachside ceremony with history on the side.

Things to Know:

• Wedding permits are required through the Park Service. This runs about $100, but varies based on the number of people in your party.
• There are facilities on-site for food or drinks.
• Pets are welcome on some parts of the park, but must be leashed.

Perfect For: Couples who want a a little more privacy than what would be offered at Smathers Beach with a unique beach setting.

Watch my walk-through on TikTok!

Smathers Beach – Elope on the Beach in Key West

Contrary to popular belief, the Florida Keys and Key West are not teaming with long stretches of beach. However, Smathers Beach has an expansive shoreline with palm trees galore. This spot is great for popping champagne and getting in the water after your portraits!

Things to Know:

• This public beach is free (and one of the nicest beaches in Key West), which means it gets crowded early.
• No fee or permit required for small ceremonies.
• Parking is limited so plan accordingly.
• Since you’re unable to book this location, it’s first come, first served for ceremony locations. This makes it not ideal for larger wedding ceremonies or ceremonies with arch or chair set ups.
• With the crowds, this location is best for sunrise elopements.
• If you’re eloping here, stay at Margaritaville. It’s right across the street and makes logistics easy.

Perfect For: Couples who love the beach and want easy logistics and classic palm tree views.

Monroe County Courthouse – Simple Courthouse Elopement in Key West

The Monroe County Courthouse is a great place to elope in Key West if you want something simple and easy. The historic courthouse would make a grand backdrop to your vows and makes it simple if you’re planning to explore the city afterwards.

Things to Know:

• Ceremonies done by the clerk typically happen indoors (in a small room decorated in beach motif), but you can step outside for iconic historic architecture after the ceremony.
• This is the quickest and easiest option to get married in Key West (outside having me marry you).
• No permit required, but there may be a small fee if the Clerk of Court performs the ceremony.

Perfect For: Couples keeping it simple but want historic architecture as part of their wedding vows.

Garden of Eden Rooftop Bar – Rooftop Bar Elopement in Key West

This one’s for the adventurous. The Garden of Eden rooftop bar is famously clothing-optional, but it also offers a killer view and intimate setting for larger elopement celebrations.

Things to Know:

• Since this is a nudist bar, you’ll need to rent it out if you want to use it for your ceremony. This makes it a little less ideal if it’s just the two of you, but perfect if you’re inviting friends and family to your celebration.
• It’s very much a Duval Street bar so it’s rough around the edges, but tons of fun.
• Not a suitable location for families.

Perfect For: Bold, fun-loving couples who want to elope somewhere unforgettable and slightly scandalous (or just want a rooftop ceremony).

Duval Street & Mallory Square – Urban Elopement in the Heart of Key West

Looking for a truly Key West experience? You can elope right on Duval Street with no permit needed, just keep the good vibes rolling. As part of the Key West experience, Mallory Square is famous for its sunset celebration, and yes, you can elope there, too! It’s lively, colorful, and right on the water.

Things to Know:

• Since you’re eloping in public, expect some curious onlookers, hi fives, free drinks, and plenty of photo bombs.
• If you’re thinking Mallory Square, then consider that sunset typically draws huge crowds for the sunset celebration, but this might add to your celebration as well.
• There is no privacy with this option.
• Be courteous and avoid blocking walkways or businesses.

Perfect For: Couples who want a spontaneous ceremony and instant celebration with drinks, music, and good times all around (no privacy needed).

Key West Garden Club – Secluded Garden Elopement

Tucked inside a Civil War-era fort, the Key West Garden Club at West Martello Tower is overflowing with tropical plants, ocean views, and romantic pathways. It’s easy to miss as you’re exploring Key West, which makes it one of the best options for a more private ceremony.

Things to Know:

• Free to visit, but a permit is required for elopement ceremonies.
• The garden has tons of different pockets which make it perfect for intimate ceremonies and photo opportunities.

Perfect For: Couples who want a romantic garden ceremony with historic flair.

The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory – Whimsical Indoor Elopement Location

Step into a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, and lush plants. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the most enchanting indoor places to elope in Key West and perfect for couples looking for something totally unique and weather-proof.

Things to Know:

• The Conservatory allows private rentals for intimate ceremonies. Reach out early, as availability is limited.
• You’ll be surrounded by butterflies (and maybe a few flamingos!) during your vows.
• There’s not a great “ceremony” location as the garden is a walking path. Keep that in mind if you’re inviting guests.

Perfect For: Couples who want a weather-proof, whimsical and magical elopement spot that feels like stepping into a fairytale.

Meet Your Key West Elopement Photographer – Your Local Guide for the Best Places to Elope in Key West