Where to Elope in California: Northern and Southern Guide for Couples
Where to Elope in California: Northern & Southern California Guide
California is one of the dreamiest places to elope. Misty coastlines, giant redwoods, mountain lakes, golden deserts… you really can’t go wrong. To keep planning simple, here’s a quick guide to the best spots to elope in Northern and Southern California, organized by beach, mountain, and desert locations. By far a favorite getaway of mine is the hidden gem of the Redwoods up in Northern California, and I’ll tell you why below!
🌲 Northern California Elopement Locations
Beaches
Big Sur
Dramatic cliffs, rolling fog, and quiet coves. Perfect for moody coastal vows and slow, intentional moments.
Mendocino Coast
Laid-back, rugged, and peaceful with plenty of tucked-away coastal spots.
Point Reyes National Seashore
Wild, windswept, and full of open space. Think lighthouse views and soft sunset light.
Mountains
Lake Tahoe
Crystal-blue water, alpine overlooks, and stunning year-round access. Sunrise and fall color here? Incredible.
Yosemite National Park
Iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and endless adventure options. One of the most breathtaking elopement locations in the country.
Redwoods (NorCal Bonus Category — because they’re magic)
Redwood National & State Parks
Soaring trees, glowing forest light, and peaceful trails perfect for private vow moments.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Dense, quiet, and full of old-growth trees. A fairytale setting for intimate elopements.
*This is by far my favorite area not only for the giant moody forests but also the way the trees meet the ocean and the sea is roaring. It just feels so powerful and beautiful! BONUS- Near Jedidiah Smith State Park is BROOKINGS, OREGON. Only a 40 minute drive and you are at Samual H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. “Natural Bridges”. Everything about this portion of California and Oregon is worth an Elopement Adventure!
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Fern Canyon, foggy forest paths, and some of the most photogenic redwood groves in California.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Less crowded with massive redwoods and plenty of quiet pockets for ceremonies.
🌴 Southern California Elopement Locations
Beaches
San Clemente State Beach
Moody cliffs, golden sand, and incredible sunset color.
Laguna Beach
Clear coves, tide pools, and soft romantic light. Perfect for barefoot vows.
Malibu / El Matador Beach
Golden cliffs, sea stacks, and dramatic views. Sunrise here is unbeatable.
Sunset Cliffs (San Diego)
Iconic cliffside views, warm light, and some of the best sunsets in SoCal. A dreamy mix of adventure and romance.
Mountains
Mammoth Lakes / Eastern Sierra
Alpine lakes, towering peaks, meadows, and wide-open mountain views. Feels like Colorado meets California and is absolutely stunning for summer, fall, and adventurous elopements.
Big Bear Lake
Cozy forest vibes, mountain overlooks, and beautiful year-round access.
Idyllwild
Quiet, artsy mountain town with pine forests and rocky trails. Perfect for a peaceful, intimate ceremony.
Julian, CA
A charming small town near San Diego with rolling hills, oak trees, and rustic mountain scenery. Cozy, country vibes (and amazing pies!).
Sequoia National Park
Home to some of the largest trees in the world, golden forest light, and peaceful mountain trails. Perfect for couples wanting a quiet, majestic, nature-forward elopement surrounded by giant sequoias.
Deserts
Joshua Tree National Park
Golden light, boulders, Joshua trees, and big open skies. A favorite for couples wanting something unique and adventurous.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Slot canyons, open desert landscapes, and beautiful spring blooms.
Death Valley National Park
Salt flats, sand dunes, pastel sunrises. Calm, surreal, and stunning.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dreaming of cliffside vows, redwood cathedrals, mountain lakes, or desert sunsets, California has a landscape that fits your vision. Your elopement can be as relaxed, intentional, and adventure-filled as you want it to be.
If you’re dreaming up a Northern or Southern California elopement and want help choosing the perfect spot, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.