Bride & Groom hold lanterns in the fading light with Yosemite Valley, one of the best places in California to elope, and pink skies in the background.

10 Breathtaking Places in California to Elope

Updated November 15, 2025

If you’re searching for the best places in California to elope, you’re about to discover why this state is a dream destination. From wild coastlines to snow-capped mountains and redwood forests that feel like something out of a fairytale, California offers nearly every landscape imaginable. All conveniently located within one breathtaking state.

As California elopement photographers who’ve spent years traveling, camping, and shooting weddings across the state, we’ve explored just about every corner worth considering. Whether you’re picturing a moody Big Sur elopement, a quiet ceremony by an alpine lake, or exchanging vows beneath the giant trees of Sequoia, this guide will help you find the perfect place to start your forever.

Why Elope in California?

Eloping in California means endless options, and the freedom to create a day that truly feels like you. You can hike to your ceremony spot at sunrise, read your vows barefoot in the sand, or celebrate with a picnic under the redwoods. Here’s what makes eloping in California so special:

Epic photo ops: No matter the vibe, the light, color, and scale of California landscapes are unreal.

Diverse scenery: Ocean cliffs, desert sunsets, alpine lakes, vineyards, and forest groves. And its all within a few hours’ drive.

Year-round elopement weather: There’s always somewhere in season, whether you want winter in Joshua Tree or spring wildflowers in Big Sur.

Simple marriage laws: You can get a California marriage license from any county and marry the same day — no waiting period required.

The 10 Best Places in California to Elope

Here are our favorite California elopement locations. Tested, loved, and photographed many times over (here’s the photos to prove it):

Best Places in California to Elope:

  • Yosemite National Park
  • Big Sur
  • Joshua Tree National Park
  • Lake Tahoe
  • Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains
  • Sequoia National Park
  • Central Coast
  • Napa Valley
  • Catalina Island
  • Sunset Cliffs

Click around on the map below to see where each location is and start imagining what your day could look like.

This map was made with Wanderlog, a travel planner on iOS and Android

Need Help Choosing The Best Place in California to elope?

We know narrowing it down can feel overwhelming, especially when California has so many incredible places to explore. If you want personalized help finding the location that fits your vision, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Start Planning Your Elopement

1. Yosemite National Park

One of the most iconic California elopement destinations, Yosemite never disappoints. With granite cliffs, misty waterfalls, and dramatic sunsets over Half Dome, it’s a photographer’s dream.

Best time to elope: Spring or fall, when crowds are lower and the waterfalls flow strongest.
Why we love it: Endless variety! From valley meadows to Taft Point cliffs and Glacier Point overlooks.
Pro tip: Apply early for your Special Use Permit ($150) and plan your ceremony for sunrise or sunset for privacy and golden light.

A bride and groom dance in the middle of the road in Yosemite National Park, with Half Dome in the background.
A bride and groom kiss while standing on a beach next to a river after getting married in on of the best places in California to elope.
A bride and groom stand on a trail embracing with a waterfall and sunset in the background behind them.
A bride sits on a rock while her groom holds her face and pulls her in for a kiss, as the sunsets behind them over the mountains.
A bride and groom walk on a beach next to a river, smiling at each other on their wedding day in Yosemite, one of the best places in California to elope.
A bride and groom spray a bottle of champagne while standing on a trail in the middle of a meadow surrounded by mountains.

2. Big Sur

If wild coastal beauty calls to you, Big Sur California elopements are unmatched. Rugged cliffs drop into turquoise water, redwood groves line the hills, and moody fog makes everything feel cinematic.

Best time to elope: Spring through early fall for clear skies and wildflowers.
Why we love it: It feels remote, yet accessible. You can find hidden coves or cliffside overlooks just off Highway 1.
Pro tip: Have a flexible plan. Fog can roll in quickly, but it often makes for the most dramatic photos.

3. Joshua Tree National Park

Few places are as surreal as Joshua Tree. The desert is filled with massive boulders, golden light, and those otherworldly Joshua trees that make every image look like a movie scene.

Best time to elope: Fall through spring (avoid summer heat).
Why we love it: The landscape is minimal and vast, perfect for creative portraits and quiet, intimate ceremonies.
Pro tip: Pack layers! Desert temps drop quickly after sunset.

4. Lake Tahoe

Eloping in Lake Tahoe is perfect if you love mountain views and crystal-clear alpine lakes. It’s one of the few places in California where you can kayak, hike, and celebrate lakeside — all in one day.

Best time to elope: Summer and early fall, when roads and trails are open.
Why we love it: You get both forest and water backdrops, plus cozy lodges for your post-ceremony celebration.
Pro tip: Choose sunrise or weekday ceremonies for the best light and fewer crowds.

5. Eastern Sierra

For couples who want something wild, remote, and full of character, the Eastern Sierra is an underrated gem. Think jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and hidden hot springs, but without the Yosemite crowds.

Best time to elope: Late spring through early fall.
Why we love it: It feels untouched. You get a real sense of adventure without sacrificing comfort.
Pro tip: Check out Convict Lake or Mammoth Lakes for easy access to stunning views.

A bride and groom wearing backpacks with "we eloped" signs, kiss while standing in the sun and mountains surround them.
A groom reaches up to caress his bride's check while they stand next to a lake in the mountains.
A bride and groom walk hand in hand up Mammoth Mountain on their elopement day.
A bride and groom stand hugging each other as they look out at the Eastern Sierra Mountains in Mammoth on their elopement day - easily one of the best places in California to elope!
A bride and groom stand holding hands looking out over Convict lake on their elopement day with snowy mountains behind them.
A bride and groom stand cuddling together under a blanket as the sunsets over the mountains behind them.

6. Sequoia National Park

There are few places in the world that feel as awe-inspiring as standing among the giant sequoia trees. Towering thousands of years old, these trees create a feeling that is hard to describe until you experience it for yourself.

Sequoia National Park is the perfect choice if you are dreaming of an elopement surrounded by ancient beauty. You can exchange vows beneath the massive trunks, wander quiet trails through the groves, and explore some of the lesser-known parts of the park. There are also cozy cabins and unique lodges nearby, which make it easy to turn your elopement into a full weekend getaway surrounded by nature.

A bride stands staring up in awe at a giant Sequoia Tree on her elopement day in Yosemite.
A man in a blue suit stands holding hands with a woman in a white wedding dress under a canopy of towering trees.
A bride wearing a white dress kisses a groom in a blue jacket and khaki pants as they stand in a grove of huge redwood trees.
A bride and groom stand together holding up her hand, admiring her wedding ring together.

7. California’s Central Coast

From Santa Barbara to Morro Bay, the Central Coast offers cliffside views, soft beaches, and rolling green hills. It’s ideal for couples who want a laid-back, beachy California vibe.

Best time to elope: Winter through late spring for the lushest landscapes.
Why we love it: Variety — you can elope at the beach, in a eucalyptus grove, or at a vineyard.
Pro tip: Local parks often allow ceremonies without the red tape of national parks.

A man sits on a log while a woman in a blue dress leans into his chest reading a book aloud.
A woman in a green skirt rides a skateboard and holds hands with a man in a white shirt with orange flowers also riding a skateboard down a paved path.
A woman in a green dress holds hands with a man in a white shirt and khaki pants as they run in the waves along the beach.
A couple stand with their arms around each other facing the ocean and looking out over a cloud inversion.
A man in a white shirt and black pants walk down dirt stairs towards the ocean as a woman in a wedding dress follows behind him.

8. Napa Valley

Perfect for couples who want a romantic, elevated experience surrounded by vineyards and golden hills. Eloping in Napa Valley combines wine-country luxury with intimate simplicity.

Best time to elope: Spring and fall (harvest season brings incredible colors).
Why we love it: Elegant venues, amazing food, and quiet golden-hour light.
Pro tip: Pair your ceremony with a wine tasting or private dinner overlooking the vines to extend the adventure.

9. Catalina Island

If you’re dreaming of a coastal escape, elope to Catalina Island. Just off the coast of Los Angeles, it feels like a Mediterranean paradise, complete with palm trees, turquoise water, and secluded coves.

Best time to elope: Spring through early fall.
Why we love it: It’s easy to reach yet feels worlds away.
Pro tip: Take the morning ferry from Long Beach and plan a sunset ceremony overlooking the harbor.

10. Sunset Cliffs, San Diego

For those wanting ocean views without leaving the city, Sunset Cliffs is one of the best San Diego elopement spots. Dramatic cliffs, soft light, and ocean breezes create the perfect seaside ceremony backdrop.Best time to elope: Year-round.
Why we love it: Simple, accessible, and timeless. No long drives required for these epic views.
Pro tip: Arrive early; parking and tides can impact ceremony timing.

Best Time of Year to Elope in California

Spring – Best for Big Sur, Yosemite, and the Central Coast, when wildflowers bloom, waterfalls are at their peak, and hills are lush and green.

Summer – Perfect for Lake Tahoe, the Redwoods, and the Eastern Sierra, with warm weather and long daylight hours for exploring and photography.

Fall – Ideal for Yosemite, Napa Valley, and Joshua Tree, when crowds are smaller and the golden foliage makes for stunning scenery.

Winter – Great for Joshua Tree, Glamis Dunes, and the Southern California coast, with mild temperatures and dramatic skies creating memorable backdrops.

California Elopement Gear & Safety Tips

California’s landscapes can be wild; in the best way. Here are a few tips to make your day stress-free and safe:

  • Footwear: Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for travel between locations. You can always swap to dress shoes for photos.
  • Layers: Coastal and desert temperatures change fast. Pack jackets, water, and sunscreen to ensure you can withstand unexpected shifts in weather.
  • Permits: National Parks often require permits for ceremonies and photography. We help our couples handle all paperwork and timelines.
  • Leave No Trace: Respect natural areas — stay on trails, pack out trash, and avoid fragile ecosystems. We want future couples to enjoy the same experience as you for years to come.
  • Weather flexibility: Have backup ceremony locations nearby; fog, wind, or snow can change plans quickly.

California Elopement Packages

We offer all-inclusive California elopement photography packages designed for couples who want a stress-free, adventure-filled experience. Each package includes:

  • Location scouting and permit guidance
  • Timeline planning for ideal light
  • Officiating services and witness (if needed)
  • Photo coverage from getting ready through golden hour
  • Optional adventure add-ons (like sunrise hikes or helicopter rides)

No two elopements are the same. We help design yours around what feels most “you.”

What It’s Like to Work With Us

From the first call to your final gallery, our goal is to make your elopement experience effortless, intentional, and deeply personal. We handle the logistics so you can focus on each other and the adventure ahead.

If you’re ready to start planning your dream day, we’d love to help you choose your perfect California elopement location. Reach out here to start your California elopement adventure!

Hi, we're Becky & Brian.

We’re the duo behind Scenic Vows. We’re your elopement photographers, planners, and guides, helping couples craft intentional experiences in wild places. We live on the road in our Sprinter van and spend our days hiking trails, scouting locations, and telling love stories through photos and words. If you’re dreaming up a day that’s anything but traditional, you’re in the right place.

Ready to Talk About Your Own Adventure?

Whether you’re just starting to explore ideas or already dreaming up details, we’re here to help you figure out what’s possible. Every elopement we plan is fully personalized, just like the ones you’ve seen here.


Let's Talk about your elopement

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