The Ultimate Guide to Elopements in Virginia Beach, VA

The Ultimate Guide to Elopements in Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach isn’t just a vacation destination — it’s a place where the ocean meets romance, and where couples from all over the country come to say “I do” in a way that feels simple and stress-free. Whether you’ve always dreamed of exchanging vows barefoot on the sand, at a quiet garden tucked away from the boardwalk, or in a chic little venue overlooking the bay, Virginia Beach offers endless possibilities for an intimate and unforgettable elopement.

In this ultimate guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about planning your Virginia Beach elopement — from legal requirements to the best ceremony spots, vendor recommendations, costs, and tips for making your day feel truly your own.

Why Couples Choose Virginia Beach for Their Elopement

There’s a reason Virginia Beach continues to attract couples looking for a simple yet stunning wedding day.

• The Oceanfront: Nothing says romance like waves crashing in the background as you exchange vows.

• Accessibility: With Norfolk International Airport just minutes away, Virginia Beach is easy to reach for out-of-town couples.

• Versatility: Whether you want casual beach vibes, urban nightlife, or natural beauty, you’ll find it all in one place.

• Year-Round Appeal: While summer is the busiest season, spring and fall offer gorgeous weather and fewer crowds, and even winter elopements can feel cozy.

Imagine walking hand-in-hand along the shoreline, saying your vows at sunrise, and celebrating with a champagne toast as the sun warms your skin. That’s the Virginia Beach elopement experience.

Legal Requirements for Eloping in Virginia Beach

Before you get swept away in the details, let’s take care of the basics. Virginia makes the legal side of marriage fairly simple.

• Marriage License: You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at any Virginia Circuit Court. The closest is the Virginia Beach Circuit Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway).

• No Waiting Period: You can marry immediately after receiving your license.

• Valid for 60 Days: Be sure to plan your ceremony within that time frame.

• No Witnesses Required: Just you, your partner, and your officiant.

Insider Tip: Bring your IDs and $30 (cash or credit). If you’re traveling in for a destination elopement, schedule your license pickup for a weekday to avoid weekend courthouse closures.

The Best Elopement Locations in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach has a mix of iconic and hidden-gem spots, perfect for couples who want something unique.

1. The Oceanfront

If you’re dreaming of a classic beach elopement, the oceanfront delivers. Picture sunrise vows on the sand before the crowds arrive or a sunset ceremony with the sky painted in orange and pink.

• Best Spots: 24th Street, 42nd Street, or Croatan Beach (less crowded).

• Pro Tip: Opt for sunrise to avoid heavy beachgoers.

2. First Landing State Park

With its mossy cypress trees, quiet dunes, and serene trails, First Landing offers a mix of nature and seclusion. Perfect for couples who want both forest and waterfront backdrops.

3. Chesapeake Bay Beaches

Calmer than the main oceanfront, the bay beaches are ideal for couples who want a private, peaceful vibe. Think barefoot vows by the shoreline and an easy champagne toast on a picnic blanket.

4. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

For adventurous couples, Back Bay provides stunning natural beauty and complete privacy. Imagine exchanging vows with nothing but dunes, waves, and wild birds around you.

5. Chic Local Venues

If sand isn’t your style, Virginia Beach also has intimate venues perfect for elopements:

• Water Table – Waterfront views in a rustic-chic setting.

• Lesner Inn – Modern with bayfront panoramas.

• Private Vacation Rentals – Turn your Airbnb into your elopement spot.

When to Elope in Virginia Beach

• Spring (March–May): Warm but not sweltering, perfect for beach photos.

• Summer (June–August): Peak season, vibrant energy, but crowded beaches.

• Fall (September–November): Gorgeous sunsets, mild weather, and fewer tourists.

• Winter (December–February): Quiet, cozy, and dramatic coastal backdrops.

If you’re picturing a barefoot beach wedding without a crowd watching, aim for spring or fall.

Elopement-Friendly Virginia Beach Vendors

One of the best parts of an elopement is that you don’t need dozens of vendors. Just a few hand-picked pros can make your day extraordinary.

• Officiants: Virginia Beach marriage commissioners and officiants (this is where I come in — helping couples plan, officiate, and coordinate).

• Photographers: Look for local photographers who know the best hidden spots and lighting times.

• Florists: Many offer petite elopement bouquets and boutonnières.

• Hair & Makeup Artists: On-site services make your prep stress-free.

• Picnic & Styling Companies: Some local businesses set up styled beach picnics complete with charcuterie and champagne.

Pro Tip: Ask vendors about their “elopement packages” — they often offer shorter hours and smaller bundles perfect for your celebration.

Sample Elopement Timeline in Virginia Beach

Here’s how a stress-free day could flow:

• 5:30 AM: Get ready in your hotel or Airbnb.

• 6:30 AM: First look at First Landing State Park.

• 7:00 AM: Sunrise ceremony on the beach.

• 7:30 AM: Champagne toast & portraits by the dunes.

• 9:00 AM: Breakfast date at a cozy café.

• 11:00 AM: Explore the boardwalk or hit the trails for more photos.

• Evening: Private dinner for two at a bayfront restaurant.

This kind of timeline allows you to savor the day without rushing.

How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Virginia Beach?

Here’s a breakdown of average costs:

• Marriage License: $30

• Officiant: $200–$400

• Photographer: $500–$1,500 (for a few hours)

• Bouquet & Boutonnière: $75–$200

• Hair & Makeup: $150–$300

• Dinner for Two: $150–$400

• Optional Venue or Permit Fees: $100–$500

Total: $1,000–$3,000 on average

That’s a fraction of the cost of a traditional Virginia Beach wedding (which can easily top $30,000).

Tips for a Stress-Free Virginia Beach Elopement

• Go early: Sunrise ceremonies are magical and private.

• Think about footwear: Sand and heels don’t mix — opt for barefoot or sandals.

• Weather plan: Always have a backup in case of rain.

• Embrace the moment: Your elopement is about connection, not perfection.

Why Work with an Elopement Coordinator

Even if your day is “just us,” having someone who knows the area, the vendors, and the flow of the day makes a huge difference. As a local Virginia marriage commissioner and day-of coordinator, I help couples:

• Choose the perfect spot.

• Handle permits and logistics.

• Keep the timeline stress-free.

• Officiate and coordinate the ceremony.

You get to focus on each other — I’ll handle the details.

Final Thoughts

Your Virginia Beach elopement should feel like you — whether that’s barefoot vows in the sand, a cozy ceremony in the pines at First Landing, or a sunset kiss on the Chesapeake Bay. This city offers the perfect blend of romance, nature, and ease for couples who want a wedding day that’s more about love than logistics.

If you’re ready to start planning, I’d love to help bring your elopement vision to life.

Let’s plan your Virginia Beach elopement today!