Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Acadia National Park (2025)
Tucked along Maine’s rugged coast, Acadia National Park is where cliffs meet ocean, pine meets granite, and nature becomes the ultimate backdrop for your love story. If you’re envisioning an intimate elopement that feels grounded, beautiful, and completely you—this is the place.
As a Maine-based elopement photographer, I’ve spent years exploring the quiet corners and iconic vistas of Acadia. This guide is here to help you plan an intentional, awe-filled day with ease—from permits, to location picks, to how it feels to say your vows surrounded by crashing waves and crisp mountain air.
Why Choose Acadia for Your Elopement?
Acadia holds space for both bold landscapes and quiet moments. You can climb a mountain at sunrise and share vows in golden light, or find a secluded cove with only the sound of the sea as witness. It offers variety and beauty for every couple—whether you're drawn to adventure or a peaceful, slow-paced day.
The scenery is breathtaking but never overwhelming. It gives you space to just be, which is exactly what makes it so special for couples choosing to elope with intention.
Best Places to Elope in Acadia
Cadillac Mountain
This is the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard and one of the first places in the U.S. to catch the sunrise. It’s a stunning location for early morning vows—especially when the light washes over the rocks and the ocean mist settles in the distance. Best for couples who don’t mind a pre-dawn start and crave epic views.
Otter Cliffs
A dramatic, ocean-facing cliffside with crashing waves and coastal pines. The walk is easy, the light is soft in the evenings, and the view is unforgettable. Ideal for golden hour ceremonies and couples who want a bold, yet serene landscape.
Sand Beach
This stretch of shoreline is nestled between rocky arms of the coastline. It’s intimate at sunrise and gorgeous year-round. You’ll hear the ocean in every frame and feel fully immersed in Acadia’s natural rhythm.
Jordan Pond
Perfectly still waters, rounded mountain backdrops, and a wide open sky. Jordan Pond is for couples who love softness—stillness—without losing the grandeur of nature. A quiet, poetic spot for an elopement that feels like an exhale.
Boulder Beach
A tucked-away, lesser-known spot with ocean-polished rocks and peaceful views. Boulder Beach gives you a more private feel without sacrificing the beauty. It’s a wonderful option for couples who want seclusion with coastal texture.
When to Elope in Acadia
The best seasons for an Acadia elopement are late spring through early fall.
May to June offers fresh greenery and fewer crowds.
July to early September is peak season—perfect weather, vibrant foliage, and long golden evenings.
Late September to mid-October gives you that iconic Maine autumn—crimson leaves, crisp air, and cozy textures.
Sunrise and sunset are your golden windows for ceremony and portraits—soft light, fewer people, and a calm that makes every moment more meaningful.
What to Know About Permits
For most elopements in Acadia, you’ll need a Special Use Permit—especially if you’re planning a ceremony or bringing guests. The permit fee is typically $50 and should be submitted at least 10 days in advance. There are designated ceremony locations depending on group size, and some areas have seasonal restrictions.
As your photographer, I’ll walk you through this process, help choose a location that fits your vision, and make sure everything aligns with park guidelines.
Tips for Your Acadia Elopement
Be Weather-Ready: Acadia’s weather shifts quickly. Bring layers, good footwear, and trust that even a little fog or rain can add magic to your photos.
Keep it Light: Elopements are all about presence. Don’t overpack your schedule—build in time to slow down, explore, and be fully in the moment.
Choose Your People (or Don’t): Whether it’s just the two of you or a few close guests, keep your circle intimate. Your energy matters.
Add Meaningful Touches: Write vows by hand, share a private toast, hike with your dog, or read letters from loved ones. Make it yours.
What It’s Like to Elope with Me
I’m here to create space for you to breathe. To guide you, without intruding. To photograph your elopement with care, instinct, and intention. I’ll help you find the right location, build a timeline that flows, and capture your day in a way that feels as honest as it is beautiful.
Whether we’re hiking under a canopy of trees or standing on windswept cliffs, my goal is always the same: to tell your story in a way that feels real, effortless, and artfully true to you.
Ready to Begin?
Eloping in Acadia National Park isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing what matters. If you’re ready to plan something intimate, natural, and unforgettable, I’d love to help you bring it to life.