The Ultimate Ireland Elopement: Top Tips & Stunning Locations

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable Ireland elopement experience? If so, you’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll share top tips for having an incredible elopement experience in Ireland and the best locations (spoiler: they’re all magical, especially the castles).

Why Elope in Ireland

As an elopement photographer, Ireland is easily one of my favorite places! Its natural beauty is unmatched, with lush green fields, craggy cliffs, sandy beaches, picturesque mountains, and rushing waterfalls. It’s also full of history and boasts incredible Irish castles.

Best of all, Ireland offers so many amazing opportunities for a memorable elopement getaway. Whether you’re looking for an intimate, romantic experience or an exciting adventure, there’s something for every couple in Ireland!

Ireland is also easy to get to. There are 5 international airports throughout the country, making most areas easily accessible. That said, most people fly into Dublin or Shannon. There are also various US cities that offer direct flights to Ireland, including New York, Boston, Chicago, LA, and Washington D.C.

When to Elope in Ireland

No matter what time of year you have your Ireland elopement, it’s sure to be stunning! However, it’s important to consider the experience you’re looking for when you plan timing.

It’s also worth mentioning that because Ireland is a popular tourist destination, it’s busy almost all year. For more privacy and easier access to the best locations, consider eloping on a weekday.

A Winter Elopement

Although winters in Ireland don’t get too cold, there’s always a chance of snow. Days are also very short during winter. A perk of a winter elopement in Ireland is that there are very few crowds, and travel expenses may be more affordable.

A Spring Elopement

Many couples love spring in Ireland the most. The days are longer, it’s just before the peak season, and flowers are blooming. It’s definitely one of the best times for an Ireland elopement!

May is the best month to elope in Ireland because the weather is warm and dry, and you get a good mix of spring and summer vibes.

A Summer Elopement

Summer usually isn’t the best time to elope in Ireland because it’s very crowded due to peak season, and there’s a higher chance of rain. With that said, it’s warm, and the days are the longest during summer, which many couples love!

A Fall Elopement

Fall is a great time for an elopement in Ireland! It’s right after peak season, and the crowds are slowing down. The weather and colors are also beautiful during fall.

You might also be interested in reading: The Ultimate Elopement Checklist (Everything You Need to Know)

How to Elope in Ireland

If you want to legally get married in Ireland and aren’t a citizen, there are some steps you’ll need to take. That said, you can skip the legal stuff, get married in the courthouse at home, then head to Ireland for your elopement adventure.

To legally marry in Ireland, both parties must be 18 years or older and not legally married to anyone else.

You must also notify the Registrar of your intent to marry at least 3 months before the wedding day. If either party has been married before, you must show a divorce decree. Widows must have the original and photocopy of their civil marriage certificate and the death certificate of their late spouse.

You’ll need to arrive in Ireland at least a few days before your elopement to present your documents:

• Passport
•  Original birth certificate
•  Letter of freedom

All legal marriages in Ireland also require a solemnizer to marry you, and 2 witnesses and your ceremony must be held in a location open to the public.

Again, to skip all this, you can do the legal stuff at home before or after your elopement.

The Best Ireland Elopement Locations

There is no shortage of incredible elopement locations in Ireland. From towering sea cliffs and a beautiful sandy beach to magical Irish castles and an adventurous mountain pass, there’s a perfect place for every couple!

• Kinbane Castle (Co Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• Killarney National Park (Co Kerry, Ireland)
• The Mourne Mountains (Co Down, Northern Ireland)
• The Dingle Peninsula (Co Kerry, Ireland)
• Whitepark Bay Beach (Co Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• Dunseverick Castle (Co Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• Ballintoy Harbour (Ci Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• Hamiltons Seat (Co Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• Newtown Castle (Co Clare, Ireland)
• The Cliffs of Moher (Co Clare, Ireland)
• The Conor Pass (Co Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• The Blasket Centre (Co Kerry, Ireland)
• The Dark Hedges (Co Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• Dunluce Castle (Co Antrim, Northern Ireland)
• Lost Cottage Homestay (Co Kerry, Ireland)

Interested in another location? Contact Among the Pines Photography, and let’s chat!

Kinbane Castle

Co Ko Antrim, Ireland

Kinbane Castle is one of many breathtaking castles in Ireland and easily one of the most stunning. If you’re up for an adventure, you can your love will take over 100 steps down to the castle, and it’s well worth the journey.

On your walk, you’ll enjoy sights and sounds of nature, with excellent places to stop for photos. Once you arrive at the castle, you’ll be blown away by the headland views and incredible ruins.

Killarney National Park

Co Kerry, Ireland

Not only is Killarney National Park Ireland’s first-ever national park, but it’s also one of the most gorgeous places in Ireland to tie the knot. The park spreads over 26,000 acres and boasts peaks, waterfalls, and lakes. There are countless captivating spots to say “I do,” explore, and take photos. You might even come across Red Deer during your elopement at Killarney National Park.

The Mourne Mountains

Co Down, Northern Ireland

If you love the mountains, The Mourne Mountains are the best Ireland elopement destination for you. The Mourne Mountains are one of the most breathtaking areas of Ireland and feature the highest mountains in Northern Ireland.

Hike to a spot off the beaten path for your ceremony, or take a short walk to one of many gorgeous locations in the mountains. The opportunities are endless here!

The Dingle Peninsula

Co Kerry, Ireland

If you’re dreaming of an elopement by the ocean, The Dingle Peninsula might be the perfect spot for you. Located on Ireland’s southwest Atlantic coast, The Dingle Peninsula is a popular tourist attraction that’s surrounded by sandy beaches and rugged cliffs.

The town of Dingle is also a cool spot to hang out after your elopement. Dingle is most known for its excellent food and drink scene and outdoor activities.

Whitepark Bay Beach

Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

Another beach elopement destination in Ireland is Whitepark Bay. This jaw-dropping stretch of golden sand is the perfect place to start the next chapter with your love. There’s even a farm nearby, so you might see cows on your big day!

Whitepark Bay is conveniently located close to other attractions, like Giant’s Causeway and Dunseverick Castle. This makes it easy to explore various spots in a day or take it slower with a multi-day adventure elopement.

Dunseverick Castle

Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

Unlike many other popular Ireland elopement locations, Dunseverick Castle is a historic landmark that offers a quiet, serene atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples who want a peaceful, intimate elopement experience surrounded by natural beauty. Dunseverick Castle showcases ancient ruins, gorgeous green fields, and giant cliffs that block the wind.

Ballintoy Harbour

Ci Antrim, Northern Ireland

Ballintoy Harbour is a picturesque village where Game of Thrones was filmed. It’s also an amazing place to celebrate your special day!

There’s so much to explore in Ballintoy Harbour, including hidden beaches, seaside caves, and a coastal walk surrounded by stunning scenery. If you want to get adventurous, you can also do water activities like paddling or kayaking.

Hamiltons Seat

Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

If you’re looking for an adventurous ceremony location, look no further than Hamilton’s Seat! To get to Hamilton’s Seat, you and your love will take about an hour half along the Giant’s Causeway cliff path. The journey is well worth it to some of the most magical coastal and cliff views in Ireland.

Fun fact: The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Newtown Castle

Co Clare, Ireland

One of the most easily accessible ceremony locations in Newtown Castle. And unlike many other Irish castles, you can have your elopement ceremony inside Newtown Castle, which holds up to 20 people.

The architecture is gorgeous and unique, making for an incredible backdrop. You can also climb to the castle’s highest point, where you can see an amazing bedrock landscape.

The Cliffs of Moher

Co Antrim, Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher are an iconic Ireland elopement destination and for great reason! These magical sea cliffs are situated more than 700 feet above the ocean, and you can say your vows right on the edge of one.

You can hike to the cliffs if you’re up for an adventure elopement experience or drive up to Hag’s Head. Although this area is usually windy and it can get chilly, the scenery is always absolutely perfect.

Tip: Plan your Cliffs of Moher elopement on a weekday morning for little to no crowds. Otherwise, it can be very busy.

The Conor Pass

Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

The Conor Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland and offers unmatched views. This winding road is perfect for adventurous couples, with various unique places to stop, explore, say your vows, and take photos.

There are also accommodations and things to do near The Conor Pass, so this is an excellent area to stay.

The Blasket Centre

Co Kerry, Ireland

If you’re looking for a private, unique Ireland elopement experience, consider The Blasket Centre. This special heritage museum represents the Blasket Islands and the small Irish-speaking community who lived there many years ago.

Couples can elope here on their own or have an intimate wedding ceremony. You must rent the space, which makes this ideal for a private elopement.

The Dark Hedges

Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

You may have seen The Dark Hedges in Game of Thrones as the Kingsroad. This is the ideal elopement destination for Game of Thrones fans and anyone who’s looking for a unique ceremony experience!

This tunnel-like road lined with intertwined beech trees has been around since the 18th century and is one of the most photographed places in the world. It offers a backdrop unlike any other, and it’s conveniently located close to Giants Causeway, where you can explore and enjoy local activities with your love.

Dunluce Castle

Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in a fairytale-like setting, look no further than Dunluce Castle. This incredible medieval castle was originally built in the 13th century, with the ruins now being from the 16th and 17th centuries.

The Dunluce Castle is easily one of the most charming and picture-perfect Irish castles, and the photo ops are endless! 

Note: The area to access the castle is owned by a local farmer who’s happy to give couples permission to elope here.

Lost Cottage Homestay

Co Kerry, Ireland

If you’re looking to spend the night at your elopement location, Lost Cottage is the place for you! This remote homestay is situated between emerald-green farmland and large mountains, offering scenic views for miles.

The Lost Cottage Homestay offers a unique elopement adventure surrounded by 85 acres of nature. Have your ceremony next to colorful lakes, with chandeliers hanging from trees, and enjoy the starry sky at night. It’s truly magical! Couples can spend the night or longer and enjoy a tranquil, romantic experience unlike any other.

Other Things to Know About Eloping in Ireland

Here are a few other things to know about going to Ireland to help you plan.

• Getting around: Once you’re in Ireland, renting a car to get to and from is best.
• Prepare for rain: Many places in Ireland get rain often. That said, rain showers usually don’t last too long.
• Daylight: Days can be very short or long in Ireland. During summer, sunset can be as late as 11 PM. During winter, it can be as early as 4 PM.
• What to wear: With a breeze, cold front, and unexpected showers, it’s best to wear layers. Have a jacket with you (that, of course, you can lose for photos!) and bring comfortable shoes for adventures.

Ireland Elopement FAQ

Below, I’ll answer a few common questions about eloping in Ireland.

How much is an Ireland elopement?

Eloping in Ireland usually costs between $5,000 and $15,000. That said, the cost varies on the time of year, vendors, and accommodation.

Can US citizens elope in Ireland?

US citizens can elope in Ireland, but you need to start the process a few months before your wedding.

Since a legal ceremony in Ireland requires several steps and documentation, you can do the legal stuff in your home state for a lower-stress experience. That said, if you prefer an official marriage in Ireland, a wedding photographer who helps with planning (like me!) can help you sort out the details.

What’s the quickest way to get married in Ireland?

To elope quickly in Ireland, start planning your getaway, head to Ireland for your ceremony, then do the legal aspect when you return home.

Ireland Elopement Packages

If you’re ready to make your elopement visions come to life, I’m here to help!

Among the Pines Photography (aka me!) is an adventure elopement photographer that works with adventurous dreamers. Not only do I take photos of all the special moments during your elopement, but I also help make all your elopement dreams a reality. I can even officiate your wedding!