How to Elope in Big Sur, California

Whether you’re traveling from out of state or born and raised in the beautiful coastal state of California, if you’re looking to elope in one of the most iconic places in the US, I’ve got you covered! This blog is going to break down the wheres, the hows, and the whys you need to know in order to make your elopement day one for the books. 

The Central Coast of California has so much to offer in terms of diversity in scenery, landscapes, and experiences. I was dedicated to making sure my couple was able to fully experience all that the coast had to offer. It was important to me to get shots of the coast, the redwoods, and the beautiful beaches along Big Sur, while still staying relatively close in proximity. 

Big Sur stretches along the California coast and is made of roughly 90 miles of iconic redwoods and beautiful waterfront bluffs between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hearst Castle. You can travel along Highway 1 and admire some of the most gorgeous views of the West Coast. With frequent viewpoints along the way you’re sure to get the full experience of just how breathtaking this place really is. Let’s dive into some history. 

How did Big Sur Originate? 

Big Sur is located along Scenic Highway 1 approximately 150 miles south of San Francisco and 300 miles north of Los Angeles. Historically, the name Big Sur, was derived from that unexplored and unnavigated wilderness area that lays along the coast south of Monterey. It was called El Sur Grande meaning, The Big South. Today, Big Sur refers to that 90-mile stretch of rugged and awesomely beautiful coastline between Carmel to the north and San Simeon (Hearst Castle) to the south. Highway 1 winds along its length and is flanked on one side by the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains and on the other by the rocky Pacific Coast. 

Where to Elope: 

You will find some of the most iconic locations to elope on the Central Coast. Highway 1 offers some really beautiful views of the bluffs, beaches, and the coast. You’ll find that there are plenty of viewpoints and pull offs along the highway for easy access to some of the most breathtaking views. 

Pfieffer Big Sur State Park is where you’ll want to go if you’re looking for more of a rustic and  wooded location for your elopement and photos. Keep in mind there is no beach or ocean access in this park. If you want more of a  beachy, waterfront location to tie the knot, check out Pfieffer Beach. You’ll find Pfieffer Beach approximately one mile south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park's entrance. Heading south from the State Park entrance, it is the second right turn. Pfeiffer Beach is not a California State Park and charges a separate entrance fee. More information can be found here. I’m sure you’ve heard of the iconic Keyhole Rock, this can make for some truly breathtaking golden hour photos. The best time to visit is mid January during sunset as this phenomenon only happens for a  very short period out of the year. Andrew Molera State Park located in Big Sur is another location that offers oceanviews of the bluest waters, bluffs, and beaches. There you’ll find numerous easy hiking trails that you can take to find your ideal spot. 

At the more northern section of Highway 1 lies Gibson Beach, Point Lobos State park. Here you can find a list of things to do, some sites, and information on park fees and rules.  Caramel Highlands offers some amazing photo and elopement opportunities. Caramel Highlands Vista Point is one of my absolute favorites. As you move more south towards Big Sur, you’ll find Garrapata Trail and Beach located in Garrapata State Park. You can find quick trails that bring you to some of the most breathtaking rolling hills and meadows’ or if you’re looking for something closer to the water, Bluff Trail and Soberanes Point and Whale Peak are great options. Close to Garrapata Beach you’ll find Calla Lily Valley, known for some of the most epic wild flowers. A great time to visit when the lilies are in bloom is Feb-March. Bixby Creek Bridge, another great location that offers a few different photo opportunities depending on what style you’re aiming for. 

If you’re looking for more of a wooded and rustic elopement make the drive up north to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park or Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Both offer some really amazing views of the Redwoods. In Cowell Redwoods State Park, Observation Deck and Lookout is a very beautiful overlook location. The hike is about 5 miles round trip but here is a great resource to use if you’re looking for something that may be a bit shorter in duration. Do consider the time it may take to drive along the highway especially during the busier seasons. I woul;d estimate anywhere between 2-3 hours for travel from the northern point of Big Sur to these Redwood parks. If time allows, Cathedral Grove is a beautiful spot located in Muir Woods that offers views of some of the oldest and tallest Redwoods in California. Cathedral Grove is about a 2 hour drive north from Big Basin Redwoods State Park. 

Santa Cruz is a great destination if you’re looking for a fun, more beach focused elopement. They have a really exciting boardwalk which would make for some really unique and fun photos. Whether you’re sharing an ice cream, riding the swings together, you and your beau can let loose and feel like kids again. Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz is a great place to get some beach shots as well. 

When to Elope: 

Big Sur has a very mild climate making it easy to visit during any time of the year. If you’re looking for the most greenery and wildflowers, look at visiting in April for a Spring elopement. Big Sur is a very well known tourist spot, especially in the Summer season so do consider limited parking, more crowds, and busier trails if you plan on visiting in the Summer Season. Fall is a great time to tie the knot as the weather is a bit more predictable and you tend to see clearer skies, warmer temperatures, and less precipitation. Winter can be extremely unpredictable in Big Sur, with recent years showing potential for wildfires and excessive rainfall leading to landslides and many closures. 

It is recommended to book your elopement during the week Monday-Thursday where you’ll see less crowds. Something to also consider if you’re planning your elopement in the summer months (May-September) is that Monday-Thursday are the only days during the week that the state parks of Big Sur Sector issue elopement permits. More information can be found here. If you are planning to elope in the off season, you can apply for an elopement permit any day of the week, but you’ll find that there is quite a bit more competition for weekend slots as they only offer a permit to one couple per park each day. 

Permits and other Must Haves 

As mentioned in the previous section from Memorial day until Labor Day the state parks of Big Sur Sector only issue elopement permits Monday - Thursday only. You can find more information and the process for getting these permits here, or in some cases you can skip this process if you work with an event/wedding planner who has a special annual event permit for gatherings in this sector. If you are tying the knot in the off season you can apply for an elopement permit any day of the week. Keep in mind weekends can offer a bit more competition as they limit the number of permits they give out per park. Typically you’ll find that National forest lands do not require an elopement permit. According to the state park website, elopement permits are “for very small, simple weddings without decorations in unconventional locations that must be hiked in to. All locations are outdoors, without any coverings.”

You will find that parks and locations in Big Sur have different rules and regulations when it comes to events. Once you have chosen a location for your elopement, spend some time researching that specific location’s special event system, their requirements for these events, and the permit process. 

To apply for a permit at one of the Big Sur State Parks, contact the Special Event Permit Office at BigSurEvents@parks.ca.gov or call 831-667-0507. Permit applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance of your elopement day if you are applying for an elopement permit. 

If you are applying for a permit at Garrapata State Park, contact fwilson@parks.ca.gov. Special event permits and elopements in Garrapata State Park can be applied for up to 1 year in advance.

Making it Legal!

Let’s break down how to legally tie the knot in California. 

Option 1: You may go to the county courthouse or city hall and have an official marriage commissioner officiate your wedding

Option 2: You may hire an independent wedding officiant to conduct your marriage ceremony in the location of your choice (this could be a judge, justice, clergy member/religious leader, magistrate or Marriage Commissioner.

In order to be legally married you will need to secure a marriage license. There are different types of marriage licenses available depending on your state. Information on California's marriage laws and how to obtain a license can be found here. 

Cozy Stays: 

Lodging:

• 
  Big Sur Lodge 
• Treebones Resort
• Post Ranch Inn
• Riverside Campground & Cabins 
• Glen Oaks Big Sur
• 
  

Camping:

• 
  Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
• Andrew Molera State Park 
• Big Sur Campground and Cabins (lodging offered as well)
• Fernwood Big Sur (lodging offered as well) General store and restaurant & bar on site.
• Kirk Creek Campground -ocean view sites overlooking the Pacific
• Point Lobos 
• Ventana Campground - Redwoods, hiking trails 
• Plaskett Creek Campground

As always you can search Airbnb, Vrbo, and Hip Camp for stays in Big Sur or surrounding areas. 

Good Eats: 

• 
  Big Sur River Inn
• Big Sur Bakery
• Nepenthe
• Sierra Mar
• Jack O’neill Restaurant
• Paradise Beach Grille 

Leave No Trace

Please when visiting these beautiful locations keep in mind the principles of Leave No Trace.

1. Plan ahead and prepare.

2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.

3. Dispose of waste properly.

4. Leave what you find.

5. Minimize campfire impacts.

6. Respect wildlife.

7. Be considerate of other visitors.

“The idea behind the principles is to leave nature as unchanged by our presence as possible, so that future generations can enjoy it too. In essence, the purpose of Leave No Trace is to keep the wilderness wild.” Find more information here.

Eloping on the central coast is sure to be an unforgettable experience for you and your beau. When visiting, I immediately fell in love with all that the area had to offer. There is SO much to do and see.

If you’re interested in learning more about my availability and wedding/elopement packages, fill out a short form here. I would love to chat more about your vision and goals for your big day, and I can share with you my experiences and how I can make your special day one for the books.