Acadia National Park Elopement | A How To Guide

Acadia National Park is, without a doubt, one of my favorite national parks in the entire United States. There’s something special about a place where rugged ocean cliffs and mountain-top views exist side by side. For an Acadia National Park Elopement, you can start your morning watching the sun rise over the Atlantic, spend the afternoon wandering through quiet forests or along peaceful ponds, and end the day standing on granite cliffs with waves crashing below you.

Acadia feels slow in the best way—calm, grounded, and incredibly beautiful. Especially at certain times of year, it carries a peaceful, almost sacred quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere. Sandy beaches, dramatic coastlines, iron ladders built into cliffs, misty trails, and still water tucked into the woods—all of it lives within this one park. I absolutely love it here.

This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know to elope in Acadia National Park – from the logistics and permits to the best times of year, location ideas, packing tips, and how to create an elopement day that actually feels like you. Whether you’re just starting to dream or already set on an Acadia National Park Elopement, you’re in the right place!

A Quick Note About Who You’re Hearing This From

Why Elope in Acadia National Park

An Acadia National Park elopement offers something that very few places in the U.S. can: dramatic ocean cliffs and mountain-top views in the same park. You can start your day watching the sun rise over the Atlantic, hike to a summit with sweeping coastal views, wander through quiet forests, and end the evening near a still pond or rocky shoreline. That kind of variety makes Acadia incredibly flexible for couples who want their elopement day to feel full, but never rushed!

Another reason Acadia stands out is how accessible it is. Many of the park’s most breathtaking viewpoints are reached by short hikes with a big payoff, which means you don’t have to be an ultra-distance hiker to experience something truly epic. It’s an ideal location if you want an outdoor elopement that feels adventurous while still being approachable and comfortable.

Who Acadia National Park Elopements Are For

Acadia is especially well-suited for low-key couples who want their wedding day to feel calm, intentional, and grounded in nature. If you’re drawn to quiet moments, scenic backdrops, and a slower pace, this park delivers that beautifully—especially during sunrise, weekdays, or shoulder seasons.

It’s also a great fit for couples who want an adventurous, but approachable elopement. Acadia has everything from rocky trails with iron ladders to gentle coastal paths and forest walks. You can tailor your day to your comfort level, whether that means a short walk to a cliffside overlook or a more hands-on hike with incredible views along the way or multiple locations throughout a full day.

Acadia Elopement Tradeoffs to Know About

Like any national park, Acadia comes with a few important considerations. Crowds can be a factor, particularly in summer and during peak fall foliage season. Planning for early mornings, weekdays, or less obvious locations makes a big difference here (that’s where I come in!).

Permits are required for wedding ceremonies in the park, and there are specific rules around group size, locations, and timing. These guidelines exist to protect the landscape and ensure everyone can enjoy the park responsibly. There are also seasonal limits to keep in mind—some roads and trails close in winter, and coastal weather can shift quickly.

None of these are deal-breakers, but they do mean that Acadia rewards couples who plan thoughtfully. With the right approach, these tradeoffs become part of what makes an Acadia National Park elopement feel intentional, respectful, and truly special.

How to Elope in Acadia National Park (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Decide What Kind of Elopement You Want

Before you touch permits or timelines, get clear on the shape and feel of your day. Acadia can work for a quiet “just us” ceremony or a small group—your choices here will affect everything else.

• Just the two of you vs. a small group: $75 permits are required for all weddings in Acadia National Park with the exception of a “simple ceremony” which can be up to 10 people total (including your officiant). You will still need to follow the park’s other restrictions. You can read all of the regulations for weddings at the National Park Service’s website.
  
• Sunrise vs. sunset: The light is incredible here, especially at sunrise, but some areas have timing limitations (more on that in the rules section).
  
• Easy access vs. short hike: Acadia is perfect for “big views without a huge hike,” but you’ll want to choose a spot that matches your comfort level in wedding clothes—especially if you’re including guests. And if you are up for a longer adventure you can include multiple locations in your day!

My pro planning tip: Pick your top 2 priorities (privacy, views, ease, adventure, guests) and let that guide the location choice. It keeps everything simple.

Step 2: Understand Acadia’s Ceremony Rules

This is where couples get tripped up, because the rules aren’t about being strict for the sake of it. They’re about protecting the park and keeping it enjoyable for everyone.

Locations where ceremonies are allowed

Acadia has established locations and maximum group sizes for ceremonies with more than 10 people – so your spot and guest list matters. Examples include places like Sand Beach (30), Otter Cliff (20), Schoodic Point (25) and others. You can find the full list below and on the National Park’s website.

Group size limits

For simple ceremonies without a permit, you’re capped at 10 people total (including the officiant) and must follow the restrictions listed by the park. However, you can elope anywhere in the park with this size.

What’s not allowed (and what “simple” really means)

If you’re doing a simple ceremony without a permit, the park still prohibits things like:

• Chairs, arches, or decorations
  
• Amplified sound / speakers
  
• Signs or markers
  
• Throwing or releasing anything (petals, rice, balloons, etc.)
  
• Blocking visitor use or traffic flow
  

Why the rules exist

Acadia is a national park, not a private venue. Even with a permit, your ceremony does not grant exclusive use of an area because this park is open to the public. So the goal is to be respectful, low-impact, and flexible. 

Step 3: Apply for an Acadia Wedding Permit (If you need one)

If you’re having more than 10 people, or you want a little more structure around your ceremony plans, you’ll be looking at a $75 wedding permit. Talk about a cheap wedding venue!

Exactly where to apply

Acadia’s wedding page includes the permit details and a downloadable application. You’ll submit your application and fee by mail to:
Acadia National Park, Attn: Special Use Permit Coordinator, PO Box 177, Bar Harbor, ME 04609.

When to apply

Acadia can accept wedding permits up to one year in advance, and not less than 72 hours before your ceremony. (Even though 72 hours is technically allowed, I’d never recommend cutting it that close.)

Typical approval timelines

Permits can be denied during high-use periods (Acadia specifically notes heavy-use windows like mid-June through mid-September and holiday weekends), so earlier is better for those time periods. The approved permit must be in your possession at the time of the ceremony. Entrance fees into the park are not waived for either participants or guests.

What you’ll want ready before you apply

To avoid delays, have these decisions made first:

• Your date (or at least a tight range)
  
• Your preferred ceremony location (and a backup)
  
• Your group size
  
• Your general timing (morning/afternoon/evening)
  
• Any logistical notes (parking/carpool plan if you have guests. Acadia can require shuttling depending on time/day/location)
  

One more important detail: Cadillac Mountain ceremonies are not allowed during sunrise or sunset, and if you’re driving the summit road May–October, a vehicle reservation is required. This doesn’t mean you can’t start your wedding day by being the first people to see the sunrise in America, it just cannot be your ceremony location at these times.

If this already feels like a lot, you don’t have to figure it out alone. I help couples navigate permits, timelines, and locations so their day stays simple.

Legal Requirements to Get Married in Maine

Getting legally married in Maine is thankfully pretty straightforward, which makes it a great state for destination elopements! Here’s what you need to know so the paperwork doesn’t add unnecessary stress to your planning.

Marriage license basics

To get married in Maine, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license in person at a Maine municipal clerk’s office. Both of you must be present, and you’ll need a valid photo ID. There’s a fee (it varies slightly by town and is $40 in Bar Harbor), and once issued, your license is valid immediately and remains valid for 90 days.

Residency rules (or lack thereof)

You do not need to be a Maine resident to get married there. This is one of the reasons Maine—and Acadia specifically—works so well for couples traveling in from out of state. As long as you apply and meet the basic requirements, you’re good to go.

Timeline suggestions

Even though the license is valid right away, I recommend applying at least one to two days before your ceremony. This gives you breathing room in case offices are closed, lines are longer than expected, or travel plans shift. It’s one of those small planning choices that can make your elopement day feel much more relaxed.

Where couples usually do this logistically

Most couples planning an Acadia National Park elopement choose to apply for their marriage license in or near Bar Harbor, since it’s close to the park and easy to fit into your travel plans. Many turn it into part of the experience—grabbing lunch, exploring town, and checking one more thing off the list together before the big day.

I have linked the Bar Harbor Marriage Guide that tells you exactly what to do. Once your ceremony is complete, your officiant and your two required witnesses (which can be me and literally a random person walking by if you want) will sign the license and return it to the issuing clerk’s office. After that, you’re officially married!!

Best Time of Year to Elope in Acadia National Park

There’s no single “best” time to elope in Acadia National Park – there’s just the season that fits you best. Each part of the year offers a different experience, and knowing what to expect helps you choose a time that feels aligned with your priorities, comfort level, and vision for the day.

Spring (May–June)

Spring in Acadia is moody, fresh, and quietly beautiful. The park is waking up after winter with misty mornings, bright green growth, and cool coastal air. Trails are generally accessible, but some higher or more rugged areas may still be damp or muddy from snowmelt.

This season is great if you want fewer crowds and don’t mind unpredictable weather. Expect wind, cooler temperatures, and the occasional foggy morning. That atmosphere is all part of the magic of Spring in Acadia!

Who this is for: Couples who love a quieter park, don’t need perfect weather, and are drawn to a more introspective, cinematic feel.

Summer (July–August)

Summer in Acadia is very busy, but it’s also when the park is fully open and lush. Trails are dry, the days are long, and everything is accessible. The tradeoff, of course, is crowds, especially at popular overlooks and midday.

This season can still work beautifully if you plan strategically. Sunrise elopements or weekday ceremonies make a huge difference (although sunrise is really early in the summer here). Choosing less obvious locations or quieter trails can also help you maintain a sense of intimacy.

Who this is for: Couples who value full trail access, don’t mind planning around people, and are willing to start early to get the most peaceful experience.

Fall (September–October)

Fall is the peak season in Acadia for a reason. Cooler temperatures, crisp coastal air, and vibrant foliage make this one of the most visually stunning times of year. The park feels alive but grounded, and the light is beautiful throughout the day.

Because of its popularity, permit demand is higher, and lodging fills quickly. Planning ahead is essential if you’re hoping for a fall elopement, especially in late September and early October.

Who this is for: Couples who want the classic Acadia look – fall color, comfortable hiking weather, and dramatic coastal views, and are okay with planning well in advance.

Late Fall / Early Winter (November)

November in Acadia is quiet, dramatic, and deeply peaceful. Many roads and services begin to close, and access is more limited, but what you get in return is solitude and intimacy. The park feels raw and honest, with moody skies, empty trails, and a sense that you have the landscape almost entirely to yourselves.

This season requires flexibility and preparedness for cold, wind, and possible trail closures, but it can be incredibly meaningful for the right couple.

Who this is for: Couples who value privacy above all else, don’t mind bundling up, and are drawn to a quieter, more reflective elopement experience.

Best Acadia National Park Elopement Locations

One of the best things about an Acadia National Park elopement is how many different environments you can experience in a single day. Rather than thinking in terms of one “perfect spot,” it’s often more helpful to think in categories—coast, mountains, beaches, and forests—and then choose locations within those that match your priorities for privacy, light, and accessibility.

Coastal Cliff Views

Acadia’s rocky coastline is iconic for a reason. Areas near Otter Point and along stretches similar to the Ocean Path offer dramatic granite cliffs with waves crashing below. These locations feel wild and expansive without requiring long hikes, which makes them ideal for intimate ceremonies and portraits.

Don’t limit yourself to just the popular spots though, there are plenty of coastal views in the park as it is really just one big loop. If you need help picking a spot, I got you covered!

Mountain & Summit Views

Acadia’s mountains give you sweeping views over both land and sea—something that’s surprisingly rare in a national park. Cadillac Mountain is the most famous, but it comes with important restrictions and crowds. Don’t worry though there are SO many more mountain locations within the park.

There is a different type of adventure for everyone, from longer hikes to Bubble Rock, hikes with ladders like the Beehive Trail, and secluded short hikes to hidden overlooks. Cadillac Mountain is great, but there are a lot of stunning views throughout the park.

Beaches

Acadia’s beaches add a softer, more grounded feel to an elopement day. Sand Beach is the most well-known, framed by cliffs and mountains, while quieter options like Hunter Beach feel more tucked away and intimate. These areas work especially well for couples who want ocean views without being perched on a cliff edge.

Beaches shine early in the morning or on overcast days, when crowds are lighter and the light feels soft and even. They’re also a great choice if you want to keep things accessible for guests or prefer minimal hiking. Although there are some incredible hikes near Sand Beach!

Forest & Quiet Trails

Forest and interior trails like Sieur de Monts are often overlooked, but they’re some of my favorite places in Acadia—especially for elopements. These areas feel calm, sheltered, and deeply peaceful. On windy days or during peak visitor hours, forested locations can be a refuge from crowds and weather.

These spots really shine if you’re looking for privacy, softer light, and a slower pace. They’re also ideal for couples who want a grounded, intimate ceremony that feels tucked away from the more dramatic (and busier) parts of the park.

When choosing your elopement locations in Acadia, flexibility is key. The best days often involve moving between a couple of these environments—coast to forest, summit to shoreline—so your experience feels rich and unhurried without being tied to one exact spot!

Sample Acadia National Park Elopement Timelines

These timelines aren’t meant to be followed minute-by-minute. They’re here to help you picture what an Acadia elopement can feel like when there’s room to breathe, explore, and let the day unfold naturally. This is how I approach elopement planning—with intention, flexibility, and space for the in-between moments.

Sunrise Elopement Timeline

Just the Two of You | Exploring Multiple Locations | ~8 Hours | Ends with Brunch

4:30 AM – Slow Wake-Up + Coffee Together
You wake up before the world does. No alarms blaring, no rush—just coffee, quiet conversation, and the kind of calm that only exists early in the morning. This is one of my favorite parts of sunrise elopements: the day already feels special before you ever step outside.

5:30 AM – Getting Ready at Your Airbnb
You help each other get ready. No separate rooms, no pressure. Music playing softly, windows cracked open to the salty air. This part of the day is intimate and grounding, and it sets the tone for everything that follows.

6:30 AM – Sunrise Exploration + First Look
We head into the park while it’s still quiet. Sunrise light spills over the coast or a mountaintop overlook, and you see each other fully dressed for the first time. No audience. Just you, the light, and the moment.

7:30 AM – Private Ceremony
You exchange vows somewhere meaningful and peaceful—maybe overlooking the ocean, maybe tucked into a quiet trail. We take our time here. You read your vows, soak it in, and don’t feel rushed to move on.

8:30 AM – Coastal or Forest Exploration
After your ceremony, we explore. This could be walking along the coast, wandering through a forest trail, or sitting quietly together while the park slowly wakes up. These moments are often where the most genuine photos happen.

10:00 AM – Celebrate
You spread out a blanket, pop champagne or sip coffee, and enjoy a simple picnic together. It’s relaxed, playful, and a chance to actually celebrate without a schedule looming.

11:30 AM – Final Portraits + Heading Out
We wrap up with a few last portraits, then head out of the park as crowds begin to arrive.

12:30 PM – Brunch Together
You end the day with brunch—still in your wedding clothes if you want—laughing, decompressing, and letting it all sink in. Married, calm, and fully present.

Sunset Elopement Timeline

Small Guest Group | Ceremony on the Beach | ~10 Hours | Ends After Dark

10:00 AM – Slow Morning + Getting Ready
You start the day without pressure. Breakfast together, time with your guests, and a relaxed getting-ready experience at your Airbnb. This is where anticipation builds without stress.

12:00 PM – First Look + Private Time
Before meeting your guests, you take time just for the two of you. A first look in a quiet spot gives you space to connect and breathe before the rest of the day unfolds.

1:00 PM – Exploring the Park
We head into Acadia for portraits and exploration. This could include a short hike, a coastal overlook, or a forest trail—giving you variety without exhausting yourselves.

3:30 PM – Downtime + Reset
You return to your Airbnb to rest, hydrate, change shoes, or just sit quietly. This break is key—it keeps the day from feeling long or overwhelming.

5:00 PM – Head to the Beach + Guest Arrival
Your guests arrive, and everyone gathers in a relaxed, informal way. No seating charts, no strict setup—just loved ones arriving with excitement.

6:00 PM – Ceremony at Sand Beach
You exchange vows with your closest people present. The ocean, the cliffs, and the sound of the waves create a powerful but grounded backdrop.

6:30 PM – Toasts + Sunset Portraits
You celebrate with hugs, a few toasts, and portraits as the sun dips lower and the light softens.

7:30 PM – Transition Back to Your Airbnb
As darkness falls, we head back to your Airbnb with your guests.

8:30 PM – Private Dinner + Celebration
A catered dinner or home-cooked meal, candles lit, wine poured. You kick off your shoes, relax, and celebrate in a way that feels intimate and meaningful—ending the day exactly how you want to remember it.

Both of these timelines are just starting points. Your Acadia National Park elopement should fit you, your energy, your priorities, and the way you want to feel at the end of the day! My role is to help you shape a timeline that leaves room for magic, not just moments.

Adventure Ideas for Your Acadia Elopement Day

One of the best parts of planning an Acadia National Park elopement is that your day doesn’t have to revolve around one location or one moment. You can build a day that feels more like an experience—slow, intentional, and a little adventurous. Here are some ideas couples love incorporating:

• Short summit hikes with big views for a sunrise first look or private vows
  
• Coastal walks along rocky shorelines to explore, talk, and soak it all in
  
• Sunrise picnic with coffee, pastries, or a simple breakfast together
  
• Post-ceremony lobster roll stop or casual local meal to celebrate Maine-style
  
• Kayaking in calm coastal waters or peaceful ponds for a different perspective
  
• Forest wandering on quiet trails when you want privacy and soft light
  
• Champagne or coffee toast tucked away on the coast
  
• Stargazing to end the day when skies are clear and crowds are gone
  
• Jumping in the ocean (or just dipping your toes) if you’re feeling bold
  
• Writing letters to read later during a quiet pause in the day
  

You don’t need to do all of these. One or two thoughtfully chosen moments can turn your elopement into something deeply personal and unforgettable! See more ideas for making your elopement day unique.

Where to Stay Near Acadia National Park

Where you stay plays a bigger role than most couples expect—especially for an Acadia National Park elopement. Your lodging sets the tone for the morning, how relaxed you feel getting ready, and how easily you can move through the park.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is the most popular place to stay, and for good reason. It’s close to the main park entrances, has great food options, and makes logistics easy—especially if you’re planning a sunrise or sunset elopement. Staying here means shorter drives, easier access to trails, and a celebratory feel if you want to grab a nice meal or wander town afterward. The tradeoff is that it’s busier and more expensive, particularly during summer and fall.

Quiet alternatives nearby

If you’re craving more privacy, consider staying just outside Bar Harbor in places like Southwest Harbor (my personal favorite), Seal Harbor, or other small coastal towns on Mount Desert Island. These areas tend to be quieter, slower-paced, and feel more tucked away—perfect if you want your elopement to feel peaceful from start to finish. You’ll still have easy access to Acadia, just with fewer people around when you wake up or wind down.

Airbnb vs. hotel pros and cons

Airbnbs are often the best choice for elopements. They give you space to get ready together, host a private dinner with guests, or simply relax without feeling rushed. They also work well for photos and allow your day to flow naturally. Hotels can be a great option if you want simplicity, amenities, or easy access to town—but they tend to feel more structured and less personal. My biggest recommendation is to choose a place that supports the pace and feel you want for your day.

Local Acadia Elopement Vendors

Having a few trusted local vendors can make your Acadia National Park elopement feel smoother, calmer, and more rooted in the place you’re choosing. Below are a few categories I often recommend to couples. I’ll be linking a couple of solid options in each section so you can start your own research without feeling overwhelmed.

Hair + Makeup

Local artists who understand coastal weather, wind, and humidity can make a big difference – especially for early mornings and long days outdoors.
→ Bar Harbor Beauty by Caitlin Wooters
→ Sun and Sage Hair Studio

Florals

Whether you’re looking for something simple and wild or a more intentional design that still follows park guidelines, local florists know what holds up best in Acadia’s environment.
→ Cottage Flowers
→ Salt Farm Flowers

Officiants

An officiant familiar with Maine marriage laws and national park ceremonies helps everything flow smoothly and legally. Many also offer personalized ceremonies that feel grounded and genuine. Additionally, my wife is ordained and is happy to tag along on our adventures!
→ CC Ceremonies (Corinne)
→ MDI Weddings

Kayak / Adventure Guides

If you’re incorporating kayaking or other outdoor activities into your elopement day, local guides are invaluable for safety, timing, and access.
→ Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures
→ Under Canvas Adventures

Leave No Trace + Respecting Acadia

Eloping in a place like Acadia National Park comes with a responsibility that goes beyond planning a beautiful day. This park is protected for a reason—and the way you show up there matters.

Why this matters

Acadia sees millions of visitors each year, and even small actions can have a big impact over time. Staying on trails, respecting closures, and keeping ceremonies low-impact helps protect fragile coastlines, alpine vegetation, and wildlife habitats. These guidelines are about making sure Acadia stays wild, accessible, and beautiful for generations to come.

How couples can elope responsibly

Responsible elopements are often the simplest ones. Think fewer items, quieter moments, and flexible expectations. This means packing out everything you bring in, avoiding decorations or props that alter the landscape, choosing locations that can naturally accommodate your group size, and being respectful of other park visitors.

My philosophy here

My approach to elopements is deeply aligned with conservation and care for the outdoors. I believe you can have an incredibly meaningful, adventurous wedding day without leaving a trace behind. I help couples plan days that work with the land instead of against it—days that feel intentional, respectful, and grounded. When you elope in Acadia with this mindset, the experience becomes more than a wedding. It becomes a way of honoring the place that’s holding such an important moment in your story.

Why I Might Be the Right Photographer for Your Acadia Elopement

If you’ve made it this far and found yourself nodding along, there’s a good chance we’d work really well together!

I’m hiking-focused and comfortable in places like Acadia – on rocky trails, windy cliffs, and early mornings when the park is still quiet. I plan elopements with forward thinking, meaning I help you think through permits, timing, locations, weather, and logistics before they become stress points. So when your day arrives, you’re not worrying about what comes next—you’re just there.

On the day itself, I’m a calm presence. I’m not here to rush you or stage moments. I give you space, guide you when needed, and let things unfold naturally so your elopement feels grounded and real!

I also care deeply about protected land. I’ll help you plan a day that respects Acadia’s rules and Leave No Trace principles without taking away from the experience. And since travel is a big part of what I do, I’m always willing to scout, adapt, and problem-solve so your day fits the place and the season.

If this guide felt helpful and reassuring, that’s exactly how I approach working with couples – from the first conversation through the final hike, ceremony, and celebration.

If an Acadia National Park elopement feels right for you, I’d be honored to help you plan and document it!