California is basically elopement heaven. From epic mountain views to dreamy beaches, this state has all the vibes. Let me help narrow down some of the best spots for you!
Where To Elope in California
Where To Elope in California
California is basically elopement heaven. From epic mountain views to dreamy beaches, this state has all the vibes. Let me help narrow down some of the best spots for you!
California is a dreamland for elopements, with everything from redwood forests to sandy beaches and desert adventures. Whether it’s exchanging vows under towering trees, surfing at sunset, or stargazing from a hot spring, your day can be as unique as you are. I’ve scoped out the best spots to match your vision, so let’s plan your epic elopement adventure together!
elope in california
why should you
The Best Time of The Year To Elope in California
spring
summer
fall
winter
California’s got good weather year-round, but picking the perfect time depends on where you’re headed and what vibes and temps you’re after. Here’s the lowdown:
in Northern California means wildflower magic! Melting snow means waterfalls and meadows filled with vibrant blooms, though you might still see some rain. Down south, spring is absolutely lovely and has amazing mild temperatures (think 60s & 70s). Often less crowded than summers and is one of my favorite times of the year for elopements.
Northern California along the coast and in higher elevations it's mild and dry in the summer—ideal for outdoor adventures. Elsewhere in California it gets HOT, even Yosemite Valley can have 90 degree days in summer. Down in So-Cal though, the weather is perfect, with sunny beaches and ocean breezes calling everyone to the coast. Still hotter than spring, but coastal weather is always cooler than the inland temps of the valleys and deserts.
In Northern California, winter brings chilly temps, rain, and dreamy fog. Head to the mountains, and you’ll find a snowy wonderland—perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing if a winter adventure elopement is your thing. Southern California, meanwhile, stays mild. San Diego or LA winters barely feel like winter, but desert spots can get freezing at night.
Autumn in NorCal means gorgeous leaves in the mountains and crisp, cooling temps. SoCal doesn’t see much change, just a soft shift from summer to winter with slightly cooler evenings.
No matter the season, California’s got the perfect weather for your dream elopement!
In Northern California along the coast and in high elevations it's mild and dry in the summer—ideal for outdoor adventures. Elsewhere in California it gets HOT, even Yosemite Valley can have 90 degree days in summer. Down in So-Cal though, the weather is perfect, with sunny beaches and ocean breezes calling everyone to the coast. Still hotter than spring, but coastal weather is always cooler than the inland temps of the valleys and deserts.
Autumn in NorCal means gorgeous leaves in the mountains and crisp, cooling temps. Leaves start changing their color in the foothills and mountains, if you've never seen it then you're in for a treat! SoCal doesn’t see much change, just a soft shift from summer to winter with slightly cooler evenings. Fall is also shoulder season for many popular elopement locations, which means lower tourism and more privacy!
summer
fall
winter
Spring in Northern California means wildflower magic! Melting snow means waterfalls and meadows filled with vibrant blooms, though you might still see some rain. Down south, spring is absolutely lovely and has amazing mild temperatures (think 60s & 70s). Often less crowded than summers and is one of my favorite times of the year for elopements.
spring
California’s got good weather year-round, but picking the perfect time depends on where you’re headed and what vibes and temps you’re after. Here’s the lowdown:
The Best Time of The Year To Elope in California
In Northern California, winter brings chilly temps, rain, and dreamy fog. Head to the mountains, and you’ll find a snowy wonderland—perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing if a winter adventure elopement is your thing. Southern California, meanwhile, stays mild. San Diego or LA winters barely feel like winter, but desert spots can get freezing at night.
The best location in California largely depends on one huge determining factor...YOU!
Before you can choose the best spot, you need to think about your vision for this fun & exciting experience! Ask yourself some questions like:
Before you can choose the best spot, you need to think about your vision for this fun & exciting experience! Ask yourself some questions like:
- What makes you feel excited?
- What fun activities are you wanting to share together
- Are you hoping to go somewhere new or somewhere you already have shared memories together?
Need more help coming up with an idea? Don't hesitate to reach out!
california elopement location
how to choose the best
California’s got endless stunning spots, but here are some of the best places to elope—broken down by vibe. Whether you’re into mountains, forests, beaches, or city backdrops, there’s something for every couple.
The Best Places to Elope in California
Where to Elope in The Mountains in California
If big views and outdoor adventure sound like your thing, the mountains are calling! From granite cliffs to sparkling alpine lakes, here are the best mountain spots for your California elopement:
where to elope in california
Eastern Sierras
The Eastern Sierras are where adventure meets crazy-good scenery. Mammoth Lakes, Crowley Lake, Sonora Pass—it’s all stunning. Whether you’re into lakeside views, alpine trees, hot springs, or rugged mountain vibes, this spot’s got you covered, and it's much more secluded than Yosemite, perfect for the couple who wants to get away from it all.
Where to Elope in The forest in California
California’s forests are pure magic. Imagine saying your vows under towering trees that seem straight out of a fairytale.
The Redwoods
Eloping in the California redwoods feels like stepping into a fairytale. And there are so many gorgeous options to choose from: Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Calaveras Big Trees, Redwoods NP, & Sequoia NP. These trees are massive, magical, and totally unforgettable. I'll help help you choose the best redwoods location based on the experience you're looking for!
where to elope in california
Where to Elope on the
california coast
Coastal California is perfect for couples who want those beachy vibes with dramatic ocean views. Whether it’s a secret cove or a golden sunset spot, the Califiornia coastline has endless options:
where to elope in california
san diego
San Diego is a sunny beach dream. Sunset Cliffs, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines—all amazing spots to tie the knot. Plus, it's perfect weather pretty much all year round. You can’t go wrong. I lived in SD for almost 9 years, and I still go back frequently to visit family, so I know this place like it's home and have a load of insider tips for you when it comes to food
where to elope in california
San Francisco
San Francisco is perfect for couples who want city vibes and a side of nature. You could elope at City Hall and finish your evening with a sunset and Golden Gate as your backdrop at Baker Beach. There are so many amazing places in SF to include in your day, from the Sutro Baths, The Palace of Fine Arts, or the funky vibes of Haight-Ashbury. Whatever your desiring, if you're looking for the perfect mix of urban cool and stunning views SF's got you covered!
Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Don’t worry—I’ve got your back! From location scouting to timeline planning, I’ll help you bring your dream day to life. Need permits? I’ll handle the paperwork. Want personalized recommendations? I’ll help you choose vendors and activities that match your vibe. I’ll even help plan details like adventure gear, transportation, and creating a timeline that’s both stress-free and fun. Your elopement should be as unique as your love story, and I’m here to make sure it’s everything you’ve ever imagined—and more!
I specialize in helping couples just like you plan & photograph their dream elopement day!
still feeling stuck? let me help you!
Everything you need to know to start planning your Yosemite Elopement
Yosemite Valley Elopement on a moody and rainy December day.
YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT AT SWINGING BRIDGE
Discover the best waterfall elopement spots in the US!
top 5 waterfall elopement locations
HOW TO ELOPE IN YOSEMITE
California Elopement Inspo
Read my step-by-step guide on how to plan your Big Sur Elopement
Full Day adventure including some of Yosemite's most iconic locations.
glacier point yosemite elopement
My best tips for how to plan a sunny San Diego elopement!
how to elope
in san diego
how to Elope in Big Sur
- bryanna and alex
"sHE HELPED ME FIND BEAUTIFUL LOCATIONS"
- bryanna and alex
"sHE HELPED ME FIND BEAUTIFUL LOCATIONS"
HOW DO I CHOOSE AN ELOPEMENT LOCATION?
will we need to obtain a permit for our elopement?
Do we need to hire an officiant?
WHAT DOES AN ELOPEMENT TIMELINE LOOK LIKE?
How many hours will I need my photographer?
How many photos will we receive?
Can I include family at my elopement?
When should we book our photographer?
frequently asked questions
Of course! If the location allows, we can plan for up to 20 guests. Just keep in mind that as the guest count grows, factors like parking, seating, and bathroom access may limit the locations we can choose. Just make sure they are up for the adventure! I recommend inviting only the people you know will help keep the day’s focus on YOU! Some couples prefer to include a very small group (or no one) at the elopement ceremony and then they plan a reception or party to follow on the date or at a later date. There are no rules when it comes to elopement weddings, and that’s part of the freedom!
ANSWEr
I typically deliver an average of 50 photos per hour of coverage, but it all depends on the activities throughout your day, and how much time we spend shooting and making memories versus traveling in between locations.
ANSWEr
Most couples really value having all the memories from their elopement day together, from getting ready, until sunset, which is why most of my elopement packages include all-day photography coverage. A few couples may just want some photos from their ceremony, as well as bridal photos inside the park, which can take some time when you're traveling through Yosemite's vast regions. For less photography coverage opt for 6-hours or a "half-day" package.
ANSWEr
Your day can be exactly what you want to make of it, but in most cases we will need to plan out travel time to the locations (including drive time, parking, and hiking to the spot) time for getting ready, the vows, and the post-ceremony celebration, as well as any special activities you want to plan to share together on your big day.
ANSWEr
In California you are required to have an officiant for a legal marriage. You can have a friend or family member get ordained and officiate your ceremony. If you prefer to exchange your own set of written vows, I am ordained and would be happy to officiate!
ANSWEr
For most locations, including national parks, state parks, and BLM land, a permit is required. I’ll handle the paperwork for you by reaching out to the parks and securing the necessary permits, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. I also know of some secret areas where a permit isn’t required!
ANSWEr
This is the fun part, but if you're not sure then that's what I'm here for! During our initial consult I'll help you brainstorm some locations based on the information you share about yourselves, your relationship, interests, hobbies, etc, and I'll help you find the perfect spot to elope based on those things! I've captured elopements in California and Hawaii, and have traveled to all corners of this state, so I'm confident with the variety California has to offer, we are going to find the absolute perfect spot for you!
ANSWEr
ELOPEMENT
FAQs
