You’re dreaming of salt in the air, sand between your toes, and a celebration that feels more YOU than stiff traditions ever could. Whether it’s a sunrise picnic with just the two of you or a cliffside vow exchange with your closest loved ones, California’s coastline offers stunning backdrops to say yes to forever.

Here’s a list of the best locations for your California beach elopement and post-ceremony celebration, broken down from NorCal to SoCal, so you can find your dream coastal setting.

Best Coasts for Your California Beach Elopement

• Crescent City
• Trinidad
• Mendocino
• Bodega Bay, Sonoma Coast
• San Francisco Coastline
• Big Sur
• Laguna Beach
• Ventura
• El Matador Beach, Malibu
• San Diego

Crescent City

Imagine reading your vows under a canopy of redwoods, then driving ten minutes for champagne by the sea. This could be you eloping at Crescent City! 

This area is tucked near the Oregon border and feels like a secret. Here you’ll find stretches of beach, rocky cliffs, and views going for miles, plus you’re minutes away from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. You’re also just over half an hour’s drive away from Brookings, OR, if you want to hop the state line for a bit of extra exploring. 

Depending on your chosen elopement location, the nearby Redwood National and local State Parks generally require special use permits for certain activities, especially if you plan to have a ceremony in a specific location within the parks and you have a larger group size. 

However, the permit process and requirements can vary based on factors such as the size of the event, the location, and the specific activities involved. For more information, visit this site!

Trinidad

Trinidad is a sleepy little coastal village in Northern California. The beaches here are absolutely gorgeous, with dramatic rock formations and dense forests just a few steps inland.

If you’re eloping here, you’re also right near the Redwood National and State Parks, making it easy to blend beach and forest into one unforgettable day. If you’re into a slower pace and want that classic NorCal fog-and-forest vibe, this is the place.

Mendocino

Mendocino is a stunner with its artsy vibe, wineries, and moody, windswept beaches. The beach views are incredible, featuring rocky bluffs, wildflowers in the spring, and peaceful coves where you can sneak off for golden hour portraits.

There are numerous adorable spots to stay in the area, featuring ocean-view cottages and charming B&Bs, perfect for your elopement staycation.

Mendocino is also a great spot for hikers with a variety of trails through lush forests and along rugged coastlines. One of the places I highly recommend exploring is Russian Gulch State Park, featuring a stunning waterfall. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to ride the historic Skunk Train through the heart of the redwoods.

Mendocino is made up of many State Parks, so depending on the place you choose, you’re going to need a specific permit to elope there. 

Bodega Bay, Sonoma Coast

If you love the idea of pairing redwoods, wine country, and the ocean all in one day, this is your spot. Bodega Bay and the Sonoma Coast offer those postcard-worthy rugged cliffs and quiet beaches, and you can even do a first look at Armstrong Redwoods before heading to the coast.

Think sleepy Airbnbs tucked into the hills, cozy seafood dinners after the ceremony, and maybe even a wine tasting to celebrate. It’s romantic, relaxed, and incredibly scenic, making it perfect for couples who want an intimate and intentional elopement with a beautiful variety of options.

Permits for beach weddings can be obtained through Sonoma County Parks, which manages many of the local beaches.

San Francisco Coastline

When you elope in San Francisco, you get to experience the city AND get epic beach views. Locations like Marshall’s Beach, Sutro Baths, and the Marin Headlands offer dramatic coastal cliffs, ocean mist, and skyline views with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the background.

You’re also super close to the city for celebrating afterwards! Here’s incredible food and easy logistics for any guests flying in. And if you want to add in some forest vibes, Muir Woods and its towering redwoods are just across the bridge. San Francisco is a great option if you want gorgeous nature and the ease and charm of the city.

Most of the coast is preserved by the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. A Special Park Use permit is required for an outdoor ceremony or portraits can be found here. Additional information about ceremony site locations and group size options can be found here.

Check out this San Francisco adventure elopement for inspiration!

Big Sur

Eloping in Big Sur feels like pressing pause on the rest of the world. It is one of the most well-known locations in NorCal. Between the turquoise water, towering cliffs, and golden light, it honestly looks like a dream. You’ve got so many options—from wide-open beaches to hidden coves and even redwood groves if you want to sneak into the forest.

Nearby towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey give you charming places to stay, delicious food, and cute spots for a just-us celebration after. 

If you’d like to elope in Big Sur, I recommend visiting during the Spring and Fall Seasons. Spring offers comfortable weather, which is great for hiking and roaming through the wildflower fields, while fall will also have great weather and be less crowded than summer. If possible, plan your elopement around sunset or sunrise for the most magical elopement experience!

Most sites require a permit from California State Parks, and each location has specific rules. You can find all the rules, regulations, and fees here. 

For more tips and information, check out my full Big Sur elopement guide here!

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is one of SoCal’s most iconic coastal spots, and it’s easy to see why. With its golden sands, tucked-away coves, dramatic cliffs, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, it is sun-soaked and picture perfect. Some beaches are hidden between rocky bluffs, offering pockets of privacy even though you’re just minutes from town.

You can say your vows on a scenic bluff with ocean views stretching for miles, or head down to the sand to be closer to the crashing waves. Afterward, treat yourselves to some tacos or ice cream in the village. The area is super walkable and charming, and a great option for amazing views without a big hike!

You will need to get a special wedding permit to get married at Laguna Beach. You can learn about that here! 

Ventura

Ventura is a hidden gem on the Southern California coast that’s perfect for couples who want ocean views and a low-key vibe. It’s less crowded than LA or San Diego, and it still has beautiful beaches, palm trees, colorful lifeguard towers and chill surfer-town energy.

You can have your ceremony right on the beach or find a quiet spot near the Ventura Pier or Marina Park. It’s also a great location if you want to mix in some fun post-ceremony activities, like grabbing tacos at a local food truck, walking along the boardwalk, or popping into one of the area’s craft breweries. It’s effortlessly cool and a great fit for couples who want something beautiful but unpretentious.

A permit may be required depending on your chosen beach or park, so it’s best to check with the City of Ventura or local parks department.

El Matador Beach, Malibu

If you’ve ever seen dreamy beach elopement photos with arches, sea caves, and golden cliffs, there’s a very good chance they were taken at El Matador Beach in Malibu. This spot is iconic for a reason. It’s romantic, dramatic, and downright magical at sunset.

It can get crowded (especially on weekends), but if you go for a weekday sunrise or sunset elopement, you’ll likely get a quieter, more intimate experience. Bonus: Malibu has so many chic restaurants and places to stay for a luxurious finish to your day.

San Diego

San Diego is a total dream for a beach elopement with the sunny skies, soft and and relaxed coastal energy. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic cliffs at Sunset Cliffs, the charming shoreline in La Jolla, or the golden stretch of Coronado Beach, there’s a ceremony spot for every vibe.

You can exchange vows as the sun dips low over the Pacific, explore tide pools together, or even bring a blanket and have a cozy beachfront picnic. Afterward, celebrate with fish tacos, ice cream, or a sunset sail. There’s so much to do here! San Diego is perfect if you want those laid-back California vibes with a little adventure and a lot of sunshine.

Depending on your ceremony location, you may need a permit, especially for spots like Sunset Cliffs or city-managed beaches. Be sure to check with the local parks and recreation department to get the details ahead of time!

Planning Tips for Your California Beach Elopement

Consider Tides & Timing

Some of California’s most stunning beaches look totally different depending on the tide. At low tide, you might have dreamy sea caves or wide stretches of sand. While at high tide, that spot may be completely under water. I always help my couples check the tide charts and plan accordingly!

Getting the Best Light

That dreamy beach glow you see in all the Pinterest inspo? It comes down to timing and direction. West-facing beaches (like Big Sur or San Diego) are amazing for golden hour sunset light. Northern California can get a bit foggy, so if you’re craving soft, ethereal vibes, early morning might be your best friend. I always help you figure out the best timing for your specific location!

Accessibility & Beach Terrain

Some beaches are easier to get to than others. Some have parking lots right next to them, while others require stairs, trails, or a bit of a hike. If you’re bringing guests, props, or just want to avoid a sweaty trek in your wedding clothes, we’ll make sure to pick a spot that matches your vision and your comfort level.

The Coastal Weather

The coast has a personality of its own, and she’s moody. Northern California loves to show off fog, wind, and cooler temps, especially in summer when “Karl the Fog” rolls through San Francisco. SoCal tends to be sunnier and warmer, but it often is windy. So always bring layers and know that even if the weather is a little wild, your photos will still be stunning!

Getting Your California Beach Elopement Permit

Most beaches, especially state parks or national seashores, require a permit for elopements. However, you don’t need to worry about it! I help every single one of my couples handle permits and logistics so you’re not stuck in a rabbit hole of government websites. You just tell me what kind of vibe you’re dreaming of, and I’ll help you handle the rest.

Ready to Plan Your California Beach Elopement?

Hi! I’m Christina, and I’m a California elopement photographer who’s equal parts planner, location scout, and memory keeper. I’d love to help you turn that wild, beautiful idea in your head into an effortless, intentional day you’ll never forget!

My California 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!

Every elopement package includes:

• Custom location scouting and on-the-ground research
• Timeline options that create breathing room and magic
• Permitting help, vendor recs, and meaningful add-on options
• Joyful guidance from the start, along with swoon-worthy photos in your own online gallery (plus sneak peeks in 72 hours)