Elopement Activities

What turns a wedding into an authentic elopement experience? It’s the freedom to do exactly what you want—with no pressure, no expectations, and only activities that reflect who you are as a couple.

Whether you’re planning a Vancouver elopement, a wild Vancouver Island elopement, or a dream destination elopement somewhere new, the activities you choose will set the tone for your entire day. As a wedding photographer who’s captured everything from mountain-top picnics to cozy coastal dinners, I know firsthand that the right elopement activities are what make your day unforgettable, candid, and full of joy.

Let’s dive into how to choose your activities—and I’ll leave you with a list of ideas to get inspired.

How Do I Decide What My Elopement Activities Will Be?

Your elopement should feel like the best date of your life. That means no obligations, no timelines you don’t vibe with—just fun, connection, and doing what feels right.

Start with these questions to guide you:

1. What does your ideal day look like?

Think about your perfect day together. Would it be just the two of you, or would you include a few loved ones? Do you love a fully planned itinerary, or do you prefer to go with the flow? Are you happiest exploring and staying busy, or keeping it slow and relaxed?

2. What’s something you’ve always dreamed of doing together?

Have you ever wanted to go up in a hot air balloon? Try something bold like snowmobiling or 4x4ing? Maybe you’ve always dreamed of a destination elopement somewhere new. Your elopement is the perfect excuse to finally make that dream happen.

3. What do you already love doing as a couple?

Your elopement should reflect you. Do you love early morning hikes and coffee on a mountain peak? Are beach days your thing? Are you foodies who’d love to explore local bars or dessert spots? Your favorite memories can inspire your elopement day.

4. Do you actually want to hike?

Hiking gets talked about a lot with elopements (especially in the Vancouver and Vancouver Island area), but it’s not the only way to make your day meaningful. If it’s not your vibe, don’t feel pressured. A unique elopement doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Elopement Activity Ideas

Here’s a list of fun, unique elopement activities to help you dream up the most you day possible. Mix and match based on your location, energy, and vision:

• Hike a scenic trail
• Canoe or kayak in a lake or ocean
• Take a helicopter or floatplane ride over the mountains or islands
• Go for a hot air balloon ride
• Explore backroads with 4x4ing
• Get matching tattoos
• Soak in natural hot springs
• Take a bike ride through the forest or along the coast
• Ride motorcycles together
• Have a cozy campfire with s’mores
• Try paddle boarding on a calm lake
• Set up a picnic in a meaningful spot
• Go swimming at your favorite beach or lake
• Stargaze with a blanket and some hot drinks
• Take a power boat out for sunset
• Grab a sweet treat at your favorite dessert shop
• Visit a local bar or brewery for a drink
• Go snowshoeing in the winter
• Try dog sledding or snowmobiling
• Ski or snowboard at your favorite mountain
• Rent a fancy or vintage car for a stylish entrance

There is nothing off limits when it comes to choosing what activities you’re going to do on your elopement day!

Have more questions about elopement activities and what to do on at your elopement?

What to do on the day of your elopement?

Your elopement day can be as laid-back or adventurous as you want. It could start with a slow morning and coffee together, include an epic hike or beach picnic, a heartfelt vow exchange, and end with a cozy dinner or stargazing. Many couples also add personal touches like getting tattoos, renting a vintage car, or popping champagne by the ocean. Think of it as your dream date—just elevated.

What do people do when they elope?

When couples elope, they focus on what matters most to them. That might mean traveling to a beautiful destination, saying vows in private, spending the day exploring nature, or having a small celebration with close family or friends. Elopements can include adventure (like helicopter rides or hiking), or simple moments (like sharing a meal or writing letters to each other). The key is: no rules.

How to make an elopement special?

Personalization is what makes an elopement truly special. Choose a location that speaks to you (like a coastal beach, forest, or mountain top), plan meaningful elopement activities, write your own vows, bring a few loved ones if it feels right—or keep it just the two of you. Add special details like a champagne toast, a private chef dinner, a playlist of your favorite songs, or a post-ceremony adventure to make it unforgettable.

How do you structure an elopement?

There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline, but a typical elopement day might look something like this:

• Morning: Getting ready separately or together, first look
• Midday: Travel to your ceremony spot, exchange vows, portraits
• Afternoon: Celebrate with a picnic, a fun activity, or a small meal
• Evening: Sunset photos, dinner, campfire, stargazing, or exploring

The beauty of eloping is the flexibility—you can keep it spontaneous, or plan it out like an intentional, all-day experience.

How do you do an intimate elopement?

An intimate elopement typically includes just the couple or a few close loved ones. Keep the guest list small (if any guests at all), choose a private, meaningful location, and make space for connection. Handwritten vows, a quiet ceremony, and activities that feel like you—like watching the sunrise, reading letters from loved ones, or cooking dinner together—make it feel deeply personal and romantic.

Do you walk down the aisle at an elopement?

You can if you want to! Some couples include a traditional “aisle” moment by walking into their ceremony location, especially if guests are present. Others arrive together, or walk hand-in-hand into the ceremony space. There’s no rule—you can totally make your own version of this moment, or skip it entirely.

What is the cheapest option for a wedding

Eloping is often the most affordable way to get married while still having a beautiful, meaningful experience. You skip the big venue, catering bill, and large guest list, and instead invest in a wedding photographer, travel, attire, and a few thoughtful touches. Whether it’s a Vancouver elopement, a Vancouver Island elopement, or a destination elopement, eloping gives you more control over your budget while focusing on what really matters—your love.

Not quite sure if eloping is for you yet? Check out my blog Should I Elope?

Ready to elope but not sure how to begin? My blog Elopement Planning in 5 Steps can help get you started on your elopement journey!