Handfasting Cords, a Hike & Bleating Baby Lambs

We eventually stopped at Coumeenoole Beach near Dunquin Pier, where Uni and Ryan exchanged vows overlooking the sea. Uni had actually handmade their handfasting cords herself, which made the whole ceremony feel even more personal and meaningful.

And in the middle of their vows, baby lambs started absolutely bleating across the fields beside us. Honestly, it could not have been more perfect.

The two of them just burst out laughing and kept going. Those are always my favourite moments at elopements, when things aren’t polished or overly perfect, and everyone just leans into the chaos a bit.

Why I’ll Never Shut Up About Slea Head

There’s a reason I recommend Dingle and Slea Head to so many couples coming to Ireland. Within half an hour, you can go from dramatic cliffs to beaches to tiny winding roads with sheep causing traffic jams to mountain views that genuinely don’t look real. And the best part? It still feels peaceful if you know the area and know the best times.

Even when the weather is chaotic, there’s something really grounding about being out there on the edge of the Atlantic. Couples always seem to properly relax into themselves there.

Planning an Elopement in Slea Head, Ireland..... Everything You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of dramatic cliffs, winding coastal roads, wild Atlantic views and a wedding day that actually feels relaxed and meaningful, then honestly… Slea Head is hard to beat. Located on the edge of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Slea Head is one of the most breathtaking places in Ireland to elope. Think moody mountains, tiny beaches, crashing waves, sheep wandering across the road every five minutes and sunsets that make the whole coastline glow.

It’s Ireland at its absolute best.

Why Couples Choose Slea Head for Their Elopement

Slea Head feels wildly romantic without needing much added. You don’t need huge decor setups or complicated timelines because the landscape already does all the heavy lifting.

Couples usually choose Slea Head because they want:

• An intimate, relaxed wedding day
• Incredible scenery without huge hikes
• A more adventurous experience
• Privacy and space away from crowds
• A day that feels authentic instead of performative

It’s ideal for couples who care more about the experience than tradition.

Best Places to Elope Along Slea Head

There are so many incredible spots along the drive, but these are some of my favourites:

Dunquin Pier

Probably the most iconic location in the area. The winding pier road overlooking the Blasket Islands honestly looks like something from a film.

Best for:

• Dramatic coastal views
• Sunset ceremonies
• Windswept editorial portraits
• Couples happy to embrace Irish weather

Coumeenoole Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Kerry and perfect for calmer, romantic portraits.

Best for:

• Beach photos
• Sunset
• Barefoot wandering around the shoreline
• Softer, more peaceful vibes

Clogher Head

A quieter stop with insane panoramic views over the Atlantic.

Best for:

• Quick ceremony stops
• Elopement picnics
• Epic scenery without crowds

The Best Time of Year to Elope in Slea Head

Honestly? Ireland is beautiful year-round, but every season gives a completely different feel.

Spring (March–May)

• Greenest landscapes
• Lambs everywhere
• Quieter roads
• Cooler temperatures

Summer (June–August)

• Longer evenings
• Best sunsets
• More tourists
• Busier roads around Dingle

Autumn (September–October)

• My personal favourite
• Softer light
• Fewer crowds
• Moody skies without freezing temperatures

Winter (November–February)

• Wild, cinematic weather
• Very quiet
• Cosy pub vibes afterwards
• Higher chance of storms and road closures

What the Weather is Actually Like

Irish weather is chaos. You can genuinely experience sunshine, sideways rain and moody fog all within an hour along Slea Head. So the key to a good elopement here is not fighting the weather, it’s embracing it.

Some tips:

• Bring layers
• Wear shoes you can actually walk in
• Don’t build a timeline that’s too strict
• Trust the atmosphere even when it’s cloudy
• Book amazing accommodation so you can enjoy your elopement indoors - think cute cosy cliff top cottages

Some of the most beautiful elopements I’ve photographed happened in wild weather.

Can You Legally Get Married at Slea Head?

Yes, but there are a few logistics to consider. If you want your ceremony legally recognised in Ireland, you’ll need:

• At least 3 months' notice to the HSE
• A registered solemniser/celebrant
• Two witnesses
• To complete legal paperwork before arriving

Many couples choose to legally marry at home first, then hold a symbolic ceremony or exchange vows in Ireland instead. It keeps the day much more relaxed and flexible. And this is what I would recommend.

Where to Stay for Your Elopement

Most couples stay in either:

Dingle

Perfect if you want:

• Restaurants and pubs nearby
• Traditional Irish atmosphere
• Easier access to Slea Head

Killarney

Great if you want:

• Luxury hotels
• Easier transport links
• Access to more of Kerry before/after the elopement

Tips for Planning the Perfect Slea Head Elopement

Don’t over-plan the day

The best elopements always have room to breathe.

Sunset is everything

The west coast light in the evening is unreal. Plan your vows later in the day if possible.

Build the day around experiences

Stop at a pub. Have a picnic. Drink whiskey on the cliffs. Go for a drive. Make the day feel like an adventure together.

Hire vendors who know the area like me - Sarah Kate photography

Weather, timing, crowds and light change constantly around Slea Head, so having local knowledge genuinely makes a huge difference.

Contact me, your Dingle Elopement Photographer