charleston is a beautiful historic city with many stunning and unique venues to get married. however, a lot of these venues aren’t the best fit for elopements. many people choose to elope to try to save money, elope somewhere more intimate and meaningful, or make your wedding a bit more of an adventure, and these big venues often don’t fit these vibes. if you’re looking to elope, a lot of the traditional venues may not be for you. so, i’ve put together a list of 5 beautiful outdoor places to help you decide where to elope in charleston, sc!
1. cypress gardens
the cypress gardens feels like a place out of a tropical fairytale. have your ceremony in a beautiful gazebo surrounded by a beautiful garden, then take a private boat and paddle through the cypress trees. this place is so unique and insanely romantic! you’ll need to keep an eye out for alligators, though!
2. angel oak tree park
the angel oak tree is a beautiful and historic landmark in the low-country. It’s one of the largest oak trees east of the mississippi and estimated to be 300 to 400 years old! imagine exchanging your vows under this gorgeous piece of nature, it can’t get more romantic than that right?
3. folly beach
get married to the sound of gentle waves in front of the ocean, dunes, or a beautiful lighthouse. there’s no better place for a laid back, gorgeous, and intimate elopement than at folly beach. celebrate with a reception on the beach or go back to your adorable airbnb for a cookout and drinks!
4. get eloped on a sailboat!
charleston’s surrounded by marinas where you can set sail and exchange vows on a sailboat. go at sunrise or sunset and you’re likely to have dolphins swimming next to you while you celebrate your love and commitment! spend the afternoon on the boat or dock after you exchange your vows and hit up king street to celebrate!
5. botany bay
if you’re looking to elope on a beach but want something a little more private and unique, botany bay is a great spot. insane oak trees line the street as you enter the park, setting the scene for a beautiful location. walk down a gorgeous tropical path to get to the “boneyard” beach, and exchange vows surrounded by the skeleton trees.