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!
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.
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.
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.