Northern California is one of the most beautiful and underrated places in the United States for an elopement (perhaps the most underrated place, in my opinion, but I’m local to the area so I have to say that). Northern California is filled with giant redwoods, costal cliffs, towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, and so much more, making it a phenomenal place for couples looking to experience a variety of different landscapes and experiences on their special day. I live and grew up in this beautiful area, so as a Northern California elopement photographer, I wanted to create the most helpful guide packed with everything you need to know about planning your very own adventure elopement in this beautiful neck of the woods (see what I did there?).

A couple in wedding attire hugging at a mountain overlook in Northern California.

Northern California Elopement Checklist

Where Is Northern California?

This has been a debate for years amongst Californians. However, this map is what I would consider to be very accurate.

Northern California is compromised of major cities like San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Jose. Even Yosemite is considered to be in Northern California!

The difference between the two sides of California is pretty drastic. In Southern California, you’ll find warm beaches, deserts, and experience very similar weather year-round.

However, Northern California is filled with giant pines, lakes, mountains, and experiences all four seasons, meaning yes, you can have definitely have a snowy elopement in California!

A couple in wedding attire hugging and looking out at the ocean on a black sand beach in Northern California.

How to Get to Northern California

Unless you’re eloping near large cities like San Francisco or San Jose, getting to Northern California will require a bit of driving.

Most of the time, you’ll fly into the San Francisco International Airport or the Sacramento International Airport. If you’re eloping much more north than that, or along the coastline, the Medford Airport located in Oregon is another great option. You can also fly into smaller airports like the Redding or Arcata Airport, but they tend to be less accessible and more expensive, especially if you’re not already living on the West Coast.

13 Best Northern California Elopement Locations

Northern California has some incredible elopement locations that many people are unaware of. I’ve done countless hours of research on hidden gem locations that I share with my couples looking for an intimate elopement experience, but here are some of my personal favorite places to elope in Northern California. To see even more elopement locations in the area, check out this blog post.

Mt. Shasta

Mt. Shasta is the fifth largest mountain in all of California and the second largest in the Cascade Range, right after Mount Rainier. The city of Mt. Shasta is quaint and quiet, with a downtown lined with cute coffee shops and historic Airbnbs. Mt. Shasta is close to numerous waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails, making it the perfect place to experience all of Northern California’s beauty. This is my personal favorite location for elopements, as large sections of this area remain virtually undiscovered. If you’re itching for a crowd-free elopement experience, Mt. Shasta is the place for you.

Burney Falls

Also known as the “8th wonder of the world,” Burney Falls is a spectacular waterfall elopement location in Northern California. Pictures simply don’t do this place justice. These falls are extremely accessible and perfect for all ages. This is one of the most popular spots to visit, especially during the summer. If you’re interested in planning your elopement here, a ceremony during a weekday during sunrise or sunset is a must. Don’t let these falls fool you. While they may look tame in pictures, they’re anything but. Don’t be afraid to get a little wet and get ready to scream those vows, as the water can be very strong.

Klamath National Forest

The Klamath National Forest is 1.7 million acres of pure perfection. It’s part of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), meaning there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails around the forest. Since this area is so large, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll find a jaw dropping location without a soul in site. Famous for its trees, this forest is also home to some incredible wildlife and stunning alpine lakes. If you’re down for some off-roading, there is plenty to explore. I highly recommend this area for your Northern California elopement, especially if you’re looking for a remote, no-people-around kind of ceremony location.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is one of the most breathtaking places to elope in Northern California. If you’re looking for a location larger than life, Redwood National Park is pretty hard to beat. The park, while famous for its abundance of Redwood groves, is extremely diverse in both landscapes and wildlife. Lose yourself along the foggy beaches, fern covered canyons, and lush green trails. Located all over Northern California, you don’t even need to go to the actual park to see some redwoods (I have one in my backyard). But in all seriousness, if you’re hoping for something a little less busy than a national park, I have a a few (or 20) different Redwood location suggestions up my sleeve.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a popular destination to visit for people all around the world. Whether you visit in the summer or the winter, this place experiences a high rate of tourism year-round. This elopement location is very popular for couples wanting to experience both the beauty and luxury Lake Tahoe has to offer. Indulge in a fine dining experience, get a couples massage, take a hike, or find the perfect burger joint, all things you can do if you elope in Lake Tahoe.

The Lost Coast

The Lost Coast isn’t very well known at all. In fact, it’s one of the worlds best hidden gems (in my opinion). If you’re looking for a true off-the-grid experience, this is the place for you. Home to nothing except a few homes, a very small convenience store, and tons of deer, you can’t get more remote than this. Prepare for a long, windy drive. The Lost Coast is a stretch of coastline filled with beautiful cliffs, black sand beaches, and minimal crowds. Talk about a perfect place for an intimate elopement. If I could get married all over again, the Lost Coast would be near the top of my list!

Big Sur

Big Sur is a super popular elopement location for couples looking for a variety of dramatic sceneries. Cliffsides, beaches, and quiet cafes are a few of the many wonderful things you can find within the area. The reason I love this area so much is because of its accessibility. Not only is it close to towns like Monterey and Seaside, but there are so many pull-offs on the side of the road with hidden hiking trails that make perfect ceremony spots. However, this area is super busy, especially in the summer. I recommend waiting until the fall season to plan an elopement here.

Yosemite National Park

I couldn’t make a list about places to elope in Northern California and not include Yosemite. Beautiful meadows and cliffs are just the beginning of what this place has to offer. Keep in mind that this is one of the busiest places in California, so if you’re looking for a location with some privacy, I highly advise against this park. Regardless of the time of year you visit, you’ll run into crowds and more than likely, other couples getting married in the park.

Trinidad

Trinidad is a small costal town located on the coast of California near Patrick’s Point. This scenic town is known for their stunning beaches, hiking trails, and famous lighthouse. It’s one of my favorite towns and one of the best places for a Northern California elopement. It’s quiet, slow, and such a charming place to honeymoon. If you’re looking for a mix of Redwoods, black sand beaches, and epic overlooks, Trinidad might just be the place for you.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

It’s not called a “mini Yellowstone” for nothing! This underrated national park has some of the most unique landscapes you may ever see. From active volcanoes and pine trees to hydrothermal pools and alpine lakes, Lassen is the place to be for adventurous elopements in Northern California. This is one of the least-visited national parks in the United States. Plan your trip right, and you could have the entire park to yourself (yes, I’m serious).

San Francisco

One of my favorite cities in the world, San Francisco, has a variety of places to choose from for your Northern California elopement. From beaches and mountains to downtown shopping malls and skyscrapers, San Francisco truly has it all. Plus, they have some incredible restaurants and activities you can do before or after your ceremony. This is the perfect place for a week long trip. Have your elopement ceremony on the beach and then take a picture with the Golden Gate Bridge the very next day. This is my top recommendation for couples looking to honeymoon and elope all in one spot.

Salt Point State Park

Salt Point State Park is located in Sonoma and is one of my favorite places for hiking, especially in the spring when the wildflowers have bloomed. Very few people visit this area, yet it’s close enough to Santa Rosa, making it possible to have an epic cliffside ceremony, followed by a romantic dinner at an upscale restaurant downtown. If you’re up for some exploring, I know some serious hidden gems spots to check out that are criminally undiscovered.

McCloud

McCloud is a small, yet beautiful town in Northern California just outside of Mt. Shasta. There are numerous lookouts of Mt. Shasta and tons of beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails. This town gets quite a lot of snow during the winter months, making driving almost impossible! However, visit during the other seasons and be blown away by its endless beauty. Located just an hour from my home, I’ll show you McCloud like you’ve never seen it before.

When Should I Elope in Northern California?

Note: The weather in Northern California is drastically different wherever you go. Before choosing your season, I highly recommend asking your elopement photographer or doing some Googling to see what the weather is like where you specifically want to elope.

Summer

If you don’t mind the tourists, summer is a great time to visit Northern California, specifically in places a bit cooler like the coast. I recommend avoiding the inland areas during this time, specifically in towns like Redding and Mt. Shasta where the temperature gets into the hundreds, and in places like San Francisco where its cold, windy, and flooding with tourists. If you prefer a national park, I would hold off for awhile, as the parks can get extremely crowded.

Fall

Fall is my favorite time of year no matter where in Northern California you go. Want colorful leaves? Visit the national forests. Looking for less-crowded beaches? Hit up Santa Cruz. Not only is the weather nice, but prices are low, there are less tourists, and many locations in the area are absolutely gorgeous.

Winter

Winter is a great time of year to elope. Not only can you get 75 degree temperatures, but you can also get snow-covered mountain peaks. If you want tons of weather variety, I highly recommend the winter, though it’s important to note that this area of the state tends to get a bit of rain, so just be prepared for that on your special day.

Spring

The time of year to experience snow-covered peaks, roaring waterfalls, and wildflowers is the spring. This season is my second-favorite time of year for elopements. There’s truly nothing more magical than exchanging vows under a rushing waterfall with nobody around, walking on a black sand beach with views of seals, or frolicking through a wildflower meadow in the mountains.

Northern California Elopement Vendors

Being based in Northern California, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work with some incredible vendors. Below are just a few throughout Northern California who are incredible at what they do!

Photographers

That’s me! I live and specialize in outdoor elopements in Northern California. I help plan and perfect elopements in beautiful places by providing personalized location lists, timelines, permit assistance, and more. You can learn more about me here, or take a peek at my Northern California elopement packages below. Trust me on this one, you’ll want a local to the area to show you all the hidden gems!

Officiants

Florists

Hair and Makeup Artists

A couple in Indian wedding attire facing each other and laughing in front of a waterfall in Northern California.

How to Get a California Marriage License

Getting a marriage license in California is a very easy process. You do NOT need to obtain a marriage license from the county you’ll be getting married in, though I usually recommend doing so, as more often than not, you’ll be required to set an appointment to pickup your license in person. California marriage licenses are valid for 90 days.

In this example, I will be using San Francisco County to demonstrate how to get a marriage license in California.

  1. Download and complete a public or confidential marriage license application (99% of couples will fill out a public application).
  2. Schedule an appointment online to pickup and complete the process. Be sure to bring all necessary documents (ID, birth certificate, etc.) as well as $113 in cash, money order, credit, or debit card for the application fee.
  3. Pick up your marriage license and have your ceremony!
  4. After your ceremony, you or your officiant will mail the completed marriage license back to the original county for processing.

If you want more details about getting a marriage license, check out this article, or the official marriage license information website for San Francisco here.

Do I Need an Officiant and Witness to Elope in Northern California?

Yes, you will need an officiant and one witness to elope in Northern California.

Pro tip: Your friend or family member can officiate your ceremony by becoming ordained online for free! I officiate all ceremonies for my couples for free if you’re looking to have the most intimate experience possible.

Best Places to Stay in Northern California for Your Elopement

Northern California has some of the coolest off-grid locations in the United States. Below are some of my all-time favorite Airbnbs for elopements throughout different areas of Northern California.

Mt. Shasta/Redding

These two quiet mountain towns have some of the best hiking trails, restaurants, and scenery around the state. If you want something more off-grid, visit Mt. Shasta. Want the beauty but with modern stores? Redding is the place for you!

  • Shasta A Frame Cabin with a View – One of my favorite Airbnbs nestled within the trees overlooking Shasta Lake.
  • West Face Place – A luxury chalet on 41 acres, equipped with hiking trails, creeks, and beautiful views of Shasta.
  • Modern Mountain Chalet – A white chalet with scandinavian-inspired decor and hot tub.
  • The Nest – This earthy sanctuary is perfect for the plant-lover. Off the beaten path, this Airbnb is incredible for a romantic getaway.

Trinidad

Located along the coast, this small town is quaint, charming, and close to beautiful attractions like Redwood National Park.

  • Forest Creek Lodge – A two-story retreat snuggled around the redwoods, perfect for elopements with guests and it has a hot tub!
  • Dream House in the Redwoods – This modern home is located in the forest just moments away from the rugged coastline.
  • Camel Rock Home – Perched on a cliff with ocean views, this home provides tons of natural light and beautiful sceneries.
  • Bungalow in the Redwoods – This off-grid bungalow is just a short walk from the town of Trinidad, yet it’s secluded, quiet, and cozy.

San Francisco

Filled with restaurants, shows, and iconic piers, San Francisco is paradise for big-city lovers who also love the coast and forest. With over 1,000 Airbnbs listed alone, there is no shortage of incredible places to stay here.

  • Love Nest in the Redwoods – A stunning, glass-covered cabin nestled in the redwoods for lovers all around.
  • Balinese Retreat – This Bali-inspired retreat is equipped with a lush garden and hot tub, just steps away from the city.
  • Pacific Heights Victorian – A standard, victorian-inspired home in San Francisco with clean, modern decor.
  • Half Moon Bay Home – Looking to splurge? Check out this luxurious home with sweeping views of Halfmoon Bay.
A couple in wedding attire kissing on a cliff that overlooks the ocean in Northern California.

Northern California Elopement Activities

  • Hike to the top of a stunning mountain to exchange vows
  • Visit Alcatraz in San Francisco
  • Go swimming in the nearby lakes
  • Hit the slopes at Mt. Shasta ski resort
  • Go on a waterfall tour (we have a TON up here!)
  • Try the Railbikes in Sacramento
  • Stop for a burger at Yak’s on the 5 in Dunsmuir (absolutely amazing burgers – their sticky buns are a MUST!)
  • Spend the night at the Railroad Park Resort
  • Go stargazing at Lake McCumber
  • Take pictures next to the trees in Redwood National Park
  • Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway
A couple in wedding attire kissing a the top of a mountain overlook in Northern California.

Northern California Elopement Packages

I’m Brianna, a local Northern California elopement photographer who specializes in planning and photographing elopements in Northern California and around the world. To see a list of all my packages offered, check out my pricing page here! For now, take a peek below at what I offer in each and every Northern California elopement package.

Elopement Packages in Northern California Pricing

  • 4 hours – 1.5 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
  • Complimentary album design
  • 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
  • Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
  • Starting at $6,500

Want more elopement inspiration? Check out this Olympic National Park Wedding Guide, Mt. Rainier Wedding Guide, and Alaska Elopement Guide.

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.


A girl holding a camera and smiling.

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 youโ€™re with and ask, โ€œAre you seeing this?โ€ I live for it. Places with trees and mountains and soft breezes that make you say, โ€œI canโ€™t believe this place exists,โ€ 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 youโ€™re the kind of person who also feels more at home surrounded by trees than by people? Then weโ€™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 aheadโ€ฆ

(I promise you wonโ€™t regret it.)

P.S. I’m Brianna. My 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.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *