So, you’re dreaming about eloping in California? You’ve made an amazing choice! California is one of the most diverse (and absolutely stunning) places you could ever choose for your wedding day. From misty redwood forests to sun-soaked beaches, dramatic desert landscapes to alpine lakes surrounded by snowy peaks, California really has it all.

But here’s the tricky part… with so many jaw-dropping options, how do you even choose where to elope? That’s where I come in as your California elopement photographer and planner. In this guide, I’ll break down the major differences between Northern California and Southern California, help you think about seasons and scenery, and share my top favorite elopement locations across the state.

Why Elope in California?

Eloping in California means having endless possibilities to create the day of your dreams. California is home to some of the most gorgeous National Parks in the country, and there is an epic variety of landscapes. There are beaches, deserts, ancient redwoods, mountains, lakes, and rolling vineyards, so you’ll DEFINITELY find a place for you.

Seriously, whether you’re after a barefoot ceremony on the beach, a hike to a waterfall adventure, or cozy cabin vibes in the mountains, everything is possible here. Can I join you in your adventures? My bags are packed! 

Choosing Between Northern vs. Southern California

One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to head north or south for your California elopement. Both regions are absolutely stunning, but they each offer their own vibe.Torn between which setting you love most? Sit down with your partner and discuss these questions together!

What kind of scenery do you imagine when you picture your vows?

• Do you see yourself standing under towering redwoods or beside granite cliffs? That sounds more like NorCal!
  
• Or do you see golden beaches and desert vibes? That is more SoCal vibes!

What kinds of activities light you up?

• Hiking alpine lakes, wandering through meadows, cozying up in a cabin, snowshoeing in winter? More NorCal.
  
• Stargazing in Joshua Tree, soaking in desert hot springs, road tripping Highway 1, sunset swims on the coast? SoCal!

How do you feel about accessibility and adventuring? Are you down for a hike or want something more drive-up friendly?

• Yosemite and Tahoe can include longer drives, hikes, and higher elevations. Some spots require early mornings to avoid crowds.
  
• Many SoCal beach elopement locations are easier to reach, with parking close by and minimal hiking.

What kind of weather you’d like?

While Mother Nature still brings a level of unpredictability everywhere, NorCal is generally cooler, moodier, and more seasonal, and SoCal is typically warmer, drier, and more sunny year-round.

And finally, what vibe do you want for your day? 

Start by thinking about what feels most like you two. Do you want to wander beneath giant trees and rugged peaks? Or do you picture yourselves barefoot in the sand or stargazing in the desert? 

Northern California is more wild and adventurous, while Southern California is more sunny, chill, and laid-back. But as long as you’ve found your dream backdrops, you can create the day you’d like anywhere!

Honestly, you simply can’t go wrong in California! But if you already have a general idea in mind, it’ll help you narrow things down quickly!

If you think you’ve decided on the best option for you, or you’d like more details about each, check out my full guides:

• How to Elope in Southern California
• How to Elope in Northern California

Best Time of Year to Elope in California

When you choose to elope in California, each season can look different depending on your chosen location. A spring day in the redwoods is going to feel totally different than a spring day in Joshua Tree. But here’s what to expect in each region:

Spring

Northern California: This is when everything comes to life with waterfalls being at their peak in Yosemite, wildflowers blanket meadows and coastal cliffs in Big Sur and Mendocino, and the Eastern Sierra starts to thaw out. The temps are mild and perfect for hiking, though snow can still linger at higher elevations.

Southern California: Spring is when the deserts steal the show. Joshua Tree and Anza-Borrego light up with colorful wildflower “super blooms” if conditions are right. Coastal areas like Laguna Beach or Malibu are also green and fresh from winter rains, with fewer crowds than summer.

This is hands-down one of the best times to elope anywhere in California. 

Summer

Northern California: Summer comes with longer days and it is generally warmer, however, coastal regions can be chilly and windy throughout summer. Yosemite and Tahoe are bustling with tourists, so you’ll want to plan for sunrise or weekday elopements. Still, this is prime time for alpine lakes in the Eastern Sierra and paddleboarding or hiking around Lake Tahoe.

Southern California: If you’re dreaming of beach vibes, this is it. Sunny skies, golden sunsets, and warm evenings make coastal elopements magical. But keep in mind that deserts get brutally hot this time of year, so stick to sunrise or twilight ceremonies in places like Joshua Tree or Death Valley.

Overall, summer is also pretty great, but normally it is tourist season everywhere, so you want to be mindful of crowds and peak season pricing for accommodations. 

Fall

Northern California: Fall is always dreamy as the regions change with fall foliage. If you were looking for fall foliage in Yosemite, know that the Redwoods DO NOT change colors! This is also a great time to elope along the coast, as during the this time you get warmer, sunny days and fewer crowds.

Southern California: Fall might be SoCal’s best-kept secret. The beaches stay warm well into October, the desert heat mellows out, and mountain towns like Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead show off with colorful leaves.

Fall is another amazing time to get married in California. You get warm days, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds. If you’re not tied to a summer date, fall is often the best time overall.

Winter

Northern California: If you’re up for adventure, winter is incredible. Yosemite and Lake Tahoe turn into snowy wonderlands, perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, or cozy cabin vibes. That said, some roads close and the weather can be unpredictable, so you have to stay flexible and be ready to pivot!

Southern California: While you’ll want to avoid the highest mountains (unless you want snow!), many places in SoCal are still super accessible and beautiful. Think quiet beaches, dramatic skies, and cozy mountain towns. Desert temps are just right for hiking and exploring. Coastal towns like Laguna or Malibu can get moody skies and occasional rain, but overall, it’s mild compared to most of the U.S. 

Depending on what kind of vibe you’d like for your winter elopement, NorCal or SoCal can be great options! Definitely, don’t be afraid of getting married in the winter!

Best Places to Elope in California

California has so many incredible places to elope. Here are my top picks!

Yosemite National Park

Granite cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and meadows framed by Half Dome and El Capitan. Yosemite National Park is probably one of the most well-known locations in Northern California. You can elope in Yosemite Valley for classic views, hike to Taft Point for epic sunset cliffs, or explore quieter corners of the park for a more private ceremony.

If your heart is set on eloping in Yosemite, I have the perfect planning guide for you!

Big Sur

Where rugged cliffs meet crashing Pacific waves, Big Sur is one of the most romantic and dramatic elopement spots in California. Whether you’re on a bluff at sunrise, down on a hidden beach, or in a redwood grove, this spot offers endless beauty.

If Big Sur is calling your name, here’s a full Big Sur elopement planning guide to help you create the perfect day!

Redwoods

There’s nothing quite like saying your vows beneath trees that are thousands of years old. Redwood groves feel magical, quiet, and grounding—perfect for an intimate elopement. Some parks also have access to rugged beaches nearby, so you can get both forest and coastal vibes in one day.

If Redwoods sounds like THE place for you, you might enjoy these resources:

• How to Plan a Big Sur Redwood Elopement
• The Best California Redwood Elopement Locations

Eastern Sierras

The Sierras are home to alpine lakes, snowy peaks, and fiery aspen groves in fall. Popular spots include Mammoth Lakes, Convict Lake, and the June Lake Loop. Perfect for couples who want a mix of hiking, lakeside views, and cozy mountain cabins.

You can check out a full Mammoth Lakes elopement planning guide here!

Death Valley

Death Valley National Park is dramatic, vast, and full of unique desert landscapes. It has salt flats, sand dunes, colorful badlands, and golden canyons. Winter and spring are best here since summer temps are dangerously hot.

Joshua Tree

Otherworldly rock formations, spiky yuccas, and endless desert skies make Joshua Tree perfect for couples seeking a peaceful, intimate desert elopement with ample space to roam and take in the surroundings. There are so many different backdrops with open desert plains, stacked boulders, and secret cholla cactus gardens. It’s also a stargazing haven, so you could even have a night ceremony under the Milky Way. There are easy drive-in locations, but also great hikes!

Sand Dunes

Want something totally different? The Imperial Sand Dunes are massive, rolling golden waves of sand that look like another planet. Perfect for adventurous couples who want dramatic, minimalist landscapes.

Laguna Beach

Laguna is exactly what you’d expect from a Southern California beach town, but with a more artistic, hidden-gem vibe than some of its neighbors. This stretch of coastline is lined with golden sand, palm trees, and rocky cliffs that create dozens of tucked-away coves. It is perfect if you want some privacy without venturing too far from town.

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

Malibu

Malibu is famous for its cinematic coastline, and El Matador Beach is definitely the crown jewel. Think golden cliffs glowing at sunset, sea caves carved by the tide, and dramatic stone arches right on the sand. If you want to elope in El Matador, you’ll want to plan for sunrise or a weekday elopement if you’re hoping for fewer people. But even with some beachgoers around, the place is so jaw-droppingly beautiful that it still feels epic and intimate.

The rest of the Malibu coastline has plenty of variety too, with secluded coves, wide sandy stretches, and bluffs with sweeping Pacific views.

How to Get Legally Married in California?

Since California covers a lot of counties, you should know that if you obtain your marriage license in one county, you are not restricted to getting married in that specific county. You can have your wedding ceremony in any California county. However, the license must be returned to the county where it was issued for official recording.

The marriage license is typically valid immediately upon issuance (so no waiting period) and for up to 90 days. This means that you must have your marriage ceremony within the 90-day period, and the completed license must be returned to the county clerk’s office for recording.

Self-Solemnization

In California, couples have the option to self-solemnize their wedding, which means they can act as their own officiants during the marriage ceremony. This allows couples to exchange their vows and legally marry without the need for an external officiant. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Self-Solemnization Rights: California law permits self-solemnization, allowing couples to marry without an officiant. This is particularly useful for couples who prefer a private and intimate ceremony.
• Marriage License Requirements: Even if you choose to self-solemnize, you must still obtain a valid marriage license from the county clerk’s office before the ceremony.
• Completing the Marriage License: When you self-solemnize, both partners must sign the marriage license as the officiants. Ensure that you follow the county’s guidelines for completing and returning the license.
• Witnesses (Optional): While not required for self-solemnization, some couples choose to have witnesses present during the ceremony. Check with your county clerk’s office to confirm local regulations.

Documentation

Be sure to understand the specific documentation and requirements set by the county where you obtain your marriage license. Each county may have slightly different procedures. 

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!

How Much Does it Cost to Elope in California?

The cost can be as little as the license + your outfits, or as much as a multi-day adventure with vendors, private chefs, and epic Airbnbs. On average, most couples spend $5,000–$20,000 depending on what they include.

Want Even More California Elopement Tips?

This guide gives you the big picture, but if you’re looking for all the juicy details, I’ve got you covered.

• Wondering where to stay (from luxury resorts to cozy cabins)?
• Looking for the best restaurants and local spots to celebrate after your vows?
• Curious about unique activities to include, like boat rides, hot springs, desert stargazing, or seaplane adventures?
• Need step-by-step tips on permits, logistics, and timelines?

I dive into all of that (and more!) in my full Northern and Southern California elopement guides.

• Read the Southern California Elopement Guide →
• Read the Northern California Elopement Guide →

These guides will give you everything you need to plan your elopement in your chosen California region!

Ready to Elope in California? 

Hi! I’m Christina, your California adventure elopement photographer. I love planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make 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 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!

Offered throughout every California 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.