Planning to elope in 2026? Discover 5 of the best places to elope — from Sedona and the PNW to Mexico, Charleston, and Southern Utah — with tips from a destination photographer.

Dreaming of ditching the traditional wedding script and saying “I do” somewhere wild, breathtaking, and deeply personal? You’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing to elope in unforgettable destinations, turning their wedding day into an intimate experience that’s all about the two of you.

Whether you’re imagining cliffs and mist, deserts and red rock, or a soft breeze by the sea — 2026 is the perfect year to go all in on the kind of celebration that speaks to your soul.

As a destination wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve traveled far and wide capturing love stories in some seriously incredible places. Here are my top 5 picks for where to elope in 2026, along with tips on when to go and what makes each one special.

1. The Pacific Northwest (PNW)

Best For: Moody romantics, nature lovers, and forest dreamers
Top Spots: Olympic National Park (WA), Cannon Beach (OR), Mount Rainier, Columbia River Gorge

Why It’s Magical: Picture towering evergreens, ocean cliffs, waterfalls, and morning mist. The PNW is perfect for couples who want moody, cinematic vibes and rich, layered landscapes that feel like a fairytale. It’s also cooler in the summer — ideal for those avoiding heat.

Photographer Tip: Elopements here can be foggy or rainy — and that’s a good thing. Cloud cover makes for soft, beautiful light (and dramatic photos), so don’t stress over sunshine.

Best Time to Elope: June–September for dry weather, or late October for fall color + cozy vibes.

2. Sedona, Arizona

Best For: Sunset chasers, red rock lovers, desert dreamers
Top Spots: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, SkyRanch Lodge

Why It’s Magical: Sedona offers jaw-dropping desert landscapes, vibrant red cliffs, and spiritual energy that makes every elopement feel grounded and soulful. Plus, it’s super accessible with plenty of lodging, hiking, and off-the-grid options.

Photographer Tip: The red rocks glow at golden hour — plan your ceremony about 60–90 minutes before sunset, and don’t skip a post-ceremony portrait session as the sun dips behind the cliffs.Best Time to Elope: March–May or October–November (avoid peak summer heat and crowds.

3. Mexico (Tulum, Baja, Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta)

Best For: Beachy minimalists, luxury lovers, cultural adventurers
Top Spots: Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum, Baja, Puerto Vallarta

Why It’s Magical: Mexico offers a wide range of elopement styles — from barefoot ceremonies on white sand beaches to intimate vows in cobblestone colonial towns. You’ll find warm hospitality, vibrant colors, and plenty of ways to turn your elopement into a full travel experience.

Photographer Tip: Plan for sunset to avoid harsh overhead sun — especially on the beach. Don’t forget to build in a “day-before/after session” if you’re hopping around town or traveling to cenotes.

Best Time to Elope: November–April for dry season and comfortable temps.

4. Charleston & The Lowcountry (South Carolina)

Best For: Southern charm lovers, history buffs, and couples craving mossy oaks + coastal elegance
Top Spots: Downtown Charleston, Magnolia Plantation, Folly Beach, Beaufort, Cypress Gardens

Why It’s Magical: Charleston is effortlessly romantic — pastel buildings, cobblestone streets, oak trees dripping in Spanish moss, and nearby beaches make it an ideal mix of charm and variety. Perfect for couples who want history, style, and Southern hospitality.

Photographer Tip: Charleston weather is unpredictable, select a venue that has good indoor and outdoor options for portraits. We want to keep as many options open as we can!

Best Time to Elope: March–May or October–early December (mild temps, fewer tourists).

5. Southern Utah (Zion, Moab, Escalante)

Best For: Wild-hearted adventurers, red rock lovers, and National Park explorers
Top Spots: Zion National Park, Moab, Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase–Escalante

Why It’s Magical: Southern Utah feels like Mars in the best way possible — canyons, arches, hoodoos, and desert colors that shift with the sun. Eloping here feels like you’re the only two people in the world. You can hike, stargaze, camp, or glamp — and it’s pure magic.

Photographer Tip: Zion requires permits and can be crowded — opt for lesser-known trailheads or the surrounding BLM lands for privacy and drama. I’ll help scout the perfect spot for your vows.

Best Time to Elope: April–June or September–October for cooler, photo-friendly weather.

Final Thoughts: Where Will You Say “I Do” in 2026?

Whether you’re drawn to the forest, the desert, the beach, or somewhere in between, eloping in 2026 gives you the freedom to craft a day that reflects your story, your style, and your pace. No timelines. No pressure. Just you two and the beauty of your surroundings.

If you’re planning an elopement and want a photographer who helps with location scouting, timeline planning, and capturing it all beautifully — let’s start dreaming it up together.

📩 Inquire now to start planning your 2026 elopement →