Have a look around the blog and make sure to reach out to me ASAP! Let's get your incredible day on my calendar, and let's create memories that you'll remember for a lifetime.
Hey there!
Acadia National Park Wedding Guide: Permits, Locations & Planning Tips
Welcome to your Acadia National Park Wedding Guide!
If you’re dreaming of an elopement day that feels meaningful, relaxed, and completely surrounded by nature, Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Maine to get married. With dramatic coastal cliffs, quiet forested trails, and iconic mountain views, Acadia offers endless ways to create a wedding day that feels intentional instead of overwhelming.
This Acadia National Park elopement guide walks you through everything you need to know—from permits and locations to the best times of year and how to avoid crowds—so you can plan a fun, low-stress elopement that actually feels like you.
Acadia National Park Elopement Guide – Table of Contents
Why Elope in Acadia National Park
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Acadia National Park?
Best Time of Year to Elope in Acadia
Best Ceremony Locations in Acadia National Park
Guest Limits & Park Rules
Can Our Dog Attend?
Where to Stay & Celebrate After
Sample Acadia Elopement Timeline
Things To Do
Must See Spots
How to Choose an Acadia Elopement Photographer
FAQs About Eloping in Acadia National Park
Why Elope in Acadia National Park
Acadia is perfect for couples who want their wedding day to feel more like an experience than an event. Instead of rigid timelines and packed guest lists, eloping here allows you to slow down and focus on what matters most.
Couples choose Acadia because:
It’s ideal for couples who want a laid-back, meaningful celebration
The scenery is stunning without needing decor
There are options for adventurous or easy-access ceremonies
You can keep the day intimate and intentional
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Acadia National Park?
Yes—a ceremony permit is required for weddings and elopements in Acadia National Park with more than 10 people in attendance, including officiants and photographers. If there are under 10 people you generally don’t need one.
Important things to know:
Permits are issued by the National Park Service
Guest limits vary by ceremony location
Applications should be submitted well in advance
Photography alone does not replace a ceremony permit
You’ll need a park pass, one for each vehicle, to enter the park. All visitors need an entrance pass year round. This can be purchased online and printed, or, you can buy one at one of the official park entrances’ booths (There is one on Park Loop Rd. right before Sand Beach). Make sure your pass is visible on your dash at all times to avoid getting tickets.
More information can be found HERE for Acadia specific passes and HERE for America the Beautiful Passes.
Where to get your marriage license
For Maine residents: Maine residents must apply in the town/city that they live in. The license is valid in any community in Maine for 90 days. If you are a couple who live in different towns in Maine, you can pick one of your towns to get your marriage license from.
For Out-of-state residents: Out-of-state residents can apply in any town/city in the state of Maine. The license is valid for a ceremony performed in any community in Maine for 90 days.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Acadia National Park
Each season in Acadia has its own personality, and the best time to elope depends on the kind of experience you want.
Spring (April–May)
Spring is quieter and more peaceful, with fewer crowds and moody coastal vibes. Expect cooler temperatures and limited services early in the season.
Summer (June–August)
Summer brings warmer weather and vibrant energy—but also more visitors. Sunrise ceremonies and weekdays are ideal for privacy.
Fall (September–October)
Fall is one of the most popular times to elope in Acadia thanks to foliage, crisp air, and fewer crowds than summer.
Winter (November–March)
Winter elopements are quiet, dramatic, and incredibly intimate—but require flexibility and preparedness for snow and ice.
Top Elopement & Ceremony Locations in Acadia National Park
Acadia has several designated ceremony locations, each with its own guest limits, accessibility, and overall vibe. Choosing the right one depends on how private, adventurous, or accessible you want your day to be.
Otter Cliff
Otter Cliff is one of the most dramatic ceremony locations in Acadia, featuring rugged granite cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or early evening when the light is softer and crowds are minimal.
Jordan Pond
Jordan Pond offers a peaceful, romantic setting with reflective water and gentle mountain views. It’s perfect for couples who want something serene and easily accessible.
Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain is iconic for sunrise elopements, offering expansive views and unforgettable light. Keep in mind that vehicle reservations are required during peak seasons.
Absolutely! Your pup can totally join your Acadia National Park wedding! Just make sure they stay leashed at all times throughout the park.
And of course, be a responsible pet parent: pick up after your dog and keep them from being a little landscaper—no digging holes, crossing restoration barriers, or breaking branches off trees for sticks. Let’s keep the park as beautiful as your big day!
Where to Stay & Celebrate After Your Elopement
Many couples choose to stay nearby on Mount Desert Island or in Bar Harbor. These areas offer cozy inns, oceanfront lodging, and plenty of great spots to celebrate after your ceremony.
Ideas for celebrating:
A relaxed lobster roll lunch
Sunset drinks in Bar Harbor
A private picnic overlooking the coast
A scenic drive through the park
Sample Low-Stress Acadia Elopement Timeline
One of the biggest perks of eloping in Acadia is flexibility. Your timeline doesn’t need to be rushed.
Example flow:
Getting ready together
Sunrise or quiet-morning ceremony
Exploring nearby trails and overlooks
Relaxed meal or picnic
Sunset portraits along Ocean Path
Things to do
There are plenty of amazing things to do during your visit to Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor! Get some inspiration from the list below!
Do you need a permit to elope in Acadia National Park?
Yes, weddings and elopements in Acadia National Park require a ceremony permit issued by the National Park Service if there are more than 10 people in attendance (this includes vendors).
How many guests can attend an Acadia elopement?
Guest limits vary by ceremony location in Acadia National Park and include vendors. Limits are strictly enforced.
What is the best month to elope in Acadia National Park?
September is a popular month to elope in Acadia due to cooler temperatures, fall foliage, and fewer crowds than summer.
Final Thoughts
An Acadia National Park elopement is about more than just beautiful scenery—it’s about creating a wedding day that feels intentional, relaxed, and deeply personal. With the right planning and the right support, your day can feel calm, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.
