If you’ve never been to the Northern California coast, you’re in for a treat, and Mendocino happens to be one of the best towns you’ll find here. As a Northern California-based elopement photographer, I’ve spent years exploring this stretch of coastline. And time after time, I find myself coming back to Mendocino. It’s one of the most beautiful places to elope in the state, though I’m sure you already knew that considering a Mendocino elopement is calling your name.
This ultimate guide has everything you need to know to plan an elopement here, from the best places to elope, marriage license information, local recommendations, and more. So whether you’re looking for an underrated elopement location with incredible ocean views or simply need a recommendation on where to eat, I’ve got you covered.
5 Best Places to Elope in Mendocino
Mendocino has the perfect mix of ocean cliffs, redwoods, and hiking trails, making it one of the most versatile and best places to elope in Northern California. Whether you’re dreaming of saying your vows beside the ocean, beneath the trees, or somewhere in between, there’s no shortage of amazing locations to choose from. Here are five of the best places to elope in Mendocino.
1. Mendocino Headlands State Park
Mendocino Headlands State Park is undoubtedly the most popular place to elope in Mendocino, and for good reason! I mean just look at that view! The park is over 347 acres and is known for its seaside bluffs, hidden beaches, and wildlife corridor. What makes this location so more appealing is its accessibility. Many of the best ceremony spots are just a short walk from downtown, making it super convenient while still feeling worlds away from the busy streets. This is one of the best spots for guests, especially older folks who need something just a short walk away from the parking lot.
2. Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is one of the most underrated and breathtaking redwood elopement locations in all of California. Considering it’s located an hour inland from Mendocino, this specific location sees hardly any visitors which is a huge plus if you need a location without the crowds. There is a bit of hiking required to see the heart of the grove (2 miles roundtrip), but the walk is well worth the effort. There’s a variety of different picnic areas and groves to explore as well as a small seasonal creek that runs through the grove.
Love the redwoods? You might like my guide to eloping in Redwood National Park or my Humboldt Redwoods elopement guide!
3. Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park
You can’t talk about Mendocino without talking about Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park. This iconic mark of Mendocino sits on over 270 acres of land that includes hiking trails, a variety of wildlife, and of course, breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This is also one of the best dog-friendly spots in Mendocino. Do with that what you will (please bring your dog). I personally love this location if you’re looking for a great cliffside location without the crowds you may find at a more popular location like Mendocino Headlands.
4. Russian Gulch State Park
Russian Gulch State Park is another one of the best places to elope in Mendocino, especially if you’re a waterfall lover. This state park has tons of waterfalls, fern-covered trails, and in the spring, wildflower meadows. The park extends out to coast which makes it a great location for couples looking to see a variety of different landscapes while still staying close to town. Because this spot is so close to town, it tends to be a bit more popular than others on this list.
5. Navarro Point Preserve and Coastal Trail
One of my personal favorite trails in Mendocino, Navarro Point Preserve and Coastal Trail, is a hidden gem. If you love the look of Mendocino Headlands but prefer something a bit quieter, look no further. This area of the coast not only has some of the best views of the ocean, but some of the best wildflower meadows in town. I personally love how open this area feels. With so much room to roam, this is one of those locations where a private no-tourists-around kind of ceremony is 100% possible.
Looking for more places to elope? Check my guide on elopement locations in California for a list of the best places to elope in the state!
Best Time of Year to Elope in Mendocino
Mendocino is beautiful year-round. However, if you’re looking for the perfect time of year to elope in Mendocino, you can’t go wrong with the months of March-May. Here’s a bit of information about what the area is like during each season.
Spring (March-May)
Spring is perhaps the most magical time of year to elope in Mendocino. Full waterfalls, wildflowers along the bluffs, and lush greens are all things you can experience in town during this time of year. If you visit in early spring, you may still even able to catch the remaining gray whales migrating. There still may some occasional rain, but if you visit later in the season, you’ll have a higher chance of getting sunny skies.
Pros:
• Very few crowds
• Peak greenery and waterfalls
• Wildflowers
Cons:
• Chance of rain
Summer (June-August)
For long sunny days, booming businesses, and dry hiking trails, the summer months are a great time to explore. Fair warning: this is Mendocino’s busiest season so crowds should be expected. That being said, there are still lots of trails and locations you can escape to for your ceremony without having to worry about crowds. The sunsets this time of year are breathtaking.
Pros:
• Sunny weather
• Everything in town is open
Cons:
• Crowds
• Lodging is pricier
Fall (September-October)
Who doesn’t love the fall? This is a fantastic time to visit Mendocino if you’re looking to escape the crowds, experience nice weather, or maybe do a bit of wine tasting at one of the local vineyards. There truly isn’t anything negative to say about this time of year. It may sound too good to be true, but as someone who photographs elopements in Northern California as a living, I would choose the fall season to elope in Mendocino again and again.
Pros:
• No crowds
• Nice weather
• Fall colors
Cons:
• Very small chance of rain or fog
Winter (November-February)
As a whole, I think winter is one of the most underrated seasons, but in Mendocino, this is especially true. This is prime time for whale sightings. From November to April you can watch gray whales migrating, either from land or a private boat tour. Since Mendocino is on the coast, it doesn’t get snow. Sure, you may experience a bit of rain, but if you’re looking to escape the snow, crowds, and high-priced holiday lodging, you’ll love Mendocino in the winter.
Pros:
• No crowds
• Whale watching
• Low cost of travel
Cons:
• Chance of rain
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Mendocino?
In most cases, yes. You will need a Special Use Permit to elope in Mendocino.
If you plan to hold your ceremony in a California State Park, natural reserve, or other protected public land such as Mendocino Headlands State Park, a permit is typically required. Permit fees generally range from $200 to $400 depending on the location, guest count, and setup.
Applications are submitted through the managing agency for the land you are using. For California State Parks, you will need to contact the park office or permit coordinator directly to request an application and confirm availability. I recommend applying at least two to three months in advance, especially if you’re planning a peak season date.
To confirm requirements for a specific ceremony location, search for “[location name] wedding permit” and review the official park or agency website for the most up-to-date information.
If you are unsure where to begin, your elopement photographer should be familiar with the local process and can help point you in the right direction.
How to Get a Marriage License
You can get a marriage license in any county in California. The only rule is that you must show up together, in-person to get one.
If you’re hoping to get a marriage license in Mendocino specifically, here’s what you need to do:
- Call the County Clerk’s office at (707)-234-6819 to schedule a marriage license appointment.
- Either wait for your appointment to do it in person or fill out the marriage license application ahead of time.
- Show up together, both with IDs and $95 for the license.
- After you’ve paid, you’ll get your license.
Easy enough! If you need more information, you can check out the official marriage license website here.
Do I Need an Officiant and Witness to Elope in Mendocino?
Yes, you will need at least one witness and an officiant to elope in Mendocino.
Pro tip: I’m ordained and officiate ceremonies for free for my couples! Friends and family members can also become ordained to officiate ceremonies for free online.
Planning to elope just the two of you? Witnesses can be people on the trail, park rangers, or even the waitress of the dinner place you’re going to afterwards to celebrate!
Where to Stay
Mendocino has a reputation of being one of the most charming places for a weekend getaway in California and it’s lodging options prove that first-hand. Need an idea of where to stay in the area? Check out some of my personal recommendations below.
Airbnbs
- Handcrafted Hideaway – A small and romantic cabin tucked deep in the woods of Mendocino.
- Stunning A-Frame Cabin – An a-frame cabin surrounded by redwoods with a hot tub and cozy interior.
- Water Tower Retreat – A tiny home in the redwoods with hammocks and minimalistic design.
- Yellow Oceanfront Getaway – Oceanfront cottage on the bluff-top with private tide pools and a wrap around deck.
Hotels
- Nicholson House – A 5-star hotel near the headlands originally built in the 1800s.
- Brewery Gulch Inn – An eco-salvaged Redwood hotel with a lean and contemporary arts and crafts style. They also offer elopement packages!
- Sea Rock Inn – A charming cottage-style hotel with stunning ocean views.
- Heritage House Resort and Spa – A luxurious and romantic 37-acre sanctuary along the coast.
- Mendocino Hotel – A charming boutique hotel right along the beach.
Mendocino Elopement Activities
One of the reasons I adore Mendocino is because of its variety of different activities to choose from. If you’re looking to incorporate some fun things to do on your elopement day or are simply looking for suggestions afterwards, here are some of my top recommendations.
- Go on a whale-watching tour during the winter months
- Enjoy a luxury picnic on the bluffs of Mendocino
- Have a fresh local lunch at Trillium Cafe
- Walk the streets of downtown Mendocino, stopping in local shops to purchase souvenirs
- Go canoeing or kayaking along the water
- Visit the botanical gardens
- Attend one of the many festivals Mendocino puts on each season
- Ride a railbike or take a train ride through the Redwoods in Fort Bragg
- Explore the local lighthouses
- Check out the local museums and art galleries
- Be a foodie and explore some of Mendocino’s most popular restaurants
Mendocino Elopement Timeline Examples
You’ve booked your travel (and hopefully your vendors, wink wink) and have chosen your location. All that’s left to do before the big day is to create a timeline. Here are some examples to help get you started.
12-Hour Elopement
- 10:00am – Brianna arrives at the Airbnb for getting ready images
- 12:00pm – First look in the garden
- 12:15pm – Head to Russian Gulch State Park for the ceremony with friends and family
- 1:00pm – Arrive and begin the ceremony
- 1:15pm – Family portraits
- 1:45pm – Casual family picnic in the park with FaceTime calls to loved ones
- 3:00pm – Couples portraits on the beach at Big River Beach
- 4:00pm – Drive out to Mendocino Headlands for more couples portraits
- 6:00pm – Head back to the cottage for a champagne toast and cake on the deck
- 6:45pm – Relax and celebrate with loved ones
- 8:00pm – Couples portraits at a hidden coastal bluff for golden hour shots
- 9:00pm – Small bonfire on the beach with s’mores and a first dance under the stars
- 10:00pm – Photo coverage wraps up, Brianna leaves
8-Hour Elopement
- 1:00pm – Brianna arrives at the Airbnb for getting ready images
- 2:00pm – First look
- 2:15pm – Head to Jug Handle State Reserve for the ceremony
- 3:00pm – Arrive and begin the ceremony
- 3:15pm – Family portraits on the bluff
- 3:30pm – Quick couples portraits
- 4:00pm – Leave for Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
- 5:00pm – Couples portraits and picnic on the garden grounds
- 6:00pm – Travel to Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
- 6:30pm – Quick couples portraits on the lighthouse bluff
- 7:00pm – Head to Glass Beach for a sunset toast with family and portraits
- 8:00pm – Photo coverage wraps up, Brianna leaves
4-Hour Elopement
- 5:00pm – Brianna arrives at the Airbnb for getting ready images
- 6:00pm – First look
- 6:15pm – Head to Russian Gulch State Park for the ceremony
- 7:00pm – Arrive and begin the ceremony
- 7:15pm – Family portraits along the beach
- 7:30pm – Sunset couples portraits at the beach
- 9:00pm – Photo coverage wraps up, Brianna leaves
Need a Mendocino Elopement Photographer?
Hi, I’m Brianna! I’m an elopement photographer and planner based in Northern California, and I specialize in helping couples from all over the world create unforgettable, adventurous wedding days in places like Mendocino and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. From creating the perfect list of dream locations and recommending trusted vendors to assisting with permits and marriage licenses, I’ve got you covered. Ready to make your elopement as stress-free as possible? Check out the details of my elopement packages here or get a sneak peek below!
Mendocino Elopement Packages
- 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
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.
