Big Sur is 90 miles of wild California coastline where couples can exchange vows on sea cliffs, under redwoods, or on beaches with purple sand. This guide covers every location, permit requirement, season, cost, and planning tip you need to pull off a Big Sur elopement that feels completely like you. Start here, then reach out so we can build your day together.

If you’ve been dreaming about an elopement where you’re standing on a cliff with the Pacific crashing below you and absolutely nothing else on your to-do list except getting married, Big Sur is calling your name.

Every stretch of this coastline looks different. Every season changes the whole mood. And every couple who elopes here leaves saying the same thing: “I can’t believe we actually did that.”

This Big Sur elopement guide covers everything. Locations, permits, timing, cost, what to pack, where to stay, and how to build a full-day experience around your ceremony. Whether you want just the two of you on a windswept bluff or a small group celebrating under redwoods, you’ll find your answer here.

Let’s get into it.

Why Choose Big Sur for Your Elopement?

Big Sur is one of the few places in California where you can stand in an ancient redwood grove in the morning and watch the sun drop into the Pacific from a cliff that evening. You don’t have to choose between landscapes. You get all of it.

The coastline runs 90 miles along Highway 1. It takes a full hour to drive from Garrapata State Park in the north down to Limekiln State Park in the south. Along the way you pass through Andrew Molera, Julia Pfeiffer Burns, and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Parks, with private land and hidden pullouts woven throughout.

What makes eloping here different from a traditional wedding isn’t just the scenery. It’s the focus. You’re not managing a seating chart or worrying about whether Aunt Linda got her centerpiece. You’re just there, with your person, in one of the most compelling places on earth.

A few things that make Big Sur genuinely special for elopements:

• Variety in one place. Ocean, forest, waterfalls, beaches, meadows. All within driving distance of each other.
• Year-round access. Unlike Yosemite, Big Sur doesn’t close in winter.
• Scale. You can find complete solitude here, even in peak season, if you know where to go.
• The drive itself. Highway 1 through Big Sur is one of the most cinematic roads in the world. It’s part of the experience.

If you’re still deciding between Big Sur and other California locations, my California elopement guide breaks down every major region so you can compare.

Real talk: once most couples see Big Sur on the list, they stop looking at other options. It’s that kind of place.

When Is the Best Time to Elope in Big Sur?

The best season for a Big Sur elopement depends on what you want the day to feel like. Spring brings wildflowers and peak waterfalls. Fall delivers the clearest skies and the fewest crowds. Winter is moody and lush. Summer is long and golden but busy.

The key thing to understand is that Big Sur runs on microclimates. One section of the coast can be bathed in sun while two miles north is completely fogged in. This is true in every season, which is why having a backup plan isn’t optional here. It’s just part of planning a Big Sur elopement.

Here’s how each season breaks down:

• Winter (Dec-Feb): Late January is one of my personal favorite times to shoot here. Clear skies, almost no one around, lush green hillsides from the rain. Higher chance of precipitation, so you need flexibility.
• Spring (Mar-May): Wildflowers everywhere. Calla Lily Valley inside Garrapata is in full bloom late February through early April. Waterfalls are at peak flow. Mild temperatures. Fewer tourists than summer.
• Summer (Jun-Aug): Long golden days. The redwood areas stay cool even when the coast heats up. Busiest season by far. Book permits and accommodations as early as possible and lean toward sunrise ceremonies on weekdays.
• Fall (Sep-Nov): Clear skies, warm temps, crowds thinning after Labor Day. Probably the most underrated season for Big Sur elopements. September and October are consistently excellent.

Always bring layers. Always have a backup location. If you’re working with me, we build all of that into your timeline before the day arrives.

Where Are the Best Big Sur Elopement Locations?

The best Big Sur elopement location depends on the kind of setting you want for your vows. Dramatic sea cliffs, secluded beaches, hidden coves, ancient redwood groves, and open coastal meadows are all on the table here.

Big Sur is made up of six state parks: Garrapata State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Limekiln State Park, and Andrew Molera State Park. It also includes the Los Padres National Forest and stretches of private land.

Here is a break down of each park and their standout locations.

Garrapata State Park

Garrapata is the northern gateway into Big Sur, about 15 minutes south of Carmel. It’s where rugged bluff trails, wildflower valleys, and some of the most dramatic coastal views in the state all live together.

I’ve shot here more times than I can count and I still find new spots every visit.

Top locations inside Garrapata:

• Soberanes Point. A short bluff trail with creek crossings, wooden bridges, and sweeping panoramic views. Golden hour light here is genuinely hard to beat.
• Garrapata Beach. Accessible from the highway with towering cliffs on either side. Perfect for a barefoot ceremony, a first dance, or just running through the water together.
• Calla Lily Valley. A hidden valley tucked just south of the beach. In spring, wildflowers line the creek banks all the way to where it meets the ocean. Small wooden bridges cross the water. It feels like a secret.
• Bixby Bridge. One of the most photographed landmarks on the West Coast. The arch spans a deep canyon with the Pacific behind it. Best photographed at sunrise before traffic picks up.

For a complete breakdown of every Garrapata location, permit detail, and seasonal tip, check out the full Garrapata State Park elopement guide.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Ancient redwoods, the Big Sur River, campgrounds, a store with the best breakfast burrito you’ve ever had, dog-friendly trails, and in summer, rafters winding down the river. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is the heart of Big Sur. No beach access here. For that, head to Pfeiffer Beach below.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

This state park is where McWay Falls lives, an 80-foot waterfall that drops directly into a turquoise cove on the Pacific. It’s one of the most recognizable sights in California and is genuinely as good in person as it looks in photos. It also has a beautiful redwood trail behind the falls.

The park is busy during midday. Eloping at sunrise or just before sunset gives you the space almost entirely to yourselves.

• McWay Falls Overlook. The trail is currently being restored with limited room for photography, but the view is still spectacular. mcwayfalls.com has current access info.
• Partington Cove. A 1.1-mile out-and-back trail from the highway down to a sheltered cove. Both ocean and forest views. Less crowded than most Big Sur spots, with intimate nooks along the route that feel made for a private ceremony. Genuinely one of my favorite locations in all of Big Sur.

Andrew Molera State Park

One of the larger parks in Big Sur with a diverse mix of beach, meadow, cliff, and redwood forest. In spring the wildflower bloom across the meadow trails is something else. Good option if you want variety across locations throughout your day.

Los Padres National Forest: Pfeiffer Beach

Rare purple sand. An iconic natural rock arch that catches the sunset light and turns gold. Less crowded than most Big Sur beaches. No special event permit required for small, low-impact ceremonies. This place is consistently one of the most cinematic locations I’ve photographed anywhere in California.

Limekiln State Park

Limekiln State Park The southernmost of the Big Sur parks. Trails lead to historic limekilns, a beach, and Limekiln Falls. A bit off the beaten path compared to the northern parks, which means fewer crowds and a more private feel. Wonderful for couples who want something quieter.

Big Sur Elopement Permits

Do You Need a Permit for a Big Sur Elopement?

Most Big Sur elopement locations require some kind of permit, but the process is manageable and the cost is reasonable when you know what you’re doing.

Each state park has its own requirements. Los Padres National Forest, which includes Pfeiffer Beach, tends to have more relaxed rules and is a solid option for couples who want to keep logistics simple.

Here’s what to know:

• State Parks like Garrapata, Julia Pfeiffer Burns, and Pfeiffer Big Sur typically require a Special Use Permit for ceremonies.
• Standard permit cost through California State Parks runs roughly $250 for the event plus a $100 photo permit through the California Film Commission, totaling $350.
• I hold a special annual permit with California State Parks. For elopements under 10 people, this can reduce your fees significantly and remove the application process entirely.
• Venues or private land areas do not require a special event permit.
• Leave No Trace rules are non-negotiable at every location. No pampas grass, no scattered petals, no trash left behind.

Guest count matters for permits too. Many locations cap ceremonies at 8-10 people. Some accommodate up to 25 or 50. We’ll figure out exactly what you need once we nail down your location.

Can You Pair a Big Sur Elopement with the Redwoods?

One of the things couples love most about Big Sur is that you don’t have to choose between coastline and forest. The ancient redwood groves woven throughout the region sit just minutes from some of the most dramatic ocean views in the state.

Imagine starting your morning in a grove where the trees are so tall you have to tip your head back to see the canopy. It’s quiet in a way that’s hard to describe. The air is cooler. Everything slows down. Then you drive ten minutes and you’re standing on a cliff with the whole Pacific laid out in front of you.

That contrast, the hushed forest against the open coast, is something couples come back and tell me about years later. It’s one of the best things about eloping in Big Sur specifically.

Many couples choose to extend their elopement into a multi-day experience that combines Big Sur’s coastline with a dedicated redwood experience. If that’s calling to you, I have a full redwood elopement guide coming soon. For now, the Carmel by the Sea elopement guide covers how to build a multi-location day that starts in town and moves south through both landscapes.

Where to Stay in Big Sur

Where you sleep on your wedding night becomes part of the memory. A cabin in the redwoods with outdoor soaking tubs. A resort room where you can see the Pacific from the bed. A private Airbnb with a fire pit and no neighbors for miles.

Big Sur has all of it. Here’s how the options break down:

Luxury Resorts

Alila Ventana Big Sur offers luxury cabins, redwood ceremony spaces, and panoramic ocean views. They can accommodate intimate elopements or weddings up to 200. Ceremony spaces include the Redwood Cathedral (up to 100 guests) and the intimate Circle of Life grove (up to 10). Packages start around $6,500. Full wedding info here.

Post Ranch Inn sits high on the cliffs with some of the best ocean views in Big Sur. Elopement packages for 2-20 guests start around $2,500. Ceremony locations range from private cliff terraces to secluded redwood spots.

Wind and Sea Estate near McWay Falls offers both accommodations and ocean overlook ceremony space.

Bernardus Lodge, located in the hills of Carmel, is a quiet, beautiful sanctuary for you to feel spoiled on your day.

My Top Pick: Glen Oaks

Glen Oaks Big Sur is my number one recommendation for couples eloping in Big Sur. Cozy redwood cabins, a boutique hotel, two stunning ceremony spaces (the Fairy Circle ring of redwoods for up to 20 guests, and the Redwood Grove lawn for up to 100), and the biggest bonus in all of Big Sur: if you’re staying overnight and it’s just the two of you, you can hold your ceremony anywhere on the property at no additional charge.

That is genuinely rare. And the outdoor soaking tubs at the end of the day? You’ll never want to leave.

Boutique and Budget Options

• Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn: Hand-built historic cabins full of character. No on-site ceremonies, but a wonderful place to stay.
• Big Sur Lodge: Inside Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, with patio dinner receptions available.
• Big Sur Campgrounds and Cabins: A-frame cabins and campsites in the forest. Low-key, private, and especially quiet on weekdays.

Airbnbs and VRBOs

• Ocean Front Luxury Home: Copper soak tubs, outdoor showers, fire amphitheater, ocean views. Up to 12 guests.
• 5 Acres Pool and Spa: Private oak forest, pool, optional private chef. Walking distance to several restaurants.
• Big Sur Stone House: Ocean views from every room, garden, and easy access to outdoor activities.

Many couples also base themselves in Carmel and drive into Big Sur for the day. It keeps you close to cell service, restaurants, and amenities without sacrificing access to the park. My Carmel by the Sea guide has all the best accommodation options up there.

Real talk: where you stay shapes the whole texture of your elopement weekend. Pick something that matches the mood you’re going for, not just the price point.

HOT TIP: Given the frequent closures on Highway 1, I recommend staying closer to the north side or even in Carmel. Carmel and Monterey are beautiful towns with excellent cell service, a variety of stores, and delicious restaurants. However, staying inside Big Sur itself cuts down on drive time and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

What Does a Big Sur Elopement Actually Cost?

A Big Sur elopement can cost as little as your marriage license and a permit fee, or as much as a multi-day experience with photography, private accommodations, vendors, and activities. Most couples who invest in a full experience spend between $5,000 and $15,000+.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of where that money goes:

• Photography: Usually the biggest line item. Look for a photographer who also handles permit coordination. It saves you time and money.
• Accommodations: Glen Oaks and Post Ranch start around $500-900/night. Airbnbs vary widely.
• Permits: $150-400 depending on location and whether your photographer holds an annual permit.
• Florals: $200-800 for a bridal bouquet and any simple ceremony details.
• Officiant: $200-400, or free if you self-solemnize (California allows this).
• Hair and Makeup: $500-1500 for HMU depending on start and travel times to the area. Many couples do their own. (My couples are 50/50)
• Activities: Classic car rental, private picnic, spa treatments, dinner reservation.
• Attire: Entirely up to you. Some couples wear hiking boots and a flowing dress. Others dress to the nines.

The costs that couples consistently say were worth every dollar: photography, accommodations, and the one or two activities that made the day feel like theirs. The picnic on the cliff. The vintage car along the coast. The sunset dinner at Sierra Mar. Those are the things you’ll still be talking about in 20 years.

Where are the Best Places to Eat in Big Sur?

• Nepenthe offers breathtaking views of the Big Sur coastline, making it a perfect spot for a romantic meal. Enjoy the panoramic ocean views from their outdoor terrace. They also have a live weather cam, which is so cool!
  
• Big Sur Bakery is known for its rustic vibes and delicious baked goods. It’s an excellent choice for a cozy and intimate celebration, featuring a variety of fresh-baked pastries, pizzas, and seasonal dishes. (This unfortunately burned down in May 2024)
  
• Sierra Mar, located at the luxurious Post Ranch Inn, offers a gourmet dining experience with stunning ocean views. The restaurant focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, using local ingredients to create exquisite tasting menus!
  
• Deetjen’s provides a cozy and romantic setting with its historic inn and restaurant. They serve hearty American meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Best breakfast on the Big Sur Coast!
  
• The Sur House in Ventana Big Sur, offers coastal cuisine with an emphasis on sustainability. The restaurant provides amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and features an extensive wine list, making it a sophisticated choice for couples looking to celebrate in a beautiful setting.
  
• Big Sur River Inn: If you’re looking for something more laid-back but still charming, this spot is great! Here, you get to dine by the river, surrounded by redwoods, and enjoy a really nice meal while you’re there.
  
• Solstice @ The Village, Big Sur: If you’re staying at the Village, check out their restaurant + cocktail lounge. It has a nice, warm, welcoming atmosphere and super delicious food!

What are Fun Big Sur Elopement Activities?

An elopement day is not about how much time you spend in front of the camera. It’s about the full-day elopement experience you create to cherish and remember forever. Filling your day with things you love to do will make it THAT much more meaningful.

On your elopement day, I am your guide, coordinator, friend, and, of course, photographer. Together, we get to run around and explore the beautiful locations you have chosen, creating personal moments and memories, catching a break, and, yes—time for posing and getting those amazing shots.

So what do you do for those in-between moments that would make your day uniquely yours? It can be ANYTHING! Tradition, adventures, and just being together. Here are some ideas:

• First Dance
• Cake cutting/eating dessert
• Popping champagne
• Rent a Classic Car (A top fav!)
• Having a picnic by the ocean
• Catered dinner at your Airbnb
• Exchanging gifts
• Campfire and S’mores
• Rafting
• Reading letters from friends and family
• Speeches
• Catered dinner at your Airbnb
• Have an intimate reception with your loved ones
• Hiking numerous trails in all the mentioned parks.
• Boat ride in Carmel
• Visiting an art gallery
• Enjoying some fine dining in one of the before mentioned places!

Sample Big Sur Elopement Itineraries

Creating an unforgettable elopement experience is all about filling your day with activities you love and celebrating your love in stunning natural settings. Whether you want a private adventure or wish to balance time with some guests, here are some example itineraries to inspire your elopement day.

Sample 1

Day 1: Arrival

Evening: Check into your chosen accommodation in Big Sur. Whether you’re staying at Alila Ventana, Post Ranch Inn, or a cozy cabin at Glen Oaks, settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening. Consider a romantic dinner at Nepenthe, with its incredible ocean views and delicious cuisine.

Day 2: Elopement Day

Morning: Start your day with a breathtaking ceremony at McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The 80-foot waterfall cascading into the Pacific Ocean creates a stunning and unforgettable backdrop for exchanging your vows.

Midday: After your ceremony, take some time to explore the Julia Pfeiffer, Burns State Park. For more spectacular views and intimate moments among the redwoods, hike along the Ewoldsen Trail.

Afternoon:  Head to Pfeiffer Beach for a picnic lunch. The unique purple sand and striking rock formations provide a picturesque setting for a relaxed meal and stunning photos.

Evening: Conclude your day with a romantic dinner at Sierra Mar, the award-winning restaurant at Post Ranch Inn. Enjoy gourmet cuisine while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Sample 2

Morning: Begin your day with a short hike to Partington Cove. This hidden gem offers a secluded and picturesque spot with both coastal and forest views. Have your ceremony in a scenic spot!

Midday: If you’re eloping in the spring, take a trip to Calla Lily Valley near Garrapata State Park and check out the blooming lilies.

Afternoon: Head back to your accommodation for some relaxation. Enjoy a couples massage or a spa treatment at Alila Ventana or Post Ranch Inn.

Evening: Meet up with your guests for a catered dinner at your cozy Airbnb or a local restaurant like Big Sur River Inn. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the beach and enjoy each other’s company.

How Do You Get a Marriage License for a Big Sur Elopement?

A California marriage license is valid immediately and for 90 days from the date of issuance. You can obtain it in any California county and use it anywhere in the state. The completed license must be returned to the issuing county clerk after the ceremony.

The closest office to Big Sur is the Monterey County Clerk’s Office in Salinas, about 30-45 minutes north of the park. Both partners appear in person with valid photo ID. No waiting period. License issued same day.

Self-solemnization in California: California law allows couples to marry without an officiant. Both partners sign the marriage license as the officiants. Witnesses are optional. This is a popular option for couples who want a completely private ceremony.

A few logistics to know:

• Public licenses require at least one witness. Confidential licenses do not.
• The license must be returned to the county where it was issued, not the county where you got married.
• Both partners must appear in person to apply. No proxy applications.

Hot Tip

If you don’t want to worry about all these things for your elopement, you can get legally married beforehand and then head out for your adventures later! Also… I am an officiant and would be honored to marry you!!

What Should You Pack for a Big Sur Elopement?

Big Sur is remote. Cell service is limited. The weather changes fast. Pack like you’re going on an adventure, because you are.

Essentials:

• Downloaded offline maps for all locations (Google Maps offline or AllTrails)
• Headlamps for early morning or sunset sessions
• Bluetooth speaker for your first dance
• Snacks and plenty of water
• Vow books, rings, and marriage license
• Bouquet and any ceremony details
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Multiple layers, including a windproof outer layer
• Shoes with grip that you don’t mind being photographed in
• Waterproof makeup and a clear umbrella
• Poison oak soap (present on several trails; available at local stores)
• Extra battery pack for phones
• Blanket for post-ceremony picnic or beach time

Real talk: Big Sur will reward you for being prepared and humble you if you’re not. Download those maps before you leave cell range.

Final Big Sur Elopement Planning Tips

• Prepare to be off-grid as cell service is extremely limited. This is the best place to unplug and free your mind, but plan accordingly by downloading maps and setting meeting places in advance.

• Poison oak is a thing on some of the trails! If you come into contact with poison oak, wash the affected skin within the first few hours. Wipe down any other pieces with alcohol wipes. All local stores carry special soap for poison oak, but it’s wise to come prepared.

• Big Sur’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared by bringing layers, clear umbrellas, change of clothes, etc.

• There is a gas station near Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park along with charming restaurants and convenience stores. These are great for picking up any last-minute necessities.

• Ticks are present in the area, so it’s important to check yourself after hiking and consider using repellents.

• The coastal winds can be strong, especially near the cliffs and beaches. Plan your attire and hairstyle accordingly to stay comfortable.

• Be aware of potential extreme weather conditions such as sudden rain or high winds. Always have a backup plan for your ceremony location.

• Big Sur is a wilderness area. Respect the natural environment and be prepared for the rugged conditions. This means sturdy footwear, proper clothing, and a spirit of adventure.

• Always abide by the Leave No Trace principles!

My Big Sur Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina, your Big Sur Elopement Photographer. Planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences are my jam. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make the most amazing memories and have stunning photos that you can share with all of your loved ones. This is a day where you get to look back and say, “Wow, we did that!”

My Big Sur elopement packages offer a half-, full–, or multi-day experience! I offer a ton of flexibility in designing our time together and would love to get to know you more to help you plan! To learn more, head over to my contact form, and we can get together on a call!

Offered throughout every elopement package:

• Help you hand pick a location
• Provide resources and custom location guides on lodging, activities, and the best places to indulge in delicious foods
• Scout locations with boots on the ground to find the best places and lighting for your ceremony and photos
• Secure the right location permits to make sure your wedding is legal!
• Recommend vetted vendors to help make your dream of a day come true. 
• Create your custom timeline (there are 2-3 options to choose from!) with room to breathe and enjoy your day.
• Deliver a joyful experience along with swoon-worthy photos in your own online gallery!
• Have a backup plan for it all!
• Deliver sneak peeks within 72 hours and a full wedding gallery within 6 weeks! 
• Provide a Fine Art Wedding Album design for you to print and hold onto your photos to thumb through for years to come.