Big Sur Elopement Guide
Out of all the locations we feature here at Wandering Weddings, Big Sur elopements probably take the cake as being one of the most popular and beautiful California elopement destinations. Big Sur, with its dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, towering redwoods, and rugged coastlines, is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring locations for an elopement. Whether you’re drawn to the natural beauty or the quiet, intimate vibe, Big Sur offers the perfect backdrop for couples looking for a meaningful and unforgettable elopement experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your Big Sur elopement, from the best locations to permits, vendors, and where to stay.
Why Elope in Big Sur?
Big Sur is renowned for its raw, natural beauty and sense of serenity. Here’s why so many couples choose Big Sur as their elopement destination:
1. Stunning Coastal Scenery
Big Sur is home to some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the world. The rugged cliffs, expansive ocean vistas, and beautiful beaches create the perfect backdrop for your ceremony. From intimate beachside ceremonies to exchanging vows on a cliffside with the Pacific Ocean below, Big Sur offers endless picture-perfect options.
2. Secluded and Intimate
If you’re looking for privacy and an intimate setting, Big Sur has a ton of hidden locations that would make an ideal elopement destination. You can choose a spot where it feels like it’s just the two of you, surrounded by the beauty of nature, without the distractions of a larger venue. Teaming up with an experienced vendor is always the easiest way to find these more remote spots.
3. Outdoor Adventure Opportunities
For adventurous couples, Big Sur is the perfect destination to combine your love for the outdoors with your wedding day. Hike through redwood forests, explore coastal trails, or even incorporate your favorite outdoor activities like kayaking, surfing, or horseback riding into your elopement experience. Anything is really possible in Big Sur!
4. Year-Round Beauty
Big Sur’s mild coastal climate makes it a year-round elopement destination. While the landscape changes with the seasons, the beauty of the coastline remains constant.
When to Elope in Big Sur
Coastal California has beautiful weather year-round with mild winters. With that said, we think the best time to elope in Big Sur would be the late Summer to Fall months. From August to October, you will experience dry and warm weather.
If you want to have a winter wedding, we do suggest having one on the side of caution. There is usually more rainfall during this time of year, which can lead to road closures and landslides.
Each season in Big Sur offers its own unique beauty and advantages. Here’s what you can expect during each time of year:
Spring (March-May)
Spring in Big Sur brings wildflowers blooming along the cliffs and moderate temperatures, making it an ideal time to elope. The coastal scenery is vibrant, and the chance of rain decreases as the season progresses. Crowds are also generally smaller in early spring.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is a popular time for visitors, and the weather is warm and sunny. However, Big Sur can experience coastal fog in the mornings, which often burns off by the afternoon. If you plan a summer elopement, consider a morning or sunset ceremony to avoid the busiest part of the day.
Fall (September – November)
Fall is one of the best times to elope in Big Sur. The weather is still warm, the summer crowds have thinned, and the chance of clear skies is higher. The sunsets during this time of year are particularly stunning.
Winter (December – February)
Winter brings cooler temperatures and a higher chance of rain, but it also offers incredible opportunities for a quiet, misty elopement with fewer tourists around. If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, winter is an excellent time to elope in Big Sur, just be prepared for some rainy days.
Where to Elope in Big Sur
It’s no surprise that Big Sur has a place in both our hearts and on our list of best places to elope. If you are certain you want to elope at Big Sur, then our California elopement packages will help you plan out your elopement day.
Surrounding Big Sur, you will find state parks, beaches, and cliffs along the coast. We love how couples can have a different look for their elopement ceremony and wedding portraits because Big Sur has so much to offer.
You can also plan your elopement within Big Sur on privately owned land rather than protected public land. Established lodges and Airbnbs are popular in this area and can make for a cozy get-ready together for your elopement. These lodges are also a great choice for couples who are looking for more privacy or to plan a micro wedding with family and friends.
You can also plan a glamping session in the Redwoods, and you can then exchange vows as the sun sets over the ocean.
Here are some of our favorite spots to explore:
Pfeiffer Beach
If you’re looking for a space that doesn’t require a permit to elope, then Pfeiffer Beach is your best bet. However, weddings are not allowed from March to October. Pfeiffer Beach is famous for its purple sand and striking rock formations. This secluded beach is perfect for a private ceremony at sunset, with the waves crashing against the cliffs behind you. Keep in mind, that parking can be limited, so plan accordingly. This location is also famous for its huge keyhole rock formations.
Check out this romantic Pfeiffer Beach ceremony with the couple’s two sons.
Garrapata State Park
We have featured Garrapata State Park in other elopements, and we love the easy beach access directly off Highway 1. With sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs, Garrapata State Park is a popular elopement location. The park has various coastal trails and beach access points that provide beautiful backdrops for your ceremony. A permit is required for your ceremony here as well.
Check out this wedding ceremony with family on the cliffs of Big Sur.
Andrew Molera State Park
Andrew Molera State Park is a great Big Sur elopement destination for couples who love to surf. A permit is also required for elopement ceremonies here, but there is a gorgeous beach within a mile hike from the state park.
Ventana Big Sur
This is the lodging choice that our couple in this feature stayed at. Ventana Big Sur is a resort that offers both hotel rooms and glamping sites. Jessie and Matt got ready and took some wedding portraits at Ventana’s glamping zone. A short walk will lead you to the stunning redwood forest. This is the perfect location for your elopement day adventures.
Glen Oaks Big Sur
For a more private setting, consider Glen Oaks Big Sur, a boutique resort that offers ceremony spaces within its redwood grove. Glen Oaks is an adorable lodge with easy access to woods. If you don’t want to plan your elopement ceremony here, you can always stay overnight and elope somewhere else in Big Sur. It’s perfect for couples seeking a peaceful, forested backdrop with the convenience of on-site accommodations.
Check out this whimsical elopement near Glen Oaks.
These are just a few spots that are popular for Big Sur elopements but keep in mind there are so many nooks and crannies to explore. We suggest getting together with one of our California elopement vendors to better plan your special day.
While most places require permits, these permit applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance of your wedding day. It is also important to keep in mind that an elopement permit and a wedding permit are two different things in the Big Sur area. The biggest difference is an elopement permit must have fewer than 10 people present, including vendors.
Permits, Marriage License, and Leave No Trace for a Big Sur Elopement
Permits
Eloping in Big Sur may require permits, depending on the location you choose. State parks, in particular, often require a special use permit for weddings and events. Be sure to check with the park you’re interested in and apply for your permit well in advance, as they can take time to process. Here’s a breakdown of permit requirements for popular Big Sur locations:
- Garrapata State Park: Special event permits are required for weddings.
- Pfeiffer Beach: No permit is needed for small elopements, but it’s best to contact the park office for clarification.
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: A special use permit is required for weddings.
Always remember to double-check permit requirements. Permit requirements can change at any time.
Marriage License
To legally elope in Big Sur, you’ll need to obtain a California marriage license. Here’s what you need to know:
Where to Get a Marriage License
You can obtain a California marriage license at any County Clerk’s office in the state, and it doesn’t have to be in Monterey County (where Big Sur is located). Nearby options include the Monterey County Clerk’s Office in Salinas or the Santa Cruz County Clerk’s Office if you’re driving through the area.
Requirements for a Marriage License
- Both you and your partner need to be present in person to apply for the marriage license.
- You’ll need to bring a valid form of photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- You do not need to be a California resident to obtain a marriage license.
- California does not have a waiting period, so you can get married immediately after receiving your license.
- There is no blood test requirement to obtain a California marriage license.
Marriage License Fees
The cost for a marriage license in California typically ranges from $70 to $100, depending on the county. This fee must be paid at the time of application, and most offices accept cash, checks, or credit cards.
Types of Marriage Licenses
- Public Marriage License: This is the most common type of license and can be used anywhere in California. You’ll need at least one witness during your ceremony, and the marriage will become part of public records.
- Confidential Marriage License: This option is available for couples who have been living together as spouses. It does not require a witness and is not part of public records, but the ceremony must still take place in California.
- After your ceremony, your officiant will sign the marriage license and return it to the County Clerk’s office for recording. Once filed, you’ll be able to request a certified copy of your marriage certificate for your records. Processing times vary, but it typically takes 6-8 weeks to receive the official certificate.
Leave No Trace
Big Sur is a delicate environment, and it’s essential to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect its natural beauty. Here’s how you can minimize your impact:
- Stay on designated trails: Avoid stepping on vegetation or disturbing wildlife.
- Pack out all trash: Leave the area as pristine as you find it.
- Avoid non-biodegradable decorations: Use natural elements for décor and avoid confetti, balloons, or anything harmful to the environment.
- Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them.
Vendors for Your Big Sur Elopement Package
If you get together with one of our California photographers and other wedding vendors, they can help put together your Big Sur elopement package. For a full day of coverage, photographers typically range from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the specific photographer and what you are looking for. Aside from the permit fees, you would then have to worry about any wedding attire or details you would like to bring along.
If you are wondering what to include in your Big Sur elopement, our how to elope section breaks down some elements you may want to consider including in your budget.
Places to Stay Near Big Sur
After your ceremony, relax and enjoy Big Sur’s serene surroundings by staying in one of its nearby accommodations. A lot of these accommodations are also popular wedding venues in Big Sur, which is important to know if you’re planning a small wedding! Whether you want a luxurious hotel or a cozy cabin in the woods, here are some of the best places to stay near Big Sur:
Check out this home with coastal views.
This romantic forest cottage for 2 is so romantic!
This ocean-view home is perfect to stay at!
Check out this off-grid stay for 2.
Post Ranch Inn
Post Ranch Inn is one of the most luxurious and iconic places to stay in Big Sur. Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the hotel offers incredible views, world-class dining, and spa services for a truly indulgent experience.
Glen Oaks Big Sur
Glen Oaks offers stylish, modern cabins and cottages nestled among the redwoods. It’s perfect for couples who want a rustic yet comfortable stay, with easy access to Big Sur’s top attractions.
Big Sur River Inn
For a charming and relaxed experience, the Big Sur River Inn offers rustic rooms along the Big Sur River. The inn’s laid-back vibe and riverside setting make it a great spot to unwind after your elopement.
Ventana Big Sur
Ventana Big Sur is an adults-only luxury resort that offers an immersive experience in nature. With spa services, wellness activities, and stunning views of the coast, it’s perfect for couples looking to indulge in a luxurious stay.
Treebones Resort
For a more unique experience, consider staying at Treebones Resort, which offers eco-friendly yurts and glamping options overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s a perfect option for couples looking for a blend of adventure and comfort
Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in Big Sur!
Real Big Sur Elopement Story
Jessie and Matt got ready for their elopement in an adorable tent in the Redwoods near California’s Big Sur.
Jessie tells us some advice other couples should consider if they also want to elope in the Redwoods including focusing on your vendors, dress, and accommodation.
“We really wanted to stay in nature and enjoy all the amazing scenery that Big Sur has to offer, so Ventana’s glamping option was perfect and unique. I stalked the BHLDN wedding dress website for sales for a few months, ordered a few different wedding dress options, and tried them on at home. I highly recommend BHLDN to brides, especially those eloping, because they have affordable options for everyone.” [Jessie]
Jessie and Matt also decided to do the legal ceremony in Virginia and read their vows at Big Sur.
“We definitely recommend this to other couples! Don’t be afraid to split up the legal and personal vow ceremonies if it means you can be married by someone you both know. You also don’t have to worry about getting/filing a marriage license in a different state.” [Jessie]
Why a Big Sur Elopement?
Jessie tells us that Matt and she were always drawn to the idea of eloping based on how personal and intimate it is. Once they became engaged, eloping became the practical choice.
“More importantly, we are both passionately opposed to the wedding industrial complex — the idea that you need to have and spend at least $40,000 on a wedding to prove your love and marry each other. We wanted our marriage to be about us and wanted our ceremony to focus on what we care most about — each other and the commitment we were making — not the bridesmaids dresses, centerpieces, or table linens.” [Jessie]
So why Big Sur and the Redwoods? Jessie tells us that Big Sur has been on their bucket list to visit for a while, and it was a no-brainer when deciding where they should elope. They both love the mountains and the beach, so California’s Big Sur was the perfect location for them.
Hire a Professional Who Knows the Area for Your Elopement
Flora tells us how important it is for your vendors to know the area for your elopement. This allows for a seamless planning and elopement experience. You should also ask about back up plans as well.
“Our original beach location was closed due to an overabundance of cars in the parking lot, so I knew another beach location somewhat nearby to take them to! I usually always have 3 back up plans!” [Flora]
For this Big Sur elopement, Flora guided and planned Jessie and Matt’s special day. This couple not only fully trusted her, but they also allowed Flora to be as creative as she wanted. She tells us how the portraits she took in the Redwoods were some of her favorite she has taken.
“My sessions are largely based around light and emotion, so I often really need my couples’ trust to see a location through my eyes. When I saw the spotlight on top of the tree stump I was SO excited!” [Flora]
5 Tips For Eloping in Big Sur
- Settle all permits and fees ahead. Planning ahead will lead to a smoother elopement day.
- Make sure to incorporate driving into your Big Sur elopement. Highway 1 is gorgeous, and the views you will see are unreal. This is also a great way to spot a few more portrait locations where you can just hop off of the car.
- Get together with one of our Wandering Weddings photographers and map out your day to make the most of it.
- If you are interested in one of the state parks, remember that the state park system allows for only one elopement per day in the Big Sur sector.
- There are so many places in the Big Sur area to plan for your romantic stay including Ventana Big Sur (where our featured couple stayed), Big Sur Lodge, or Glen Oaks Big Sur to name a few.
If you are looking for more ideas on elopements, then check out our other elopement packages for more tips and locations. Are you looking for a mountain elopement destination in California? Our Yosemite Elopement Guide is another favorite among our couples planning their elopement.
More photos from this elopement:
Vendors:
Photography | Flora Gibson Photography
Venue | Ventana
Dress | BHLDN
Bouquet | Big Sur Flowers