Intimate weddings are having their moment, and honestly, it’s about time! Couples are leaning away from packed, overused venues and toward experiences that feel more personal, relaxed, and memorable. But planning an intimate destination wedding doesn’t mean you have to leave the country.

There are so many beautiful and accessible destination wedding locations in the U.S. that still feel like a luxury getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of cliffs and vineyards, beaches and palm trees, or cozy mountain locations, you can find a place that matches your vision and gives your guests a mini vacation in the process.

After photographing weddings from California to Hawaii, here’s my guide to some of the best destination wedding locations in the U.S., with a focus on intimate celebrations that feel elevated, personal, and unforgettable for you and your people!

Why Choose a U.S. Destination Wedding?

A destination wedding in the U.S. gives you all the travel vibes without the passport stress. It’s perfect if you want something that feels intentional and adventurous while keeping things simple for guests. I also love how much variety there is to choose from here! I have captured so many amazing weddings, and even the ones that are at the same venue and same location have a completely different feel than the last one!

A few reasons couples love this route:

• Less travel chaos: You can still have that “destination” feel without international logistics.
• Guest experience: Friends and family can plan a long weekend or full vacation around your wedding, plus it’s easier for guests to travel within the country than outside of it.
• Familiar vendors: Easier to find experienced teams who know the area and its logistics.
• Flexibility: Whether you want coastal luxury, a mountain escape, or a vineyard weekend, there are so many options, which is honestly the best part!

The best part? You can find your version of luxury, whether that’s a private island in Florida, a vineyard in California, or a tropical estate in Hawaii.

An Oahu, Hawaii Wedding: Coastal Paradise Meets Romance

Starting close to home, for me at least, Oahu is one of the best destination wedding locations for couples dreaming of a tropical, coastal celebration. It’s the perfect balance of stunning views, accessible travel, and endless options for your weekend itinerary. I may be a little biased, but Oahu is just such a cool place to get married! It might seem like there’s only so many venues and only so many options, but every single wedding I’ve photographed here is unique! So you don’t have to worry about feeling too “trendy” or going to an “overused” venue!

Here’s what makes Hawaii perfect for intimate weddings:

• You can plan a whole wedding weekend filled with group hikes, snorkeling, and sunset cruises.
• There’s a mix of luxury and laid-back venues like La Pietra or Kualoa Ranch that bring both.
• You’ll have the ocean, cliffs, and palm trees as your backdrop without overcomplicating the day.

Just make sure to plan early; Hawaii venues book out fast, and flights can spike during peak travel months! Plus, it’s so much more enjoyable when you check some vendors off your list earlier in your planning process! For more Oahu Wedding ideas, you can check out my blog, Why Oahu Is Perfect for Your Intimate Destination Wedding in Hawaii!

And if you want to see another wedding at La Pietra, you can check out my other blog, A Hawaii Wedding Cost Breakdown: Budget Advice and Planning Tips From a Destination Wedding Photographer!

Best Season: April through October for warm weather and golden sunsets.
Pro Tip: Hire a local intimate wedding photographer who knows how to navigate lighting and weather shifts near the coast.If you want more tips for planning your wedding in Hawaii, check out my blog, The Ultimate Hawaii Wedding Planning Guide: Venues, Vendors, and Tips From a Local Photographer!

Real Moments From B + K’s Day at La Pietra

B + K’s celebration felt like a little European village tucked into Honolulu. Their Cocktail hour in the courtyard was stunning, surrounded by arches and warm stone! As the sun dropped, Diamond Head started glowing in the distance, and the whole place shifted into that golden evening light, which is literally my favorite time! Their grand entrance was one of my favorite parts; everyone was waving napkins and cheering them in. It set the tone for the night in the best way!

A Napa Valley Wedding: For Wine Country Vibes

If wine tasting, rolling hills, and golden hour in a vineyard sound like your vibe, Napa Valley deserves a top spot on your list. Not to mention, you literally feel like you’re having your wedding in Italy!

It’s one of the best destination wedding locations for couples who want luxury without feeling stiff. Think welcome dinners in the grapevines, candlelit receptions under string lights, and that slow, elegant pace that makes everything feel intentional! You can choose from estates like Tre Posti or Viansa Sonoma, both stunning, full-service venues that make planning easy for out-of-town couples.

Why it’s great for intimate weddings:

• The atmosphere makes even a 40-person wedding feel grand.
• Guests can explore local wineries and spas during your wedding weekend.
• The lighting is perfect, soft, golden, and timeless.

If you’re flying in, plan for a 3–4 day stay. Make it a full weekend event with a welcome tasting, rehearsal dinner, and post-wedding brunch.

A Charleston Wedding: Historic Charm by the Water

Charleston gives you that “Southern coastal charm” with a relaxed, elevated feel. It’s ideal for couples who want elegance mixed with a little warmth and personality.

The city has dozens of stunning venues, but Lowndes Grove and The Gadsden House top the list for intimate weddings. You’ll get beautiful architecture, soft neutral tones, and water views that look amazing in photos.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Everything’s within reach: beaches, historic streets, and five-star restaurants.
• Spring and fall bring dreamy weather for outdoor ceremonies.
• You can easily host a weekend itinerary: oyster roast, boat day, or rooftop dinner.

Explore more wedding ideas in this Charleston Wedding Guide!

A Sedona Wedding: Desert Beauty with Unique Views

For couples who love warm tones, wide-open skies, and earthy vibes, Sedona is a complete dream! Sedona is one of the most underrated destination wedding locations in the U.S. It offers red rock views, peaceful resorts, and year-round sunshine. Whether you want a spiritual, nature-centered celebration or a modern desert chic vibe, Sedona has both! I feel like most people don’t think of having their wedding here, but the scenery is unlike anywhere else, and that makes it so special! 

Venues like Agave of Sedona and Enchantment Resort are perfect for smaller groups and deliver incredible views without needing heavy decor! They are also such unique venue,s so if you are someone who doesn’t like to follow trends, this is a great place to get married!

• It feels remote and private without being hard to get to.
• The landscape photographs beautifully in every direction.
• Perfect if you want a cozy, weekend-long celebration.

Just avoid midsummer if possible, it gets veryyyyy hot! Spring and fall are best for the weather and lighting!

A Catalina Island Wedding: Coastal Meets European Escape

For couples who want their intimate wedding to feel like a European vacation but stay within the U.S., Catalina Island is a top contender and literally one of my favorite places! It’s like having a European wedding without going out of the country! You’ll get ocean views, terracotta architecture, and that slow island energy that feels straight out of the Mediterranean! Check out Catalina Island venues here!

You can host your ceremony right by the water, followed by a sunset dinner under the palm trees! You can even arrive by ferry, which adds to the “destination” experience for guests.

Pro Tip: Build a weekend itinerary! Add snorkeling, golf-cart tours, or a group dinner in Avalon for the full vacation feel! I always say that the best weddings are the ones where it’s an entire experience for you and your guests!

A Jackson Hole Wedding: For Mountains, Meadows & Western Weddings

If you want a destination wedding that feels cozy, peaceful, and surrounded by nature, Jackson Hole is incredible! It’s easily one of the best destination wedding locations for couples who love mountains, open air, and more western vibes.

The mix of rustic elegance and luxury makes it perfect for smaller guest lists who want to escape somewhere beautiful. And having the Tetons in your wedding photos? That’s next-level views. Venues like Snake River Ranch and Amangani offer epic views and high-end service for an unforgettable weekend.

Why it’s perfect for an intimate wedding:

• It’s gorgeous year-round, there’s snow in the winter and wildflowers in the summer.
• Great for adventure-loving couples who want to explore with guests!
• It feels luxurious without being over the top!

If you are interested in having an intimate wedding in Jackson Hole, check out this guide for more information!

Tips for Planning an Intimate Destination Wedding

Now that you’ve got a list of the best destination wedding locations, here’s how to make the most of it, no matter where you go.

• Think guest experience. People are traveling to celebrate you, so build in time for hanging out, like welcome dinners, brunches, or fun local activities.
• Don’t over-plan. The best part of a destination wedding is letting the location shine.
• Research logistics. Consider travel time, lodging options, and vendor availability.
• Work with a local planner. They’ll help you with permits, weather considerations, and day-of flow.

Hire an experienced photographer. A good intimate wedding photographer will know how to capture your story while navigating tricky light and travel details.

Make It A Wedding Weekend, Not Just A Wedding Day

For destination weddings, the location should feel like a luxury vacation for your guests, not just a pretty backdrop. People are traveling far to be with you, so plan a few moments that bring everyone together and say thank you. Things like welcome drinks in a courtyard, a casual beach day, a group dinner the night before, or a relaxed brunch the day after go a long way! You can just start with your values and build from there!

If you want something coastal that feels a bit like Europe, Catalina Island is such a good call! Napa Valley is perfect if you’re dreaming of hills and wine tasting for everyone. If tropical and laid back is your style, Hawaii has endless options. The best destination wedding locations make the whole weekend feel thoughtful and connected, not rushed!

How I Photograph Intimate Destination Weddings

My goal is to let the setting and your people do the talking, then guide you just enough so it all feels natural! I use the architecture and landscape to frame each scene, so every gallery feels unique to the place. At venues with arches or courtyards, I’ll position you to lead the eye through the space while still keeping the focus on your connection and your guests’ reactions. For portraits, I like an editorial vibe that still feels relaxed. I’ll have you take a deep breath in and out to soften your face, then we switch between close portraits and wider frames that show where you are. 

During the reception, I match the energy on the dance floor so no one stiffens up when the camera comes out. When the music picks up, I get in close to catch expressions head-on. I also mix in a little shutter drag on film when it fits, which gives the party photos movement and life without feeling chaotic!

Ready to Book Your Intimate Destination Wedding Photographer?

The best destination wedding locations aren’t just about scenery; they’re about the experience. When you look back, you won’t just remember the venue. You’ll remember the dinner under the stars, the laughter at brunch, and the feeling of being surrounded by the people you love most.

So pick a place that feels like you. Whether it’s the cliffs of Hawaii, the vineyards of Napa, or the mountains of Wyoming, your destination can be both beautiful and deeply personal!

If you’re looking for an intimate wedding photographer who can help you plan, scout light, and make your weekend feel effortless, let’s talk!You can check out my wedding packages, blogs, and more here!

Second shot for Mersadi Olson Photography