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
• Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
• Monroe County Courthouse
• Smathers Beach
• Garden of Eden Rooftop Bar
• Duval Street
• Southernmost Point
• Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden
• The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
• Mallory Square
• 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

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.

? Permit Info:

• $6 entry per car
• $100 special event permit for small ceremonies

? Perfect For: Couples who want a mix of ocean views, palm trees, and Civil War-era architecture. Great for beachside ceremonies with history on the side.

? 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!

? Permit Info: No fee or permit required for small ceremonies.

? Things to Know:

• This public beach is free (and one of the nicest beaches in Key West), which means it gets crowded early.
• Parking is limited so plan accordingly.
• Since you’re unable to book this location, it’s first come, first served for ceremony locations.
• 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.

? 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.

? Permit Info: 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.

? 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
• It’s very much a Duval Street bar so it’s rough around the edges, but tons of fun
• May not be 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 – Urban Elopement in the Heart of Key West

Looking for a truly Key West experience? You can elope right on Duval Street—no permit needed, just keep the good vibes rolling.

? Things to Know:

• Be courteous and avoid blocking walkways or businesses
• Expect some curious onlookers, hi fives, free drinks, and plenty of photo bombs.

? Perfect For: Couples who want a spontaneous ceremony and instant celebration with drinks, music, and good times all around.

Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is a peaceful, nature-filled location with towering palms and rare native plants.

? Things to Know:

• A booking is required to elope here
• The foliage isn’t super tropical, but it is native and gorgeous

? Perfect For: Nature lovers seeking a quiet, serene elopement location in Key West.

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum – Literary & Historic Elopement Venue

If you’re a fan of cats, literature, or Spanish colonial charm, eloping at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum might be your dream come true.

? Things to Know:

• Entry fee: $15/person
• Contact the venue for elopement permissions
• There are cats everywhere (they basically run this place)

? Perfect For: Couples who want lush gardens and literary legacy with a side of quirky cats.

Mallory Square

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:

• No entry fee, but huge crowds are common at sunset
• Great for photo ops and post-ceremony fun

? Perfect For: Couples who want a sunset ceremony with energy and excitement all around them

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.

? Things to Know:

• Free to visit, but contact staff for events
• Ocean views + gardens = win

? 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—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 whimsical and magical elopement spot that feels like stepping into a fairytale.

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