Hey there, adventure seekers!
Ready to elope in Acadia National Park? You’re in for dramatic cliffside views, ocean breezes, and intimate moments surrounded by Maine’s wild beauty. Read along for all my best tips and how-to’s for eloping in Acadia National Park!
Choose Your Ceremony Site
Acadia offers incredible variety—from granite cliffs and ocean paths to quiet lakesides.
If you’re eloping with 10 or fewer people (including your photographer and officiant), you can usually hold your ceremony almost anywhere in the park!
If your group includes 11 to 50 guests, you’ll need a Special Use Permit and must choose one of the designated ceremony sites like:
Designated Ceremony Locations
- Sand Beach (limit 30)
- Otter Cliff (limit 20)
- Thompson Island (limit 50)
- There are many more beautiful locations and they are listed right here!
What You’ll Need
Special Use Permit
- $75 application fee
- Apply at least 10 business days in advance (but the sooner, the better)
- Find all of the National Park permit info here!
Park Pass
You’ll need a valid Vehicle Entrance Pass for Acadia National Park. This is required for all visitors, even for weddings.
- $35 for a 7-day pass
- $80 for an annual pass
- You can buy your pass online here!
Marriage License
- If you’re an out-of-state couple, you can apply at any town office in Maine
- Maine residents must apply in their home town
- Click here to read all about how to get married in Maine!
When to Elope in Acadia
- Best seasons: Late spring and early fall bring the best mix of beautiful weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant scenery.
- Best times of day: Sunrise or sunset offer the most romantic light—and a more peaceful experience.
What to Pack
- Comfortable shoes (hiking boots or trail shoes)
- Optional outfit change for post-hike photos
- Jacket or windbreaker
- Umbrella (just in case!)
Best Photo Spots After Your Ceremony
Jordan Pond
Still water and mountain views make this a peaceful and iconic backdrop.
Ocean Path Trail
Gorgeous rocky coastline and crashing waves—perfect for movement and drama.
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Classic Maine! Especially beautiful at sunset.
After portraits, head into Bar Harbor for dinner or a post-ceremony celebration.
A Personal Note
I had the pleasure of shooting an adventure session in Acadia but haven’t photographed an Acadia elopement yet, but it’s been on my bucket list for years.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, adventurous day surrounded by mountains and sea, I’d love to help you bring it to life.
Being my very first Acadia elopement, your day would hold a special place in my heart, and I’d truly cherish the chance to capture your story.
Final Tips for Eloping in Acadia
- Leave No Trace: Stick to trails, don’t bring confetti or anything that might disturb the land.
- Have a backup: Weather changes fast—fog, wind, or rain can affect plans. Consider a second ceremony spot or shift your timeline if needed.
- Bring snacks and water—there aren’t many vendors inside the park!
Ready to Elope in Acadia National Park?
Let’s plan something wild, beautiful, and completely true to you.
- Contact me here!
- See my elopement packages here!
- Not sure if Acadia National Park is right for you? Click here, here, here, here, here, and here for more elopement location ideas! 🙂
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