8 Best Places To Elope In California
Best Places To Elope In The US -> California
When it comes to choosing the perfect place to elope in California, the options are as diverse and breathtaking as the state itself. As experienced elopement photographers who’ve explored nearly every corner of California with couples, we know what makes an elopement location truly special. From dramatic coastal cliffs to serene alpine meadows, California offers endless opportunities for stunning backdrops and unforgettable experiences.
In this guide, we’re sharing the 8 best places to elope in California, based on years of firsthand experience capturing elopements throughout the state. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal adventure, a mountain escape, or a desert oasis, these locations promise awe-inspiring scenery, unique vibes, and unforgettable moments to start your marriage journey. Let’s dive into the best spots California has to offer for your dream elopement!
How To Elope In California
Eloping in California is simple and hassle-free, with minimal requirements. Both individuals must be at least 18 years old and provide valid photo identification to apply for a marriage license. There’s no waiting period or residency requirement, and the license is typically valid for 90 days. The process includes filling out a form and paying a fee, usually between $50 and $100. Once you have the license, you’re free to marry immediately.
For the ceremony, you’ll need at least one witness, and it must include a declaration of intent and an exchange of vows led by an officiant. The officiant can be a friend or family member (ordained online) or a professional. After the ceremony, the signed marriage license must be returned to the County Clerk’s Office, typically within 10 days, to be recorded. You can then request a certified copy of your marriage certificate for legal purposes. Be sure to check with the County Clerk’s Office in your chosen location for any specific requirements or procedures!
Best Places To Elope In California
california elopement locations
One of the biggest decisions while planning your elopement is WHERE you want to elope! California has endless areas perfect for intimate weddings with a wide variety of scenery, from ocean side, mountains and even desert. Here’s a breakdown of the ultimate best places to elope in California:
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE In California
#1
Yosemite National Park
California, USA
Yosemite National Park is one of our favorite places for elopements in the U.S.—we even considered eloping there ourselves! The diversity in Yosemite Valley alone is incredible, offering everything from towering mountains and cascading waterfalls to serene meadows, winding rivers, and tranquil lakes.
It’s not just breathtakingly beautiful; it’s also incredibly accessible for couples and their guests. Yosemite is a fantastic option for micro weddings, with ceremony locations that can accommodate up to 100 guests, making it perfect for an intimate yet unforgettable celebration.
Why Yosemite national park is one of the best places to elope in California
Planning an elopement in Yosemite is an unforgettable adventure. Over the past 8+ years, we’ve had the privilege of photographing weddings in Yosemite every year, and it remains one of our favorite destinations. The park’s natural beauty is unmatched, offering endless opportunities to create memories, from driving through Yosemite Valley to watching the sunrise at Glacier Point or the sunset at Taft Point. Fun fact: Yosemite’s El Capitan is where the documentary Free Solowas filmed, making it a must-see while you’re there.
Scenery: Yosemite is a dream for nature lovers, with its dramatic cliffs, expansive meadows, and iconic waterfalls creating picture-perfect backdrops for your vows.
Activities: Whether you’re hiking, rock climbing El Capitan, rafting down the Merced River, or taking a scenic drive, Yosemite offers countless ways to make your elopement an adventure.
best time of year to elope: June is ideal, as the meadows are lush, wildflowers are in bloom, and the waterfalls are at their peak flow—truly showcasing Yosemite’s magic.
Reasons to elope in Yosemite
Reasons not to elope in Yosemite
Best Places To Elope In Yosemite, California, USA
Best Places to Elope in Yosemite, California, USA
Yosemite offers a variety of stunning locations for your elopement ceremony and newlywed photos. The park has designated ceremony sites perfect for intimate weddings, which you can explore in the Yosemite Wedding Ceremony Location Guide. Beyond the ceremony, the park’s iconic landmarks provide endless opportunities for breathtaking photos to commemorate your day.
From the towering granite cliffs of Glacier Point to the serene meadows of Yosemite Valley, every spot is a picture-perfect backdrop. Don’t miss highlights like Taft Point for epic views at sunset, Bridalveil Fall for its romantic vibe, and the peaceful banks of the Merced River. Yosemite truly offers something for every couple, whether you’re looking for adventure or tranquility on your special day.
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
#2
Big Sur
california, usa
Located along California’s iconic Highway 1, Big Sur is a breathtaking destination that offers the most scenic coastline in the U.S. With its dramatic cliffs, rugged beaches, and majestic mountains meeting the sea, there’s truly no place in the country quite like it.
Big Sur provides an unparalleled backdrop for your elopement, whether you’re exchanging vows on a secluded beach or atop a cliff overlooking the endless Pacific Ocean. The combination of natural beauty and serenity makes it one of the most magical places to say “I do.”
Why Big Sur is one of the best places to elope in California
Big Sur is a standout elopement destination in California, known for its unparalleled natural beauty and captivating charm. With rugged coastlines, ancient redwood forests, and sweeping ocean views, it offers an awe-inspiring backdrop for intimate ceremonies. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a cliff overlooking the Pacific or beneath towering redwoods, Big Sur’s landscapes exude romance, adventure, and authenticity.
Scenery: Big Sur boasts diverse settings, from dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean vistas to serene mountains and enchanting redwood groves, making it a photographer’s dream.
Activities: Couples can enhance their experience with hikes through coastal trails, scenic drives along Highway 1, surfing the Pacific waves, or relaxing on pristine beaches.
best time of year to elope: The ideal time to elope in Big Sur is from March to late May, or from mid-October to December, offering fewer crowds and mild weather.
Reasons to elope in Big Sur
Reasons not to elope in Big Sur
best places to elope in Big Sur, california
Big Sur offers countless incredible spots to elope, including hidden gems along the iconic Highway 1, many of which require little to no hiking. To make the most of your Big Sur elopement, it’s essential to work with a photographer who knows the area inside and out. We’ve spent years exploring Big Sur’s diverse landscapes, from jaw-dropping cliffside vistas overlooking the Pacific to serene forest clearings surrounded by towering redwoods. With our expertise, we can help you find the perfect location that matches your vision and ensures your ceremony is as stunning and memorable as the setting itself.
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
#3
Sequoia & Kings Canyon
California, usa
Sequoia National Park offers a truly one-of-a-kind elopement experience, surrounded by towering trees, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Home to some of the largest trees on Earth, this serene forest setting feels like stepping into another world. If your dream is to exchange vows in a peaceful, enchanting woodland, Sequoia National Park is the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Why Sequoia & Kings Canyon is one of the best places to elope in California
If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” among the iconic giant sequoia trees, Sequoia National Park is the perfect spot! But there’s so much more to explore here. Located next to Kings Canyon National Park, the area offers a stunning variety of landscapes, including breathtaking waterfalls, sweeping mountain views, and picturesque meadows. Together, these parks create a magical and diverse setting for your elopement adventure.
Scenery: The park is famous for its towering giant sequoia trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, paired with stunning mountain landscapes that create a breathtaking backdrop for your special day.
Activities: Add adventure to your elopement with hiking among ancient trees, exploring peaceful trails, or enjoying scenic drives through the park’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
Best Time to Elope: The ideal time is from June to November, when the weather is mild, trails are accessible, and the scenery is at its best.
Reasons to elope in Sequoia & Kings Canyon
Reasons not to elope in Sequoia & Kings Canyon
best places to elope in Sequoia & Kings Canyon, California
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer a variety of stunning elopement venues. Beetle Rock, with a capacity of 75, and the Giant Forest Museum Patio, which accommodates up to 50, are both easily accessible near the Giant Forest Museum. Crescent Meadow provides a serene setting for up to 30 guests, while Halstead Meadow Picnic Area and Lost Grove Turnout offer intimate options for 20 and 25 guests, respectively. In Kings Canyon, Panoramic Point, with a limit of 15 people, features breathtaking views, and Muir Rock/Roads End, available seasonally from mid-April to mid-November, can host up to 20 guests. Each location provides a unique and beautiful backdrop for a memorable elopement.
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
#4
San Diego
BEST FOR: Ocean, Cliffs
San Diego is a stunning location in California to elope. You can choose an epic cliffside location such as the Sunset Cliffs or just go to one of the many beaches.
Why San Diego is one of the best places to elope in California
San Diego is a great place to elope in California because of its beautiful beaches, perfect weather, and a variety of scenic spots like Balboa Park and Sunset Cliffs. It’s ideal for a simple, intimate ceremony with stunning views.
Elope in San Diego for its gorgeous beaches, consistent sunny weather, and diverse settings like lush parks and cliffs with ocean views. The city offers a relaxed vibe, making it easy to have a stress-free, intimate ceremony. Plus, there are plenty of romantic spots for photos and post-ceremony celebrations.
Scenery: Coastal, picturesque, vibrant
Activities: Beach walks, hiking, sightseeing
best time of year to elope: Spring, Fall
Reasons to elope in San Diego
Reasons not to elope in San Diego
best places to elope in San Diego, California
San Diego offers some fantastic spots for elopements. Sunset Cliffs is perfect for those looking for breathtaking ocean views, especially at sunset. Balboa Park, with its beautiful gardens and historic architecture, provides plenty of charming spots for a ceremony. La Jolla Cove is another great choice, known for its picturesque coastline and clear waters. Cuvier Park, often called “The Wedding Bowl,” offers a gorgeous ocean backdrop that is popular among couples. For those who enjoy nature, Torrey Pines State Reserve provides scenic views with unique cliffs and trails, adding a touch of adventure to the day. Each location offers a unique backdrop, making San Diego a perfect place for a memorable and intimate elopement.
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
#5
San Francisco
BEST FOR: City & Ocean Views
You can elope in front of the Golden Gate Bridge, on Bakers Beach or venture outside the city to Point Reyes National Seashore.
Why San Francisco is one of the best places to elope in California
San Francisco is a top elopement spot in California because of its iconic landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alamo Square, which provide stunning backdrops. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the charming streets of North Beach to the scenic views in Twin Peaks, offer unique settings for a memorable ceremony. Plus, San Francisco’s vibrant culture and excellent dining options make it a great place to celebrate your special day.
Scenery: Iconic, diverse, panoramic
Activities: Sightseeing, dining, exploring neighborhoods
best time of year to elope: Spring, Fall
Reasons to elope in San Francisco
Reasons not to elope in San Francisco
best places to elope in San Francisco, California
Golden Gate Park offers lush gardens and serene lakes, with beautiful settings like the Japanese Tea Garden. The Palace of Fine Arts features magnificent architecture and a tranquil lagoon, perfect for romantic photos. Lands End provides dramatic coastal views and scenic trails, with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the background. Alamo Square is renowned for its charming Painted Ladies and panoramic city views. For a more serene beach experience, Baker Beach offers a picturesque coastline and breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Just a short drive away, Point Reyes National Seashore provides rugged coastline and dramatic ocean vistas, adding a touch of natural beauty to your ceremony.
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
#6
Lake Tahoe
BEST FOR: LAKES
Lake Tahoe is known for it’s beautiful beaches, overlooks, trails and ski resorts. If you’re looking for the perfect lake for your California elopement, Lake Tahoe should be on the top of your list.
Why Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to elope in California
Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to elope in California due to its stunning natural beauty, featuring crystal-clear waters, majestic mountains, and diverse landscapes. The area offers year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and boating in the summer. Additionally, the abundance of scenic spots, such as Emerald Bay and Sand Harbor, provides perfect backdrops for romantic ceremonies and photos.
Scenery: Crystal-clear water & majestic mountains
Activities: water activities, hiking, winter activities
best time of year to elope: May to October
Reasons to elope at Lake Tahoe
Reasons not to elope at Lake Tahoe
best places to elope Near Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe, California, is home to several stunning locations perfect for an elopement. Emerald Bay State Park is a favorite, offering breathtaking views of the lake, dramatic cliffs, and the picturesque Eagle Falls. This iconic spot also features the historic Vikingsholm Castle, adding a touch of elegance to your ceremony. Over on the western shore, Sugar Pine Point State Park boasts expansive beaches and dense forests, with a historic mansion and a long pier extending into the lake—perfect for capturing romantic sunset moments.
Another beautiful location is Sand Harbor, just across the state line in Nevada but close enough to be included. This area is renowned for its clear, shallow waters and impressive granite boulders, providing a unique and serene backdrop. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the short hike to Eagle Rock offers panoramic views of the lake from its summit, making it an ideal spot for an intimate and scenic elopement. Lastly, D.L. Bliss State Park features the tranquil Lester Beach, where the pristine shoreline and crystal-clear waters create a peaceful atmosphere. The nearby Rubicon Trail also offers secluded spots surrounded by nature, perfect for a private ceremony.
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
#7
Joshua Tree
BEST FOR: DESERT
Joshua Tree National Park is located in Southern California and is known for it’s unique trees and rock formations.
Why Joshua Tree is one of the best places to elope in California
Joshua Tree is one of the best places to elope in California due to its unique, otherworldly landscape that combines rugged desert beauty with iconic Joshua trees and striking rock formations. The park’s diverse terrain provides a variety of stunning backdrops, from the massive boulders of Hidden Valley to the panoramic views from Keys View. Whether you want to exchange vows under the twisted branches of a Joshua tree, among the surreal rock formations, or at a secluded desert overlook, there’s a perfect spot for every couple. The desert environment also means that Joshua Tree is beautiful year-round, though fall and spring offer the most comfortable temperatures.
Scenery: Rugged desert landscapes, iconic Joshua trees, striking rock formations
Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, stargazing
best time of year to elope: October to April
Reasons to elope in Joshua Tree National Park
Reasons not to elope in Joshua Tree National Park
THE BEST PLACE
TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
#8
Death Valley
BEST FOR: DESERT
Death Valley National Park is between California and Nevada. It features colorful rocks and a true desert feel. It gets HOT here during the summer- so plan accordingly!
Why Death Valley is one of the best places to elope in California
Death Valley is one of the best places to elope in California for its dramatic, otherworldly landscapes and sense of adventure. The vast, arid desert offers a stunning and unique backdrop with its expansive salt flats, rugged mountains, and striking rock formations. The stark beauty and unique geography of Death Valley create a truly memorable setting for a wedding. The park is incredibly remote, providing a sense of solitude and privacy that’s perfect for an intimate ceremony. The clear, expansive skies make for breathtaking sunset and starlight views, adding a magical touch to your special day. The relatively mild temperatures in the cooler months (fall and winter) make outdoor ceremonies more comfortable.
Scenery: Dramatic desert landscapes, expansive salt flats, rugged mountains
Activities: Hiking, stargazing, exploring unique rock formations
best time of year to elope: Fall and winter
Reasons to elope in Death Valley
Reasons not to elope in Death Valley
