Why Elope?
Eloping isn’t about “skipping” the wedding. It’s about creating a wedding day that’s simple, stress-free, and completely centered on the two of you. For some couples, that means exchanging vows with only their closest loved ones. For others, it’s an adventurous sunrise ceremony followed by a day exploring the city hand-in-hand. Either way, it’s about stripping away the pressure and filling your day with meaning.
Why St Augustine?
If you’re dreaming of cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and the golden glow of the Florida coast, St Augustine is unmatched. As the Nation’s Oldest City, it offers a perfect blend of romance and history, with plenty of venues designed for intimate gatherings. And because I’m a local St Augustine wedding and elopement photographer, I know all the best elopement venues, dreamy lighting spots, and seasonal nuances to make your elopement unforgettable and easy going.
Best Time of Year to Elope in St Augustine
We’re lucky to have beautiful weather most of the year. Fall (September–November) is popular for its mild temperatures and lush greenery, though you’ll want to watch for hurricane season early in the fall. Winter (December–February) is magical during the Nights of Lights, when millions of twinkling lights make the city sparkle (Tip: avoid if you do not like crowds). Spring (March–April) brings cooler temps and fresh blooms, while summer (June–August) offers long days perfect for beach ceremonies (plan your elopement around the afternoon showers: early in the morning or late in the evening is best).
Best Time of Day for Your Ceremony
Lighting is everything for photos, and in St Augustine, it changes beautifully throughout the day. Sunrise ceremonies are quiet and intimate, with a golden, buttery glow that wraps the city (or the beach) in warmth and golden lighting. Sunset brings more pinks, purples, and soft blues to the sky, creating dreamy cotton candy sky tones for your portraits. During Nights of Lights, nighttime photos under the glowing canopy of bulbs are pure magic (just expect more foot traffic).
The 10 Best Elopement & Micro Wedding Venues in St Augustine
1. Lightner Museum Courtyard
This historic courtyard is pure romance, with arched walkways, a koi pond, and lush greenery framing your ceremony. For an elopement, you can exchange vows on the stone bridge over the pond, then wander to nearby hidden streets for portraits. It’s elegant, intimate, and filled with charm. Their packages include seating, access to getting ready spaces, and a day-of coordinator. Ask to add on floral, music (like a live violin player) and an officiant.You can get ready here, and take all the portraits right on the grounds or nearby streets.
Tip: Aim for a reservation as close to early morning or later evening as possible.
2. 9 Aviles
Tucked on one of the oldest streets in the U.S., 9 Aviles offers a boutique, European-inspired space that feels like stepping into another time. The brick walls are perfect for a candlelit micro wedding, and the location puts you just steps from some of the prettiest photo backdrops in the city.
Tip: Hire an entertainment DJ and bring in fresh floral arrangements and tabletop arrangements for an enchanting feel. This space is very versatile.
3. Casa de Solana
Small, quaint, and surrounded by lush greenery, this charming inn is made for couples wanting everything in one place. You can stay on-site, enjoy a cake and champagne toast, and relax in a private courtyard setting.
Tip: Ask about adding florals or even a horse-drawn carriage for a touch of old-world romance.
4. St Francis Inn
Located near some of the most romantic photo spots in the city, St Francis Inn offers packages that include cake, champagne, an officiant, and seating for a limited guest list. Its central location and private parking make it easy for everyone, and the intimate garden setting feels like a hidden oasis.
Tip: Ask about an evening time if you want to take advantage of the fairy lights in their garden.
5. Pillar’s Castle
If you want something unique and whimsical, this is it. This pink castle with fairytale vibes is perfect for themed or cosplay-inspired weddings. You can get ready and have your ceremony in the same space, with plenty of parking and room for family.
Tip: For your reception, I recommend pairing it with a separate venue (Check out the reception venues guide).
6. The St Augustine Lighthouse
Only available for sunrise ceremonies, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views from the top and a secluded, romantic setting. It’s ideal for couples who love adventure and want something truly different.
Tip: Plan ahead — spots are limited and fill quickly.
7. Castle Otttis
Moody, secluded, and completely one-of-a-kind, Castle Otttis feels like something from an old European storybook. It is modeled after an Irish abbey and YES! It has three T’s in the name representing the three crosses. With space for up to 25 guests and the beach just across the street, you can mix coastal and medieval vibes in one day. The owner is lovely, and live music here is unforgettable.
Tip: Be mindful and respectful of the space, it was built as a monument to Jesus and the owner does not appreciate anything that misrepresents it. If you’re not sure – ask first!
8. Bayfront Marin House
With sweeping views of the Matanzas River, this waterfront inn is both beautiful and accommodating. They offer discounted rates for overnight stays, plus a cake, champagne, and coordinator. Susie – their current coordinator is friendly, sweet and helpful! Choose between their ivy-covered fountain or the pavilion as your backdrop, and enjoy sunset portraits along the bay.
Tip: Ask for an evening time, sunset at this location near the water is gorgeous!
9. Pena-Peck House
Managed by the Woman’s Exchange, this historic property offers shaded gardens and centuries-old architecture for a romantic, old-world feel. Its location right in the heart of downtown (St George St) makes it easy to stroll to dinner afterward.
Tip: Ask about music and floral arrangements or an arch to add to the ceremony space outdoors.
10. Castlegate & The Beach
If you want the flexibility to have a private ceremony in a charming space, then head straight to the sand, this is a perfect pairing. You can have a courtyard exchange, then slip away for barefoot sunset photos along the shore. Additionally, you can opt for a beach ceremony, followed by a reception in the courtyard or their spacious covered and air conditioned space.
Tip: You can have Castle Otttis as the backdrop for your photos from the roof deck of the house!
Alternative Elopement Ideas in St Augustine
- Courthouse Ceremony: Quick and simple, then we head downtown for beautiful, wedding-worthy portraits. There is only one courthouse in St Augustine: St Johns County Courthouse. Tip: Skip photos here, it is not aesthetic, Schedule your appointment ahead of time, we can get you those “courthouse vibes” at plenty of spots downtown: Casa Monica staircases, outside of Lightner Museum, Presbyterian church has amazing stairs, etc.).
- Beach Elopement: Secure your permit, keep decor minimal, and opt for sunrise or sunset for the best light. Tip: Keep it simple: just you two and beautiful flowers – perfect. If you have a family, opt for benches over chairs if possible, real flowers are almost always prettier in photos, don’t bring candles in the daytime, opt for sunrise or sunset ceremony for best lighting, hire your photographer separately from any “all inclusive package” for best results. You want at least a couple hours for ceremony, family photos and bridal portraits. Ask about doing a first look downtown or at your BNB (bonus if it’s on the beach!) to read private vows.
- Backyard BNB Elopement: Rent a gorgeous property, exchange vows in the garden, and celebrate over dinner. The easiest and best way to get gorgeous photos without the hassle. We can “fake” getting ready moments and flatlay shots, we can also start at your BNB if you want to capture the real ones.
Photo-Focused Elopement: Skip the formal ceremony and dedicate the day to portraits and private vows.
How to Find Your Elopement Vendors
Your photographer (hi, that’s me!) can connect you with trusted local florists, planners, hair and makeup artists, and more. You can also browse local Facebook groups, check reviews on Google, and scroll Instagram to ensure a vendor’s work matches your vision.
Tips From Past Elopement Couples
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones.
- Spend the whole day together — make it an experience, not just a ceremony.
- Keep the guest list small so you can focus on what matters most.
Visit St Augustine before your wedding for an engagement session and city tour.
Tips From Me
Plan for at least two hours of photography (more if you’re including activities). Think about what you love to do together — a carriage ride, sunset beach walk, or wine tasting — and weave it into your day. Your elopement should feel like you from start to finish.
Ready to Elope in St Augustine?
I’d be honored to capture every intimate, joyful moment of your celebration. Whether you’re planning a sunrise ceremony, a candlelit courtyard vow exchange, or an adventurous day exploring the city, I’ll be there to help you every step of the way.
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