California Elopement Guide: Best Places to Elope, Permits, & More

California is one of the only states you can exchange vows in a forest, picnic on a mountaintop, and have a first dance on the beach, all in one day. If you’re looking for the best places to elope in California, you’re in luck because this state has every kind of landscape you could imagine, and as a local, I just happen to know the best 15.

I’ll also cover everything you need to know about how to elope in California, including marriage license requirements, permits, and all the legal details so your day goes off without a hitch. Whether a ceremony on the coast or in the desert is calling your name, this guide will give you all the inspiration and practical tips you need to plan your perfect California elopement.

Best Places to Elope in Northern California

Mt. Shasta

Mt. Shasta is one of those spots I’m always surprised doesn’t get more buzz. If you adore the views at popular places like Yosemite, Rainier, or even Glacier but can’t stand the crowds, Mt. Shasta is the perfect place to elope. Nestled just south of Oregon, this small mountain town is surrounded by alpine lakes, pine forests, waterfalls, and more. For some serious epic scenery (and serious lack of crowds), Mt. Shasta is the place to elope in California.

Burney Falls

I’m always surprised Burney Falls never shows up on lists of the best places to elope in California. Just an hour from Mt. Shasta, it’s one of six (and counting) waterfalls you could check out in a single day. If your dream elopement includes waterfalls, lakes, and forests, this spot has all that and more, plus a whole let less crowds than at other popular places in the state!

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is one of those places that just blows you away. Start your morning in a grove of 2,000-year-old trees covered in fog, exchange vows in a fern canyon with elk as your witnesses, and finish the day with a picnic on the beach under the stars. If you’re looking for otherworldly scenery and zero crowds, this place is a no-brainer.

The Lost Coast

For a little taste of Iceland without leaving California, check out the Lost Coast. This spot is perfect for couples who crave adventure. With just one road in and out, you’ll feel like the only two people left on Earth. Black sand beaches, coastal cliffs, and forested trails make this spot a must for couples looking for an off-the-grid experience. It’s super close to Humboldt Redwoods State Park!

Big Sur

Coffee on the beach, a ceremony on the cliffs, and a dinner at dusk at a high-end restaurant is exactly what your day could look like if you elope in Big Sur. Popular for a reason, this stretch of coastline is perfect for couples who want a little bit of everything. Throw in some winding roads, redwoods, and hidden beaches, and you’ve got a day that’s unforgettable from start to finish.

Lake Tahoe

If you love the outdoors, Lake Tahoe is hard to beat. Hike through forests, soak in the views at Emerald Bay, or cruise the lake on a boat for dinner. With so much to explore, it’s a favorite spot for elopements with guests and the perfect place to keep the celebration going for your honeymoon.

Yosemite National Park

You were waiting for this one, weren’t you? It’s a given. Look up any list of the best places to elope in California and Yosemite National Park is sure to top it. With sweeping valleys, dramatic viewpoints, and massive forests, it’s easy to find a spot that feels like it was lifted straight from a postcard for your elopement. The only downside is that it’s crazy busy!

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen what? Lassen Volcanic National Park! Most people don’t even know it exists, but those who do know just how special it is. Often called a mini Yellowstone, Lassen is full of geothermal pools, bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and incredible volcanic landscapes that feel out-of-this-world. For a landscape like Yellowstone without the millions and millions of visitors, consider looking into Lassen.

Muir Woods

San Francisco has no shortage of amazing spots, but Muir Woods is a must. It’s one of the few redwood locations in the area and sits surprisingly close to both the coastline and the city. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Pier 39, San Francisco has endless elopement locations to choose from, but take it from me… Muir Woods is one of the very best.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a total showstopper. Giant trees, meadow backdrops, and its proximity to Yosemite make it a dream elopement spot. While it’s home to some of the tallest trees in the world, the park offers so much more. It’s also one of the better parks for elopements with guests, thanks to a variety of ceremony locations to choose from.

Best Places to Elope in Southern California

Sunset Cliffs

San Diego has no shortage of beautiful elopement spots, but Sunset Cliffs is a favorite of mine. Named for its, you guessed it, jaw-dropping sunsets, this location is stunning any time of year. Spring brings wildflowers, June brings fog, and summer offers clear skies with unbelievable sunsets. Take in the scenery from the bluffs or wander down to one of the hundreds of beaches nearby.

Catalina Island

For a little slice of Hawaii or the Mediterranean without leaving California, Catalina Island is the place to go. Palm trees, sandy beaches, and stunning viewpoints make it the perfect spot for an elopement. Charter a private boat, enjoy fresh seafood on the pier, or take a helicopter tour of the island where you might even spot some wild bison.

Imperial Sand Dunes

The Imperial Sand Dunes are practically located in the middle of nowhere are over 40 miles long. This is a popular area for off-roading and would make for a fun adventure on your wedding day! For a little slice of Morocco (or Star Wars – yes, it was filmed here!) in California, Imperial is the place to go.

Joshua Tree National Park

A rock climber’s paradise, or what I like to call a giant playground for adults, Joshua Tree National Park is one of those spots you always expect to see on lists of the best places to elope in California. Famous for its unique trees and alien-like landscapes, this desert playground offers endless opportunities for exploration. The stargazing here is incredible, and with just a short drive to Palm Springs, it’s the perfect place for couples who want to elope and honeymoon all in one trip.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is located right on the California-Nevada border and is the hottest and driest national park in America. Trust me folks, this is one of the most extreme landscapes you’ll find. But it’s also incredibly unique, with colorful canyons, sand dunes, and rock formations. If you want an elopement that’s completely unlike anywhere else, Death Valley is a must-see.

How to Elope in California in 6 Steps

Now that you have a general idea of what California has to offer, you’re probably wondering how to elope there. It’s easier than you think! Here’s everything you need to know about how to elope in California in 6 easy steps.

Step 1: Choose Your Location

When it comes to choosing your California elopement location, you have endless options. Looking for mountains? Maybe a waterfall? How about a desert? Check my list above of the best places to elope in California as a good starting point. instagram and Pinterest are good points of inspiration as well.

Step 2: Choose Your Date

The best time to elope in California is typically from March to May or from September to October. This is considered the off-season, so you’ll enjoy lower prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather across the state.

California’s weather can vary greatly. While it might be sunny and warm in Southern California, it could be snowing in the mountains up north. Be sure to research the weather and consult your elopement photographer for the best time to elope in your location.

• April-May: Wildflowers, occasional showers up north, low crowds.
• June-August: Warm weather and sunny days, but lots of crowds. Tends to be a little chillier on the coast.
• September-November: Great for fall colors, cooler temperatures, and lower crowds.
• December-March: Best time of year for desert locations or snow in Northern California. Rainy and wet.

Step 3: Apply for a Permit

If you’re eloping in a national park, state park, or national forest, you’ll need a special use permit. Most parks allow you to apply for this permit online, but requirements can vary. To find out if you need one, just Google “[your elopement location] wedding permit,” and you’ll typically find the application form, cost, and instructions. Permits usually range from $50-$300 depending on the park.

I also recommend asking your photographer for guidance, they’ll know exactly where to direct you!

Step 4: Get a Marriage License

In California, you must apply for a marriage license in person, so plan to arrive at your elopement destination a day before your wedding. The marriage license is valid for 90 days.

You don’t have to get married in the county where you obtain the license. For example, if you get your license in Los Angeles County, you can marry in Orange County. There’s no waiting period, so you can marry the same day you get your license.

Here’s an example of how to apply in LA County:

1. Complete the online marriage application.
2. After applying, schedule an in-person appointment (appointments can be booked up to 3 weeks in advance).
3. Bring a photo ID and $91 for the license.
4. After the ceremony, your officiant will mail the license back for processing.

Officiant and Witness Information

In order for your ceremony to be legally binding, you must have an officiant and at least one witness.

Step 5: Book Your Travel and Vendors

You can hire your vendors at any stage of the process, but I recommend booking your elopement photographer after (or even before) choosing your location. I may be biased, but here’s why: an experienced elopement photographer can help with almost every step of the process, from recommending vendors and applying for permits to creating timelines and suggesting hidden gem locations.

Other vendors you may want to consider for your elopement day include a florist, hair and makeup artist, officiant, and videographer.

Step 6: Elope

You did it! You just planned the most incredible California elopement. I hope this guide was helpful in your planning process. If you’re looking for a photographer to help you plan and capture your special day, I happen to know the perfect one (wink, wink).

California Elopement Packages

Hey there! I’m Brianna, a California-based elopement photographer passionate about helping couples from all over the world create unforgettable and deeply personal elopement experiences. Check out a sneak peek of what’s included in my elopement packages below or head to my pricing page to see what’s in store!

California Elopement Package Pricing

• 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in California
• A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
  • Personalized elopement location recommendations
  • Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
  • Assistance and information to help you with permits, licenses, etc.
  • 90+ page elopement planning guide filled with tips and tricks
  • Customized elopement timelines
• Optional complimentary officiant services
• Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
• 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
• Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
• Starting at $6,500