When couples think of Florida weddings, their minds often drift to sandy beaches, palm trees, and ocean breeszes. But tucked away just 45 minutes south of Tallahassee lies one of the state’s best-kept secrets for small weddings and elopements—St. Marks Lighthouse. With its historic charm, natural beauty, and stunning coastal views, the lighthouse provides the perfect backdrop for an intimate wedding ceremony.
At A Beautiful Wedding in Florida, we’ve officiated many weddings at St. Marks Lighthouse, and we can confidently say it’s one of our favorite Tallahassee-area wedding spots for couples who want a romantic and memorable experience—without all the fuss.
Why Choose St. Marks Lighthouse for Your Elopement?
1. A Hidden Gem with Coastal Views
Located in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, the lighthouse sits at the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, where tall marsh grasses sway in the breeze and the calm waters reflect the sky. It’s quiet, serene, and picturesque—exactly what many couples are looking for when planning a stress-free elopement. If you’ve been dreaming of a beach wedding near Tallahassee but don’t want to travel too far or deal with crowds, this is your spot.
2. Beautiful Backdrop for Wedding Photos
One of the highlights of getting married at St. Marks Lighthouse is the photo opportunities. The historic white lighthouse, first built in the early 1800s, stands tall against the horizon, offering a dramatic and iconic background. There’s a small stretch of beach nearby, so couples can exchange vows with their toes in the sand while the lighthouse looms elegantly in the distance.
Whether you’re wearing a gown and heels or opting for a sundress and sandals, the setting lends itself perfectly to casual elegance. Sunsets here are especially breathtaking, with warm golden light spilling over the landscape—perfect for those golden-hour wedding portraits.
3. Simple, Affordable, and Intimate
Elopements are all about focusing on what matters most: the love between two people. And St. Marks offers the chance to do just that—no need for decorations, chair rentals, or large wedding parties. You can simply walk out onto the beach with your partner, meet your officiant, and say “I do.” That’s it.
Our officiant services for weddings at St. Marks Lighthouse start at just $275, making it one of the most affordable ways to get married in the Tallahassee area. If you’re looking to keep things low-key but still meaningful, this is a wonderful choice.
What to Expect When You Elope at St. Marks Lighthouse
Getting There
St. Marks Lighthouse is located within the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, which spans over 68,000 acres of protected wetlands, coastal marshes, and pine forests. From downtown Tallahassee, it’s an easy 45-minute drive south through scenic countryside and nature reserves.
Once inside the refuge, there’s a well-maintained road that takes you directly to the lighthouse parking area. From there, it’s a short walk to the beach and ceremony site. The refuge is open year-round, but we recommend checking the hours before your wedding day.
The Ceremony Setup
At A Beautiful Wedding in Florida, we believe that simplicity can be just as special—if not more so—than elaborate setups. For St. Marks Lighthouse weddings, there’s no need for chairs, arches, or decorations. The landscape does all the work for you. We recommend arriving early to find a quiet spot near the water, with the lighthouse visible in the background.
Some couples bring a few close friends or family members, while others choose to keep it just the two of them. Either way, it’s your day—make it as intimate or celebratory as you want.
Pro Tip
Want to make the moment extra memorable? Hire a professional photographer to capture the ceremony and take portraits afterward. The lighting, setting, and natural beauty of the area are made for photos you’ll cherish forever.
Tips for Planning Your Elopement at St. Marks Lighthouse
1. Best Time of Year to Get Married
Florida’s panhandle enjoys warm weather for most of the year, but spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for an outdoor ceremony. The temperatures are milder, and there’s less chance of afternoon thunderstorms compared to the summer months.
If you’re planning a summer elopement, we suggest scheduling your ceremony for earlier in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat and direct sun.
2. Consider the Tide and Weather
Because the lighthouse sits at the edge of a wildlife refuge and is surrounded by water and marshland, it’s important to check the tide charts and weather forecasts ahead of time. You want to make sure the beach area is accessible and dry during your ceremony.
We always keep an eye on weather conditions and will work with you if a backup plan is needed due to rain or high tides.
3. Permits and Fees
There’s no official permit required for small weddings or elopements at the lighthouse as long as you’re not setting up large equipment or decorations. However, the refuge does charge a modest entrance fee (currently $5 per vehicle) to access the area. Be sure to bring cash or a credit card to pay at the entrance station.
4. Dress Accordingly
While it’s tempting to wear your dream dress or full suit, we recommend considering the natural setting. Comfortable shoes, breathable fabrics, and minimal accessories are best. You’ll be walking on sand, grass, or uneven ground, so choose attire that’s both stylish and practical.
5. Make It a Day to Remember
Many couples turn their elopement at St. Marks into a full day of memories. After your ceremony, consider taking a nature walk through the wildlife refuge, spotting birds and wildlife along the trails. Or head back to Tallahassee and enjoy a celebratory dinner at one of the city’s many great restaurants.
Real Weddings at St. Marks Lighthouse
Over the years, we’ve helped dozens of couples exchange vows at this beautiful spot. Some have brought their children along for a heartfelt family moment. Others surprised their partner with a pop-up elopement after a weekend getaway. No matter the story, the setting always adds an unforgettable touch.
Here’s what one couple had to say:
“We wanted something simple, meaningful, and stress-free—and that’s exactly what we got at St. Marks Lighthouse. Amanda made the process so easy and welcoming. The location was stunning. We couldn’t have imagined a more perfect place to say our vows.”
Book Your St. Marks Lighthouse Wedding Today
If you’re ready to elope near Tallahassee and want a setting that’s naturally stunning, budget-friendly, and stress-free, the St. Marks Lighthouse is the perfect choice. At A Beautiful Wedding in Florida, we’ll take care of the ceremony so you can focus on what matters—celebrating your love.
Let the lighthouse guide the way to your happily ever after. Contact us today!