Big Sur Elopement Guide | 2024

Venues, State Parks, Permits & Wedding Costs


Big Sur elopements offer breathtaking scenery, intimate celebrations, and manageable costs! Use this blog to assist you in dreaming up your adventure plan to elope amidst towering redwoods, secluded beaches, and rugged coastlines, eee!!!


This guide will help you become familiar with how to elope in Big Sur and

  • Big Sur Wedding Venues
  • Permit Processes + Fees
  • Big Sur Wedding Cost
  • Big Sur State Park Elopement Locations
  • Big Sur State Beach Elopement Locations


So you can plan your dream Big Sur Elopement with confidence.

Big Sur Wedding Venues

Unforgettable Settings for Your Intimate Ceremony


Dreaming of an intimate Big Sur elopement amidst breathtaking scenery? This iconic California destination offers diverse venues to craft your perfect Big Sur wedding. Whether you envision oceanfront vistas, redwood groves, or historic charm, there's a venue to match your dream elopement package.


Click through the carousel below to learn about some of my favorite elopement / intimate wedding venues in Big Sur!

1 / 4

1 / 4

Glen Oaks
BIg Sur Elopement


Ideal for: Beloved's who want to exchange vow's under the towering redwoods.

Cost:

  • Elopements: Free for couples staying on-site with no additional guests (officiant and photographer allowed).
  • Small weddings: Packages starting from $3,000. Ceremony fees vary depending on location.
  • Redwood Grove ceremony site: Currently unavailable March-April 2024 due to maintenance.

Guest count:

  • Elopements: Up to 3 guests (couple, officiant, photographer- this is free if you're booked w/ accommodations)
  • Small weddings: Up to 80 guests.

Unique Features:

  • Redwood Grove Ceremony Site: Exchange vows under majestic redwoods by the Big Sur River (unavailable March-April 2024).
  • Bridge House Ceremony Site (Fairy Circle): Intimate setting for up to 20 guests, available during maintenance period.
  • Big Sur Roadhouse: Host receptions or rehearsal dinners for up to 100 guests (food catering required).
  • Rustic Cabins: Cozy accommodations for your wedding party.


1 / 4

Loma Vista Gardens


Ideal for: Romantic weddings seeking a rustic yet elegant setting with a touch of historical charm. Perfect for smaller ceremonies and celebrations that prioritize natural beauty and a close connection to the outdoors.


Cost:

  • Micro weddings: With 1-25 guests, begin at $10,400 (Monday-Thursday) and $12,600 (Monday-Friday).
  • Elopements: With up to 12 guests, start at $3,200 (Monday-Thursday).
  • Full day packages: Prices vary depending on guest count and desired services. Contact Loma Vista Gardens directly for specific quotes.


Pets: Leashed pets welcome!

Guest count: Up to 144 guests comfortably accommodated, with flexibility for smaller, more intimate gatherings.

ADA Accessibility:

  • Fully accessible via ramps.
  • Rustic grounds: dirt, gravel, and grass.
  • ADA bathrooms shared with the property.

1 / 4

Ventana Big Sur


Ideal for: Versatile elopements seeking luxurious comfort and diverse ceremony options. Perfect for intimate gatherings under redwoods or larger groups celebrating by the ocean, all infused with the relaxed California vibe of this upscale resort.

Cost:

  • Ceremony Only:
  • Sur Vista: $1,800 for 1-hour use (reduced price, no decorations or chairs included)
  • Redwood Circle of Life: $1,500 for 1-hour use (reduced price, no decorations or chairs included)
  • Elopement Packages: Starting from $3,000. Contact Ventana Big Sur directly for specific quotes and details on included services and amenities.

Guest count: Up to 50 guests (varies by location).

Note: Requires permits and limited pet-friendliness.

Unique Features:

  • Upscale resort nestled amidst redwoods and cliffs.
  • Diverse ceremony locations: Redwood Deck, Ocean Lawn, secluded meadow.
  • Luxurious accommodations for you and your guests.

1 / 4

HEnry Miller MEmorial Library


Ideal for: Literature lovers and budget-friendly elopements seeking a unique and historic setting. Consider Glen Oaks Big Sur elopement packages for a similar redwood experience.

Cost: Starts at $5,000

Guest count: Up to 150 guests

Unique Features:

  • Intimate ceremony location beneath towering redwoods.
  • Historic library building with unique collection and Big Sur charm!
  • Option to explore the library collection for unique photos.
  • Limited accessibility - consider guest mobility when planning.

Ready to turn your dream elopement into reality?


As a Big Sur elopement photographer specializing in documenting the small & big moments of your union, I offer unique packages tailored to perfectly document your special day. Feel free to browse my website or contact me to discuss how I can help make your Big Sur elopement unforgettable.


Super 8 film

Wanting Big Sur Videography ?!

I'm now offering Super 8 Film for my couples eloping or having an intimate wedding!


What is Super 8 Film?


Imagine your vows exchanged under that California sky, bathed in a warm, nostalgic glow. Super 8 film offers a unique twist on capturing your special day. It creates a dreamy, soft-grained aesthetic that complements digital videography beautifully.


Think of Super 8 as a vintage love letter to your wedding day. It creates a one-of-a-kind film, a tangible memory you can hold in your hands and revisit for years to come. It adds a layer of timeless charm to your elopement, making it a treasure that captures the feeling and essence of your bond as lovers!

Elope in Big Sur

in a State Park or a State Beach?! Use this cheat sheet to help you decide!

State parks


Permitting Process:

Obtain an "Special Event Permit" from the Big Sur Sector of California State Parks. Applications are accepted up to six months in advance and must be submitted at least 21 days before the event date. The permit process typically takes one to two weeks after all requirements are met.


Costs:

Permit fee is $425. There is a (separate) refundable deposit that costs $400. Permit Fee is refundable if canceled at least 15 days before the event.


Parking fees: Cost $10 and is separate from the permit cost. This fee is paid at the park entrance. OR parking can be free if you park on HWY 1 and hike in!


Guest Count:

Guest count is capped at 10 people max, this includes any vendors that will be part of your elopement day. Elopements need to be simple with minimal impact on the park as no decorations are allowed.

State Beaches


Permitting Process:

Obtain an "Special Event Permit" from the Big Sur Sector of California State Parks. Applications are accepted up to six months in advance and must be submitted at least 21 days before the event date. The permit process typically takes one to two weeks after all requirements are met.


Costs:

At Garrapata Beach, the permit fee is $150 for a 25 guest wedding and goes up in price the more guests you plan on having for your big day! There is also a (separate) non refundable admin fee of $250 on top of the permit fee. The permit fee at Garrapata is refundable if event is cancelled 60 days in advance.


Parking fees: is free if you park on HWY 1.


Guest Count:

Guest count is more flexible here, anywhere from 25-200 guests is permitted depending on what permit price you pay. Elopements need to be simple with minimal impact on the beach. Garrapata beach does allow for some props, tables, chairs, arches etc (depending on which permit you buy).


Big Sur's Weather

What to Expect for Your Elopement


Big Sur boasts a Mediterranean climate, meaning mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. But here's the catch: summer fog can roll in, especially along the coast. Here's a breakdown of each season to help you choose the perfect time to elope:


Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures (50s-60s F) with occasional rain showers. Expect vibrant wildflowers and potentially lower rates, but pack a jacket for unpredictable downpours.


Summer (June-August): Warm days (70s-80s F) and cool nights (50s-60s F). Sunshine reigns, but morning and evening fog is common, adding a mystical touch (or obscuring your ocean view). This is peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds.


Autumn (September-November): Comfortable temperatures (60s-70s F) with occasional rain. Fall foliage paints a romantic backdrop, and crowds ease. Be mindful of reduced business hours compared to summer.


Winter (December-February): Mild temperatures (40s-50s F) with rain and potential fog. Enjoy dramatic ocean views during storms and the lowest tourist season with significantly lower prices. However, some roads and trails might close due to weather.


Foggy Facts: The fog loves the coast, while higher elevations and inland areas tend to have more sun. Consider this when choosing your ceremony location.


Fog Friend or Foe? Fog can add an unexpected element to your photos and create an intimate atmosphere. However, it might disrupt outdoor plans. Embrace flexibility and have backup options like indoor ceremony spaces.


Remember: Weather patterns can vary. Check specific forecasts closer to your elopement date and consider factors like desired activities and preferred atmosphere when making your final decision.


Big sur land is sacred

Let your ceremony be blessed by the very earth beneath your feet!



Whether you envision a ceremony nestled amongst towering redwoods, a vow exchange on a secluded beach, or a celebration at a charming venue, this iconic California coastline offers endless possibilities. With careful planning, breathtaking scenery, and the perfect way to capture your special moments, your Big Sur elopement will be a cherished memory for a lifetime.

big sur awaits

Ready to turn your dream elopement into reality?


As a Big Sur elopement photographer specializing in documenting the small & big moments of your union, I offer unique packages tailored to perfectly document your special day. Feel free to browse my website or contact me to discuss how I can help make your Big Sur elopement unforgettable.