What are the best places to elope in Canada?

Canada has some incredible scenery, and I’m super excited to share it with you. We are going on adventure through Canada’s East and West Coasts, as those are the absolute most stunning places in the whole country. We are going to start with the East, and move on to the West! Go-go-gadget best places to elope in Canada!

IN THIS POST

CANADA’S EAST COAST

When you picture the perfect place to elope, what comes to mind? Picture this: a rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, sweeping views of rolling mountainous cliffsides, charming villages full of history, and beaches so serene, you’ll forget the world exists. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that dream can become a reality in Nova Scotia, one of the most romantic and picturesque provinces in Canada and just one of the best places to elope in Canada hands-down!

And the best part about eloping here in Canada? Much of it is SO SECLUDED so say goodbye to crowds and soak it all in with just the two of you!

PS: BONUS it’s cheaper on the East Coast, too

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Related Reading:

Cape Breton Highlands: The closest you get to Scotland in North America
Why American Couples are Eloping in Nova Scotia

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Here are the best places to elope in Canada: The Hidden gems of the East Coast

Best Places to Elope in Canada Take 1: Cape Breton Highlands

Nova Scotia is a land of contrasts, from its rugged coastlines to its rolling hills, dense forests, and sweeping farmland. You can literally say “I do” with the stunning backdrop of the ocean crashing against jagged rocks, or in the heart of a lush green vineyard, talk about setting the mood! Whether you’re looking for the ocean breeze of the Cabot Trail, the rugged cliffs of Cape Breton Highlands, there’s a view that will match your love story perfectly. And don’t forget about the numerous waterfalls!

Not to mention, Nova Scotia is legit latin for NEW SCOTLAND. The Scottish Highland vibes are definitely on point here.

The Skyline Trail, Cape Breton Highlands

Absolutely jaw-dropping views, with rolling mountains, winding roads, and unbelievable sunsets. Located on the Cabot Trail, this hike is probably the most popular in the area. It’s so popular that you may need to reserve your spot to hike – though it’s still completely free to elope here. The hike itself takes about an hour and a half there and back, and it’s pretty even ground. #worthit

Privacy Score: 3/10 (usually busy to somewhat busy)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy 6.5km (4 miles)
Permit Requirements: Parking must be reserved in advance

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Gypsum Quarry Mines, Cheticamp

Bet you didn’t know Nova Scotia had gorgeous turquoise waters! Everywhere in Cape Breton is so secluded, on a weekday you might meet a local or 2 and that’s it. The hike to get to this stunning pool is short. It’s only about 15 minutes on a dirt ATV trail. This makes it very accessible.

Privacy Score: 7/10 (handful of people to somewhat busy)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy 2.6km (1 mile)
Permit Requirements: None

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White Point, Cape Breton Island

Easily one of the most gorgeous Scotland-like and best places to elope in Canada. Located in the North East of Cape Breton Island, this stunning peninsula is just a 20 min walk on an easy trail. Secluded and lesser known, you may just be the only people there! You can see dolphins frolicking off the coast, and when the fog rolls in it’s the most ethereal and magical place, like you’re in a straight up fairytale. It has Scottish vibes written all over it.

Privacy Score: 9/10 (very few people)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy 2.2km (1.4 miles)
Permit Requirements: None

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Meat Cove, North Cape Breton

Located at the Northern Tip of Cape Breton Island, this beauty of a look off is just a 20 minute hike through the forest. You likely won’t find many other people here, even at peak summer season! There is a stunning beach that’s visible below you can also explore, making it an amazing spot for an elopement day, where you can combine it with a boat tour, whale watching, or even a romantic sunset swim.

Privacy Score: 7/10 (The overlook is more secluded than the beach)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy- Moderate 1.25km (.8 miles)
Permit Requirements: None

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Chimney Corner, West Cape Breton

Beaches on the East Coast of Canada are seriously underrated. Chimney Corner is one of my favorites, but there is also Hirtles Beach, Conrads, Rissers, and more! There are stunning white sand beaches in Nova Scotia, and cliffs for miles for some seriously jaw-dropping views.

Privacy Score: 8/10 (few people coming and going)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy , no hike involved
Permit Requirements: None

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Louisbourg

Louisbourg is a beautiful choice for couples who want a little history mixed in with their coastal adventure. You’ll find rugged ocean cliffs, rocky shorelines, quiet beaches, and the charming historic atmosphere of the Fortress of Louisbourg nearby. Spend the day exploring the coastline, wander through the historic town, or find a quiet spot overlooking the Atlantic for your vows. It has that classic Cape Breton feeling of wild ocean, big skies, and plenty of room to breathe. Perfect for couples who want their elopement to feel relaxed, coastal, and a little bit off the beaten path.

Privacy Score: 7/10 (some people coming and going in peak season)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy (0 hike to a few kms along coast)
Permit Requirements: None

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If you want to know what it’s really like to elope in Cape Breton (weather, cost, regions, & planning tips) explore:

Cape Breton Highlands Elopement Guide

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Best Spots to Elope in Canada Take 2: Atlantic Canada

The east coast of Canada is known for it’s gorgeous and super accessible abundance of waterfalls. You don’t have to hike very far to get incredible views. It’s also home to some insane rock formations, and the highest tides in the whole wide world. You can sea kayak through massive rock formations, sea caves, helicopter adventures to islands, and get up close to some stunning wildlife!

Wildlife Excursions in Atlantic Canada include Whale Watching (dolphins, belugas, humpbacks, sometimes orcas, and more!) and Puffin islands & other birds (yep! not just in Iceland people). Puffins breed here in June through August, which makes for some pretty adorable baby puffin sightings!

Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

The Annapolis Valley is a little bit of everything, which makes it such a FUN spot for an elopement. You can start the day wandering through exquisite vineyards, chase waterfalls through the forest, and end up along the Bay of Fundy watching some of the highest tides in the world roll in. Add in dramatic sea stacks, rolling farmland, and tiny coastal communities, and you’ve got a pretty incredible mix of landscapes without having to travel far. It’s perfect for couples who want a little wine, a little adventure, and a whole lot of Nova Scotia.

Privacy Score: 7/10 (somewhat busy depending on the area, but can be very secluded)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit Requirements: None

Explore more Elopement Locations for The Bay of Fundy & Annapolis area:

The Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley Elopement Location Guide

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Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia (and all the other Lighthouses!)

There’s no place like Nova Scotia when it comes to iconic lighthouses. If you’ve ever dreamed of exchanging vows with the waves crashing behind you and a lighthouse standing proudly in the background, Nova Scotia is the ultimate destination. Famous lighthouses like Peggy’s Cove, Cape Forchu, and Cape d’Or set the scene for an unforgettable ceremony. Plus, many are off-the-beaten-path enough to avoid too many tourists, so your ceremony will feel like your own private slice of heaven.

ps: Nova Scotia alone has 187 lighthouses, the oldest was built in 1758 and it still operates (located on Sambro Island, accessible by Helicopter Adventure with Visionair Services). They even do an elopement excursion + picnic for couples!

Privacy Score: 1/10 for Peggys Cove as it is very busy, 8/10 for other lighthouses like Cape d’Or or Cape Forchu
Hiking Difficulty: Easy
Permit Requirements: None

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South Shore Nova Scotia

The South Shore is classic Nova Scotia in all the best ways. Think colourful fishing villages, rocky coastlines, quiet beaches, hidden coves, and that unmistakable salty ocean air. You can wander through Lunenburg, explore the shoreline around Blue Rocks, hike to secluded beaches, or chase dramatic coastal views along the way. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, explore a little, and stumble across something beautiful around every corner. Perfect for couples who want their elopement to feel coastal, relaxed, and a little bit wild.

Privacy Score: 8/10 (depends on the area, but can be very secluded)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit Requirements: None

Liking the look of Nova Scotia? See more of the best places elope there with this guide: Where to Elope in Nova Scotia Complete Guide by Region

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Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island is made for couples who love a little secluded coastal charm. Some of the best places to elope in Canada are those tiny places no one thinks about. Picture red cliffs, red sand beaches, rolling farmland, quiet fishing villages, and winding roads that make getting a little lost part of the fun. You can exchange vows overlooking the ocean, wander along a secluded beach, explore the countryside, or finish the day with a cozy dinner and some seriously good seafood. It’s relaxed, colourful, and full of those classic East Coast views. Perfect for couples who want a laid back elopement with plenty of ocean and island charm.

ps: PEI also boasts 63 lighthouses, 35 of which are still used for navigation!

Privacy Score: 7/10 (somewhat busy depending on the area, but can be very secluded)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit Requirements: None

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Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

Hopewell Rocks is one of those places that makes you do a double take. Located along New Brunswick’s Bay of Fundy, these massive sea stacks are affectionately known as the “Flower Pot Rocks” because of their unique shapes and tree covered tops. At low tide, you can wander right along the ocean floor between these incredible formations, then watch the world transform as the famous Bay of Fundy tides roll back in. It’s a pretty unforgettable backdrop for an elopement, especially for couples who love dramatic landscapes, coastal adventures, and a little something different.

Privacy Score: 6/10 (somewhat busy depending on time of day, but can be very secluded)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy but must go during Low Tide
Permit Requirements: None

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See the real weather, light, and pacing of a Nova Scotia elopement day:

What it’s Like to Elope in Nova Scotia: Weather, Light, and the Real Experience
How to Elope in Nova Scotia

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CANADA’S WEST COAST

And now we are onto the West Coast! Imagine standing hand-in-hand on a windswept beach as waves crash against a rugged Pacific shoreline, surrounded by ancient rainforests and misty mountain peaks rising in the distance.

Picture dramatic sea stacks, breathtaking sunsets, and charming coastal towns where adventure and romance go hand in hand.

From the wild beauty of Banff to the remote magic of Haida Gwaii and the mountain-meets-ocean landscapes of British Columbia’s coast, the West Coast offers some of the most awe-inspiring elopement destinations in the world. If you’re dreaming of an epic celebration immersed in nature, it’s hard to imagine a more unforgettable place to say “I do.”

The Best Places to Elope in Canada take 3: Canada’s West Coast

Tofino, Vancouver Island

Tofino offers a few incredible ways to experience its wild Pacific beauty on your elopement day. You can exchange vows right on one of its iconic beaches, wander through ancient rainforest trails, or even take to the water for a private boat or kayak adventure along the coastline. The beaches are easily accessible and absolutely stunning, with driftwood, sea stacks, and endless ocean views. But if you’re looking for something a little more secluded and adventurous, getting out on the water can give you a unique perspective of Tofino’s rugged coastline while adding an unforgettable experience to your day. No matter which option you choose, the scenery is nothing short of magical. Absolutely a surfer’s paradise!

Privacy Score: 5/10 (somewhat busy depending on the area)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit Requirements: None for any beaches in the Tofino region

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Ucluelet

Since Ucluelet sits right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, there are plenty of beautiful spots to elope, from rugged cliffside lookouts to secluded beaches along the coastline. The famous Wild Pacific Trail offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views on Vancouver Island, with dramatic waves, windswept forests, and fewer crowds than nearby Tofino. It’s the perfect choice for couples looking for a quiet, intimate elopement surrounded by wild coastal beauty.

Privacy Score: 5/10 (can be busy)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit Requirements: Yes, you must apply with the District of Ucluelet for $50 + GST

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Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Winding along Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, the park is home to endless sandy beaches, ancient old-growth forests, and breathtaking ocean views around every corner. Whether you choose to exchange vows on the shoreline or beneath towering cedar trees, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most spectacular natural scenery in Canada.

Privacy Score: 7/10 (somewhat busy depending on the area, but can be very secluded)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit Requirements: Yes, apply 4-6 weeks in advance at least with Parks Canada

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Haida Gwaii

For couples looking for a truly remote and unforgettable elopement, Haida Gwaii offers wild beaches, ancient rainforests, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find anywhere else. Getting here takes a little extra planning, but the reward is an intimate experience surrounded by some of the most untouched and breathtaking scenery on Canada’s West Coast.

Privacy Score: 8/10 (never gets crowded but does have people in popular areas)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit Requirements: Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve requires a mandatory permit for travel, and other parts of Haida Gwaii may require a permit, too. You will need to check with the local village government for your chosen location.

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Sea to Sky Corridor

Stretching from Vancouver to Whistler, this scenic route is filled with dramatic mountain peaks, waterfalls, coastal views, and endless adventure. Whether you choose a clifftop lookout, a forest trail, or a waterfall backdrop, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most iconic landscapes in British Columbia.

Privacy Score: 1/10 (can be very busy)
Hiking Difficulty: Moderate – Advanced
Permit Requirements: Yes, most places along this route require a permit to be obtained from the Provincial Gov of British Columbia unless you have booked a private elopement venue.

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Banff

Banff offers plenty of stunning ways to experience the Canadian Rockies on your elopement day. It’s one of the most popular places in the world to elope for a reason! You can exchange vows beside an iconic turquoise lake, wander through alpine trails, explore mountain viewpoints, or take a scenic gondola ride for those big Rocky Mountain views. The scenery is absolutely incredible, with towering peaks, glacial lakes, and endless opportunities for adventure. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, exploring lesser known trails and viewpoints can give you a more intimate experience away from the busiest spots. No matter how you choose to experience Banff, the scenery is pretty hard to beat. Definitely one for the mountain lovers!

Privacy Score: 1/10 (gets very crowded)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy – Moderate – Advanced
Permit Requirements: Yes, for up to 20 guests and this cab be booked up to 18 months in advance

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Canmore

Canmore is a pretty dreamy spot for couples who want those big Rocky Mountain views without quite as much of the Banff buzz. Tucked between towering peaks, you’ll find turquoise rivers, alpine trails, wildflower meadows, and plenty of beautiful places to slow down and take it all in. You can exchange vows with the mountains towering behind you, explore a quiet trail together, or spend the day wandering around town before heading into the wilderness. It’s adventurous, relaxed, and ridiculously scenic, making Canmore a great choice for couples who want a mountain elopement that feels a little more laid back.

Privacy Score: 4/10 (Does get crowded but not nearly to the extent of Banff)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy – Moderate – Hard
Permit Requirements: None, unless you choose a provincial park in the area

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Kananaskis Country

Kananaskis Country is a dream for couples who want those big Alberta mountain views without quite as much of the hustle and bustle of Banff. Think towering peaks, turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, waterfalls, and winding mountain roads with plenty of room to explore. You can hike to a quiet viewpoint, exchange vows beside an alpine lake, or spend the day chasing whatever view catches your eye. It’s rugged, beautiful, and a little more off the beaten path, making it perfect for couples who want a Rocky Mountain adventure with a bit more privacy.

Privacy Score: 6/10 (more popular trails can get busy but you can find more secluded trails)
Hiking Difficulty: Easy – Moderate – Hard
Permit Requirements: Yes, in any provincial Alberta Parks requires a permit

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Planning a Canadian elopement but not sure where to start?
Explore my guide to Canada weddings and elopements

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