While winter can be a magical time filled with cozy date nights and fun snow dates, some yearn for warmer weather. As a destination wedding photographer, I often travel and plan trips to catch a bit of sun. If you’re experiencing the winter blues or simply looking for a warmer climate for your elopement – I’ve got you covered! From sandy beaches to tropical rainforests, I’ve got a list of the best places to elope in winter that will fit the bill.

Palm Springs

Eloping in Palm Springs in the winter allows couples to experience natural beauty, perfect weather, and relaxed vibes. Winter temperatures in Palm Springs are usually within 60°-70°F, ideal for day adventures or outdoor ceremonies. Traveling during this time of year allows you to experience the breathtaking desert landscape during the day and not melt in the hot desert heat. Palm Springs also hits the top of my list of best places to elope in the winter for its privacy and variety of venues. If you choose to elope here, you’ll have access to various venues for your ceremony. From desert resorts and modern homes to private desert gardens – Palm Springs has it all.

Melbourne, Florida

Looking for a coastal oasis? Consider Melbourne, Florida for your winter destination elopement. Here you’ll find a mix of coastal beauty, enjoyable weather and relaxed beach-town atmosphere. Similar to Palm Springs temperatures will range from mid-60s° to low 70s°F. The weather makes for days on the beach comfortable and outdoor ceremonies a dream. Melbourne is a great choice for couples looking to escape the hustle of city life. Known for the laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making Melbourne the perfect spot for a serene elopement experience. While visiting the area, make a trip out of it! There are tons of great experiences near by like the Indian River Lagoon, Kennedy Space Center or the Brevard Zoo. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate beach ceremony or a boutique hotel experience, Melbourne has a little bit of everything!

San Diego – Best Places to Elope in Winter

While this may come as no surprise, San Diego is another great spot for a winter elopement! Like the two previous locations, the weather is perfect year-round. Temperatures range from mid-60s° to 70s°F. It is ideal for outdoor ceremonies at the beach or a local park. San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Here, you’ll find access to many incredible wedding vendors to help bring your dream to life while enjoying the stunning coastal views. Not to mention the ease of travel and various experiences that allow for an extended elopement weekend! San Diego is an excellent choice for couples looking to elope in a beautiful and relaxed location.

Hawaii

As a destination wedding photographer, Hawaii is one of my favorite spots for a winter elopement. The weather is perfect; it is not too warm or cool. Between 70s° to 80s°F, you can enjoy sunny beach days and a tropical escape from reality. Throughout the islands, you’ll find various locations for your elopement ceremony. The opportunities are endless, from white sand beaches to dramatic cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls. While Hawaii is a popular destination for many, this will allow you to plan your elopement and transition to your honeymoon! If you’re looking for more inspiration or information for planning a Hawaii elopement, check out my Planning Your Big Island Elopement blog here!

Costa Rica – Best Places to Elope in Winter

Lastly, to round out my list of best places to elope in the winter, Costa Rica! Costa Rica is known for its breathtaking scenery, beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, and national parks. They have a little of everything, making it perfect for elopement couples! You’re able to plan the elopement of your dreams here. Winter weather in Costa Rica varies from 70°F to 80°F. Costa Rica is another incredibly relaxed and serene atmosphere, allowing you and your partner to disconnect from real life and be in the moment together. It’s also an excellent spot for an adventurous honeymoon. It’s unbeatable, from zip-lining and volcano exploring to surfing and wildlife tours. Costa Rica would be an absolutely epic elopement spot any time of the year!

Whether you’re looking for a sunset beach ceremony or a tropical adventure, eloping in one of these locations will be an unforgettable adventure to remember for a lifetime. Each location offers its taste of natural beauty and epic adventure; you can’t go wrong! Wherever your love takes you, embrace the magic and enjoy the experience of creating new memories together.

Already dreaming of an incredible destination wedding photography experience with me? Send me a message!