Garrapata State Park is basically a paradise for a coastal elopement in Big Sur! If you want an intimate elopement surrounded by rugged cliffs, ocean views, and beachy vibes, this place is as good as it gets. Whether you’d like a ceremony on a secluded beach, overlooking the ocean from a dramatic bluff, or even surrounded by wildflowers in a valley, there’s something for everyone here.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Garrapata State Park elopement, from the best ceremony spots and fun activities to getting permits and more!

Table of Contents

• Why Choose Garrapata State Park
• Best Garrapata State Park Elopement Locations
• Garrapata State Park Elopement Permits
• Getting Your Marriage License
• Best Time to Elope in Garrapata State Park
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat
• Fun Elopement Activities
• What to Pack With You
• Garrapata State Park Elopement Packages

Why Choose Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is a hidden gem along California’s Highway 1. It’s the first park you drive into as you enter Big Sur from the Northern end.

This place seriously has it all—jaw-dropping coastal views, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and even a dreamy little valley full of Calla Lilies. Whether you’re standing on a bluff with waves crashing below or tucked away under towering redwoods, it’s impossible not to feel the magic here. Beach and coastal bluff access are directly off of Highway 1, making the views easily accessible!

One of the best things about Garrapata is how many options it offers. There are private coves, blooming wildflowers in the spring, cliffside trails, and so much more! You don’t have to choose between landscapes because this park has so much packed into one place. And while it feels remote and peaceful, it’s just a short drive from Carmel and Big Sur, so you can get that perfect balance of adventure and convenience.

Also… this is a huge bonus, I have a special event permit with the park. This means if you are eloping with less than 10 people, we don’t need to submit for a permit!

Best Garrapata State Park Elopement Locations

When you choose to elope in Garrapata State Park and the surrounding areas, there’s a great variety of seriously jaw-dropping locations. Whether you’re envisioning sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, or hidden coves, this stretch of California coastline delivers. After visiting the park numerous times, I have found some of the best spots! Here are some ideas, but there are many more amazing locations up my sleeve for my couples!

Carmel River State Beach

• Stewart’s Cove: This is a beautiful location with dramatic cliffs surrounding the beach, making it a stunning backdrop for your ceremony. The sandy shore is wide enough to accommodate up to 100 people, making it a great location if you’d like to include guests in your elopement.
  
  
• Riverside and Middle Beach: These connected beaches offer a more spacious feel with fewer people around, especially on weekdays. The gentle slope of the sand leads to stunning views of the ocean, and the rolling waves create a peaceful backdrop for your vows.
  
  
• Wedding Rock: Perched above the water, this spot has some of the most beautiful panoramic ocean views. The elevation and unique rock formations really make this location stand out, but it is a bit of a rugged path to get here. This location can hold up to 50 people for an intimate wedding.
  
  
• Hidden Cove: Tucked away from the main beach, Hidden Cove is quiet, intimate, and full of charm. The sheltered space is surrounded by rugged rock formations that create a cozy atmosphere for your ceremony of up to 50 people.
  
  
• Monastery Beach: Like all the other beaches, this one is surrounded by dramatic rock formations, and it’s stunning overall! There are great views of the ocean and the horizon, and it’s also a bit quieter than some of the other beaches in the area.
  

Garrapata State Park

• Bluff Overlooks: These overlooks offer panoramic views of the Pacific that will take your breath away. The short trails leading to these spots make them accessible, but you still feel like you’re a world away. The lighting here at golden hour is especially gorgeous, with the sun casting a warm glow over the cliffs and the ocean.
  
  
• Soberanes Point Trail: This trail mixes coastal cliffs, rocky outcroppings, and lush greenery, giving you lots of variety for your backdrops. From certain points, you can even see whales during migration season!
  
  
• Painters Point: Painter’s Point is a great choice for couples who want an adventurous feel without a lot of hiking. It’s easy to access from the road, and the lighting here at sunset is absolutely unreal. The views from here stretch endlessly over the Pacific, and I couldn’t love this location any more!
  
  
• Calla Lily Valley: This is an amazing elopement spot during the spring when the lilies are in full bloom. It’s tucked away just off Highway 1, a short walk from the trailhead, making it easily accessible for couples. Keep in mind that the blooms are at their peak from late February to early April, so timing is everything!
  
  
• Garrapata Beach: After a short hike from the highway, you’ll arrive at this stunning beach with golden sand and towering cliffs. It’s one of my absolute favorites for elopements!
  
  
• Garrapata Overlook: If you’re dreaming of dramatic, sweeping ocean views, Garrapata Overlook is the place for you. Perched high above the coastline, this spot gives you panoramic views of the Pacific that are nothing short of breathtaking. The trail to the overlook is short and easy to navigate, making it a great choice for couples who want an epic backdrop without a strenuous hike. This overlook can accommodate ceremonies of up to 25 people.
  

Monterey State Beaches

• Roberts Beach: Located near The Tides Hotel at Canyon del Rey and Highway 1, this spot is perfect for couples wanting a laid-back beach vibe with convenient access to accommodations and amenities. It’s perfect for a very laid-back, chill adventure elopement!
  
  
• Marina State Beach, Salinas River State Beach, and Moss Landing are some of the quieter beach locations in Big Sur. They offer beautiful coastal views and a little more privacy than some of the other beaches and spots in Big Sur.
  

More Tips for Choosing Your Location

• Most locations are available year-round (except at specific sites during Snowy Plover nesting season from March to September).
  
• Capacities range depending on the location, so make sure you know how many people (if any) you’re bringing along so you know your options.
  
• Most locations have year-round availability, except for major holiday weekends.

If I had to narrow it down, some of my personal favorites include Painter’s Point, where the ocean views feel like they stretch on forever, Calla Lily Valley, which is pure magic in the spring when the lilies bloom, Soberanes Point, with its dramatic cliffs, and of course, Garrapata Beach! Garrapata Beach area is beautiful in spring when the area is covered in blooms!

Garrapata State Park Elopement Permits

One of the best parts about working with me for your Garrapata State Park elopement is that I’ve got you covered. Seriously, you don’t need to stress about navigating the permit process or shelling out extra fees. I’ve already secured a special annual permit with California State Parks, which means your elopement planning just got a whole lot easier (and more affordable!).

Here’s how it works: Typically, couples need to apply for a permit that costs $250 for the event itself, plus an additional $100 for a photo permit through the California Film Commission—totaling $350.  But because I’ve taken care of this in advance, my couples only need to pay a small wedding fee: $50 if no specific location is reserved or $75 if you’d like to lock in a particular spot, plus the CFC photo permit. That’s it! Not only does this save you money, but it also means you can focus on planning your day without worrying about permit applications.

Here are a few important things to know about the permit guidelines for elopements here:

• Elopements are limited to 10 people or fewer, including the officiant and photographer
• The ceremony must be under one hour long
• No large setups like chairs, arches, or decor are allowed
• No specific location is reserved for the event unless requested
• If you don’t reserve a specific spot, you’ll need to yield to any permitted event already in progress

Additionally, Leave-No-Trace principles are non-negotiable here (and honestly, they should be for every outdoor celebration!). This means no trash, no scattering flowers, and no bringing invasive plants like pampas or fountain grass. We’re here to protect the beauty of this place so future couples and other visitors can enjoy it, too.

Because my permit covers several locations, you’ll have access to some of the best spots in Garrapata and Carmel River State Beach! 

Getting Your Marriage License

To legally elope in Garrapata State Park, you’ll need a California 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!

Best Time to Elope in Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is beautiful year-round, but the best time to elope depends on what kind of experience you’re after. No matter the season though, coastal weather can change quickly, so always bring layers and appropriate footwear for the potentially muddy and uneven trails!

Spring is great if you love wildflowers! This is when the Calla Lily Valley is in full bloom, so this is the best time of year to elope there. Overall, the weather is mild, with a nice coastal breeze.

Summer is when you can enjoy the longer days for more adventuring, however, it’s also the busiest season along the California coast. If you’re eloping here during this time, I highly recommend sunrise and weekday ceremonies. Also note, that the coastal breeze keeps the area cooler than some other spots more inland, so don’t forget those layers!

Fall is easily one of the best times to elope in Garrapata State Park. It’s not as crowded as summer and you get some of the clearest weather of the year, and it’s still nice and warm. 

Winter on the coast is peaceful and moody, yet also cool and rainy. If you’re after quiet trails and moodiness, then this is your season, but I definitely recommend you have a plan B ready in case of rain.

Where to Stay

When you elope in Garrapata State Park, you’re conveniently located at the Big Sur and next to Carmel, so you’ve got plenty of options for where to stay, depending on the type of experience you’d like to have. There are hotels, Airbnbs, Vrbos, cozy inns, glamping, and camping sites!

• L’Auberge Carmel: This luxurious European-style hotel is situated in the heart of Carmel. One of the best things about the hotel is its two Michelin-starred restaurant, Aubergine!
  
  
• La Playa Carmel: This is a historic mansion hotel dating back to 1905 that’s really close to the beach. It was recently renovated, however, even with the renovations it has managed to preserve its old-timey charm.
  
  
• Villa Mara Carmel: This boutique hotel is nestled in a cozy neighborhood, just a mile away from the city’s downtown stretch of boutiques and the beach.
  
  
• Carmel River Inn: A cozy inn offering cottages and rooms near the Carmel River, providing a rustic and peaceful setting. There’s also a glamping cabin available if you’re after that kind of experience!
  

• Post Ranch Inn is a luxury resort situated high above the coastline, offering fantastic views of the ocean and surrounding nature.
  
  
• Big Sur Lodge: Located within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, this lodge offers rustic charm and direct access to some of the best hiking trails.
  
  
• Big Sur Campground & Cabins: This is a family-friendly spot with cabins and campsites along the Big Sur River.
  

Where to Eat

These are some of my favorite spots in the area for a small evening reception or celebratory dinner for two!

• La Bicyclette: This is a charming bistro serving French and Italian-inspired dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, in a cozy, same European-style setting.
  
  
• Casanova: Housed in a historic Carmel cottage, this restaurant is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and great wine list.
  
  
• Grasing’s: This restaurant serves California cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce. It provides a refined dining experience.
  
  
• The Stationæry: This is a hip spot for brunch and lunch offering modern American classics, with ingredients also sourced locally!
  
  
• Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn Restaurant: A charming, historic spot offering hearty breakfast and dinner options in a quaint, old-timey atmosphere.
  
  
• Big Sur River Inn Restaurant: This restaurant is set along the Big Sur River and offers classic American dishes. You can enjoy a meal with a really nice view!
  
  
• Sierra Mar: Located at the Post Ranch Inn, Sierra Mar offers a fine dining experience with panoramic ocean views and a tasty, locally sourced menu.
  

• Nepenthe: This historic restaurant is perched on the cliffs of Big Sur. It offers comforting American cruising and stunning coastline views while you enjoy your meal.
  

Fun 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.

With its location between the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur, you could consider extending your celebration and getaway over several days and soak in everything this area has to offer!

• Wander Carmel’s cobblestone streets, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes.
• Go to the beach
• Kayak Elkhorn Slough
• Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• Drive the iconic Highway 1 and see the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge
• Hike in the redwoods in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, or another park in the Big Sur area
• Go camping or glamping
• Enjoy a picnic with a view
• First Dance
• Cake cutting/eating dessert
• Reading letters from friends and family
• Catered dinner at your Airbnb
• Have an intimate reception with your loved ones
• Take sunset photos along the coast 
• Rent a vintage car
• and so much more…

What to Pack With You

This is a rough idea of what you should consider packing. Depending on the activities and timeline you have in mind for your day, you may need some additional items that are not included.

• 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!
• First aid kit
• Deodorant
• Bug spray
• Extra battery pack for phones
• Marriage License

My Garrapata State Park Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina, your Northern California and beyond adventure 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 Garrapata State Park 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 Garrapata State Park elopement package: