Are you dreaming of your elopement day to be filled with adventure, nature and the rugged coastline as your backdrop? If so, Big Sur might just be your perfect match! This Big Sur elopement guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your day absolutely unforgettable!

Table of Contents

Why Elope in Big Sur

Big Sur is 90 miles of dramatic cliffsides, towering redwoods, misty beaches and sprawling meadows at every turn.  It can take an hour to drive from one end to the other. As you enter from the North just outside Carmel, you first arrive at Garrapata State Park then you pass through Andrew Molera State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, the Los Padres National Forest and then Limekiln State Park. Private land is sprinkled throughout. 

Eloping here means you get to escape the hustle and bustle of traditional wedding planning and instead focus on what truly matters: your love story. It’s about intimacy, adventure, and creating memories in one of the most incredible places on earth. Plus, who wouldn’t want their wedding photos to feature breathtaking ocean views, green forests, and epic sunsets?

It is so much fun to explore and I absolutely recommend having multiple days here. 

Big Sur Elopement Locations

Big Sur really has it all when it comes to your elopement! As you choose where to elope and where to stay, you should consider a few things, such as: What kind of setting do you want when you say your vows? A secluded cove, redwood forest, dramatic cliffs, or a stunning beach (there are many to choose from!). How many people will you have? How accessible does the location need to be? Many areas are at least a short walk or mild hike to get to. 

However, If you are staying in Big Sur, some of the luxury hotels or campgrounds offer private redwood areas for intimate ceremonies. This is perfect if you will be having more guests with you! The best part of an elopement or intimate wedding in Big Sur is you can say your vows in one location and explore so much more of the park after! It can truly be an all day adventurous experience.

There are many things to consider when choosing a location, but if you choose me as your Northern California elopement photographer, my questionnaire will help you dive deep into your wants. Together, we will put together the most amazing plan!

Big Sur is made up of Garrapata State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Limekiln State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, Los Padres National Forest and private land.

Click here to view the google map of Big Sur.

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

Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is the first park you drive into as you enter Big Sur from the Northern end. It features both beach and coastal hiking trails, offering stunning views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. It’s a perfect location for couples who want a mix of beach and rugged coastline for their elopement. Beach and coastal bluff access are directly off of Highway 1, making the views easily accessible. After visiting the park numerous times, I have found some of the best spots! However, this landscape is forever changing and is different after each season.

Calla Lily Valley

Calla Lily Valley, located inside Garrapata State Park, is a short walk down to Garrapata Beach. It is a hidden gem that comes to life in the spring. Wildflowers are in full bloom as a bustling creek washes out to the ocean. Small wooden bridges allow you to walk over the water and explore the area. It’s a beautiful tranquil place to take in Big Sur’s beauty.

Bixby Bridge

Bixby Bridge is an architectural marvel and one of the most photographed bridges on the West Coast. The bridge spans a deep canyon with the Pacific Ocean providing a breathtaking backdrop, perfect for dramatic elopement photos.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Known for its towering redwood groves, scenic hiking trails, and the serene Big Sur River, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a haven for nature and adventure-loving couples. Pfieffer Big Sur State Park is at the heart of Big Sur. It offers a reprieve from the rural parts of the area. It hosts campgrounds, restaurants, stores, a library with wifi, gas stations, and other amenities. You can find the most delicious breakfast burrito at the corner store and you can enjoy it while sitting in the wooden chairs along the river. It’s a must! The area even has a few dog-friendly trails! During the summer rafters can be seen coming down the river. This place doesn’t have beach access, for that you should visit Pfeiffer Beach instead.

Julia Pfeiffer Redwood Forest

Located within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, this redwood forest offers a serene and majestic setting for your elopement. Here you’ll be surrounded by these ancient giants, some over a thousand years old, as well as lush ferns and other greenery. The campground and lodge are located in this area.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Famous for the iconic McWay Falls, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers some of the most stunning coastal views in Big Sur. The park’s natural beauty is unparalleled! This is a really busy tourist location (rightfully so!). However, eloping during sunrise or sunset gives you the place all to yourselves!

Partington Cove

Partington Cove is a 1.1-mile out-and-back trail near Big Sur offering both ocean and forest views. The cove is less known and thus less crowded, which is amazing for a private elopement. The views are well worth the walk down and around the cove. There are several more intimate locations along the route. This is one of my favorite locations!

McWay Falls

McWay Falls is arguably one of Big Sur’s most iconic and breathtaking landmarks. Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, this 80-foot waterfall flows directly into the Pacific Ocean. While you can’t access the beach directly from here, the overlook trail provides spectacular views. While McWay Falls is a must-see, the trail is currently being restored and offers little room for photography.

Andrew Molera State Park

Andrew Molera State Park is one of the larger state parks in Big Sur, known for its diverse scenery. From beaches and cliffs to redwood forests, this park offers a variety of stunning backdrops for your Big Sur elopement day. Here you’ll find wildflowers during the spring, and could spot some coastal wildlife if you’re lucky!

Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is well known for its rare purple sand and iconic rock formation. The formation looks like a natural archway, which is especially stunning during sunset. Despite its beauty, Pfeiffer Beach remains less crowded than other beaches, and it doesn’t require a permit.

Limekiln State Park

Limekiln State Park offers a unique mix of coastal and forested areas. With trails leading to historic limekilns, a beautiful beach, and waterfalls, this park has so many scenic spots for you to choose from. The park’s beach is a great spot for a coastal elopement ceremony, or you can check out Limekiln Falls, which offers a picturesque setting for your vows and photos to follow.

Big Sur Elopement Permits

Navigating the permitting process in Big Sur can be tricky, especially with the different requirements for each State Park. Once we’ve decided on your perfect location, we’ll dive into obtaining the necessary special use permits for your ceremony. While securing permits for the state parks may seem daunting, rest assured that I am here to guide and help you through every step. 

The National Forest is a bit more relaxed in terms of permitting, providing an excellent alternative for your elopement. Together, we’ll ensure all the paperwork is in order so you can focus on enjoying your incredible day in Big Sur!

If you’d like to learn a bit more about the permitting, you can check out the resource here!

When Should You Have Your Big Sur Elopement

Big Sur is beautiful year-round, but the best time to elope depends on what kind of experience you’re after. 

The weather here can be unpredictable as Big Sur is covered in what’s called microclimates. One part may be bathed in sunshine while another is gray, cold, or even rainy. Be prepared by bringing layers to stay comfortable in any condition. It is important to have back up plans on back up plans. If you have me as your elopement photographer, we would plan these out in advance together, so nothing would be a surprise or added stress on your day.

Spring offers vibrant wildflowers, peak waterfalls and mild weather, while summer provides warmer temperatures but can be foggy along the coast. Fall is ideal for clear skies and fewer tourists, and winter brings the big waves and lush green landscapes, though it can be rainy and very windy.

Where to Stay in Big Sur

Whether you prefer luxury hotels, charming inns, or unique glamping sites, Big Sur offers a range of accommodations to suit every taste. These places all offer private intimate ceremony locations among the redwoods, at secluded properties overlooking the coast and within their sites. These options are great for busier seasons. They offer more privacy and accessibility without the need for a hike. The intimate ceremony locations on site are wonderful if you’d like to bring guests and enjoy a wedding of up to 20 people. Many of these offer fun excursions and extra pampering. Are a morning sound bath and a yoga session peaking your interest?

• Alila Ventana Big Sur: If you want to be spoiled and pampered on your elopement, this is the place to go! It features spa services, immersive experiences like sound baths and cold plunges in a waterfall, morning yoga, and intimate ceremony locations on-site in the redwood groves. The dining experience here is out of this world. From glamping, to hotel rooms to private homes, Ventana offers every type of accommodation.

• Post Ranch Inn: Offers stunning accommodations from cliffside houses to intimate treehouses with beautiful architecture nestled in the forest. Here you can get amazing food, and unique experiences such as guided nature walks, morning yoga, and spa and wellness services.

• Wind and Sea Estate: Near to the McWay Falls, this venue and accommodation option overlooks the ocean, providing an absolutely incredible setting for your stay and ceremony.

• Hyatt Carmel Highlands: Located just outside of Big Sur, the Hyatt Carmel Highlands has beautiful views of the ocean and great service! Here you’ll find a restaurant, a pool, a nice spa and be close to fun activities! The benefit of staying here is being in range of cell service and other accessible amenities a town has to offer! Also, you have the freedom to enter and leave the park when you want. However, this does mean more driving.

If you’re looking for something more rustic and surrounded by the woods, you might like these two options!

• Glen Oaks Big Sur: These are rustic, cabin-style accommodations nestled in the woods. This place is also home to Big Sur Roadhouse, which features delicious California cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.
  
• Big Sur Lodge: Located in the beautiful Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, this place is wonderful for elopements and larger weddings. It offers a variety of accommodations, as well as delicious dinner receptions on the patio.

AirBnBs/Vrbos

Many AirBnBs allow private ceremonies and small intimate weddings on the property, but you should always double check with the owners! These are some of the AirBnBs/Vrbos in the Big Sur area, you could consider for your stay and potentially elopement ceremony and small celebration.

• Ocean Front Luxury Home: features amazing ocean views, outdoor yoga area, dry sauna, copper soak tubs, outdoor showers, and an amphitheater with a fire ring. Can accommodate up to 12 people (so you and your closest peeps!).
  
• 5 Acres Pool & Spa: this place features a nice pool and spa, as well as a private oak forest. You can also get optional services like yoga guides and chefs. It’s a walking distance to most of the food spots mentioned next like: Big Sur Bakery, Post Ranch, Nepenthe, and Ventana. 
  
• Big Sur Stone House: a beautiful home offering ocean views from every room with a rustic charm and beautiful garden. There’s plenty of activities nearby you can do, like hiking, kayaking, mountain biking & climbing, surfing and more!

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.

Where to Eat

• 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!
  
• 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 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
• Reading letters from friends and family
• Popping champagne
• Having a picnic by the ocean
• Catered dinner at your Airbnb
• Exchanging gifts
• Rafting
• Boat ride
• Visiting an art gallery
• Enjoying some fine dining in one of the before mentioned places!

Best Hikes for Your Big Sur Elopement

Here you can go hiking pretty much anywhere, which is the best part of Big Sur! It’s so much fun finding new trails you haven’t discovered before! Here are some hike suggestions, but I’m always happy for us to find something magical, off the beaten path on our day!

• Pfeiffer Falls Trail: a 2-mile round trip through redwoods leading to a picturesque 60-foot waterfall.
• McWay Waterfall Trail: a short hike offering stunning views of McWay Falls plunging into the ocean.
• Ewoldsen Trail: a 5-mile loop featuring panoramic coastal views and redwood groves.
• Partington Cove Trail: a 1-mile trail descending to a secluded cove with beautiful ocean vistas.
• Limekiln Trail: a  2.6-mile hike through redwoods to historic lime kilns and waterfalls.

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.

Average Cost of Your Big Sur Elopement

The cost of eloping in Big Sur can vary widely depending on how you choose to go about your day. You can elope as cheaply as the cost of a marriage license and elopement location permit and a bottle of bubbly to celebrate. But if you’d like to add activities, bring guests, get nice elopement attire, travel, accommodations, get a photographer, and other vendors, the costs will be much more. 

On average, a full-day or multi-day elopement experience can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000+.

What to Pack With You

• Download offline road and trail maps for all locations
• Headlamps/flashlights
• Bluetooth speaker for the first dance
• Snacks and water
• Vow books
• Rings
• Bouquet
• Sunscreen
• Layers because it can be cold before sunrise 
• Shoes with traction that you don’t mind being photographed in
• Blanket
• Waterproof layers and makeup
• Clear Umbrellas!
• Bug spray
• Extra battery pack for phones
• Marriage License

Getting Your Marriage License

If you obtain a 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 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.

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!

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.