Oregon Coast Elopement Guide

Visiting the Oregon Coast is an enchanting experience and probably one of the most popular locations to elope in Oregon. Stretching over 360 miles along the Pacific Ocean, the coastline is covered with picturesque cliffs, sandy shores, and iconic rock formations like Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach. Take a moment to relax on the shores of Cape Kiwanada or explore coastal cliffs after your wedding ceremony. Since you’re here, you’re probably trying to plan an Oregon Coast elopement! We’ll cover everything you need to know below from places to elope, permit information, seasons on the Oregon Coast, and elopement vendors for your package. We’ll even cover some of our favorite wedding venues on the Oregon Coast!

In this article we’ll talk about how to elope on the Oregon Coast:

• Places to Elope on the Oregon Coast
• When to Elope on the Oregon Coast
• Permits and LNT For Your Oregon Coast Wedding
• Oregon Coast Wedding Venues
• Oregon Coast Elopement Vendors

Places to Elope on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast provides a dreamlike backdrop for couples looking to plan an adventurous and intimate elopement. Consider exchanging vows on the secluded beaches of Ecola State Park, framed by towering sea stacks and lush coastal forests. If that doesn’t sound right, then consider eloping on the dramatic cliffs of Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City. Whether you choose a windswept beach, a coastal cliff, or a forested oasis, the Oregon Coast provides a range of breathtaking locations for an adventurous and unforgettable elopement experience. We’ll talk about some of our favorites below, but keep in mind teaming up with a specialized Oregon elopement vendor will give you access to locations not on this list. These locations tend to be more secluded and intimate if you don’t prefer planning a sunrise elopement at places like Canon Beach.

Oregon is a favorite among our vendors and team. If you aren’t 100% sure about eloping in Oregon, then check out these other amazing places to elope!

Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is nestled along the rugged southern coast of Oregon and is the perfect spot for adventurous elopement couples. This 12-mile stretch of coastline, just north of Brookings and Gold Beach along Highway 101, is covered in towering cliffs, sea stacks, and secluded coves, offering unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean. Couples can explore the numerous hiking trails that wind through old-growth forests, revealing breathtaking views at every turn. Some popular spots within the corridor include Arch Rock, Natural Bridges, Secret Beach, and the iconic Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor overlook.

Check out this Epic Elopement Adventure at OR’s Samuel H. Boardman Corridor.

Cape Kiwanada

Cape Kiwanda, a coastal gem near Tillamook known for its towering sandstone cliffs, massive dunes, and stunning Pacific Ocean views. The iconic Haystack Rock, resembling its namesake in Cannon Beach, stands proudly offshore, creating a picturesque setting for couples planning a sunset elopement. A fun fact is this area is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the area is home to nesting seabirds, so be on the lookout as you explore together. With its unique blend of natural wonders and outdoor activities, Cape Kiwanda is a fun destination along the Oregon Coast for couples to plan their wedding adventure.

Check out this Styled Beach Elopement in Cape Kiwanda.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, nestled along the captivating Oregon Coast, is one of THE most popular wedding spots on the Oregon Coast. So much so, that a lot of our Oregon photographers actually recommend couples skip this location. It’s important to note, however, that you can have an amazing wedding here IF you plan during the week, during the off-season, and during sunset/sunrise. Cannon Beach is home to Haystack Rock, one of the world’s tallest sea stacks. This coastal town offers a picturesque backdrop of sandy shores and dramatic cliffs. Another popular area is Chapman Point, located on the northern stretch of the beach. The beach itself is a tranquil escape, inviting visitors to enjoy breathtaking sunsets against the Pacific horizon. It’s important to check the weather forecast and tide tables to ensure you can access both Haystack Rock and Chapman Point at low tide.

Check out this Rainy Cannon Beach Engagement.

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park, perched along the Oregon Coast, is a haven for couples who love panoramic views of the coast. This stunning park encompasses lush forests, rugged cliffs, and beaches, creating diverse and picturesque landscapes to pick from. A highlight of the park is the historic Tillamook Head Lighthouse viewpoint, providing breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding headlands. Ecola is also 10 minutes from the popular Cannon Beach.

Hikers can explore the scenic trails, like the Clatsop Loop Trail, which winds through old-growth Sitka spruce and offers glimpses of wildlife and wildflowers. Indian Beach, nestled within the park, is a popular spot for picnics and beachcombing, surrounded by towering sea stacks and dramatic cliffs.

Hug Point

Hug Point is one of the most popular elopement locations on the Oregon Coast. It’s a beautiful stretch of beach just south of Cannon Beach. This area is not as crowded as Cannon Beach and features a bunch of picturesque areas for couples including a cave, waterfall, mountain stream, and evergreens. You should always be aware of the tide when exploring the beach and headlands of Hug Point.

Check out this Moody, Hug Point Elopement Inspiration.

When to Elope on the Oregon Coast

The key to eloping on the Oregon Coast is understanding TIMING. Learn when sunset and sunrise are and navigate the tide schedule.

Summer on the Oregon Coast – Warm, little rainfall, most crowded season
Fall on the Oregon Coast – September – October is a great time to visit with good weather and fewer crowds. Once October hits, you’ll tend to see more rain.
Spring on the Oregon Coast – Chilly, rainy, fewer crowds. Consider late springtime (May-June)
Winter on the Oregon Coast – Chilly and has the highest rainfall. Bring clear umbrellas for the coolest and moodiest elopement.

Permits & LNT For Your Oregon Coast Wedding

When it comes to learning how to elope, permits and leave no trace (LNT) tends to be a top priority.

Do I need a wedding permit to plan my Oregon Coast elopement? No. Most of the state parks along the coast do not require a permit for your ceremony as long as your group size is under 50 people.

However, if you decide to include any decorations or rental furniture, then you will most likely need a permit. Keep in mind permits are not issued from May to September. This permit information can change at any time. Please double-check the Oregon State Park’s website for the latest information.

Leave no trace is important anywhere you decide to elope, not just the Oregon Coast. Make sure you and your guests are leaving no trace and leaving the area better than you found it. You can do this by picking up after yourselves and following Oregon’s state park’s rules and regulations. If you ever have any questions or doubts about what is and what is not allowed during your elopement adventure, please ask. Ask state park officials or even ask your Oregon elopement vendors.

Oregon Coast Wedding Venues

We featured some of our favorite elopement locations, but we thought we would also include a few of our favorite wedding venues on the Oregon Coast that would be perfect for elopements and micro weddings. These venues are ideal because most offer gorgeous views, privacy, and packages so that your planning is seamless. If you aren’t 100% sure about getting married somewhere on the Oregon Coast, then check out our wedding venue list in Oregon where we take a deeper dive into multiple areas and types of venues in Oregon.

Crook Point

We love Crook Point because they host weddings of all sizes. They have intimate ceremonies on their private beach and include inclusive wedding packages, so you don’t have to worry about any of the logistics. Crook Point is located on 2 miles of the remote Southern Oregon coastline, and it’s the perfect venue for epic views and secluded beaches.

Capella By the Sea

Capella by the Sea, a mesmerizing venue in Brookings, has the coolest architecture with its endless windows and wooden beams, providing the perfect canvas for an intimate wedding experience. Capella by the Sea venue is available for rental year-round at $129 an hour with a 2-hour minimum. Event insurance is required.

Check out this Styled Elopement at Capella by the Sea and Secret Beach.

Seawinds Estate

If you’re looking for a private estate, then Seawinds Estate is romantic and as intimate as it gets. This estate can be rented out for your elopement and sleeps 18. All bedrooms have ocean views since the estate itself is perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the water. This venue even gives you access to your own private beach!

Pelican Pub & Brewery

If you’re planning a small Oregon wedding, the Pelican Pub & Brewery is laid back and offers multiple options when it comes to not just packages with delicious food and drinks, but multiple locations too. They have locations in Siletz Bay, Pacific City, Tillamook, and Cannon Beach.

Surfsand Resort

Surfsand Resort gives you extraordinary views of Haystack Rock and other gorgeous views as you explore the North Oregon Coast. They take care of the planning for your beach wedding on Cannon Beach, so you don’t have to worry about the crowd.

Oregon Coast Elopement Vendors

Once you understand where, when, and how to elope on the Oregon Coast, it’s time to team up with an Oregon expert in elopements and small weddings. Check out our featured vendors below who are amazing resources when it comes to planning your Oregon wedding and putting together the ideal Oregon Coast elopement package for you.