If you’ve been dreaming of exchanging vows surrounded by breathtaking views, there’s no place quite like Acadia National Park. Whether you envision standing on rugged cliffs, beside a serene lake, or atop a majestic mountain, Acadia offers some of the most stunning wedding locations in the country.
As someone who has spent time exploring these scenic spots, I can tell you that knowing where to get married in Acadia National Park is key to making your wedding day stress-free and unforgettable. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best Acadia wedding locations, along with helpful details about guest limits, permit requirements, and the best times to say “I do.”
Helpful Information for Your Acadia Wedding
Before you start planning your Acadia wedding, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
National Park Pass
To enter Acadia National Park, you’ll need a pass. Here’s what you need to know:
- 7-Day Pass: $35 per vehicle
- Annual America the Beautiful Pass: $80 (great if you visit national parks often!)
Wedding Permit
- If your ceremony includes more than 10 guests, you’ll need a special use permit from the park.
- The permit costs $50 and can be filled out here.
Marriage License
- You can apply for a Maine marriage license at any municipal office in the state. It’s valid for 90 days.
- Maine residents must apply in their hometown, while out-of-state couples can apply anywhere in Maine.
Best Time to Get Married in Acadia National Park
If you’re hoping for fewer crowds and softer lighting for your wedding photos, here’s what I recommend:
- Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, especially in peak season.
- Sunrise and sunset provide the best natural lighting and fewer tourists.
- Summer & fall are the most popular seasons, but spring and early winter offer their own unique beauty.
Where to Get Married in Acadia National Park | Best Acadia Wedding Locations
Acadia National Park is filled with stunning elopement and wedding locations, each offering a unique atmosphere. Whether you want a dramatic coastal backdrop or a peaceful lakeside ceremony, you’re bound to find the perfect spot.
1. Cadillac Mountain – 30 Guests
If you’re looking for an iconic Acadia wedding location, Cadillac Mountain should be at the top of your list. It’s the highest peak in Acadia National Park, and standing at the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
As the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise, Cadillac Mountain is a favorite for early morning elopements. While sunrise is magical, it can also be crowded, so I suggest planning your ceremony a little later in the morning for a more private experience.
- Best Time: Late afternoon or early evening for softer light and fewer crowds (Ceremonies at sunrise or sunset is not permitted)
- Accessibility: Easy – Drive to the summit
- Guest Capacity: 30 guests
- Car Reservation Required
2. Otter Cliff – 20 Guests
For couples who dream of saying their vows with the ocean crashing below, Otter Cliff is one of the most romantic spots in Acadia. With its rugged coastal views and dramatic cliffs, this location is perfect for couples who love the idea of an intimate elopement with a touch of adventure.
- Best Time: Sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer people
- Accessibility: Easy – Just a short walk from the parking lot
- Guest Capacity: 20 guests
3. Seawall Picnic Area – 35 Guests
Looking for a secluded, peaceful setting? Seawall Picnic Area in Southwest Harbor offers both beach and forest scenery, giving you the best of both worlds. Whether you want a quiet lakeside ceremony or a beachfront celebration, this location is versatile and private.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting
- Accessibility: Easy – Fully accessible location
- Guest Capacity: 35 guests
4. Sand Beach – 30 Guests
Imagine getting married with your toes in the sand, surrounded by Acadia’s rocky cliffs. If that sounds like your dream, Sand Beach is the perfect spot. This location has an easygoing coastal vibe, making it ideal for laid-back couples who love the sound of the waves.
- Best Time: Early morning or sunset for fewer crowds and the best lighting
- Accessibility: Easy – Direct access to the beach
- Guest Capacity: 30 guests
5. Schoodic Point – 25 Guests
For couples seeking a more remote and private setting, Schoodic Point is a hidden gem. Located on the Schoodic Peninsula, this spot offers jaw-dropping coastal views without the crowds of other Acadia locations.
- Best Time: Early morning for tranquility and soft lighting
- Accessibility: Moderate – A scenic drive is required
- Guest Capacity: 25 guests
6. Thompson Island – 50 Guests
If you’re planning a larger wedding in Acadia, Thompson Island is a fantastic option. With room for up to 50 guests, this location provides sweeping views of the water and surrounding landscapes. Plus, getting there requires a boat ride, which adds an adventurous touch to your wedding day!
- Best Time: Late afternoon for golden-hour sunset views
- Accessibility: Moderate – Requires a boat ride
- Guest Capacity: 50 guests
Additional Acadia Wedding Locations
Still looking for the perfect spot? Here are a few more beautiful wedding locations to consider:
🌊 Ocean Drive – 30 Guests: Coastal beauty with easy access.
🌲 Otter Point – 30 Guests: Stunning views without a long hike.
🏕️ Frazer Point Picnic Area – 50 Guests: Spacious, with both forest and waterfront views.
Leave No Trace & Respecting Acadia’s Beauty
If you’re getting married in Acadia, it’s so important to leave the park just as beautiful as you found it. Follow Leave No Trace principles:
- Pack out everything you bring in.
- Stay on designated trails and ceremony sites.
- Respect the wildlife and natural landscape.
Acadia’s beauty is what makes it such a special place to say “I do”, so let’s keep it that way!
Final Thoughts on Where to Get Married in Acadia National Park
No matter which location you choose, getting married in Acadia National Park is an experience you’ll never forget. Whether you’re exchanging vows atop Cadillac Mountain, along the rocky shores of Otter Cliff, or in a peaceful wooded setting, your wedding will be surrounded by the natural beauty of Maine.
Ready to start planning your Acadia wedding?
I’d love to help bring your vision to life! Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a small wedding, let’s chat about how to make your day truly unforgettable. Click here to inquire! 💛✨
