Want to know my top Emerald Coast Florida elopement locations? I’ve been loving blogging about elopements lately! From top reasons to elope and top myths about eloping, to traditional touches you can add to your elopement. There’s been a little something for everyone! Especially with how our normal day to day lives have been changing. Eloping has become an even more popular option for couples. 

I’ve also talked about micro weddings before but today we are focusing on locations for true old school elopements. What do I mean by that? An elopement without any event rentals, or large groups of people. No arbors or chairs and no more than 10 people. A true simple elopement. One where you can show up with your officiant and simply say your vows. Then, celebrate being married with just the two of you! 

I thought to myself, what are a few Emerald Coast locations where you truly could show up and not have to pay for a venue or a large location fee? Where it would be simple and accessible but still beautiful for your bridal portraits! 

Ding ding ding, state parks! They are accessible and cared for by the state, which make for nice clean locations. You don’t have to pay a large fee to get married there. Also, one of the best parts of eloping in a state park is that there are no houses or large commercial buildings in the background. The land is protected. Which is perfect for your photos! It was a no brainer for me. Each of these locations features a different type of scenery but they are all gorgeous. Depending on the park there are also hiking trails, kayak rentals, and other things to do for fun after you’ve said “I Do”. 

There are a few things to remember for each of these locations. You’ll want to check on their hours, mask policies, social distancing policies, and prices to enter per vehicle. Not a huge thing to worry about, but a few things to keep a note of. All of the sites linked below will have that information listed. As well as, the most up to date policies of that park. 

1. Henderson Beach State Park 

2. Grayton Beach State Park

3. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park

4. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

BONUS: O’Steen Public Beach. I included O’Steen Public Beach because although it isn’t a state park, it’s a public beach. You can access the Destin Jetties here! There are rocks, sand dunes, and water at this spot. So, you have a great variety for the background of your photos. 

Remember weddings and elopements no matter the size of your wedding. At the end of the day, you will marry your partner. Which, is all that matters. Whether you start your happily ever after in a ballroom full of family and friends or on the beach with just an officiant, there is something unique about doing your day YOUR way. I hope this gives you some ideas of spots if a small and intimate elopement is right for you. 

Message me today to inquire about photographing your Emerald Coast elopement! Because no matter how large or small your wedding day is, you deserve to have it captured with extraordinary photography.