Ultimate Maine Elopement Guide for 2022
When it comes to epic elopement locations on the east coast, Maine is one of the first places that come to mind. Known for its rocky coastline, plethora of moose, and delicious seafood, Maine is a great place for anyone looking to elope. Plus, the state offers a variety of different activities and is much more intimate than a busy location out west. This is the ultimate Maine elopement guide, covering everything you need to know about how to elope in Maine.
6 Best Places to Elope in Maine
Maine is home to one national park, 32 state parks, and miles of rocky coastlines. This underrated elopement destination has some of the best places to elope in the United States.
Acadia National Park
Maine’s only national park and top-tourist destination is Acadia National Park. The park is located just 3 hours from the Portland International Airport and has numerous different sites to explore such as the cliffsides, forests, or lighthouses. Visit during the off-season and you’ll be incredibly surprised at just how few people you’ll encounter on your elopement day.
Camden
Camden is a quiet, quaint seaside town near Belfast. Known for its charming and historic architecture, Camden is perfect for the couple looking for a slow and relaxed experience. This place is definitely worth checking out in the fall months, as there are some stellar hidden gems locations in this area.
Portland
While Portland, Oregon is probably the first place that comes to mind, Portland, Maine is another similar destination to check out for your elopement. Littered with colorful buildings, hip coffee shops, and waterfront views, Portland is one of the best places to elope in Maine.
Popham Beach State Park
Popham Beach State Park is one of Maine’s sandiest beaches. This beautiful beach is home to miles of beautiful scenery. However, this also happens to be Maine’s busiest beach and state park, so plan your ceremony during sunrise or sunset to avoid all the crowds.
Pleasant Mountain
If you’re a fan of hiking, Pleasant Mountain is the perfect place for your ceremony. This 3.3 roundtrip hike will take you to one of Maine’s most stunning views. With 360 degree views of trees and lakes, you won’t help but to be amazed. Like most hikes in Maine, this one is especially beautiful during the fall.
Moxie Falls
Moxie Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the state. Dropping 90 feet, this roaring waterfall makes an epic backdrop for a ceremony. Though it’s one of the most jaw-dropping falls in the state, it doesn’t seem to get too crowded due to its remote location.
How to Get a Marriage License in Maine
If you or your partner are residents of Maine, you must apply for your marriage license at the town hall where you reside. However, you don’t need to get married in the same town you applied for your marriage license.
If you’re eloping from out of state, you can visit any town office in Maine to apply for your marriage license.
Like most applications, be sure to bring your photo ID and some cash.
The marriage license in Maine has no waiting period and is good for up to 90 days. To see more information and step-by-step instructions on how to obtain a marriage license, be sure to check out this helpful article from the state.
Do I Need an Officiant and Witness for My Elopement in Maine?
Yes, you will need an officiant and two witnesses. While most states allow a friend or family member to officiate, Maine is a bit different and requires that the officiant register with the state.
To avoid this hassle, I highly recommend hiring someone who lives in Maine and is qualified to officiate your ceremony.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Maine
Like most states, visiting during Maine’s off-season will grant you not only less crowds, but cheaper prices as well!
If you’re looking for pleasant weather, especially along the coast, consider eloping in Maine anytime between July and August. However, keep in mind that this is when Maine is the busiest. To avoid the crowds, plan your ceremony before and after the peak times of day.
The fall is the best time of year to elope in Maine for a multitude of reasons. First, the weather is pleasant and isn’t too chilly yet. Second, the fall colors. Must I say more? Maine is notorious for its vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows during the fall season. Lastly, it’s less busy. While tons of people travel to the east coast during the fall season, many stick to places like Vermont, leaving Maine a hidden paradise.
Lastly, if you love the snow, Maine is the perfect place for you in the winter months. However, this can also be a logistical nightmare as roads may close and many locations become inaccessible. However, if you want a snowy elopement, December to February is the perfect time.
Best Places to Stay in Maine
Maine is a charming state known for its old architecture and slow-paced lifestyle. Below are some of the best Airbnbs you can find within Maine’s most popular towns for your elopement.
Portland
Bangor
Bar Harbor
Elopement Activities in Maine
The best part of an elopement is incorporating activities the two of you love doing together. Below are some of the things you can incorporate into your elopement day while you visit Maine.
Try some seafood at one of Maine’s many restaurants
Walk downtown Portland and explore the coffee and books shops
See one of Maine’s many lighthouses
Take a whale watching cruise
Horror fan? Check out Stephen King’s home in Bangor
Smell the flowers at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Hike Maine’s highest peak
Check out the U.S./Canada border up north
Maine Elopement Packages
Now that you’re set to elope in Maine, let us help you create the most seamless elopement experience possible. We’re a husband and wife team who helps plan and capture elopements in beautiful places like Maine.
East coast elopement packages start at $3100. Contact us or check out our pricingom/westvirginiaelopementpackages to begin planning your dream elopement.