20 Best Places To Elope In California In 2023

Table of Contents

• Best Places to Elope in Northern California
  • 1. Mt. Shasta
  • 2. Redwood National Park
  • 3. Burney Falls
  • 4. Stewarts Point
  • 5. The Lost Coast
  • 6. Big Sur
  • 7. Lake Tahoe
  • 8. Yosemite National Park
  • 9. Lassen Volcanic National Park
  • 10. Muir Woods
  • 11. Sequoia National Park
  • 12. Bishop
• Best Places to Elope in Southern California
  • 13. Sunset Cliffs
  • 14. Catalina Island
  • 15. Joshua Tree National Park
  • 16. Imperial Sand Dunes
  • 17. Death Valley National Park
  • 18. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
  • 19. Big Bear
  • 20. Channel Islands National Park
• Need a California Elopement Photographer?
  • California Elopement Packages

I’m a California local whose been photographing elopements across the state for the past seven years. In that time, I’ve photographed ceremonies in nearly every major region, many of them multiple times and in different seasons.

One thing I can say with confidence is this: there truly is a location in California for every kind of couple. From mountains and redwoods to coastlines and deserts, the variety here is unmatched to anywhere else in the country.

This list of the best places to elope in California is based entirely on my first-hand experience. Instead of ranking locations by how popular they are, I focused on the places that consistently create the best elopement experiences in real life. Every recommendation takes into account crowds, permits, weather, accessibility, and what actually works on an elopement day.

I’ve photographed elopements at every location on this list in different seasons, and I’d confidently recommend any of them to my own couples.

Whether you’re dreaming of the coast, the mountains, or the desert, this guide will give you the inspiration and practical insight you need to plan your perfect California elopement.

Best Places to Elope in Northern California

For couples who love mountains, forests, black sand beaches, and alpine lakes, you won’t find a better area in the state. I’ve lived in Northern California my entire life and have personally photographed an elopement at every location on this list.

These are my top recommendations for where to elope in Northern California based on real experience. And if you’re looking for a more in-depth guide focused specifically on this region, you can find that here.

1. Mt. Shasta

If I had to choose, I would say that Mount Shasta is the best place to elope in California, though let’s be honest, that’s a bit like asking someone to pick their favorite child. I live just an hour away from Mount Shasta and have photographed numerous elopements in this area over the years.

One thing that really stands out about this place is how uncrowded it is. Seriously. I’ve never photographed an elopement here with more than like five people nearby. For scenery like this, it almost feels impossible, but somehow Mt. Shasta remains one of California’s best-kept secrets, even during the summer.

I included it at the top of this list because Mt. Shasta has the same incredible mountain views as places like Yosemite or Rainier, without the huge crowds or permit requirements.

Want a lake? Done. A forest? Easy. Wildflower meadows? Let me show you my favorites. Mountain views? That’s what it’s known for. This area offers an incredible range of scenery. There are tons of amazing hiking trails and equally as many accessible ceremony locations for elopements with guests.

If that wasn’t enough, Mount Shasta is one of the few locations that shine in the shoulder seasons. While most other mountain locations in California are still snowed in during early spring or start closing access roads in late fall, Mount Shasta is accessible year-round.

• Scenery: Mountains, lakes, forests, rivers, canyons, wildflowers, and waterfalls.
• Permit required: No.
• Crowd level: Low.
• Best months to elope: May–November.
• Photographer tip: Some of the best mountain views in the area require a short hike.

Best for couples who: Love mountain scenery like Yosemite or Rainier but want fewer crowds, don’t mind hiking, and want a wide range of landscapes in a small region.

Mt. shasta ELOPEMENT GUIDE

2. Redwood National Park

This might be a controversial opinion, but I truly believe Redwood National and State Parks is the best national park for an elopement in California. I know what you’re thinking. Over Yosemite? Yes. And as someone who has photographed elopements in both, let me explain why.

The first thing that stands out about the Redwoods is how uncrowded they are. No matter the time of year, I can almost always guarantee a ceremony location without tourists, even at midday on a Saturday in July. That level of privacy in a national park is unheard of.

Beyond the crowds, this park offers an unbelievable variety of scenery. In a single day, you can move from redwood forests to rocky coastlines, fern canyons, rivers, and meadows. The wildlife here is also some of the best in the state, and sightings are extremely common.

One of my favorite things about the Redwoods is how accessible it is. Many of the best ceremony locations require little to no hiking, which makes this an incredible option for couples bringing guests of all ages.

The park is open year-round, but spring and fall are my favorite seasons to photograph here. Spring brings peak greenery and overcast lighting, while fall offers great weather and hardly any crowds. Because many of the best locations are close to one another, it’s easy to see a plethora of different landscapes without spending hours in the car.

• Scenery: Redwoods, rocky beaches, rivers, fern canyons, hills, and meadows.
• Permit required: Yes, a $100-$200 permit is required depending on your ceremony location.
• Crowd level: Low to moderate.
• Best months to elope: April-October.
• Photographer tip: The Redwoods are one of the few locations where eloping at sunrise or sunset is actually worse than midday, thanks to the dense forest canopy. Late morning has the best light!

Best for couples who: Don’t mind traveling to a more remote location, want ceremony spots with little to no hiking, and want to prioritize privacy.

Redwood NATIONAL PARK ELOPEMENT GUIDE

3. Burney Falls

As a kid, Burney Falls was one of those hidden gems I was lucky to have in my own backyard. Today, it’s one of the most popular waterfalls in California, but don’t let that deter you. Visit around sunrise or sunset and you could have the entire falls to yourself (seriously, it happens all the time!).

I particularly love this location for elopements in October when the drive to the falls and the falls themselves are covered in shades of yellow and orange.

Burney Falls is also an great option for couples bringing guests. A short paved path leads directly to the base of the falls, making it one of the most accessible waterfall ceremony locations in California. Better yet, there’s a phenomenal viewing platform right at the base of the falls that I love using for ceremonies.

And if that wasn’t enough, Burney Falls is just one of six major waterfalls you can visit in a single day in this region. As someone who has been to all of them many times, Burney Falls is easily the most impressive. Its proximity to Mount Shasta also makes it easy to pair with mountain or lake portraits on your elopement day.

• Scenery: Waterfalls, forests, rivers, and lakes.
• Permit required: Yes, a $200+ permit is required.
• Crowd level: Moderate to high.
• Best time to elope: April-October.
• Photographer tip: The permit office here can be slow and selective about approving ceremonies, so apply early and be flexible with dates and times. Planning ahead makes a huge difference here!

Best for couples who: Want a huge waterfall, need easy access for guests, and are willing to plan around crowds.

BURNEY FALLS ELOPEMENT GUIDE

4. Stewarts Point

I’d bet some serious money that you’ve never heard of Stewarts Point. Easily one of the biggest hidden gems on this entire list, Stewarts Point is one of the most beautiful places I’ve personally ever been to. In fact, I came here every summer as a kid for summer camp, and we hiked one of the main trails every year. Somehow, even in the middle of summer, we never came across other hikers.

The scenery here is unreal. Coastal cliffs, ocean views, wildflowers, and rolling headlands that compare to a place like Big Sur. It’s one of those rare places on the California coast that feels undiscovered.

On top of the ocean views, this location is about an hour from several redwood parks, lakes, and even wineries, which makes it a great option for couples looking for things to do on their trip. You’re also a short drive from Mendocino, which is another beautiful elopement location, just a bit busier.

There’s even a small general store nearby that I always stop at when I’m in the area that serves delicious baked goods. Visit in the spring for wildflowers along the bluffs or come in the summer for some of the best coastal weather in the state. No matter the season, this is one of those places that will take your breath away.

• Scenery: Coastal cliffs, ocean bluffs, beaches, rolling headlands, and wildflowers.
• Permit required: A permit is usually not required.
• Crowd level: Low.
• Best time to elope: April-October.
• Photographer tip: Wind can be strong along the bluffs, especially in the afternoons.

Best for couples who: Want a hidden gem location, prioritize privacy, love road trips, and enjoy ocean views without heavy crowds.

5. The Lost Coast

The Lost Coast is a hidden gem. There’s no other way to describe it. If I was thinking about eloping in California, the Lost Coast would be extremely high on my list. The road to get here is long and very windy, but let me tell you, if you need a location that truly feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere, this is it. Every single elopement I’ve photographed here has been completely crowd free.

You will not find better black sand beaches in the state. And as someone who has been to the most popular black sand beach in the world, Reynisfjara Beach in Iceland, dare I say this one is better (and has no crowds!). Though sometimes it can be just as windy.

On top of that, this area is only an hour from Humboldt Redwoods State Park, which is a great location for portraits or ceremonies with a small guest count. For couples wanting something truly off the grid, this is the place to go.

• Scenery: Black sand beaches, redwoods, rivers, hills, valleys, and wildflowers.
• Permit required: No permit required.
• Crowd level: Low.
• Best time to elope: May-October.
• Photographer tip: The road is very windy and filled with deer. If you get carsick easily, medicine is a must! There are also no gas stations in this area so be sure to fill up ahead of time.

Best for couples who: Want a truly off-the-grid location, prioritize privacy, and don’t mind a long, winding drive to get there.

Humboldt redwoods ELOPEMENT GUIDE

6. Big Sur

Big Sur is a dream location for couples who love the coast. I almost always recommend this area for couples planning to honeymoon and elope in the same place, because few locations in California feel as romantic as Big Sur.

One of the things I love most about Big Sur is how many ceremony locations you have to choose from. Despite how popular the area is, it’s usually not hard to find a tucked-away spot with privacy and incredible views. The biggest downside here is cost. Big Sur tends to be one of the more expensive places to elope in California due to permit fees and lodging prices.

Fog is common in the mornings but usually clears by the afternoon, which actually gives this area some of the most beautiful, consistent lighting in the state. It’s one of the few coastal locations that photographs well almost year-round.

Big Sur is best for couples who are flexible. Highway 1 often experiences closures due to mudslides, sometimes with little notice, and the permitting process can be a bit of a headache. That said, if you’re working with a photographer who knows how to navigate the logistics, Big Sur truly is one of the most breathtaking places to elope in California.

• Scenery: Coastal overlooks, beaches, redwoods, flowers, and waterfalls.
• Permit required: Yes, $300-$400 permits are usually required depending on your ceremony location.
• Crowd level: Moderate to high.
• Best time to elope: April-October.
• Photographer tip: Cell service is limited throughout Big Sur, so I recommend downloading maps and ahead of time.

Best for couples who: Want to prioritize the beach, plan to honeymoon here, and are flexible with weather, crowds, and road conditions.

BIG SUR ELOPEMENT GUIDE

7. Lake Tahoe

Aside from Yosemite, I would say Lake Tahoe is the most popular place to elope in California, which is exactly why it earned a spot on this list. Similar to Big Sur, this is a fantastic location for couples who want to honeymoon and elope in the same place. It works well for just about any kind of couple, whether you are adventurous hikers looking to scale a mountain or a more laidback pair who would rather sip cocktails on the beach.

I personally love the West or North Shore of Lake Tahoe if you’re looking for something a bit quieter than other locations. East Shore is gorgeous, but gets quite busy! If you want hustle and bustle, visit South Shore. I personally like to call it a little Las Vegas!

This area is also a fan favorite among guests. There is so much to do and see around Lake Tahoe that nobody ever gets bored. In my experience, flexibility is key here. Tahoe is very popular, so don’t be surprised if you hit traffic, have a few people near your ceremony site, or need to wake up early to beat the crowds.

• Scenery: Lakes, forests, and granite boulders.
• Permit required: Yes, a permit is required but cost is dependent on your ceremony location. Permits usually range from $0-$450.
• Crowd level: High.
• Best time to elope: June-October.
• Photographer tip: Sunrise ceremonies are much quieter than sunset in Lake Tahoe. It’s also good to know that snow can linger into June at higher elevations.

Best for couples who: Prefer to honeymoon and elope in the same place, loves alpine lake scenery, plan to include guests, and are flexible with timing and crowds.

Lake Tahoe ELOPEMENT GUIDE

8. Yosemite National Park

You were waiting for this one, weren’t you? It’s a given. Look up any list of the best places to elope in California and Yosemite National Park is sure to be at the top. I can’t deny the beauty this park has, and while I do genuinely believe it’s one of the best places to elope in California based on scenery alone, I have to be honest, it’s for a very specific kind of couple.

I find Yosemite to be very busy and overwhelming, no matter the time of year you visit. This is the most popular national park in California, for good reason though. I mean, just look at the view.

That said, this can still be a great location for the right couple. If crowds don’t bother you and the scenery that can only be found in Yosemite is your top priority, the park absolutely delivers.

If Yosemite is high on your list, I can’t stress enough that a weekday ceremony at sunrise or sunset is crucial for as much privacy as possible. Otherwise, prepare for long wait lines, traffic, and full parking lots.

• Scenery: Granite cliffs, waterfalls, lakes, forests, rivers, and meadows.
• Permit required: Yes, a $150 permit is required.
• Crowd level: High.
• Best time to elope: May-October.
• Photographer tip: Yosemite requires timed entry reservations in 2026, plan ahead!

Best for couples who: Don’t mind crowds, want iconic Yosemite scenery, and are flexible with timing and ceremony locations.

yosemite national park ELOPEMENT GUIDE

9. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Most people I know have never heard of Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is such a shame because this is one of the most unique national parks I photograph elopements in. Known as a “mini Yellowstone,” this location has some serious scenery variety. You’ll be able to find steaming hydrothermal areas, volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower meadows all within a relatively small area.

This park sees surprisingly few visitors compared to most national parks in California. Even in the middle of summer, I’ve found it easy to get parking, and that was at one of the more popular trails in the park. If privacy is high on your list, this is one of the best national parks in the state for avoiding crowds.

If you’re up for a bit of hiking, this area has some gorgeous trails, a few of my personal favorites being Lassen Peak and Ridge Lakes Trail. That said, the park also has several beautiful and accessible ceremony locations for couples bringing guests, with no hiking required.

One of the things I love most about Lassen is how different it feels from anywhere else in California. This is a great choice for couples who want something a little more unique than what you’ll usually see in elopement photos.

• Scenery: Volcanic peaks, hydrothermal areas, alpine lakes, forests, meadows, and wildflowers.
• Permit required: Yes, a $75 permit is required.
• Crowd level: Low to moderate.
• Best time to elope: June-October.
• Photographer tip: Lassen gets a lot of snow. It often lingers on higher trails into early summer which can close trailheads and roads. Check the national park website before your visit.

Best for couples who: Want unique scenery, prefer fewer crowds, enjoy hiking, and want a national park that feels different from the usual choices.

Lassen national park ELOPEMENT GUIDE

10. Muir Woods

San Francisco has no shortage of amazing places to elope, but Muir Woods is one of the best. Yes, it does tend to be busier than other spots on this list, but I wanted to include it because it’s one of the best redwood locations in California for elopements with guests who are traveling. And with it being right outside the city, there’s no shortage of fun things to do before and after your ceremony.

Luckily, Muir Woods has a surprisingly organized system in place for weddings, allowing ceremonies before 10am or after 4:30pm, and on weekdays during peak season. Those time windows make a huge difference when it comes to crowds.

Not only does Muir Woods have a ton of great photo spots, but it’s literally next door to several beaches and just down the road from Point Reyes National Seashore, which is one of my favorite coastal locations for elopements, especially if you’re willing to hike a bit to avoid the crowds.

• Scenery: Redwoods, creeks, and ferns.
• Permit required: Yes, a $700 permit is required.
• Crowd level: High.
• Best time to elope: April-November.
• Photographer tip: Parking is limited and requires advance reservations which can be purchased online.

Best for couples who: Want redwood scenery close to a big city, don’t mind crowds, are flexible with ceremony times, and want something close to the coast.

MUIR WOODS ELOPEMENT GUIDE

11. Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is what I like to call the redwoods’ big brother. While they aren’t taller than the redwoods, they are much wider. This is a location I often recommend to couples who love a good road trip, since it’s right next to Kings Canyon and not far from Yosemite. It’s also a fantastic national park for larger guest counts, as many ceremony sites here can accommodate 30 or more people.

I personally love Sequoia for its backcountry. Yes, the trees are incredible, but if you lace up your hiking boots and head toward the mountains, there are tons of lakes and overlooks to explore. To me, some of the scenery here feels very similar to certain areas around Mount Shasta, which makes it a great option for couples who love alpine landscapes but want giant trees too.

Unfortunately, a significant number of sequoias were lost in a 2021 wildfire. That said, there are still plenty of beautiful areas to explore, including the famous General Sherman Tree and several groves that remain untouched.

• Scenery: Sequoias, granite mountains, alpine lakes, forests, rivers, and meadows.
• Permit required: Yes, a $150 permit is required.
• Crowd level: Moderate.
• Best time to elope: April-October.
• Photographer tip: Winter is one of my favorite times to photograph elopements here. The contrast between the snow and the trees looks really cool in photos.

Best for couples who: Love road trips, want to visit multiple national parks, need ceremony sites that can accommodate larger groups, and want easy access without long hikes.

SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK ELOPEMENT GUIDE

12. Bishop

You’ve probably heard of Mammoth Lakes near Yosemite, but have you ever heard of the small town of Bishop? Tucked into the Eastern Sierra, Bishop is one of the most underrated elopement locations in all of California and one of my favorite areas in the state to photograph.

Bishop is a mountain-lovers dream. Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48, sits just outside of town, which means the scenery here is next level. I’m talking alpine lakes, jagged peaks, forests, and even some desert landscapes thrown in there. It has a little bit of everything.

This area is a dream for couples who love adventure. There are endless hiking trails, drives, and pull-offs that make it easy to find private ceremony locations without needing a permit in many cases. Compared to places like Yosemite and Tahoe, Bishop feels uncrowded, even during peak season.

One of my favorite things about Bishop is that it’s accessible year-round. Summer brings alpine lakes and wildflowers, fall delivers some of the best aspen color in the state, and winter offers snow-capped mountains without any snow in the actual town. If you want mountain scenery without the crowds of a national park, Bishop is hard to beat.

• Scenery: Desert valleys, granite boulders, lakes, forests, rivers, wildflowers, and mountains.
• Permit required: No permit required.
• Crowd level: Low to moderate.
• Best time to elope: June-October.
• Photographer tip: Bishop has some of the best fall colors in the state. Aspen groves peak for fall color in late September and early October.

Best for couples who: Love mountains, want fewer crowds than Yosemite or Tahoe, enjoy hiking, and want access to a wide range of landscapes in one region.

Best Places to Elope in Southern California

For the desert, beach, and warm weather lovers, Southern California has endless options for you to explore. I’ve spent years photographing elopements throughout this region, so these recommendations are based on both personal experience and real elopements I’ve been able to photograph here.

13. Sunset Cliffs

One of the very first elopements I ever photographed was at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego, and it still remains one of the best places to elope in California to this day. Named for its, you guessed it, jaw-dropping sunsets, this location is stunning any time of year. Visit in the spring for wildflowers, summer and fall for beautiful weather, or winter for some of the most vibrant sunsets you’ll see anywhere in the state.

Sunset Cliffs has three different ceremony sites you can choose from, all of which allow chairs and simple decorations, which is rare for most outdoor locations in California that require a permit. These sites can accommodate anywhere from 30 to 50 people, making this a great option for couples planning a larger elopement with guests.

The views here are incredible, and there are several beaches nearby that are perfect for portraits afterward. Plus, you’re just minutes from one of my favorite spots in the city, Balboa Park, which offers everything from museums and gardens to zoos and restaurants for more photos or a post-elopement celebration.

• Scenery: Ocean cliffs, rocky coastline, beaches, and tidepools.
• Permit required: Yes, a $200 permit is required.
• Crowd level: Moderate to high.
• Best time to elope: April-October.
• Photographer tip: Sunset ceremonies here are popular for a reason, but parking can be difficult at that time. Arrive early to find a spot.

Best for couples who: Want ocean views, plan to include guests, prefer easy access, and love the idea of a sunset ceremony.

SUNSET CLIFFS ELOPEMENT

14. Catalina Island

Catalina Island is the perfect place for a California elopement if you’ve ever wanted to visit the Mediterranean. Funny enough, I almost never see this location on lists of the best places to elope in California, which is surprising considering it has some of the most scenic overlooks in the state.

The only way to get around on the island is by golf cart, walking, or taxi. If you have the budget, I highly recommend taking a helicopter tour to the other side of the island. Not only is it completely crowd free, but you may even spot some of the island’s wild bison. Prefer the water? You can also charter a private boat for your ceremony. I’ve done both and highly recommend either!

There are so many options when it comes to Catalina. If you can, I recommend visiting during the off-season, as summers are incredibly busy. This is a very popular day-trip destination from Southern California, so timing makes a big difference when it comes to crowds. Like all locations in Southern California though, you really can’t go wrong any time of the year.

• Scenery: Coastal cliffs, beaches, harbors, and hills.
• Permit required: A permit is usually not needed.
• Crowd level: Moderate.
• Best time to elope: April-November.
• Photographer tip: The west side of the island is way quieter than Avalon with some of the best views on the island.

Best for couples who: Want a destination-style elopement without leaving California, like walkable towns, and don’t mind limited ceremony options.

Catalina Island Elopement Guide

15. Joshua Tree National Park

For all you winter wedding date couples, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the coolest places to elope in California. To be honest with you, I wasn’t the biggest fan of desert landscapes at first, and then I photographed an elopement in Joshua Tree and my entire perspective changed.

This is an incredible location for couples who want something remote. Joshua Tree is massive, with endless ceremony locations to explore. Plus, its close proximity to Palm Springs which makes this a fantastic option for couples who want to honeymoon and elope on a single trip.

If you’re into stargazing, this is the place to do it. Joshua Tree has some of the darkest skies in the United States, which means the stargazing here is next level. There are even companies in the area that will take you to some of the best stargazing spots in the park, which is such a fun way to end an elopement day.

• Scenery: Joshua trees, boulders and rock formations, valleys, and mountain backdrops.
• Permit required: Yes, a $120 permit is required.
• Crowd level: Moderate.
• Best time to elope: October-April.
• Photographer tip: Always check the moon phase when planning stargazing portraits here. New moon nights give you the darkest skies and the best chance of seeing the Milky Way.

Best for couples who: Love desert scenery, want to feel remote, are planning a winter elopement, and like the idea of pairing their ceremony with a Palm Springs getaway.

Joshua Tree Elopement Guide

16. Imperial Sand Dunes

Who knew there would be sand dunes in California? Though should that even be a question when you can literally find every landscape here? For all you Star Wars, Dune, or Morocco fans, the Imperial Sand Dunes (also known as the Glamis Sand Dunes) are such a wildly unique place to elope in the middle of nowhere.

This location isn’t popular for elopements at all, which is exactly why I love recommending it. Every time I’ve photographed here, it’s felt completely empty. If you want a place where it truly feels like the two of you are the only people for miles, this is one of the best spots in the state.

I love this location because there is so much room to roam. The dunes go on forever, which makes it easy to find private ceremony spots. Sunrise and sunset here are both unreal. The dunes are one of those places you’ll want to visit in the off-season though, as temperatures above 100 degrees are not uncommon.

One of my favorite things about the dunes is how cinematic they feel. The landscape is simple, which makes couples stand out in photos. If you’re dreaming of something that feels totally different from anything else in California, this is it.

• Scenery: Sand dunes, desert hills, and distant mountains.
• Permit required: No permit required.
• Crowd level: Low to moderate.
• Best time to elope: November-March.
• Photographer tip: Walking a few minutes beyond the first dune usually gives you completely untouched sand with no footprints in the background. Entrance fees are required in peak season from April-October.

Best for couples who: Want something truly unique, love desert landscapes, want something private, and are planning a winter elopement.

17. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is by far one of the most underrated places to elope in California. Yes, you’ll find the classic desert landscapes you might expect, like sand dunes and rock formations, but this park has so much more variety than most people realize.

One of my favorite things about Death Valley is the color. Places like Artist’s Palette have some of the most incredible natural color in the state, with layers of pink, green, purple, and gold in the hills. Now that’s something you don’t see everyday in the desert!

This park is massive, which makes it surprisingly easy to find privacy. Even during peak season, I’ve never had trouble finding quiet ceremony locations. If you’re dreaming of something remote and completely different from the usual mountain or forest elopement, Death Valley delivers.

Another huge perk is accessibility. Many of the best viewpoints and ceremony spots are right off the main roads, which makes this a great option for couples bringing guests or anyone who prefers minimal hiking.

• Scenery: Sand dunes, colorful desert hills, salt flats, canyons, rock formations, and mountains.
• Permit required: No permit required.
• Crowd level: Low to moderate.
• Best time to elope: November-March.
• Photographer tip: Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth! A sunrise or sunset ceremony in the off-season is a must.

Best for couples who: Want varied desert scenery, prefer privacy, love wide-open landscapes, and are planning a winter elopement.

18. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

If you love desert landscapes but want something different from Joshua Tree or Death Valley, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is an incredible option that almost no one talks about.

One of my favorite things about Anza-Borrego is the diversity of landscapes. In a single day, you can explore slot canyons, badlands, palm oases, desert hills, and valleys. The park is especially famous for its wildflower super blooms in the spring. Depending on rainfall, the desert completely transforms with fields of yellow, purple, and orange flowers, which makes this one of the most magical spring elopement locations in California.

Privacy here is incredible. Because the park is so large and spread out, it’s surprisingly easy to find ceremony locations where you won’t see another person for hours. If you’re dreaming of a desert elopement that feels totally different from anything else on this list, Anza-Borrego delivers.

• Scenery: Slot canyons, desert badlands, palm trees, wildflowers, rolling hills, and mountains.
• Permit required: Yes, a $25 permit is required.
• Crowd level: Low to moderate.
• Best time to elope: October-April.
• Photographer tip: Midday light is harsh here, plan for sunrise or sunset for portraits.

Best for couples who: Want wildflowers in Southern California, privacy, are planning a winter or spring elopement, and want something less busy than the desert national parks.

19. Big Bear

If you love the idea of Lake Tahoe but want something closer to Southern California, Big Bear Lake is one of the best mountain elopement locations in the state. I like to think of Big Bear as Tahoe’s little sister. You get alpine lakes, forests, mountains, and even winter snow, all without the long drive north.

One of the biggest perks of Big Bear is accessibility. It’s just a couple of hours from Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, which makes it a fantastic option for couples bringing guests or planning a quick weekend elopement. Despite how close it is to major cities, Big Bear still feels like a true escape once you’re in town.

This area is great year-round, but winter is where Big Bear really shines. Snow-covered pines, frozen lakes, and mountain backdrops make this one of the best winter elopement locations in Southern California, though driving there can be a little risky.

There are tons of ceremony location options here, from lakeside spots and forest trails to overlooks and mountain peaks. Big Bear works well for both adventurous couples and those who prefer something more accessible.

• Scenery: Alpine lake, pine forests, mountains, and meadows.
• Permit required: Usually not, but it depends on your ceremony location.
• Crowd level: Moderate to high.
• Best time to elope: October-April.
• Photographer tip: Weekends are very busy here, plan for a weekday!

Best for couples who: Love mountains, want a Tahoe-style elopement in Southern California, plan to include guests, and want an easy, drive-friendly spot.

20. Channel Islands National Park

Rounding out my list of the 20 best places to elope in California, we have Channel Islands National Park. If you want a national park elopement that feels like a legit adventure, Channel Islands National Park is one of the most unique places you can possibly get married in California. Often called “the Galápagos of North America,” this remote island chain off the Southern California coast feels worlds away from the mainland, even though it’s just a short boat ride from Ventura or Santa Barbara.

The only way to reach the islands is by boat or small plane, which means crowds here are extremely limited. Once you step off the ferry, it truly feels like you’re in a completely different world. Sea cliffs, coves, rolling hills, and ocean views surround you in every direction.

This is an incredible option for couples who want something more adventurous than accessible. You can exchange vows on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, explore hidden beaches, kayak through sea caves, or even spot dolphins and seals on the boat ride over.

Because of the limited access, elopements here tend to feel very remote. If you’re wanting to check off a national park for your elopement, this is a good one for it!

• Scenery: Sea cliffs, coves, beaches, hills, and wildflowers.
• Permit required: Yes, a $250 permit is required.
• Crowd level: Low.
• Best time to elope: April-October.
• Photographer tip: There are no services or stores on the island, so everything you need for the day must be packed and brought with you on the ferry.

Best for couples who: Love adventure, prioritize privacy, enjoy being on the water, and don’t mind feeling like they’re in the middle of nowhere.

Need a California Elopement Photographer?

At the end of the day, finding the best place to elope in California isn’t about going to the most famous location or finding the prettiest view on Instagram. It’s about choosing a place that feels right for the two of you.

Every location on this list is somewhere I’ve personally photographed and would confidently recommend to my own couples. No matter which one you choose, California will be sure to impress.

If you’re starting to picture your elopement day and wondering what it could look like, I’d love to help you bring it to life.

I’m Brianna, an elopement photographer passionate about helping couples from all over the world create once-in-a-lifetime elopement experiences throughout the Pacific Northwest and California.

You can check out a sneak peek of what’s included in my elopement packages below, or head to my pricing page to see everything that’s included.

California 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.

I LIKE FREE THINGS

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…

SAY YES TO THE ADVENTURE

(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.