Eloping in Big Sur
Eloping in Big Sur sounds simple—find a beautiful spot along the coast, or in a redwood forest, show up, and get married.
In reality, it’s substantially more nuanced than that.
Big Sur is one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in California, but it’s also rugged, minimally developed, and not designed for formal events. Additionally, like so many places of natural beauty, Big Sur has become crowded with tourists–many of whom do not practice elements of Leave No Trace, and treat the Big Sur coastline and forests as though it is their personal party grounds. The surge has led to tourists blocking driveways, creating massive traffic jams on Hwy 1, and endangering delicate habitats. It’s a delicate balancing act to get that one-in-a-million shot of the two of you at the Bixby Bridge without being part of the greater problem.
Understanding how elopements actually work here will help you avoid surprises and plan a day that feels easy.
Places to Elope in Big Sur
Most elopements in Big Sur are simple, outdoor ceremonies in either coastal or redwood settings.
There aren’t traditional venues in the way you might expect. Instead, couples typically choose from:
- coastal overlooks and ocean-facing viewpoints
- redwood groves and forested areas
There are also a few private, but pricy wedding venues like the Ventana, Wind and Sea Estate, Glen Oaks, Loma Vista, the Henry Miller Library, and the Post Ranch Inn. Each setting offers a very different feel, and the logistics can vary depending on where you go.
Other elopement venues in Big Sur include:
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (redwoods)
- Pfeiffer Beach (toes in the sand on the beach. October through March only)
- Andrew Molera State Park
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
- Limekiln State Park
Bear in mind that many of these sites have limitations such as requiring a hike to access, crossing streams, or periodic closures. If you’re kooking for sweeping coastal views from Pacific Ocean cliffs, you may be surprised to note that nearby Carmel actually offers more of these than does Big Sur.
Coastal vs Redwood Settings
One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether you’re drawn more to the coastline or the forest—and each tends to appeal to a different kind of experience.
Coastal locations offer:
- open views and dramatic cliffs
- direct ocean backdrops
- a more exposed, dynamic environment
They’re a good fit for couples who want that iconic Big Sur look and are comfortable with a bit more variability in conditions. (Translation: Coastal sites can be windy.)
Redwood locations offer:
- a quieter, more enclosed setting
- shade and more consistent conditions
- a calmer, more grounded atmosphere
They tend to work well for couples who prefer a more private-feeling space and a simpler, more predictable setup. Redwoods provide wonderful shelter from rain and sun.
Both are beautiful, but they create very different experiences—and the right choice often comes down to how you want the day to feel, not just how it looks.
Choosing the Right Location
Not all locations within Big Sur are equally accessible.
Getting to many coastal spots in Big Sur can involve
- uneven terrain
- narrow roadside access
- limited space for standing or gathering
Redwood locations can be more stable underfoot, but may involve short walks into forested areas and less flexibility in terms of open space.
The right choice depends on what you prioritize:
- ease of access
- level of privacy
- type of setting you’re drawn to
Timing Matters More Than You Think
Big Sur isn’t a controlled environment, so timing plays a big role in how your day unfolds.
Things to consider:
- traffic along Highway 1
- visibility and coastal conditions
- foot traffic at popular viewpoints
Coastal locations are more affected by wind and visibility, while redwood settings tend to be more consistent throughout the day.
Most ceremonies are scheduled:
- earlier in the afternoon in the redwoods
- or later in the early evening for softer light at the coast
Flexibility is key—conditions can shift quickly along the coast. Note: if you want both coastal and redwood photos, we advise you schedule your redwood photos first, then save your coastal photos for the golden hour light within the last couple of hours before sunset.
What Couples Often Underestimate
The biggest challenges aren’t the big-picture decisions—they’re the small logistics.
For example:
- how long it takes to move between locations
- where you can safely stop and park (parking is very limited along Hghway One)
- how terrain affects attire and mobility
Coastal locations may involve exposure and uneven footing, while redwood areas can feel more stable but require navigating trails or designated access points. We also need to watch out for poison oak at certain times of the year.
None of these are deal-breakers, but they do shape the overall experience.
Big Sur rewards couples who keep things simple and adaptable.
What It Actually Takes to Elope in Big Sur
At a basic level, eloping in Big Sur comes down to a few key pieces:
- a valid California marriage license
- an officiant to perform the ceremony
- a location that allows small ceremonies
- and any required permits for that specific site
Most couples also choose to work with a photographer and, in some cases, bring in additional elements like flowers or hair and makeup—but those are flexible depending on how simple you want to keep things.
The process itself is straightforward, but the details can vary depending on where you plan to have your ceremony. Location access, timing, and logistics tend to have a bigger impact on the day than the paperwork.
Permits and Logistics
Permits are almost always required, particularly in state park areas or more regulated spaces. Even if it’s just the two of you, a photographer and your officiant.
Each location has its own guidelines, and requirements can change, so it’s important to confirm details for your specific site.
Keeping the Day Simple
The most successful Big Sur elopements are the ones that don’t try to do too much.
A typical flow might look like:
- meet at a scenic location (coastal or redwood)
- short ceremony
- time set aside for photos
Rather than moving between multiple complex locations, many couples choose one or two spots that work well and build the day around them. Your best bet is to work with a local photographer that knows the best locations that give you both seclusion and backdrops for beautiful photos.
Making It Easy
Planning an elopement in Big Sur doesn’t have to mean figuring out all of this on your own.
We help couples choose locations that match what they’re envisioning—whether that’s an open coastal view or a quieter redwood setting—coordinate timing and logistics, and bring together the right professionals so the day feels smooth from start to finish.
If you’re considering eloping in Big Sur, you can see how our packages are structured here:
