Your Guide to Eloping in St. Augustine, FL (Or Planning a Micro Wedding)
Dreaming of a romantic beach elopement or micro wedding in Florida’s oldest city? St. Augustine is full of charm, coastal beauty, and historic landmarks—making it one of the most beloved destinations for intimate weddings in the Southeast.
Whether you’re envisioning a toes-in-the-sand ceremony or exchanging vows in front of a centuries-old fort, this guide will help you plan a stunning, stress-free elopement with the help of Sun and Sea Beach Weddings, Northeast Florida’s trusted beach wedding specialists.
Why Eloping in St. Augustine Is So Popular
Couples love St. Augustine for its blend of history, romance, and natural beauty. From ancient cobblestone streets to windswept beaches, it’s the perfect backdrop for a wedding that feels timeless and deeply personal.
What Makes It Special?
-
Castillo de San Marcos: A 17th-century Spanish fort overlooking Matanzas Bay—iconic and photo-ready.
-
St. Augustine Beach: Peaceful shores ideal for a barefoot ceremony at sunrise or sunset.
-
Historic District: Quaint streets lined with lanterns and Spanish architecture set the mood for love.
With Sun and Sea Beach Weddings, you get local expertise and curated packages that remove the guesswork and amplify the magic.
When Is the Best Time to Elope in St. Augustine?
St. Augustine’s warm climate makes it a year-round wedding destination, but spring and fall are local favorites due to cooler temps and fewer crowds.
| Season | Weather Highlights | Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 70s–80s, low humidity | Ideal weather, blooming landscapes |
| Summer | Hot & humid, afternoon storms | Peak season, lively beach vibes |
| Fall | Mild temps, fewer tourists | Peaceful, golden lighting for photos |
| Winter | Cool & quiet | Off-peak pricing, cozy micro weddings |
Tip: Avoid major festival weekends like Nights of Lights or Biketoberfest to ensure availability and privacy.
Best Places to Elope in St. Augustine
Sun and Sea Beach Weddings offers a range of all-inclusive beach wedding packages designed for couples eloping or planning a micro celebration. Top locations include:
🌊 Anastasia State Park
Wide beaches, rolling dunes, and natural backdrops for romantic beach ceremonies. A favorite for nature lovers.
🏰 Castillo de San Marcos (Viewpoint)
Though ceremonies aren’t held inside the fort, nearby viewpoints offer a dramatic, historic setting.
🌴 River to Sea Preserve
A serene, lesser-known beach with coquina rock formations—perfect for couples wanting privacy and unique photos.
🌊 Vilano Beach
Close to downtown, with quiet stretches and easy access for elopements or small groups.
Sun and Sea handles permitting and set-up, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.
Legal Requirements for Eloping in St. Augustine
Planning a Florida elopement means following a few simple rules:
-
Marriage License: Get it from any Florida county. No blood test is required. Non-residents can marry the same day; Florida residents have a 3-day waiting period.
-
Bring ID: Valid government-issued photo ID.
-
License Validity: Good for 60 days.
-
Officiant: Provided through most Sun and Sea packages or bring your own.
They’ll walk you through the legal process and ensure your ceremony is official.
Elopement Packages That Make It Easy
Sun and Sea Beach Weddings offers several elopement packages perfect for couples looking to keep things simple yet stunning. Packages include:
-
Setup and breakdown
-
Decor (arches, florals, seating)
-
Professional officiant
-
Photography
-
Add-ons like videography, bouquet upgrades, and more
Whether you’re saying “I do” with just the two of you or inviting a small group of guests, they’ll help you choose a package that fits your vision and budget.
Planning a Micro Wedding in St. Augustine
If you’re inviting close friends and family, a micro wedding offers the intimacy of an elopement with a bit more celebration.
Key Planning Tips:
-
Guest list: Keep it under 30 people.
-
Location: Choose a beach or historic venue that allows for small groups.
-
Budgeting: You’ll spend less overall, allowing room for upgrades like custom flowers or live music.
-
Reception Ideas: Book a private dining room downtown or enjoy a relaxed beach picnic setup.
Pro Tips for a Memorable Ceremony
-
Write your own vows to make it personal.
-
Include meaningful rituals (like sand ceremonies).
-
Pick a local photographer who knows the best backdrops and lighting.
-
Don’t skip a hair/makeup artist—even small weddings deserve special touches.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping in St. Augustine
Do I need a beach permit to elope in St. Augustine?
Yes, but Sun and Sea Beach Weddings handles this for you as part of their packages.
Can I get married on short notice?
Yes! As long as you get a Florida marriage license, Sun and Sea can help plan quickly.
Are elopement ceremonies LGBTQ+ inclusive?
Absolutely. All couples are welcome and celebrated equally.
What’s the difference between elopement and micro wedding?
An elopement usually involves just the couple. A micro wedding includes a small group of guests (under 30).
Do I need a backup plan for weather?
Yes, especially during hurricane season. Sun and Sea offers guidance on rescheduling or shifting to covered spaces if needed.
Final Thoughts
Eloping in St. Augustine is more than just a wedding—it’s a heartfelt experience in one of Florida’s most captivating cities. With Sun and Sea Beach Weddings, you’ll have expert guidance, stunning setups, and a stress-free planning process from start to finish.
Ready to plan your dream elopement?
Explore elopement packages now »