Are you planning an elopement and looking for a unique, romantic, and awe-inspiring location? Just imagine getting married by a waterfall! The sound of the rushing water, the mist in the air, and the stunning natural backdrop all make for an unforgettable experience. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best waterfall elopement locations around the world, from the rugged shores of Iceland to the lush jungles of Bali. We’ll also provide some tips to help you plan your perfect ceremony, from finding the right photographer to ensuring you have the perfect attire for your stunning outdoor wedding. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind wedding experience, a waterfall elopement will surely create memories that will last a lifetime. So, sit back, relax, and let’s explore some of the most breathtaking and romantic waterfall elopement locations around the world together!

Top locations for a waterfall elopement

1. New England
2. Iceland
3. Bali
4. Pacific Northwest
5. Hawaii

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1. North East, United States

If you’re looking for a waterfall elopement location in the US; look no further than New England. I promise I’m not totally biased just because I’m from here, we have some stunning locations to elope at! Particularly in the White Mountains of New Hampshire! These mountains offer a range of stunning waterfalls, from popular views points to off-the-beaten-path trails I’ve discovered over the years! I have a list of locations to choose from exclusive to my clients, with tons of options. Whether you want a multi-day Adventure Elopement in the Summer or an Airbnb Elopement in the Winter I’ve got you covered! As your New England elopement photographer, I can help guide you through the process and logistics of planning your dream elopement!

Popular North East Waterfalls for your New England Waterfall Elopement:

New Hampshire Waterfall Elopement Locations:

• Glen Ellis Waterfall
• Arethusa Waterfall
• Flume Gorge

Vermont Waterfall Elopement Locations:

• Moss Glen Falls
• Bingham Falls
• Texas Falls

Upstate New York Waterfall Elopement Locations:

• Kaaterskill Falls
• Taughannock Falls
• Buttermilk Falls

2. Iceland

Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty, and its waterfalls are no exception. One of the most popular waterfall elopement locations in Iceland is the stunning Skógafoss waterfall. This waterfall is around 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide, and the mist it creates provides a magical atmosphere. It’s not uncommon to see a huge rainbow at the falls too, making for the most romantic photos! Another popular option is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which you can actually walk behind for a unique and unforgettable experience! Those are just the two most popular waterfalls along the Ring Road. But there are TONS more that are less visited yet still amazing! Iceland would be an amazing place to plan an adventure elopement, in any season!

3. Bali

Bali is a tropical paradise and a stunning location for a waterfall elopement. One of the most popular options is the Tegenungan waterfall, which is located in the Ubud area. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony. There are also plenty of other waterfalls throughout Bali, including the Gitgit waterfall, which is located in the northern part of the island. Bali is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for couples seeking a unique and unforgettable elopement experience. It’s also an incredibly affordable place to travel, so you could easily extend your elopement into a honeymoon adventure too!

4. Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the USA, making it a perfect location for a waterfall elopement. Some of the most popular waterfall elopement locations in the PNW are easy to access! And then there are also plenty of options for extended hikes and adventures! The area is also known for its lush greenery and vibrant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. With its stunning natural beauty and moody atmosphere, the Pacific Northwest is sure to provide unforgettable memories for you and your partner on your special day. Of course, the most popular locations for your PNW waterfall elopement is Washington, Oregon and Alaska.

Popular PNW Waterfalls for your Pacific Northwest Waterfall Elopement:

Washington Waterfall Elopement Locations:

• Sol Duc Falls
• Franklin Falls
• Marymere Falls
• Narada Falls

Oregon Waterfall Elopement Locations:

• Fall Creek Falls
• Gorton Creek Falls
• Punch Bowl Falls
• Bridal Veil Falls

Alaska Waterfall Elopement Locations:

• Winner Creek Falls
• Virgin Creek Falls
• Mchugh Creek

5. Hawaii

I couldn’t write a guide on the best waterfall wedding locations and NOT include Hawaii! Visitors from around the WORLD love visiting the island state and for good reason. Hawaii is known for its stunning natural beauty, and its waterfalls are no exception. Hawaii is also known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches, making it a perfect destination for couples seeking a unique and unforgettable elopement experience. Just imagine When planning your waterfall elopement in Hawaii, it’s really important to take into consideration permit requirements. Because most beaches and nature walk areas are protected because they are on sacred territory.

Hawaii Waterfall Elopement Locations:

• Hanakapi’ai Falls, Kauai
• Twin Falls, Maui
• Wailua Falls, Kauai

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How to Plan a Waterfall Elopement

If you’re planning a waterfall elopement, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your special day goes smoothly. While elopement days are vastly different from traditional weddings, there still will be some things to plan and prepare for well in advance. Here are some tips to help you plan your dream waterfall elopement:

Consider the time of year and weather conditions when choosing your location

It is important to consider the time of year and weather conditions when choosing your waterfall elopement location. Some waterfalls may dry up during certain seasons or be inaccessible due to snow or ice. Additionally, weather conditions can greatly impact the experience of your elopement. Spring in a lot of areas is the best time to visit a waterfall, as the recent snow melt and warmer temperatures make the waters magnificent! However, with every season there is always a chance of unforeseen weather difficulties, especially when we’re planning on being outside most of the day!

Hire a photographer with experience shooting in outdoor and natural environments

When planning a waterfall elopement, it’s important to hire a photographer with experience shooting in outdoor and natural environments. Waterfall locations can be unique and challenging to capture. It’s important to find a photographer who can work with the natural lighting and environmental factors (like water splashing on the lens!). Look for a photographer who has experience shooting in similar environments. AND who can provide examples of their work in these settings. They should also be able to provide guidance on posing and other aspects of the shoot to make sure you get the most out of your waterfall elopement. With the right photographer, you can ensure that your memories of your special day are captured beautifully and will last a lifetime.

Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the location

It’s important to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for your waterfall elopement, taking into account any hiking or climbing involved. Waterfall locations can often involve rugged terrain, steep inclines, and wet or slippery surfaces. You’ll want to make sure you’re wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction to avoid slipping or losing your footing. Consider wearing clothing that is comfortable and breathable, as you may be walking or hiking to get to the location! Depending on the climate/weather conditions, you may also want to wear clothing that is waterproof/water-resistant to help keep ya dry. Finally, consider bringing layers in case the temperature changes throughout the day. OR you want to change out of those wet clothes into something dry for the hike back!

Obtain any necessary permits or permissions for the location ahead of time

As with any elopement planned for the great outdoors, it’s crucial to get any necessary permits or permissions for the location. And do so well in advance! Some waterfalls may be located on private land or within national parks, OR sacred territory. Which may require permits or have specific rules and regulations that you’ll need to follow. It’s important to research the location you’re interested in and find out what permits or permissions you need to obtain. Failure to obtain the necessary permissions can result in fines or legal issues, which can put a damper on your special day. By taking the time to research and obtain the necessary permits you can ensure that your waterfall elopement goes smoothly and that you’re able to fully enjoy the experience without any unexpected surprises!

Have a backup plan and location

It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Rain or other extreme weather conditions can greatly impact the experience of your waterfall elopement, so it’s important to be prepared. That could mean a road or trail closure due to heavy rains or flash flood warnings! Consider having an alternative location in case your first choice is inaccessible or undesirable due to weather conditions. By having a backup plan you can ensure that your special day goes smoothly, no matter what unexpected surprises may arise! Either way, with the right attitude we can make your elopement adventure still so fun and memorable!