If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels romantic, relaxed, and just a little bit luxe, Carmel by the Sea might be the perfect place for you! This coastal town is packed with charm, from storybook cottages and cobblestone streets to world-class restaurants and boutique hotels. 

When you elope in Carmel by the sea, you get the best of both worlds. Spend the morning wandering Carmel’s shops and sipping coffee in a sun-drenched courtyard, then head out on Highway 1 for one of the most scenic drives in the world. Imagine ending your day with vows on the cliffs of Big Sur as the sun melts into the Pacific. Yes, it IS as dreamy as it sounds.

So if you’re looking to elope in Carmel by the Sea, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know!

Carmel by the Sea Elopement Locations

Carmel offers an incredible mix of ceremony spots and overall spots to explore during your elopement day. Here are some ideas!

Carmel Beach

If you want the iconic Carmel experience, then Carmel Beach really is the place with soft white sand, turquoise waters, and a gorgeous golden coastline. If you want to kick off your shoes, feel the sand between your toes, and say your vows with the Pacific rolling in behind you!

Carmel River State Beach

Just a little south of town, Carmel River State Beach is a quieter option with a lagoon and sweeping views of Point Lobos across the water. It’s perfect if you want something that feels a little more tucked away than Carmel Beach but still offers incredible scenery. 

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos is only 5 minutes from Carmel and offers a dreamy mix of turquoise coves, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Monterey cypress trees. It’s one of the best spots for portraits or an adventurous ceremony, with short trails leading to some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the area.

Mission Ranch

For couples who love a blend of rustic charm and history, Mission Ranch is a unique choice. Once saved and restored by Clint Eastwood, it has wide green meadows, grazing sheep, and the ocean sparkling in the background. It feels both whimsical and elegant, especially if you want something more structured than a beach but still relaxed and outdoorsy.

Private Gardens, Inns, Cottages, VRBOs

One of the best-kept secrets about Carmel is that you don’t have to stick to public spots at all. There are many gorgeous boutique inns, vacation rentals, and private gardens for your ceremony and celebration! Imagine getting ready in your own cottage, stepping outside to exchange vows in a flower-filled backyard, then heading into town or down the coast for portraits. Whether it’s a luxury inn or a cozy VRBO, there is something for everyone here!

Exploring Beyond Carmel

Garrapata State Park

Just 15 minutes south of Carmel, Garrapata is known for its rugged cliffs, dramatic bluffs, and colorful wildflowers in spring. It’s one of the most beloved elopement spots in Big Sur because it has everything: sweeping ocean views, hidden beaches, and trails that feel wild and untamed.

You can check out my full guide to eloping in Garrapata State Park here!

Soberanes Point

Within Garrapata, Soberanes Point is a quick trail that packs a serious punch. You’ll find panoramic ocean views, crashing waves below, and plenty of spots to stop for portraits. It’s a fantastic option for couples who want Big Sur’s drama without a long hike.

Bixby Bridge

An absolute California icon, Bixby Bridge is only 30 minutes from Carmel and makes for cinematic photos you’ll never forget. Its dramatic arch spans the cliffs, with endless views of the coastline stretching behind you. The best time to visit is sunrise or early morning, if you want to avoid heavy traffic and crowds.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

About 50 minutes south, Pfeiffer Big Sur brings the redwoods into the mix. Towering trees, river trails, and mountain backdrops give you a completely different vibe from the cliffs. It’s perfect if you want a variety in your day. A ceremony under the redwoods here is one for the books!

Big Sur

Can’t have this list without mentioning Big Sur! You’ve got miles of rugged coastline, hidden coves, and some of the most dramatic sunsets you’ll ever see. Whether you exchange vows on a cliff, wander a redwood grove, or end the night with your feet in the sand at Pfeiffer Beach, this stretch of coastline delivers a sense of wonder that’s hard to put into words.

And if you’ve been dreaming of your day in Big Sur, I have a full Big Sur elopement planning guide for you here! 

Carmel + Big Sur = The Perfect Combo

One of the best reasons to elope in Carmel by the Sea is how easy it is to combine with Big Sur. Start the day in town, enjoy brunch and a bit of luxury, then head south for your ceremony on the cliffs or a quiet hike to the redwoods. You can even split your day with sunrise in Big Sur, sunset in Carmel, or vice versa!

Fun Fact: The show Big Little Lies is filmed in Carmel and Big Sur! I always hear the theme song when I drive around there, haha! 

Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Carmel?

You may need a permit to elope in Carmel or in the area, depending on where you’re getting married and whether or not you’re bringing guests, decor, or other entertainment.

Carmel Beach & Carmel River State Beach: Permits are managed by the City of Carmel. If you’re eloping with just you and your closest loved ones, you don’t need a permit unless you are planning to bring in any tables/chairs or have a caterer.

If you’re planning to elope in one of the beautiful State Parks in the area, you will likely need to get a special use permit. The rules and regulations are different for each area, so make sure you check them out here!

But if you’re getting married at a private venue, like the boutique inns, these locations have that part handled for you.

Pro tip: Having a local California elopement photographer (hi, that’s me!) who knows the permitting system makes the process so much easier! I help you figure out exactly what you need and when to apply.

Best Time to Elope in Carmel

One of the reasons couples choose to elope in Carmel is the consistently mild climate. Thanks to its coastal location, Carmel avoids extreme highs and lows, with average temperatures hovering between the mid-50s and upper-60s °F most of the year. But, there are still some quirks to each season!

During summer, you can expect morning fog and calm, overcast skies. We usually call it the “June Gloom”. By afternoon, the fog often burns off, leaving clear skies and sunshine, though highs rarely climb above the upper 60s. It’s peak tourist season, so weekends can be busy in both Carmel and Big Sur.

Fall is arguably the best time to visit Carmel! Skies are usually clear, temperatures are pleasantly warm (mid-60s to low 70s °F), and crowds start to thin after Labor Day. This is one of the sunniest and most reliable windows for elopements.

For couples craving privacy, winter brings fewer visitors (but it’s also the coolest and wettest season here), while spring is perfect if you want colorful wildflowers along Highway 1 and in nearby Garrapata State Park.

Pro Tip: No matter when you elope here, bring layers. Coastal weather can shift quickly, and evenings often feel cool even in summer. If you’re heading into Big Sur, be prepared for wind on the cliffs and cooler temps under the redwoods.

Where to Stay in Carmel

One of the best parts about planning a Carmel elopement is choosing where to stay. Options range from charming & intimate to ultra-luxurious, so you can find the vibe that fits your day! Here are a few of my personal favorites!

• Villa Mara Carmel: If you’d like to stay near the ocean, you’ll love Villa Mara. This boutique hotel sits right along Carmel Point, with stylish, coastal-inspired rooms and airy, modern touches. They even give you complimentary bike rentals for exploring town and the coast. Villa Mara is perfect for couples who want a mix of seaside luxury and easy access to Carmel’s beaches and downtown.

• Le Petit Pali at Ocean Ave: This boutique inn has thoughtfully designed rooms with fireplaces, plush bedding, and warm, cottage-like details that make it feel both intimate and elevated. Being downtown means you can walk everywhere, whether you want to grab a glass of wine, wander the cute shops, or go for a walk along the beach!

• Romantic Carmel Cottage: If you’re looking for a cozy and private spot to call home during your elopement, the Romantic Carmel Cottage is such a dreamy option. Tucked into a peaceful country setting with oak and pine trees all around, the cottage looks out over an equestrian estate with a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean in the distance. It is just minutes away from downtown Carmel, Monterey, and all the must-see spots along the coast!
  
• Bernardus Lodge and Spa: If you want a little luxury along with adventure, this is the perfect spot. The Lodge is set on 28 acres of vineyards and gardens, it feels like a private retreat tucked into the hills. You’ll find a spa, heated pool, fire pits, and one of the best restaurants in the area right on site. It’s calm, romantic, and just a short drive from downtown Carmel.

Dining & Celebration Ideas

Your elopement day deserves to feel special! There are many things you can do that can be as cozy, luxurious, adventurous, or anything in between, as well as dining options that double as experiences.

• The Bench at Pebble Beach offers outdoor firepit dining with views of the famous 18th hole. It’s lively, romantic, and perfect for a celebratory dinner.
  
  
• Overall, visiting Pebble Beach is a great idea, even if you’re not into golf! The scenery here is worth experiencing!
  
  
• Stillwater Bar & Grill serves fresh seafood and oysters with sweeping views of the ocean.
  
  
• At Spanish Bay, you can sip cocktails while listening to live bagpipers at sunset.
  
  
• 17-Mile Drive is a stunning coastal loop with iconic stops like the Lone Cypress tree. Renting a vintage car (with a driver, so you can relax and soak it in) adds a luxurious twist.

Getting Your Marriage License

If you’re planning to get legally married while you elope in Carmel by the Sea, you’ll need a California marriage license. The closest office to Carmel is the Monterey County Clerk’s Office in Salinas, about a 30-minute drive from Carmel. Both partners must appear in person with a valid photo ID, and the license is issued the same day — no waiting period required. Once issued, the license is valid for 90 days anywhere in California.

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 Carmel by the Sea?

The cost can be as little as your marriage 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.

Ready to Elope in Carmel by the Sea? 

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.