Southern Maine delivers no shortage of spectacular backdrops for intimate “I dos” against rocky oceanside cliffs, sandy beaches, coastal trails blanketed in evergreens, and quintessential New England harbors marked by historic lighthouses.
Here are some of my favorite elopement locations for adventurous couples in Southern Maine:
Local Trails
Marginal Way Trail (Ogunquit) - Wander hand-in-hand along this picturesque mile-long footpath overlooking the crashing Atlantic waves and Robinhood Cove.
Mackworth Island Trail (Falmouth) - Walk tree-lined trails encircling this idyllic island just minutes from Portland boasting serene Casco Bay views and an iconic lighthouse straight from a postcard.
Perkins Cove (Ogunquit) This picturesque seaside artists' colony offers inimitable seafaring vibes between charming galleries and the ocean. Recite vows across the iconic footbridge as waves crash around you and colorful fishing boats bob in the harbor.
Shore Road Pathway (York Harbor) Across from Cape Neddick’s York Harbor Inn lies serene Shore Road pathway where couples can stroll hand-in-hand absorbing uninterrupted views spanning miles of glistening coastline. It becomes utterly magical at golden hour when vibrant painted skies erupt over the sea.
Venues
Clambake Restaurant (Scarborough) - From colorful gardens to rustic boat house vibes with Casco Bay vistas, this waterfront restaurant makes a charming ceremony and reception locale before retreating to their cozy B&B cottages.
Portland Yacht Club - Sweeping views across the vibrant Portland harbor set the scene for nautical-themed soirees big or small at this exclusive private club venue perfect for maritime-loving couples.
Private Dining
Five Fifty-Five - Book out Portland’s premiere Four Diamond/AAA restaurant located atop one of the city's most iconic historical buildings - the spire of the Cathedral Church of St. Luke - for an utterly indulgent dining experience complete with stunning city skyline views.
Inn by the Sea - Indulge in an exclusive chef table/kitchen tour dinner for two behind the scenes of this luxury beachfront resort’s fabulous restaurant showcasing fresh local ingredients from land and sea flawlessly executed into an customized multi-course menu.
Hidden Pond (Kennebunkport) Nearby Kennebunkport’s Hidden Pond cottage resort ensures utterly private forest seclusion yet the convenience of being minutes from area yacht clubs and restaurants for celebrating newlywed status in style.
Unique Ideas
Portland Head Light - Tie the knot seaside next to this iconic and oft-photographed lighthouse perched dramatically above the rocky coastline and crashing waves of the Atlantic below for quintessentially Maine nautical vibes. Then head to the cobblestone streets of the vibrant old port for more fun!
A chartered wedding sail out of any of our stunning harbors gives you a truly magical experience seeing Maine from the beautiful coastline.
Maine Foodie Limousine Co - For local harbor or lighthouse tours, book their super swanky limo services onboard beautifully restored antique fire trucks offering comfortable, climate-controlled, covered touring for groups as small as just the two newlyweds while stopping for photo ops against the region’s best backdrops!
Let your elopement dreams unfold amidst saltwater breezes, lobster boats bobbing on glinting waters, and 650 miles of craggy shore dotted with historic beacons guiding you to a bright forever-love future crafted just for two!