Thinking about eloping in Southern California, but not sure where to begin? I’ve got you! Between the sun-soaked beaches, golden deserts, and mountain lakes, SoCal is packed with absolutely stunning places to elope. Whether you’re dreaming of a barefoot beach ceremony, an intimate desert adventure, or a cozy cabin elopement in the mountains, this guide will walk you through all the logistics and insider tips you need to create a day that feels like you.
As a California elopement photographer, I’m here to help you craft an intentional, adventurous experience that reflects your love and leaves you saying, “Wow, we really did that.” So let’s get into how to elope in Southern California!
Table of Contents
- Why Elope in Southern California?
- Best Time of Year to Elope in SoCal
- Best Places to Elope in Southern California
- How to Make It Legal
- How Much a SoCal Elopement Costs
- Southern California Elopement Vendors
- Elopement Day Activities to Include
- Sample Elopement Timeline
- Where to Stay
- Things to Keep in Mind
- Southern California Elopement Packages
Why Elope in Southern California?
Southern California is known for its warm weather, epic scenery, and laid-back energy, and it just so happens to make an incredible place to elope. Want to run barefoot on the beach? Say your vows surrounded by massive rock formations? Toast under the stars in the desert? You can do all of that here. There’s so much variety in scenery that you don’t have to choose between one vibe or another. You could hike at sunrise and sip cocktails by the ocean by sunset. You could even mix and match multiple backdrops across a couple of days!
Whether you’re after a chill, laid-back elopement day or something more adventurous, eloping in Southern California means you get to craft a day that feels like you. And the possibilities for that are seriously endless!
Best Time of Year to Elope in SoCal
If you choose to elope in Southern California, each season can look different depending on your exact spot. Overall, each season can have a big impact on the overall vibe and experience of your day. You should definitely check the weather patterns of your chosen SoCal elopement location online or ask your elopement photographer for advice, as well!
Spring
This is hands-down one of the best times to elope in Southern California, especially in the deserts! Wildflowers bloom in Joshua Tree and Anza-Borrego, the weather is warm but not yet scorching, the coastal regions are lush and green from winter rains, and the beach towns start to wake up but without a lot of summer crowds.
Summer
Summer is what you’d instantly think of when you’re imagining SoCal. It is sunny, dry, and full of beach vibes. It’s ideal for coastal elopements, early morning hikes, and water-based activities. But be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. The deserts like Joshua Tree and Glamis can be blazing hot, so early morning or twilight ceremonies are your best bet.
Fall
Arguably another great time to elope in Southern California. The weather is still warm, the crowds are thinning, mountain towns like Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead show off with golden leaves, and the desert starts cooling down again. It’s also the beginning of the “second summer” for coastal towns like Laguna Beach and Santa Barbara.
Winter
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. While coastal areas can get a bit of rain, it’s still mild compared to most places.
Ultimately, the best time of year for your Southern California elopement will depend on your personal preferences and the specific experiences you’re hoping to have when it comes to activities and scenery. Consider the weather, crowds, and activities that are most important to you!
Best Places to Elope in Southern California
Joshua Tree National Park
Otherworldly rock formations, spiky yuccas, and endless desert skies, Joshua Tree is perfect for couples who want a peaceful, intimate desert elopement with space to roam and take it all in. 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!
You will need to get a Special Use Permit for your elopement. Depending on how many people you’re taking along, they have pre-approved locations available for your ceremony. But you’re free to roam the park as you take photos and celebrate wherever! You can learn more about how to apply for your permit and other rules here!
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
This lesser-known desert park is full of wide-open space and raw, untouched beauty. In spring, you’ll get to see cute wildflowers popping up, and in the cooler months, it’s perfect for off-grid adventures. You’ll find rugged badlands, slot canyons, and colorful desert hills. It’s perfect for you if you’d like to roam, explore, and enjoy desert vibes without it being as crowded as Joshua Tree. At the moment, it looks like no elopement permit is needed to get married here, however, you should always check in with the local park officials!
Sunset Cliffs (San Diego)
Sunset Cliffs offers sweeping views of the Pacific from dramatic sandstone bluffs. Walk along the cliffs for stunning ocean views, or head down to secret beaches if the tide allows. The sunsets here are next level—hence the name—and the whole vibe is romantic, peaceful, and totally SoCal. It’s a great choice if you want a coastal elopement without heading too far from the city! You will need to get a permit to elope here, and you can learn more about it here!
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a SoCal favorite for its blend of hidden coves, tide pools, and palm-lined golden sand beaches. Some beaches are tucked between rocky cliffs, giving you a feeling of privacy even if you’re close to town. You can have your ceremony on a bluff overlooking the ocean or down on the sand with waves crashing nearby. Afterward, grab tacos or ice cream in the village. It’s a great location if you want amazing views and minimal hiking!
You will need to get a special wedding permit to get married at Laguna Beach. You can learn about that here!
Lake Arrowhead
Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Arrowhead is calm, cozy, and full of forest charm. You’ll find pine trees, quiet lake views, and beautiful mountain backdrops. It’s especially stunning in the fall! Whether you want a laid-back cabin vibe or a more luxurious lakeside resort, this is a great location for couples who want mountain magic without going too remote. Unfortunately, Lake Arrowhead has very few public access spots; however, renting out an Airbnb or a VRBO along the lake will give you all the access you need, + you won’t need to get a special use permit! (Always double-check your hosts allow events & photography at the accommodation!)
If you’re having a small elopement with just the two of you and a handful of people, you may not be required to get a permit. However, I recommend you always check in with Malibu City officials here!
Big Bear Lake
Just a short drive from Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear offers even more alpine beauty with a slightly larger, more adventurous feel. Think snowy trees in the winter, golden aspen groves in fall, and lake activities in summer. You can elope on a trail, at a lookout, or rent a cozy cabin and keep things ultra-private. It’s perfect for a weekend-long celebration with a mix of exploring and relaxing. As of right now, Big Bear Lake doesn’t require a permit as long as you’re getting married on conservatory land. I recommend always checking with the San Bernardino National Forest site and officials in case things change!
El Matador Beach
This Malibu gem is one of the most dramatic beaches in Southern California. Think sea caves, arching rocks, and golden cliffs catching the light at sunset. It’s a popular photo spot, so sunrise and weekday elopements are best for privacy. Be prepared to hike down a steep staircase and get a little sandy, but it’s definitely worth it. The vibes here are equal parts cinematic and wildly romantic!
How to Make It Legal
Since Southern 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 a Southern California Elopement Cost?
Totally depends on what you want to include! A simple ceremony with just your license and outfits might cost a few hundred bucks. But a full-day adventure with photography, activities, florals, and a cozy Airbnb? You’re looking at an average of $5,000–$20,000+.
Southern California Vendors to Consider
Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t go big on the details that matter to you:
- Your Elopement Photographer (hi, that’s me!) As your expert adventure elopement photographer specializing in California elopements, we’re in for an incredible journey together. I’ll be your trusted guide, ensuring we capture all the joy and excitement along the way. Consider me your go-to partner and planning guru, taking care of every detail so you can relax and enjoy the experience. From crafting personalized location suggestions to coordinating timelines and securing permits, I’ve got you covered in creating the perfect elopement in stunning settings. Check out my packages here!
- While you can self-solemnize in California, you may want to have an officiant to hold a ceremony for you. My husband and I are both ordained and would be honored to officiate your ceremony!
- Florist! You don’t have to skip the bouquet just because you’re eloping.
- Hair & Makeup Artist
- If you’d like to add some more luxury to your elopement day, you could also consider a private chef, yoga instructor, or having a professional provide you with a sound bath! The options are endless!
I’ve got a list of incredible SoCal vendors to share when we start planning!
Adventure Activities to Include
Make your day feel like you by adding in some fun, intentional experiences. Filling your day with things you love to do together or have always wanted to try will make it THAT much more meaningful.
- Go off-roading in a 4×4 in Joshua Tree
- Desert stargazing in Joshua Tree
- Hike to a secluded canyon or viewpoint for a sunrise ceremony
- Take a dip in a hot spring
- Sunset picnic on a SoCal beach
- Sandboarding or dune buggy rides at Imperial Sand Dunes
- Snowshoeing or hot tubbing in Big Bear
- Paddleboarding at Lake Arrowhead
- Do a sound bath or couples yoga session before your ceremony
- Ride a gondola at Big Bear
- Plan a post-elopement beach bonfire with s’mores + cozy blankets
- Rent a vintage convertible and cruise Highway 1 after saying your vows
Of course, you can also do something a bit “traditional” but with the extraordinary views:
- First Dance
- Cake cutting/eating dessert
- Reading letters from friends and family
- Popping champagne
- Exchanging gifts
Your elopement can be as chill or action-packed as you want. This is your adventure after all!
Sample Elopement Timelines
Your elopement timeline will be uniquely yours! It’s all about you and your partner, where you’ve chosen to elope, what activities you’d like to include, transportation times, and more. My most popular Southern California elopement package includes 8 hours, aka full-day coverage, and this is how a rough timeline could look.
8-Hour Elopement Example:
- 12:30 PM: Getting ready photos at your Airbnb
- 1:30 PM: First look + drive to ceremony site
- 2:30 PM: Ceremony + vow exchange
- 3:00 PM: Post-ceremony exploring and portraits
- 5:00 PM: Picnic or private chef dinner
- 6:30 PM: Golden hour portraits
- 8:00 PM: Cake cutting, end the day with stargazing or a cozy hot tub session
Multi-Day Elopement Timeline
When planning an elopement, a multi-day timeline offers unparalleled flexibility. For me, this typically involves a longer day followed by a shorter one. This setup is perfect for couples who want to do it all and not think about the time. You can celebrate one day with loved ones and go solo adventuring the next, or vice versa.
By spreading out the activities over two days, you can eliminate the stress of trying to cram everything into one day!
Where to Stay
Luxury:
Unique Airbnbs:
Glamping & Cozy Stays
Walk outside your door to enjoy the fresh air and amazing views of your stunning location. Stay for just yourselves, or rent out an entire camp for friends and family! Hipcamp is a great resource for finding unique glamping experiences, offering a variety of options! You can also check out AutoCamp to find beautiful and luxurious Airstreams in Joshua Tree.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Many of the more remote, natural areas in Southern California like the mountains, forests and deserts can have spotty or limited cell service. This is why I also recommend you download the area map, so you’re not relying on data to navigate the area.
- Always double check whether your chosen elopement location requires a permit to get married, especially if you’re eloping at any national or state park.
- Weekdays and sunrise will normally be the best times to get married, especially during peak tourism season!
- Always plan ahead and factor in extra time for driving. SoCal traffic is real!
Southern California Elopement Packages
Hi! I’m Christina, your Southern California and beyond 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 Southern 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 Southern 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.
I'M CHRISTINA
YOUR CALIFORNIA + Destination elopement PHOTOGRAPHER
Serving California, The PNW, Iceland, Italy and Wherever your loves takes us!
