Take it from someone whose been photographing elopements in Oregon for 7 years: whatever kind of landscape you’re after, you’ll find it in Oregon. Rocky coastlines, mountains, wildflowers, waterfalls, you name it, Oregon has it. Truly, Oregon offers everything and more for an elopement, and if you were to ask me, someone who photographs elopements for a living, it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest, if not the world.
Whether you’re coming from out of state or you’re local to the area, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of the 15 best places to elope in Oregon. I’ve personally photographed elopements at every single location on this list. After traveling up and down the Oregon Coast countless times, exploring waterfalls and mountain ranges across the state, and taking more than a few road trips out to the high desert, these locations were chosen based on real elopement days I’ve photographed, not just popular spots you’ll find on the map.
15 Best Places to Elope in Oregon
There’s no shortage of incredible places to elope in Oregon, and I’ve been lucky enough to explore almost all of them. These are the 15 best places to elope in Oregon, chosen based on real elopements I’ve photographed, crowds, and accessibility.
1. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Every year I photograph multiple elopements up and down the Oregon Coast, and I can confidently say that Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is the best elopement location on this list for couples looking to elope on the Oregon Coast.
This 12-mile stretch of coastline is located at the southernmost tip of Oregon and has it all: natural arches, rocky beaches, overlooks, sand dunes, and even waterfalls. Shockingly, the Samuel H. Boardman area is significantly less crowded than 99% of other Oregon Coast elopement locations.
Not to mention that it’s also only 45 minutes away from Redwood National Park. For couples torn between the forest and the coast, this area is hard to beat. Most of the best locations in this area require a small hike or walk, and while there are a few accessible beaches, I will say this area is geared more towards couples who don’t mind a small hike. Skip the crowds and head south to one of Oregon’s most beautiful (and underrated) elopement locations.
- Crowd level: Low to moderate; specific spots are busier than others for photos.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
- Photographer tip: Plan your ceremony around low tide if you want to access most of the beaches in this area.
Want to see an actual elopement I photographed in the Samuel H. Boardman area? Check out Ciara and Kaimen’s gorgeous spring elopement in Brookings. And while you’re here, I also have an entire guide on how to elope at Samuel H. Boardman!
Best for couples who: Want a variety of different landscapes, love rocky coastlines, and don’t mind small hikes.
2. Mt. Hood
When it comes to mountain elopement locations in Oregon, you’ll be hard pressed to find something better than the Mount Hood area.
This is one of the best areas in the state for wildflowers, particularly in July. The Mt. Hood area has multiple different locations you can choose from for a ceremony. Here, you’ll find lakes, hiking trails that’ll take you right to the base of the mountain, old-growth forests and rivers, and even some waterfalls. For couples who need some variety but don’t want to stay too far from Portland, I highly recommend the Mt. Hood area.
- Crowd level: Fairly busy, though there are plenty of crowd-free spots.
- Best time to elope: June-October.
- Photographer tip: July and August is the best time of year for wildflowers here.
Interested in the area? I have an entire Mt. Hood elopement guide with locations, permit information, and more.
Best for couples who: Want a variety of different landscapes, love wildflowers, and want something close to Portland.
3. Cannon Beach
It wouldn’t be a list of the best places to elope in Oregon without mentioning Cannon Beach.
If I had to put money on it, I would confidently say that this is the most popular place to elope in Oregon, and honestly, probably the most popular beaches in the United States for elopements. This is for so many different reasons. First, it’s one of the closest beaches to Portland which makes it a favorite for couples and guests who are flying into the state. Second, it’s super spacious and accessible. Bring the grandparents, cousins, and even the dog (yes, it’s dog-friendly!). Lastly, there’s a lot to do in the area. It’s not super remote which means lodging and dining are easy to find.
The biggest thing is knowing when and where to elope here if you want to avoid the crowds. Luckily, I have an entire Cannon Beach elopement guide that walks you through how to do just that!
- Crowd level: Busy, especially in the summer. Visit in the off-season for less people.
- Best time to elope: May–November.
- Photographer tip: Cannon Beach is dog-friendly and allows bonfires! Hot dogs, anyone?
Best for couples who: Need an accessible location, want to be fairly close to Portland, needs lots of space for guests, and want an iconic Oregon elopement location.
4. Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge should honestly be called the waterfall capital of the world. With more than 90 waterfalls to choose from (yes, 90), it’s not hard to see why this spot is popular for elopements. This area is incredible during the spring months when the waterfalls are at their fullest and wildflowers start to bloom. Choose from popular falls like Latourell, Multnomah, or Wahkeena. Whatever height of falls you’re after, you’ll find it here.
Beyond the waterfalls, the Gorge is also home to some really beautiful forests, wildflower meadows, and trails that overlook the Columbia River.
- Crowd level: Busy, especially at the more popular falls.
- Best time to elope: April-November.
- Photographer tip: If you plan to drive the Historic Columbia River Highway Waterfall Corridor between May and September, you’ll need a timed-entry permit (about $2 via Recreation.gov).
Best for couples who: Love waterfalls, want to be close to the city, and don’t want to hike on their elopement day.
5. Heceta Head Lighthouse
I’m genuinely surprised that I don’t see Heceta Head Lighthouse recommended more for Oregon elopements.
The lighthouse is located in a small town called Florence that has a ton of really fun tourist activities such as the Sea Lion Caves and Thor’s Well, but surprisingly, the lighthouse and other surrounding locations aren’t super busy for elopements which is exactly why I’m putting it on this list.
This is a fantastic spot for Oregon Coast elopements without the typical Oregon Coast crowds. Even in the middle of summer, it’s completely possible to find a beach in this area that’s empty. The forests in this area are also just as stunning. If you wanted to, you could even stay at the old lightkeeper’s home during your honeymoon to get views like this 24/7.
- Crowd level: Moderate.
- Best time to elope: April-November.
- Photographer tip: This area is great for whale watching in the winter months!
Best for couples who: Are looking for something a bit quieter, want lots of things to do nearby, and want to prioritize the coast over other landscapes.
6. Silver Falls State Park
I’m not even sure where to begin when it comes to Silver Falls State Park. Photographing adventure elopements for a living, I’ve been on a hiking trail or two but when I think of my top 5, Silver Falls easily makes the list.
Famous for the Trail of Ten Falls, this popular loop is home to you guessed it, 10 different waterfalls, 4 of which you can actually walk behind. The entire loop is around 7.6 miles, but don’t be fooled. You don’t need to hike the entire loop for your elopement. In fact, 2 of the 10 waterfalls can be seen within the first mile.
This is one of the more popular locations, especially in the summer, but if you plan it right or elope in the off-season (highly recommend May), you’d be surprised at just how much of this trail could be completely empty.
- Crowd level: High in the summer, low-moderate otherwise.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
- Photographer tip: Wear good traction shoes, the trail behind the falls can be slick and muddy!
Best for couples who: Love to hike, want to see lots of different waterfalls, and aren’t bringing friends or family.
7. Ecola State Park
“La Push, baby. It’s La Push.” Sound familiar? If so, you’ll be pleased to know that the famous La Push beach scene in Twilight was actually filmed in Ecola State Park, specifically at Indian Beach. For all Twilight, sea stack, and forest-meets-the-ocean lovers, I can guarantee that you’ll love Ecola State Park.
Within the state park you can choose from a few different locations including beaches, forests, and overlooks of the cove. I personally love photographing elopements here during the off-season when it’s not as crowded. If you’re looking for a little bit of everything Oregon has to offer, Ecola is a great choice. Plus, it’s super close to the Tillamook Creamery which is a win in my books.
- Crowd level: Fairly busy, especially in summer and on weekends.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
- Photographer tip: If you’re hoping for a quieter experience, plan your ceremony on a weekday. Parking fills up fast in the summer, especially at Indian Beach.
Best for couples who: Want variety in scenery, prefer to be closer to Portland, and need an accessible location for friends and family.
8. Smith Rock State Park
Finally getting into a little bit of desert territory, Smith Rock State Park is, in my opinion, the most unique looking landscape on this list. I like to compare it to the scenery you might find in a place like Utah. Even desert-haters may be converted to the park after seeing photos.
This is one of the best places to elope in Oregon if you’re looking for great canyon views, hiking trails, and red rock. Thanks to little light pollution in the area, the star-gazing here is amazing and something I highly recommend incorporating on your elopement day. Oh, and if you’re into rock climbing, this is the place to do it. After all, it’s been called a mini Yosemite for rock climbers!
- Crowd level: Moderate.
- Best time to elope: March-November.
- Photographer tip: Expect to pay a day-use fee ($10 Oregon, $12.50 out-of-state).
Best for couples who: Love desert landscapes, tend to be more adventurous, and don’t mind hiking.
9. Cape Kiwanda
Cape Kiwanda is like Cannon Beach’s older sister. Somehow, it’s just a little cooler (okay, maybe it’s because I’m an older sister), but hear me out. Cape Kiwanda has the giant sea stack Cannon Beach is known for, but it bumps it up a notch and also has giant sand dunes, natural arches, and some unbeatable cliff formations.
And it doesn’t stop there…Cape Kiwanda also has some of the best tidepooling in the state. This area is huge! It’s easy to find a location without all the crowds for a ceremony. Bring your family, exchange your vows, and celebrate with a bite to eat at Pelican Brewery in Pacific City before ending the night with a bonfire on the beach with your dog. Need I say more?
- Crowd level: Moderate; much busier in the summer months.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
- Photographer tip: If you’re up for a little hike, climb the sand dune to the top for a panoramic view of the coast. It’s steep, but the view is worth it.
For information on locations, permits, and more, be sure to check out my Cape Kiwanda elopement guide!
Best for couples who: Want a less-crowded alternative to Cannon Beach, want a variety of photo spots in a small area, and need something accessible.
10. Bend
If you’re an indecisive couple who feels torn between eloping on a mountain, in the forest, in front of a lake, or in the desert, you don’t have to choose when you elope in Bend.
Ask anyone in Oregon what their favorite town is, and most of them will probably tell you it’s Bend. This Oregon elopement location has it all: snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, pine forests, deserts, and sunshine year-round. You can say your vows by a lake, in a forest, or next to one of the nearby lava buttes. Afterward, celebrate with local craft beer or a dinner downtown. And then the next day, do it all over again, this time at one of the many waterfalls, caves, or rivers.
- Crowd level: Moderate; popular trails can be busy, but there are plenty of crowd-free locations just outside of town.
- Best time to elope: June–October.
- Photographer tip: I always recommend hiking in this area if you can. Many of the best elopement spots near Bend require some hiking.
Best for couples who: Are torn between different landscapes, want to see lots of different scenery, don’t want something on the coast, and need to be near a town.
11. Crater Lake National Park
Not only is it the only national park in Oregon, but dare I say it’s one of the most underrated national parks to elope at.
Crater Lake is for two different kinds of couples: those who love the snow and those who can wait until July for it to melt. With over 43 feet of snow a year, this is the snowiest places to elope in Oregon so timing is everything.
Aside from the lake itself, the surrounding area has some really great forests, mountains, and other lakes to explore. You can exchange vows overlooking the lake, take portraits along the rim drive, or hike down to the shoreline for a ceremony. There are plenty of easily accessible viewpoints, and at night, this is one of the best places in Oregon for stargazing.
I’ve got a great guide on eloping at Crater Lake. And if the idea of a national park elopement is overwhelming, I also have the ultimate guide on how to plan a national park wedding.
- Crowd level: Moderate; when compared to other national parks, this one isn’t as busy. Still, plan for sunrise or sunset.
- Best time to elope: July-September.
- Photographer tip: This area gets a lot of snow and is only accessible July-early October.
Best for couples who: Are planning a summer elopement, don’t mind crowds at national parks, and don’t mind traveling to more remote places.
12. Portland
It wouldn’t be a list of best places to elope in Oregon without mentioning Portland at least once. While the city itself is a great place to elope, Portland also offers plenty of beautiful nature-focused spots for a ceremony. Hoyt Arboretum is perfect if you love redwoods, Mt. Tabor Park has great views of the city skyline and Mount Hood, and Cathedral Park features one of the most iconic backdrops in the state (bridge arches).
If you prefer something a bit more urban, Downtown Portland has endless corners, rooftops, and cafés for photos. This is a great choice if you need something close to an airport or just prefer to be in the city.
- Crowd level: Moderate; weekends can be busy.
- Best time to elope: June-October.
- Photographer tip: Plan additional time in your timeline for traffic!
Best for couples who: Want something close to an airport, want a variety of different spots, and want the convenience of multiple lodging, dining, and activity options.
13. Hug Point
Hug Point is one of the most incredible hidden gems for Oregon elopements along the coast.
This area is primarily known for its small waterfalls, sea caves, and sandstone cliffs. It’s located right next to Cannon Beach but sees about half the visitors which makes it a perfect spot for a more private ceremony. This is one of the locations where visiting at low tide is a must. Not only does the area have some incredible tide pools, but there’s an old stagecoach road you can explore as well.
- Crowd level: Moderate; it’s a popular stop in summer, but quiet otherwise.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
- Photographer tip: Visiting at low tide here is a must if you want to see the waterfalls, sea caves, tide pools, and stagecoach road.
Best for couples who: Want something a bit more quiet, love tide pools, are flexible with ceremony timing, and need something accessible.
14. Alvord Desert
If you’ve ever dreamed of eloping somewhere that feels like another planet, the Alvord Desert is it. Tucked away in southeastern Oregon, this massive dry lake bed stretches for miles with nothing but distant mountains.
You can exchange vows in the middle of the playa at sunrise or wait for sunset to see some of the best night skies of your life.
This is one of the most out-there places to Oregon and is geared towards a very specific kind of couple. I usually recommend a simple landscape like this for couples who want to go big with ceremony setups or attire: rugs, florals, arches, giant black dresses, you name it.
- Crowd level: Low.
- Best time to elope: April-June and September-October.
- Photographer tip: Some access points here require a 4×4 vehicle.
Best for couples who: Don’t mind traveling somewhere remote, are up for a 4×4 adventure, or want a very simple backdrop.
15. Painted Hills
Last on my list of the best places to elope in Oregon, I have the Painted Hills. This area is super unique. The hills have layers of red, gold, black, and amber which may look different depending on the lighting and time of year.
This is a great location for 2-person elopements, as the boardwalk through the hills isn’t the largest. This location also feels like the middle of nowhere, which is great since it’s way less busy than other spots on this list, but aside from the hills themselves and a few hiking trails/viewpoints, there isn’t much else to see in the area.
- Crowd level: Low to moderate.
- Best time to elope: April-June and September-October.
- Photographer tip: Sunset is the best time of day for photos here. The colors are amazing.
Best for couples who: Love unique geology, prefer a short walk over a long hike, and prefer off-the-beaten-path locations.
Need an Oregon Elopement Photographer?
I hope my list of Oregon elopement locations was helpful. If you’re feeling inspired and want someone in your corner to help bring it all to life, you’re in the right place.
I’m Brianna, a PNW elopement photographer who specializes in planning and capturing outdoor elopements for couples who want a hands-on, personalized experience (call me a photographer and planner, all in one). From creating custom location lists and handling permits to providing vendor recommendations and building timelines, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Take a look at my pricing below or head over to my PNW elopement packages page to learn more.
Oregon Elopement Packages
- 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in Oregon
- 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 Oregon are already included
- Starting at $6,500
Don’t forget your FREE elopement guide!
An all-in-one planning guide for all things elopements! Whether you’re hoping to hike through the mountains of Washington or sip a margarita on the beaches of California, this comprehensive elopement guide has everything you need to know about how to plan the perfect elopement.
You? You’re the kind of person that gets a lil’ teary eyed looking at an epic view…
That moment when you turn to the person you’re with and ask, “Are you seeing this?” I live for it. Places with trees and mountains and soft breezes that make you say, “I can’t believe this place exists,” I spend pretty much all of my free time searching for and exploring them.
These places have always felt like home to me. And if you’re the kind of person who also feels more at home surrounded by trees than by people? Then we’ll get along really well. The Pacific Northwest is full of secret spots that are too special to share with just anyone. But it would make me happy to share them with you on your wedding day.
If the mountains/beaches/redwood forests are calling your name, go ahead…
(I promise you won’t regret it.)
P.S. I’m Brianna. I’m a Pacific Northwest elopement photographer whose mission is to create custom, one-of-a-kind elopement experiences in the Pacific Northwest that allow couples to fully immerse themselves in the highest levels of excitement and wonder on a day designed exclusively for them.
