Having a Big Sur wedding elopement can be one of the most magical places to elope ever! With its coastal views, redwood forests, and rugged beaches, it’s one of my favorite elopement locations! However, it can also be very confusing and overwhelming to plan because of the many state parks and venues to choose from. But fear not! That’s where I come in!
Table of Contents
Advice To Couples Eloping To Big Sur
🌲 Having A Redwood Ceremony
First and foremost, in my opinion, Big Sur is an elopement location that is best for a “just us” elopement ceremony in the Redwoods. If you have your heart set on a Redwood ceremony, it’s best not to invite anyone. In my opinion, from the various areas that I’ve explored, the most impressive Redwood trees are located on private land owned by venues. If you keep your elopement to just the two of you, you will be able to keep costs and expenses to a minimum for a Redwood ceremony. However, expanding your wedding day to include guests for your Redwood ceremony will drive up your costs exponentially. Remember that Big Sur is an expensive area with corresponding venue costs due to its beauty and publicity over the years. It is not the type of location where you can casually add however many guests you want to attend your Redwood ceremony. There are a handful of venues to choose from that have impressive Redwoods on their property available for your ceremony, but couples are often a bit surprised by how much the price increases from a “just us” elopement to having guests attend their Redwood ceremony.
How To Get To Big Sur, California
✈️ Closest Airports
- Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) ~ 30 miles away
- San Jose International Airport (SJC) ~ 100 miles away
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) ~ 150 miles away
🚗 Roadtrip Advice
If you are driving from Los Angeles, always check to make sure that Hwy 1 (PCH) is open! It’s often closed at various points along its 90-mile stretch due to road repair. You can easily check on the CalTrans Website. It would be disastrous to be traveling up PCH for hours along the winding road only to have to turn around due to a road closure! So make sure to check beforehand!
However, if you are lucky enough to be able to drive up Pacific Coast Highway from southern California, as I have several times, it will not disappoint! There are dozens of turnouts to pull into for beautiful photo opportunities and 65 miles of uninterrupted coastal views! For those who have never driven up this iconic highway, I recommend doing this at least once in your lifetime!
Hwy 101 is also another option. It’s faster and less curvy than Hwy 1. It’s very scenic with rolling hills as you will pass through towns like Paso Robles, considered part of wine country, and Carmel, a quaint seaside town that has endless charm.
View Lauren and Mark’s Dreamy Sunrise & Sunset Big Sur Wedding Elopement
Eloping At A State Park Vs. a Private Venue
Big Sur consists of both public and private land. Public land includes state parks, land trusts, wilderness areas, and national forests. If you want to elope in a state park, you will most likely need a permit. Privately owned land is exactly how it sounds – it includes lodges, hotels, venues, etc. I like to utilize a mixture of both when it comes to helping couples elope or have a small wedding with guests.
State Park Elopement Locations
1. Garrapata State Park
Garrapata State Park is easily my favorite state park for eloping couples in Big Sur! I love bringing couples here during the golden hour for elopement photography! This state park offers vast and rugged coastline views out to the Pacific Ocean and provides easy and fun coastal hiking trails located right off PCH!
With a permit, you can have your “just us” ceremony here as well as have up to 10 people (guests, wedding vendors, and the wedding couple included) along the cliffside! And lucky for you, I have an annual event permit, so instead of having the hassle of applying for a permit, paying $400 for the permit, plus insurance, I’ve already taken care of that for you! For a $75.00 reservation fee, which I can reserve for you on my end, you can have your ceremony with one of the most beautiful coastline views!
A photography permit for portraits is also required at this state park, which I also have!
2. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
A Special Event Permit is required for wedding ceremonies at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The Big Sur Sector permits “elopements” at this park with an approved Special Event Permit. Apply for your permit at parks.ca.gov
Important Considerations:
Permit Fees: The permit fee is $400 for up to 25 people or $550 for up to 50 people, with a $75 rush fee for permits requested less than 60 days prior to the event date
Restricted Areas: As of December 15, 2024, events, elopements, and filming are not permitted at the Waterfall Overlook, the Waterfall Overlook Trail, McWay Falls, or Canyon Trail. parks.ca.gov
Application Process: To apply for an elopement permit, contact the Wedding Special Event Coordinator at (831) 667-0507. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your desired date, as only one Special Event Permit is allowed per day in the Big Sur Sector. parks.ca.gov
3. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is not to be confused with Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or Pfeiffer Beach. When it comes to Big Sur, there’s a lot of “Pheiffers” to keep track of! This area has magnificent redwoods to the Big Sur River. Just remember that Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is not the beach, so there is no beach or ocean access in the park.
A Special Event Permit is required for wedding ceremonies at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. To obtain this permit, contact the Wedding Special Event Coordinator at (831) 667-0507. Reservations for weddings are accepted up to six months in advance, and both a permit and associated fees are necessary. You can apply for your permit at parks.ca.gov
Key Points:
- Permit Requirement: Necessary for all wedding ceremonies within the park.
- Reservation Timeline: Available up to six months prior to the desired date.
- Fees: Applicable; specific amounts can be confirmed upon contacting the coordinator.
It’s advisable to initiate the permit application process well ahead of your planned wedding date to ensure availability and compliance with all park regulations.
4. Limekiln State Park
Limekiln State Park is the farthest south of everything else I’ve mentioned and does not require a permit for elopements or small wedding ceremonies, making this an attractive option for couples seeking a picturesque and hassle-free venue for their special day.
View Melissa and Thomas’s Classy Big Sur Wedding Elopement
Beach Elopement Locations
When it comes to inviting guests and keeping costs minimal, your best option is to have a ceremony on the beach! This has worked out so well for past elopements where couples wanted to invite a few people to attend their ceremony. You will need to keep your ceremony simple with no “set up,” which includes chairs, aisle runners, arch, decorations, directional signs, etc. You will not be able to have music or amplified sound. Most eloping couples are more than happy to oblige by these rules and, in fact, are happy to have this level of simplicity!
1. Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach is one of my favorite elopement locations! I love taking couples here due to its rugged beauty and unique terrain. This beach is known for its focal point, “Keyhole Arch”. The rock is known for its natural arch that allows waves and light to come through. Pfeiffer Beach is also known for its purple sand. The further down the beach you go, the more purple sand you will find! This is one of my favorite spots for sunset photos!
Pfeiffer Beach does not require any permits for ceremonies or portraits. But keep in mind that weddings and elopement ceremonies are not permitted from March 15th through Oct 15th.
2. Garrapata State Beach
Another favorite beach that I love taking eloping couples to Is Garrapata State Beach. This area is great for portraits as well as having your beach ceremony with up to 10 people included. This is also another area where I am permitted for, both for small ceremonies as well as portraits, creating a whole lot less hassle for you!
View Nicole and Jake’s Intimate Big Sur Wedding Elopement A Glen Oaks
Permits and Fees
Luckily for you, I have an annual permit that will save you hundreds of dollars. This event permit is for Garrapata State Park as well as many beaches in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey. You can have your beach or cliffside ceremony with up to 10 people in attendance (the wedding couple and vendors included). Since I already have this permit, your cost is only $75.00 to make a reservation. If you want to hire a different photographer that does not have an annual event permit, your cost to obtain this permit is $400.00 and you can apply for your permit through the CA Parks website.
📑 Event Qualifications
The following is how you determine if your event qualifies for a ceremony, which I am already covered for:
- Your event has less than 10 people, which includes the photographer, wedding couple, officiant, videographer, vendors, and all guests that will be at the event, children included.
- Your elopement cannot block access to a site or trail at any point of the event.
- Your ceremony cannot include any set up, including chairs, aisle runners, arches, or any other decorations other than a single-handed bouquet.
- The ceremony cannot have amplified sound or music.
- No alcohol is allowed on CA beaches.
View Shelby and King’s Elegant Big Sur Wedding Elopement In A Non-Traditional Black Wedding Dress
Big Sur Wedding & Elopement Venues
Big Sur wedding venues can be a great option for couples to have a “just us” ceremony, an intimate wedding, or even a large-scale wedding, depending on the venue. Many of the venues in Big Sur allow 10-25 guests, and there are many to choose from that are surrounded by majestic Redwood trees, and have stunning cliffside views. One of the many benefits of choosing to get married at a wedding venue is the privacy for moments like the ceremony, easy access, and hosting a romantic, intimate dinner. Check out these Big Sur wedding elopement venues:
1. Glen Oaks Big Sur
Glen Oaks is not only a great wedding venue for couples who are looking for a romantic escape in the Redwoods, there are also many cabins and cottages to stay at on their property. This is considered a cabin resort and has many Redwoods on their property as well as a picturesque river flowing through it. The easiest and most cost-effective option is to have a “just us” elopement; however, if you want to include guests, the Bridge House can be booked for a ceremony in their Redwood Fairy Circle of up to 20 people.
2. Alila Ventana Big Sur
Eloping or having an intimate wedding at Alila Ventana Big Sur offers a luxurious and secluded experience surrounded by coastal cliffs and Redwoods. This exclusive resort provides both Redwood and coastal ceremony locations as well as many rooms for you and your guests to stay at. Their “circle of life” Redwood ceremony space allows up to 10 guests. (No kids are allowed at Alila Ventana Big Sur, but dogs are)
3. Post Ranch Inn
Post Ranch Inn is a luxury hotel in Big Sur that offers ceremony sites in the Redwoods or with coastal views. When eloping at this luxury hotel in Big Sur, keep in mind that no kids are allowed at Post Ranch Inn, but dogs are allowed.
4. Big Sur Grange
Big Sur Grange can be rented for both big and small weddings. It’s located right next to Glen Oaks Big Sur and has a community hall for a reception. I personally think this venue is a little awkward because your ceremony will basically take place in the parking lot if you want any Redwood trees in the background of your ceremony. Big Sur Grange’s parking is shared with Glen Oaks, and if Glen Oaks is also having a wedding, the lot can get pretty full and will create some difficulty with arranging your Redwood ceremony space. The best thing to do is to check if Glen Oaks is also having a wedding on your wedding day. If you are not picky about what your backdrop looks like, you can set up your ceremony to be over by the river, but there won’t be any Redwoods in the background.
5. Big Sur Lodge
Big Sur Lodge is right next to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, which has a few trails of Redwoods nearby for portraits. It allows 2-10 guests and a wedding package for larger weddings as well. Although there are a few Redwoods as a backdrop for your ceremony, I personally think it’s awkward because it’s not private at all. The ceremony site is right at the juncture of the main trails and right next to one of the main roads. You will not be “nestled in the Redwoods” if that’s what you are hoping for your ceremony to look like. However, for couples who don’t care to be more or less out in the open, this could be a great option for you. The best thing about Big Sur Lodge is its reception and intimate dinner site. Their back patio is romantic with string lights and is private.
6. Loma Vista Gardens
If you’re looking for a garden vibe with mountain views, check out Loma Vista Gardens. This venue offers a ceremony site and an intimate outdoor dinner experience. There are no Redwoods at this venue or views of the coastline. This is a garden setting with many succulants and different plants, creating an intimate and romantic feel. There are no accommodations at the Loma Vista Gardens.
7. Henry Miller Library
Henry Miller Library is a unique place of art, music, and literature. It offers both wedding ceremony and wedding reception locations for a large or intimate wedding in a Redwood forest setting.
8. Wind & Sea
Wind & Sea wedding estate offers vacation rentals and a coastal ceremony spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You can opt for a small number of guests or a larger wedding. Unlike getting married in a state park where you are restricted on decorating, you are allowed to decorate the space as you wish.
9. The Village Big Sur
This venue is brand new as of 2024, and I highly recommend looking into this place to host your intimate dinner if you are inviting some guests. It has a romantic setting for both indoors and outdoors. The Village is located right next to Big Sur River Inn.
View Jennifer and Shane’s Incredible Big Sur Wedding Elopement During Autumn
Big Sur Elopement Costs
The cost of an elopement isn’t straightforward. The cost can vary depending on what you want to do for your day and where you stay. When you are picturing your wedding day, really think and ask yourself what’s important to you and what represents you as a couple. Want romantic views and breathtaking images? Want to go somewhere you have yet to explore? How about a luxurious getaway? Or perhaps to be just the two of you or do you want to have family and friends?
🤑 Elopement Budget Breakdown
The following is a rough estimate of a Big Sur wedding elopement cost:
- Photographer/Planner = $5,000 -$9,000 +
- Accommodations = $350 + per night
- Hair and Makeup Artist = $0-$500 +
- Officiant = $500 + (unless your elopement photographer is ordained)
- Travel costs, food, marriage license, wedding attire, wedding rings, bouquet, misc wedding details = $1,500 +
View Brooke and Jason’s Fun and Spirited Big Sur Wedding Elopement
Marriage License
📜 Obtaining Your California Marriage License
The only way to be legally married is by getting a California marriage license. A California marriage license obtained in any county of California is valid throughout the whole state. This means if you are a California resident, you can obtain your marriage license in the county where you live and bring your license to Big Sur.
However, if you are out of state, obtaining your California marriage license is easy. I will give you instructions on how, when, and where to get your license after you land and pick up your rental car!
Since I am ordained, I am more than happy to pronounce you married and sign your marriage license!
View Judy And Justin’s Whimsical Big Sur Wedding Elopement
Big Sur Weather and Time of Year
Big Sur is accessible year-round. It never snows in Big Sur. However, Big Sur’s coastal climate is ever-changing, with conditions that can shift from sunny to foggy or windy within hours. While temperatures remain mild year-round, the season you choose for your elopement can impact your experience. Do you want lush green hills with lots of wildflowers growing? Do you want warm weather with golden foliage? Take a look below as I’ve outlined what to notice for each season.
Seasons In Big Sur
🌸 Spring (March – May)
✅ Why Choose Spring?
- Comfortable temperatures: Mid-50s to low 70s°F (13–22°C)
- Lush greenery and blooming wildflowers (Calla Lily Valley, coastal succulents)
- Fewer crowds compared to summer
- A dreamy, romantic atmosphere with vibrant landscapes
❌ Things to Consider
- Mornings can be chilly and foggy
- Occasional light rain, especially in March
- The area is vulnerable to road closures due to rain and mud slides
- The road to Pheiffer Beach may be flooded over
Best for: Couples who love colorful scenery, moody fog, and fewer crowds.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
✅ Why Choose Summer?
- Pleasant temperatures: High 50s to mid-70s°F (15–24°C)
- Longer daylight hours for elopements and photography
- Beautiful sunsets over the Pacific Ocean
- Warm, sunny weather in inland Redwoods
❌ Things to Consider
- The marine layer can bring dense fog, especially in the mornings and evenings, typically known as “June gloom”
- Coastal areas may feel cooler due to ocean breezes
- Peak tourist season = more crowds and higher accommodation prices
- Parking at popular locations can be limited
Best for: Couples who want long summer evenings and don’t mind some fog.
🍂 Fall (September – November)
✅ Why Choose Fall?
- Some of the best weather: 60s and 70s°F (16–24°C), minimal fog
- Fewer tourists after the summer peak season
- Clear coastal views and warm golden light for photos
- Ideal for intimate, peaceful elopements
❌ Things to Consider
- Early fall may still have some summer fog
- Nights can be cooler, especially in November
- Limited fall foliage, as Big Sur is mostly evergreen
- Dried-up foliage along the coastline
- Can be unpredictably windy
Best for: Couples looking for the perfect mix of mild weather, clear skies, and fewer crowds.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
✅ Why Choose Winter?
- Cooler but still mild: Low 40s to mid-60s°F (5–18°C)
- Dramatic coastal waves and moody skies = stunning photography
- The lushest, greenest landscapes of the year
- Quietest season with minimal crowds
❌ Things to Consider
- Rainy season, with potential road closures on Highway 1
- Shorter daylight hours for elopements
- Some trails and locations may be muddy or inaccessible
Best for: Couples who love dramatic scenery and cozy vibes and don’t mind a little rain.
View Samantha and Tom’s Whimsical Big Sur Wedding Elopement
🌡️ The Average Temperatures In Big Sur Throughout The Year:
| Month | High °F | Low °F |
|---|---|---|
| January | 61°F | 44°F |
| February | 62°F | 45°F |
| March | 63°F | 46°F |
| April | 64°F | 47°F |
| May | 65°F | 49°F |
| June | 67°F | 51°F |
| July | 69°F | 53°F |
| August | 70°F | 54°F |
| September | 71°F | 53°F |
| October | 70°F | 50°F |
| November | 65°F | 47°F |
| December | 61°F | 44°F |
☔️ The Average Number Of Rainy Days In Big Sur Per Month:
| Month | Average Rainy Days |
|---|---|
| January | 9–11 days |
| February | 8–10 days |
| March | 7–9 days |
| April | 4–6 days |
| May | 2–4 days |
| June | 1–2 days |
| July | 0–1 day |
| August | 0–1 day |
| September | 1–2 days |
| October | 3–5 days |
| November | 6–8 days |
| December | 8–10 days |
View Betsy and Richards’s Gorgeous Springtime Big Sur Wedding Elopement
Big Sur Elopement Planning Tips
✅ Book Early – Venues, accommodations, and vendors book up quickly, especially in peak seasons (spring & fall). Secure your date as soon as possible!
✅ Check Permit Requirements – Many state parks, including Garrapata, Julia Pfeiffer Burns, and Pfeiffer Big Sur, require a permit for ceremonies. Research and apply in advance.
✅ Prepare for Unpredictable Weather – Big Sur can have sun, fog, wind, and cooler temps all in one day. Dress in layers and have a backup plan if needed.
✅ Wear Proper Footwear – Many ceremony locations have uneven terrain. Avoid high heels and opt for hiking boots or sturdy shoes for comfort and safety.
✅ Plan for Limited Cell Service – Reception is spotty in Big Sur. Download maps and communicate plans with guests in advance.
✅ Arrive a Day Early – If traveling from out of town, arriving early helps you adjust to the area.
✅ Respect Nature & Leave No Trace – Big Sur is a protected and fragile environment. Follow Leave No Trace principles—no confetti, no flower petals, and pack out everything you bring.
✅ Have a Backup Plan for Highway 1 Closures – Landslides and road closures can happen, especially in winter. Check conditions and have an alternate route planned.
✅ Book Local Vendors – Experienced photographers, florists, and officiants know the area well and can help navigate logistics for a stress-free experience.
View Bea and Justin’s Moody Big Sur Wedding Elopement
Big Sur Elopement: Things to Do and See During Your Trip
One of the many things I love about the Big Sur area is the quaint and rustic little town of Big Sur. It’s straight out of a storybook, and there are a few gems worth visiting. Here are a couple of things to do and see in Big Sur and in neighboring towns:
🪻 Places to Eat, See, and Do in Big Sur:
- Get brunch at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn
- Eat lunch at Big Sur River Inn and relax in the river on one of the adirondack chairs.
- Have second lunch at Big Sur Roadhouse.
- Feed your bookworm at the Henry Miller Library
- Snap a photo at a few Big Sur well-known spots: Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Beach Keyhole
- Watch California Sea Otters swim around in kelp forests.
- Stop for an afternoon coffee or smoothie at Cafe Kevah
- Have dinner with an unforgettable view at Nepenthe
🎣 Road Trip Things to See and Do in Nearby Carmel and Monterey:
- 17-Mile Drive – A stunning coastal drive with famous stops like The Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach.
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Incredible coastal hikes, hidden coves, sea lions, and tide pools.
- Carmel Beach – A white sand beach perfect for sunset strolls and picnics.
- Cannery Row – A historic waterfront street in Monterey with shops, restaurants, and ocean views.
- Old Fisherman’s Wharf – Watch sea lions, grab clam chowder, and book a whale-watching tour.
- Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town that’s straight out of an English fairytale!
- Monterey Bay Aquarium – Experience this world-class aquarium
- Whale Watching Tours – Monterey Bay is one of the best places in the world for whale watching! You can see humpback whales, gray whales, orcas, and even blue whales, depending on the season.
- Sailing Tours – Enjoy a private or group sailing tour with stunning coastal views and possible dolphin and sea otter sightings.
View Rebecca and Tyler’s Full Big Sur Wedding Elopement At Glen Oaks
Always Practice “Leave No Trace” in Big Sur
As an adventure elopement photographer, “Leave No Trace” principles are important to remember when eloping in Big Sur since much of the day will be spent in state parks and public beaches, and even private venues will want you to keep the environment in mind.
The following are just a few ways to practice “Leave No Trace” principles for your upcoming elopement or wedding:
- Plan ahead! Pack trash bags for things like petals from bouquets or trash in general.
- Prepare for the weather. If it’s windy, don’t bring things that you won’t be able to hold onto and may blow off the cliffside into the ocean.
- Respect nature and wildlife. Keep a good distance from wildlife, and do not follow or approach them.
- Do your best to stay on the trails and not walk on plant life.
- Leave nature as you found it.
- Minimize wildfires! Don’t bring candles, sparklers or smoke bombs as these can easily cause wildfires.
- Be respectful of other visitors and their space.
These are just a few ways to practice “Leave No Trace.” For more information, check out this article on Leave No Trace Principles.
View Amanda & Kolby’s Enchanting Big Sur Wedding Elopement
Let’s Work Together!
As a Big Sur adventure elopement photographer, I’m here to answer all your questions and put your mind at ease! And most importantly, I’ll plan an epic, unforgettable day for you! I provide all my couples with:
- Help you plan a day focused on you, involving an in-detailed consultation call where we’ll dive into your goals for your special day.
- I’ll help you create an experience centered around what matters to you two the most!
- Give you the space and permission to incorporate your unique ideas and just be yourself!
Ready to have the Big Sur wedding elopement of your dreams? Get in touch to schedule your free planning consultation and get these wheels in motion!
