Big Sur Elopement Guide: How + Where to Elope
Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Big Sur Elopement
Few places in the world feel as wild and breathtaking as Big Sur. Towering redwood trees, rugged cliffs that plunge into the ocean, and remote stretches of Highway 1 all come together to create one of the most incredible places to tie the knot in California! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan an adventurous Big Sur elopement, including the best spots, how to get a permit, and more.
As a Californian, I can tell you — there’s a reason people travel from all over the world to elope here. The natural beauty, the variety of landscapes, the golden light — it all feels like something out of a dream.
Where is Big Sur?
Big Sur stretches about 90 miles along California’s central coast, between Carmel-by-the-Sea in the north and San Simeon in the south. It’s remote and rugged, with views of the Pacific on one side, and the Santa Lucia Mountains on the other.
If you’re flying in, the closest airport is in Monterey (Monterey Regional Airport). It’s about a 20 minute drive away, but keep in mind that Big Sur is, well, big, so the distance will depend on where your destination actually is! This airport is a small one, so you might choose to fly into one of the bigger airports. San Jose Mineta International Airport is about 2 hours away, while San Francisco International Airport is about 2 and a half.
There’s one highway that runs through Big Sur – Highway 1. Driving this road is part of the experience, because it’s one of the most scenic drives in the country.
The Best Time for a Big Sur Elopement
Big Sur may be in California, but don’t let that fool you! It’s a lot more moody than the palm tree covered beaches further south. Summer is the best time to elope in Big Sur. Mornings and evenings are often foggy, but in the afternoon, it usually clears up so you get warm, golden light and great views.
Fall can be gorgeous too, and it’s less busy, so you’ll have an easier time finding some privacy for your elopement. Early fall is usually still warm, but weather can get a little more unpredictable as winter approaches. Winter is quiet, and very rainy! If you get lucky with clear skies, winter can be amazing – but there’s also a lot of rain, and since there’s only one road, storms and mudslides can cause closures.
Spring is usually foggy and cool, but you can see wildflowers pop up along the cliffs. No matter when you elope in Big Sur, make sure to bring layers, and be prepared for any weather!
Big Sur Elopement Locations
There are countless stunning places to exchange vows in Big Sur, but here are just a few of my favorite options.
A State Park
Big Sur is made up of different state parks, and these offer some of the most incredible scenery! Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is great for a forested ceremony amongst the redwoods, while Garrapata State Park has panoramic ocean views and dramatic coastal bluffs. There are tons of other options – so part of my job as a Big Sur elopement photographer is helping you narrow it down!
Glen Oaks
There are also a lot of hidden gems that offer lodging as well as a place to tie the knot, like Glen Oaks. You can exchange vows surrounded by redwoods, with the Big Sur River in the backdrop. There are cozy cabins and cottages that you can stay in as well, and a restaurant if you want to have a celebratory dinner!
Big Sur Lodge
Nestled in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur Lodge offers ceremony sites surrounded by redwoods. It’s a good option for couples eloping with guests, and you can stay at the lodge as well.
Alila Ventana Big Sur
For couples looking for luxury with their adventure, Ventana Big Sur has some incredible ceremony spots that overlook the Pacific, as well as some tucked into the redwoods. The resort is designed to be a sanctuary, with beautiful accommodations and thoughtful details.
Loma Vista Gardens
Loma Vista Gardens is a hidden gem in the heart of Big Sur — perfect for couples who want a wedding that feels intimate, magical, and deeply connected to nature. Surrounded by lush gardens, ocean views, and towering redwoods, it offers a peaceful, private setting that feels like a world of its own.
See more on Shelby and Hunter’s Loma Vista Gardens Wedding here.
Big Sur Elopement Permits
Big Sur is made up of state parks, public land, and private property. For elopements in state parks, most will require a permit. To get one, you’ll need to contact the California State Parks office, and they’ll help you apply. Some of the beaches, like Pfeiffer Beach, are managed by the National Forest service, so for permit info, you’ll need to contact them instead.
Permit requirements and rules can depend on how many guests you have and where you tie the knot, and more, and the fees vary as well. It can feel confusing, but don’t worry, I’ll help you figure this out!
Where to Stay in Big Sur
Where you stay is part of the elopement experience! If you want a cozy escape, Big Sur is known for rustic cabins and lodges tucked into the redwoods. Places like Glen Oaks or Big Sur River Inn offer peaceful accommodations without being far from the coastline.
For something more luxurious, resorts like Post Ranch Inn or Ventana Big Sur have sweeping ocean views, fine dining, and spa experiences. There are also plenty of charming boutique hotels and vacation rentals!
If you want to break out the tents, you can also camp! There are campgrounds in some of the parks, as well as in the national forest land in the mountains.
Tips for Your Big Sur Elopement
Here are a few final tips to make sure your Big Sur elopement is absolutely perfect!
Download Offline Maps
Part of the magic of Big Sur is how remote it is, so expect to not have cell service! Download maps and save the directions before you head out.
Leave Extra Travel Time
There’s basically only one road, and it’s a windy one with cliffs on one side – so expect to move slowly sometimes! Add in a little more time than you think you need for the drive, because you’ll want to enjoy these views.
Bring Layers
Even in the summer, it gets chilly! The coastal breeze makes it feel cooler, so make sure that no matter when you’re tying the knot, bring some layers to keep you comfortable.
Big Sur Elopement Packages
When you elope in Big Sur with me, I don’t just show up with a camera. I also help you design the entire experience, creating a day that feels true to who you are! I’ll help you find the right location, whether you’re dreaming of a quiet redwood grove, a dramatic overlook, or a hidden stretch of coastline. I’ll guide you through permits, create a personalized timeline, recommend trusted vendors, and make sure your day is stress-free. On your elopement day, I’ll document everything from the big, sweeping landscapes to the small, in-between moments that you’ll want to remember years from now.
More than anything, I want your elopement to feel intentional, and grounded in what matters most to you. Big Sur is an incredible place to kick off your marriage, so if you’re ready to start planning, contact me!
Hi, I’m Liz!
I believe that the connections we build with those in our lives is what makes life worthwhile. I am truly a people person. I thrive being around others, and being part of a couples’ wedding day feeds my soul!” My couples aren’t just my clients, they are my friends and we are building a friendship through your whole wedding journey.
As an elopement photographer, avid traveler, and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve visited tons of great places for elopement ceremonies. I’m excited to share them with you in this post!
