Where to Elope in Maine

If you’re dreaming of a cinematic, intimate elopement that’s all about you, Maine might just be your perfect place! With rugged coastlines, mountain vistas, and lush forests, this state offers some of the most stunning backdrops in New England for a kick-ass elopement. 

So, let’s talk about where to elope in Maine, what to expect, and everything in between!

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is the most popular destination in Maine. With rocky coastlines, thick forests, and the stunning Cadillac Mountain, this park offers endless options for a truly epic elopement. 

Acadia can get busy, especially during peak season (summer and early fall), so plan for a sunrise or weekday elopement for a more private experience. In fact, Cadillac Mountain is one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise. However, this is the one place where you’re not allowed to have a ceremony during sunrise or sunset, but we can work around it!

Permit: Permits are required for weddings and commitment ceremonies in the park, with the exception of simple ceremonies of up to 10 people that meet certain restrictions. You can learn more about their permits here!

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is the quintessential coastal town of New England, with quaint streets, beautiful harbors, and access to nearby islands. You’ll find picturesque waterfronts, lush parks, and charming streets perfect for photos. You can exchange vows by the ocean, explore the town, and cap off the day with fresh Maine lobster. Plus, being close to Acadia allows you to mix in some adventure.

Bar Harbor fills up during summer and fall, so book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re visiting in October.

Permit: Depending on where in Bar Harbor you’re planning to elope, you may need a permit, but you can find out by contacting the specific location!

Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills offers breathtaking views over Penobscot Bay and the surrounding islands. The trails are lush with greenery, and the summit of Mount Battie has a panoramic view of the harbor below. The Mount Battie Trail is moderate and manageable even if you’re not an experienced hiker. If you prefer an easier route, there’s an auto road that takes you up to the summit from late spring to early fall.

Permit: Permits aren’t usually required for small ceremonies, but it’s always wise to confirm with park officials. A small day-use fee may apply per person.

Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake is Maine’s largest lake, surrounded by forested mountains and quiet coves. The area feels remote, giving you a private, natural setting with the lake’s clear water as a backdrop. You can find plenty of cabins or lodges nearby, making it easy to spend a few days exploring the area. The peaceful lake and mountain views make Moosehead Lake a serene place to exchange vows.

For a bit of adventure, consider booking a seaplane tour to see the lake and surrounding mountains from above. If you’re staying in the area, sunrise on Mount Kineo offers an amazing view of the lake.

Permit: None needed, but it’s always good to check with local authorities or park officials.

Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth

Portland Head Light is Maine’s most iconic lighthouse, surrounded by coastal cliffs and sweeping ocean views. The backdrop of craggy rocks and open sea creates a classic Maine coastal vibe that feels both historic and timeless.

This spot can be busy, so plan for an early morning or sunset ceremony to avoid crowds. The nearby Fort Williams Park offers beautiful trails and additional scenic spots for your ceremony, photos, and adventuring.

Permit: Usually, no permit is required for a small elopement, but I recommend that you check with the Cape Elizabeth town office, as it’s a popular location.

Baxter State Park

Home to Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak, the Baxter State Park offers vast, rugged landscapes filled with thick forests, lakes, and the iconic Knife’s Edge Ridge for the bold. There are several beautiful, private spots for eloping, including Chimney Pond and Daicey Pond.

Baxter is remote and rustic, meaning that there’s no cell service, and the roads are unpaved, so plan accordingly. If you’re aiming to reach Mount Katahdin’s summit, reserve a spot early, as the number of hikers allowed each day is limited.

Permit: No permits are required for small elopements, but always check with the Park Ranger whether or not that is still the case.

Kennebunkport & Its Beaches

Kennebunkport is a charming coastal town with rocky shores, historic buildings, and scenic beaches. The town is known for its upscale feel, beautiful inns, and views of the Atlantic Ocean.  The softer waves and charming boardwalks offer a different, peaceful coastal scene, while the beaches are perfect for sunset elopements with a picturesque harbor in the background. 

There are several private beaches and oceanfront areas perfect for a romantic ceremony, and the town’s amenities make it ideal for a relaxed yet elegant day. Goose Rocks Beach offers a quieter spot compared to the town’s more popular beaches. And if you want to go all out and add an extra unique touch, consider taking a scenic boat ride for a ceremony on the water or sunset photos along the coast.

Permit: None needed, but it’s always good to check with local authorities.

Popham Beach State Park

Popham Beach is one of Maine’s most beautiful sandy beaches. With incredible views, sand dunes, and rock formations, it’s an amazing choice for a romantic beach elopement. Keep in mind that the beach has changing tides, so we’ll need to consider timing to get the best spots for photos. Weekdays offer more privacy, while summer weekends can be busier.

Permit: None needed, but it’s always good to check with local authorities.

Monhegan Island

Monhegan is a remote island (ten miles away from the nearest mainland) with rugged coastal cliffs, quiet beaches, and charming rustic trails. The cliffside views along the island’s outer trail, quiet coves for private moments, and the sense of remoteness make the whole place feel like a secluded escape for your elopement day.

Permit: None needed, but it’s always good to check with local authorities.

Rangeley Lake

Rangeley Lake is a picturesque, serene lake surrounded by mountains, rolling hills, and pine forests. It’s an off-the-beaten-path location that lets you escape into Maine’s wild, untouched beauty. Here, you’ll get access to lake views, hiking trails, and cozy cabins for a perfect Maine getaway.

Consider visiting in early fall, when the surrounding trees start changing color for the most beautiful views! The Height of Land viewpoint nearby offers breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, making it an epic photo location.

Permit: None needed, but it’s always good to check with local authorities.

Mount Blue State Park

If you’re looking for a mountain elopement in Maine, Mount Blue State Park offers stunning vistas, lush forests, and miles of trails. It’s ideal for couples who crave a bit of adventure and breathtaking views. Fall is especially stunning here, and sunrise elopements are magical. Be sure to bring hiking boots and layers, as it can get chilly at higher elevations.

Permit: For small ceremonies, permits aren’t usually required, but it’s always wise to confirm with park officials. A small day-use fee may apply per person.

Book Your Maine Elopement Photographer

I hope that this blog helped you find THE perfect spot where to elope in Maine for you and your partner. And if you’re looking for someone to help you create your dream day and document it while we’re at it, I’d LOVE to help!

You can learn more about my Maine elopement packages here! No matter which package you choose, I’m here to make sure your elopement is nothing short of cinematic, romantic, and totally kick-ass! If you’d like to learn more about what I can do for you, just reach out to me here!

You might also enjoy my blog on How to Elope in Maine!