The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Big Sur: Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: January 2026 | Reading Time: 15 minutes
Big Sur elopement photography has become one of the most sought-after experiences for couples seeking a dramatic, intimate wedding alternative along California's iconic coastline. With its rugged cliffs, crashing Pacific waves, and world-renowned scenic beauty, Big Sur offers an unparalleled backdrop for couples ready to say "I do" on their own terms.
After photographing dozens of Big Sur elopements over the past six years, we've learned what separates an unforgettable experience from a stressful, disappointing one. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about planning your Big Sur elopement - from the best locations and ideal timing to permits, weather contingencies, and what it actually costs.
Whether you're just starting to research Big Sur as a potential elopement destination or you're ready to book your vendors and finalize your plans, this guide will help you create an authentic, stress-free elopement experience.
Why Elope in Big Sur?
Big Sur isn't just another pretty coastal location - it's one of the most dramatic and photographically stunning stretches of coastline in the world. Located along California's Central Coast between Carmel and San Simeon, this 90-mile stretch of Highway 1 offers everything couples dream of for their elopement:
Dramatic Coastal Cliffs: Towering cliffs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean create jaw-dropping backdrops that look different in every season and lighting condition.
Intimate Privacy: Unlike beach destinations that attract crowds, many Big Sur locations offer genuine seclusion - especially if you know when and where to go (more on that below).
Year-Round Elopement Opportunities: While each season offers a different experience, Big Sur is stunning twelve months a year. From moody winter storms to the famous wildflower super bloom in spring, you can plan your Big Sur elopement for any time that works for you.
Adventure Meets Luxury: Big Sur uniquely combines rugged natural beauty with world-class accommodations and dining. You can hike to a secluded waterfall for your ceremony, then return to a five-star resort for dinner.
Unforgettable Photos: The combination of dramatic landscapes, ever-changing light, and diverse terrain (coastal cliffs, redwood forests, hidden beaches, rolling hillsides) means your elopement photos will be unlike anyone else's.
Best Time to Elope in Big Sur By Season
Choosing the right season for your Big Sur elopement dramatically impacts your experience. Here's what to expect throughout the year:
Spring Big Sur Elopements (March - May) ⭐ Our Top Recommendation
Weather: Mild temperatures (55-65°F), mix of sunny and foggy days, occasional rain early in the season
What Makes It Special: The legendary wildflower super bloom transforms Big Sur's hillsides into carpets of purple, yellow, and orange from late March through May. This is Big Sur at its most colorful and vibrant.
Pros:
Wildflowers create stunning, unique backdrops
Perfect temperatures for all-day adventures
Waterfalls are flowing from winter rain
More manageable crowds than summer
Ideal lighting conditions
Cons:
Popular season means accommodations book up 6-12 months in advance
Early spring can still see rain
Permits for popular locations sell out quickly
Best For: Couples who want vibrant, colorful photos and don't mind planning well in advance
Summer Big Sur Elopements (June - August)
Weather: Warm days (65-75°F), heavy morning fog (often until noon), sunny afternoons
What Makes It Special: Classic California coastal summer with long days and warm temperatures
Pros:
Warmest weather of the year
Long daylight hours (sunset after 8pm in June/July)
Easier travel conditions (fewer road closures)
Cons:
Peak tourist season = extreme crowds at popular spots
Heavy marine layer fog typically lasts until 11am-1pm
Most expensive accommodations
Permits are hardest to secure
Highway 1 traffic can be bumper-to-bumper
Best For: Couples who prioritize warm weather and don't mind working around crowds and fog
Pro Tip: If you're eloping in Big Sur during summer, plan for sunrise ceremonies (before the crowds arrive) or late afternoon/sunset timing (after the fog burns off). Avoid midday entirely.
Fall Big Sur Elopements (September - November)
Weather: Warm early fall (70-75°F in September), cooling by November (55-65°F), clearer skies with less fog
What Makes It Special: Many photographers and locals consider fall the secret best season for Big Sur
Pros:
Clearer skies and less fog than summer
Still warm (especially September/October)
Crowds thin out significantly after Labor Day
Golden, warm light quality
Ocean temperatures are at their warmest
Cons:
Landscape is drier/less lush than spring
Higher fire danger in hot, dry years
Can still be warm for couples who prefer cooler weather
Best For: Couples who want clear skies, warm weather, and fewer crowds - without the summer chaos
Winter Big Sur Elopements (December - February)
Weather: Cool (50-60°F), rainy, dramatic storms, occasional crisp sunny days
What Makes It Special: Moody, dramatic, otherworldly - winter Big Sur is for adventurous couples
Pros:
Virtually zero crowds
Dramatic storm light and moody skies
Waterfalls at their most powerful
Most affordable accommodations
Authentic, raw Big Sur experience
Cons:
Higher chance of rain (but that can make for incredible photos)
Potential Highway 1 closures after major storms
Cold ocean wind
Shorter daylight hours
Some businesses have reduced hours
Best For: Couples who love dramatic weather, don't mind rain contingencies, and want total privacy
Pro Tip: Winter Big Sur elopements require flexible backup plans, but the couples who embrace the weather get some of the most stunning, unique photos we've ever captured.
Top Big Sur Elopement Locations
Big Sur offers dozens of potential elopement locations, from famous iconic spots to hidden gems that most tourists never find. Here are the best options:
Garrapata State Park ⭐ Our fav Location
Why We Love It: All the drama of Big Sur's famous locations with a fraction of the crowds
What You'll Find:
Dramatic coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific
Multiple trail access points leading to different viewpoints
Wildflower-covered hillsides in spring
Stunning rock formations and tide pools
Short walks from parking (5-15 minutes depending on which spot you choose)
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise (6:30-8:00am) for total privacy, or late afternoon
Permit Required: No permit needed for photography, but check current regulations for ceremony-specific permits
Crowd Level: 2/10 at sunrise, 6/10 after 10am on weekends
Insider Tip: There are actually several different coastal access trails within Garrapata - most people only know about one. Working with a photographer who knows the park intimately means accessing the best viewpoints without the crowds.
Pfeiffer Beach
Why It's Special: Famous for its unique purple sand (from manganese garnet deposits) and the iconic keyhole rock formation
What You'll Find:
Purple-tinted sand beaches
Dramatic rock formations including the famous arch
Stunning sunset opportunities when light streams through the keyhole
Relatively secluded feel despite popularity
Best Time to Visit: Sunset (the light through the keyhole arch is spectacular), or early morning before 10am
Permit Required: Yes - contact California State Parks well in advance
Crowd Level: 8/10 at sunset, 5/10 at other times
Insider Tip: The access road (Sycamore Canyon Road) is narrow, unpaved, and unmarked. It's easy to miss even with GPS. The parking lot fills quickly on weekends.
Important: Beach access can be limited during high tide. Check tide charts when planning your timeline.
Andrew Molera State Park Beach
Why We Love It: The 1.5-mile walk to the beach keeps casual tourists away, creating genuine privacy
What You'll Find:
Wide, driftwood-strewn beach
Dramatic rock formations and tide pools
Big Sur River meets the ocean here
Multiple ceremony location options along the beach
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day, though sunset is spectacular
Permit Required: Yes for ceremonies - apply through California State Parks
Crowd Level: 4/10 (the walk filters out most day-trippers)
Insider Tip: The trail is flat and easy, but the beach itself can be windy. Bring layers and be prepared for hair to blow (it makes for great dynamic photos).
McWay Falls & Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
The Reality Check: McWay Falls is one of Big Sur's most photographed locations - an 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto the beach (or into the ocean at high tide). It's absolutely stunning, BUT:
The beach itself has been closed to public access for years
You can only view the falls from the overlook trail
The overlook is almost always crowded (100+ people on busy days)
Photography from the overlook is challenging due to crowds and railings
Our Recommendation: Visit McWay Falls as tourists to experience it, but don't plan your elopement ceremony here. There are better options for an actual intimate experience.
Alternative: Some photographers have access to private property nearby with similar dramatic coastal views. Ask your photographer if they have private location options.
Bixby Bridge
The Icon: Bixby Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in California - and for good reason. It's stunning.
The Reality:
Between 10am-5pm, it's a traffic nightmare
Parking is extremely limited
Tourists everywhere
Not ideal for an intimate ceremony
How to Make It Work:
Sunrise photography (before 7am) when you can have it mostly to yourself
Use it as a backdrop for portraits, not your ceremony location
Work with a photographer who knows the lesser-known viewpoints
Redwood Groves (Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park)
Why Consider It: Not every couple wants a coastal elopement - the ancient redwood forests of Big Sur offer an entirely different, equally magical vibe
What You'll Find:
Towering old-growth redwoods
Dappled forest light
Moss-covered trails
Peaceful, cathedral-like atmosphere
Best Time to Visit: Midday when light filters through the canopy, or overcast days when the forest glows
Permit Required: Yes for ceremonies
Best For: Couples who want intimacy, quiet, and a more grounded (vs. dramatic coastal) feel
Big Sur Elopement Permits & Regulations
Here's what most couples don't realize: Almost every ceremony location in Big Sur requires a permit, even for just the two of you.
California State Parks Permits
Most popular Big Sur elopement locations fall within California State Park land, which means:
When You Need a Permit:
Any ceremony (even if it's just you two and a photographer)
Commercial photography (which includes hiring a professional photographer)
Groups of any size
How to Apply:
Apply online through California State Parks Film Permit system
Applications must be submitted at least 60 days in advance (we recommend 4-6 months for popular dates)
Permits cost $150-300+ depending on location and group size
Popular Parks Requiring Permits:
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (McWay Falls)
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (redwoods)
Andrew Molera State Park
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (just north of Big Sur proper, but often grouped in)
U.S. Forest Service Permits
Some Big Sur locations fall under U.S. Forest Service jurisdiction:
Different application process than State Parks
Also require advance booking
Cost varies by location
Private Property
If you or your photographer has access to private property, this typically bypasses the permit process entirely - but confirm this with your photographer.
What Happens If You Don't Get a Permit?
Rangers actively patrol popular Big Sur locations. If you're caught without a required permit:
You can be asked to leave immediately
Fines up to $500+
Your ceremony will be shut down
Don't risk it. Getting a permit is straightforward if you plan ahead.
Permit Application Tips
Start early: Popular dates and locations book up 6-12 months in advance
Have backup dates: If your first choice is unavailable, flexibility helps
Work with your photographer: Experienced Big Sur elopement photographers know the permit process and can guide you
Read the requirements carefully: Some permits restrict guest count, timing, setup items, etc.
Planning Your Big Sur Elopement Timeline
One of the biggest mistakes couples make is underestimating how spread out Big Sur is and how long things actually take.
Understanding Big Sur Geography
Big Sur isn't a town - it's a 90-mile stretch of coastline. What looks like a "quick 10-minute drive" on Google Maps often takes 30-45 minutes on the winding, two-lane Highway 1.
Key Distances:
Carmel to Bixby Bridge: ~15 miles, 20-25 minutes
Bixby Bridge to Pfeiffer Beach: ~12 miles, 20-25 minutes
Pfeiffer Beach to McWay Falls: ~5 miles, 10-15 minutes
McWay Falls to Andrew Molera: ~8 miles, 15-20 minutes
Always build in buffer time between locations.
Sample Big Sur Elopement Timeline: Sunrise to sunset
5:00 AM - Wake up, get ready at your accommodation
Choose lodging with good natural light for getting-ready photos
6:00 AM - Light breakfast, final touches
6:15 AM - Depart for ceremony location
Build in 15-20 minute buffer for traffic/parking
6:45 AM - Arrive at ceremony location (Garrapata State Park)
Parking lot is close to empty at this hour
7:00 AM - Sunrise ceremony on the cliffs
Soft, golden light. Total privacy. Waves crashing below
7:30-8:30 AM - Couple portraits on the bluffs
Explore multiple viewpoints, capture wildflowers if you’re there in spring, be present together
9:00 AM - Drive back to accommodations or head to breakfast
Big Sur Bakery or breakfast at your cabin
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Midday break
Rest, explore on your own, lunch, adventure time
4:30 PM - Meet for sunset session at different location
Andrew Molera Beach or another coastal spot
5:30-6:30 PM - Sunset portraits and champagne toast
Different location, different light, different vibe
7:00 PM - Dinner at a local restaurant or your accommodation
Why This Works:
Sunrise ceremony = privacy and best light
Midday break = no harsh light, time to rest
Sunset session = second chance at golden hour (critical for Big Sur's unpredictable weather)
Two completely different locations = variety in your gallery
Sample Big Sur Elopement Timeline: half day/Sunset
2:00 PM - Getting ready at your accommodation
Relaxed morning, no rushing
3:00 PM - First look or private moment before ceremony
3:30 PM - Depart for ceremony location
4:00 PM - Arrive at ceremony location (Pfeiffer Beach)
4:30 PM - Ceremony on the beach
Timed for 2 hours before sunset for ideal light
5:00-6:30 PM - Couple portraits through golden hour into sunset
The light transitions from warm gold to pink/purple magic hour
6:45 PM - Champagne toast as the sun drops into the Pacific
7:30 PM - Dinner at Nepenthe, Deetjen's, or another Big Sur restaurant
Why This Works:
Avoids morning fog issues
Maximizes golden hour and sunset
More relaxed morning
Dinner options still available afterward
The Risk: You're betting on good weather at sunset. If marine layer fog rolls in, you don't have a backup golden hour opportunity.
Multi-Day Big Sur Elopement Timeline ⭐ Our Favorite Approach
DAY 1: Arrival & Sunset Session
2:00 PM - Arrive in Big Sur, check into your accommodation
3:00-4:00 PM - Settle in, relax, explore your property
5:00 PM - Meet for sunset adventure session
No ceremony pressure - just casual exploration and getting comfortable
6:00-7:00 PM - Sunset portraits at coastal location
7:30 PM - Dinner
DAY 2: Ceremony Day
5:00 AM - Wake up
6:15 AM - Depart for ceremony location
7:00 AM - Sunrise ceremony at Garrapata State Park
7:30-8:30 AM - Morning portraits
9:00 AM - Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Break time
Options: Rest at your cabin, hike to McWay Falls overlook, explore Pfeiffer Beach, lunch at Nepenthe
5:00 PM - Optional afternoon/evening session at redwood grove or another location
7:00 PM - Celebratory dinner
DAY 3: Departure Morning
6:30 AM - Optional sunrise session at a third location (if you want even more variety)
9:00 AM - Breakfast, pack up
11:00 AM - Check out
Why Multi-Day Is Powerful:
Multiple weather windows (if fog ruins sunrise, you still have sunset sessions)
Multiple locations and lighting conditions
Doesn't feel rushed - you actually experience Big Sur
Better photos (you're more relaxed and comfortable by day 2)
Flexibility to adjust based on weather in real-time
Where to Stay for Your Big Sur Elopement
Your accommodation choice impacts both your experience and your photos. Here's how to choose:
Luxury Options ($500-1,500+ per night)
Ventana Big Sur
Vibe: Ultimate luxury, Japanese-inspired design, adults-only
Best For: Couples who want a five-star experience and stunning getting-ready photo locations
Perks: Incredible views, world-class restaurant, bathhouse with ocean-view soaking tubs
Photo Ops: Floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, beautifully designed interiors
Post Ranch Inn
Vibe: Treehouse-style luxury, ultra-private
Best For: Couples who want total seclusion and unique architecture
Perks: Each room is uniquely designed, some built into the hillside or perched on stilts
Photo Ops: Infinity pools, dramatic architecture, forest and ocean views
Alila Ventana Big Sur (formerly Ventana Inn)
Vibe: Relaxed luxury with a bohemian edge
Best For: Couples who want luxury without stuffiness
Perks: Multiple pools, yoga, spa, excellent restaurant
Photo Ops: Gorgeous suites with natural light, outdoor soaking tubs
Mid-Range/Unique Options ($200-400 per night)
Deetjen's Big Sur Inn ⭐ Our Personal Favorite for Character
Vibe: Historic, cozy, rustic-meets-romantic
Best For: Couples who prioritize charm and authenticity over modern amenities
Perks: Built in the 1930s, each cabin is unique, excellent restaurant, affordable
Photo Ops: Vintage details, cozy interiors, forest setting
Note: Rooms are genuinely rustic (thin walls, no TVs, shared bathrooms in some cabins). This is part of the charm, but know what you're getting.
Glen Oaks Big Sur
Vibe: Modern cabins, clean design, nature-focused
Best For: Couples who want contemporary comfort in a natural setting
Perks: Well-designed rooms, redwood grove location, good restaurant
Photo Ops: Modern architecture, forest views, simple elegance
Big Sur River Inn
Vibe: Classic roadside inn, casual and central
Best For: Budget-conscious couples who want a good location
Perks: Right on Highway 1, restaurant and general store on-site
Photo Ops: River setting, more casual vibe
Vacation Rentals (Airbnb/VRBO) ($150-600+ per night)
Pros:
More space and privacy
Kitchen (helpful for multi-day stays)
Often better value than hotels
Unique properties (A-frames, cabins, modern designs)
Cons:
Quality varies wildly
Some have challenging access roads
Less consistent service than hotels
What to Look For:
Location: Between Garrapata and Andrew Molera for best access to ceremony locations
Natural light: Large windows, outdoor spaces, good for getting-ready photos
Outdoor areas: Deck, patio, or yard for photos
Reviews mentioning weddings/elopements: Some hosts are very welcoming to this; others aren't
Book Early: 6-12 months in advance for peak season (spring and fall)
Budget Options ($100-200 per night)
Big Sur Campground & Cabins
Camping feel with more comfort
Cabins are basic but functional
Great for adventurous couples on a budget
Ripplewood Resort
Simple cabins along the Big Sur River
Very affordable
Minimal amenities but clean and functional
Where to Stay for the Best Photos
If getting-ready and accommodation photos are important to you, prioritize:
Natural light: Large windows, sliding glass doors
Clean, uncluttered design: Modern or vintage-charm interiors photograph better than dated décor
Outdoor spaces: Private decks, patios, or forest settings
Views: Ocean or forest views add depth to interior shots
Top recommendations for photos: Ventana, Post Ranch Inn, Deetjen's, modern Airbnbs with floor-to-ceiling windows
Big Sur Elopement Weather & What to Expect
Big Sur weather is notoriously unpredictable. Understanding what to expect - and how to work with it - is critical.
The Fog Situation
Marine layer fog is Big Sur's defining weather feature, especially in summer.
What It Is: Cool, moist air from the Pacific Ocean meets the warm California coast, creating thick fog that rolls in overnight and can last until noon or later.
When It's Worst: June-August (summer mornings are almost guaranteed to be foggy)
When It's Best: September-November (clearest skies of the year)
How to Work With It:
Embrace it: Fog creates ethereal, moody, romantic photos
Plan around it: Schedule ceremony for late afternoon/evening in summer
Have backups: Inland locations (like redwood groves) are often clear when the coast is fogged in
Be flexible: Sometimes fog burns off by 11am; sometimes it doesn't. Give yourself options.
Wind
Big Sur is almost always windy, especially on coastal cliffs.
What to Expect: 10-20 mph winds are normal; 20-30 mph not uncommon
How to Prepare:
Bring layers (wind makes it feel colder)
Embrace windblown hair (it creates movement and emotion in photos)
Secure any ceremony setup items (programs, flowers, etc.)
Choose protected locations for ceremony if wind-averse
Rain
Big Sur receives most of its rain between November and March.
Monthly Averages:
Wettest months: December, January, February (4-6 inches per month)
Moderate: November, March (2-3 inches)
Dry season: April-October (minimal rain)
How to Plan for Rain:
Have 2-3 backup ceremony locations (both coastal and inland)
Consider covered outdoor spaces at your accommodation
Rent clear umbrellas (they photograph beautifully)
Work with photographers who see rain as an opportunity, not a problem
Real Talk: Some of our most dramatic, emotional photos have been captured in the rain. Storm light in Big Sur is incredible.
Highway 1 Closures
Big Sur's Highway 1 is vulnerable to closures from:
Landslides (after heavy rain)
Rockslides
Bridge damage
Fire (rare but possible)
How to Prepare:
Check Caltrans road conditions before your trip
Have backup dates if driving in (or fly into Monterey for easier access from the north)
Book accommodations that can be reached even if parts of Highway 1 close
Consider trip insurance
Best Weather Strategy
For more predictable weather: Choose September, October, or early November
For wildflowers (accepting some weather unpredictability): Late March through May
For moody drama (embracing weather as part of the story): December through February
For maximum flexibility: book sunrise-to-sunset coverage so you have multiple weather windows in one day
What Does a Big Sur Elopement Cost?
Big Sur elopements range from $5,000 to $30,000+ depending on your choices. Here's a realistic breakdown:
Photography/Videography: $3,000 - $15,000+
Basic elopement photography package (3-4 hours): $3,000-6,000
Full-day coverage (sunrise to sunset): $6,000-10,000
Multi-day elopement coverage: $8,000-15,000+
Videography add-on: +$2,000-10,000+
Creative direction services (location scouting, timeline design, permit assistance): Often included in premium packages
What Impacts Cost:
Photographer's experience and demand
Hours of coverage
Travel fees (if photographer is coming from outside Big Sur area)
Deliverables (number of edited photos, albums, etc.)
Accommodations: $200 - $1,500+ per night
Budget: $100-200/night (basic cabins, campgrounds)
Mid-range: $200-400/night (Glen Oaks, Deetjen's, nice Airbnbs)
Luxury: $500-1,500+/night (Ventana, Post Ranch Inn, Alila)
For a 2-3 night stay: Budget $400-4,500 total
Permits: $150 - $500
California State Parks permits: ~$150-300
U.S. Forest Service permits: ~$200-400
Private property (if available through your photographer): Often no separate permit fee
Officiant: $200 - $600
Some couples self-solemnize (legal in California for Quaker and certain other religious ceremonies, but requirements are strict)
Most hire an officiant who specializes in elopements
Travel fees may apply if asking them to come to remote Big Sur locations
Florals: $200 - $1,500+
Simple bouquet: $200-400
Bouquet + boutonniere + ceremony arrangement: $500-800
Full floral design (arch, installations, etc.): $1,000-3,000+
Big Sur tip: Many couples opt for minimal florals and let the natural landscape be the star
Hair & Makeup: $300 - $800
Most stylists charge travel fees to come to Big Sur
Some Big Sur accommodations (like Ventana) have on-site spa services
Food & Dining: $200 - $1,000+
Casual: Pack a picnic, grab takeout from Big Sur Deli ($50-100)
Mid-range: Big Sur Bakery, Roadhouse, Deetjen's Restaurant ($150-300 for two)
Splurge: Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn, Ventana restaurant ($300-600+ for two)
Multi-day: Budget $400-1,000 total for all meals
Attire: $200 - $5,000+
Highly variable based on personal style
Many couples choose more dramatic, flowy and cinematic attire for Big Sur
Consider: What can you hike in? What works in wind?
Miscellaneous:
Marriage license (Monterey County): ~$100
Champagne/celebration drinks: $50-200
Rings: (budget varies widely)
Guest accommodations (if eloping with a few close people): Variable
Sample Big Sur Elopement Budgets
Minimal Budget Elopement (~$5,000-8,000):
Photography: $3,500 (4-hour package)
Accommodations: $400 (2 nights, budget option)
Permit: $200
Officiant: $300
Simple bouquet: $250
Food: $300 (mostly casual/self-catered)
Attire: $500
Misc: $300 Total: ~$5,750
Mid-Range Elopement (~$12,000-15,000):
Photography: $8,000 (~8 hours of coverage)
Accommodations: $900 (3 nights at Deetjen's or nice Airbnb)
Permit: $250
Officiant: $400
Florals: $600
Hair & Makeup: $500
Food: $600 (mix of nice restaurants)
Attire: $1,500
Misc: $500 Total: ~$13,250
Luxury Elopement (~$25,000-35,000+):
Photography: $12,000+ (multi-day creative direction)
Accommodations: $3,000 (3 nights at Ventana or Post Ranch)
Permit: $300
Officiant: $500
Florals: $2,000
Hair & Makeup: $700
Food: $1,500 (fine dining, private chef, etc.)
Attire: $4,000
Misc: $1,000 Total: ~$26,000
Big Sur Elopement Vendors & Services
Finding the Right Big Sur Elopement Photographer
This is your most important vendor decision. Here's what to look for:
Big Sur-Specific Experience:
Have they actually photographed multiple elopements in Big Sur?
Do they know the locations, permit process, weather patterns?
Can they show you real galleries from Big Sur (not just a few highlight photos)?
Creative Direction vs. "Show Up and Shoot":
Will they help you plan your timeline and choose locations?
Do they offer guidance on permits, logistics, weather contingencies?
Or do they just show up where you tell them?
Questions to Ask:
How many Big Sur elopements have you photographed?
What locations do you recommend for [our season/vibe]?
How do you handle permits?
What's your weather backup plan?
Do you have access to any private property locations?
What does your creative direction process look like?
Can we see full galleries from Big Sur elopements you've shot?
Other Vendors
Officiants:
Look for officiants who specialize in elopements and are comfortable with remote locations
Many are based in Monterey/Carmel and will travel to Big Sur
Florists:
Big Sur has limited local florists; most travel from Carmel or Monterey
Factor in travel fees
Consider: Do you want elaborate florals, or will a simple bouquet work?
Hair & Makeup:
Most travel from Monterey area
Book early (limited artists willing to travel to Big Sur)
Consider: Can you do your own? Many couples opt for natural, windblown looks
Planners:
Not typically necessary for elopements (especially if working with a photographer who offers creative direction)
Can be helpful if you're planning a multi-day experience with lots of moving parts
Big Sur Elopement FAQ
Is it legal to elope in Big Sur?
Yes! California allows couples to marry anywhere in the state once you have a valid California marriage license (obtained from any county clerk's office). You'll need:
A California marriage license (from Monterey County if most convenient)
An officiant authorized to perform marriages in California, OR self-solemnization (California allows this for certain religious ceremonies, but rules are specific - research carefully)
Witnesses (required for most marriages; not required if self-solemnizing)
Do we need witnesses for our Big Sur elopement?
California requires one witness for marriages performed by an officiant. If self-solemnizing under California's Quaker marriage rules, no witnesses are required. Your photographer can serve as a witness.
Can we elope in Big Sur with no guests?
Absolutely! Most Big Sur elopements are just the couple (plus photographer and officiant). This is completely normal and encouraged if you want total intimacy.
What if we want to include a few close family or friends?
Big Sur elopements can include small groups. Just note:
Permit requirements may change based on group size
Transportation and parking become more complex with multiple cars
Some intimate ceremony locations aren't suitable for groups
Generally, groups under 10 are manageable; larger groups might be better suited to a small wedding at a venue.
How far in advance should we book our Big Sur elopement?
Minimum: 6 months Ideal: 9-12 months
This allows time to:
Secure your preferred photographer (top photographers book up fast)
Book accommodations (especially for spring and fall)
Apply for permits (some require 60+ days advance notice)
Plan logistics without stress
Peak season (April-May for wildflowers, Sept-Oct for clear weather) books up even earlier.
What's the best time of day for a Big Sur elopement ceremony?
Sunrise (6:30-8:00am depending on season):
Pros: Best light, no/low crowds, magical atmosphere
Cons: Early wake-up, limited restaurant options afterward
Sunset (5:00-7:00pm depending on season):
Pros: Beautiful light, more relaxed morning
Cons: Only one shot at good light (no backup if weather's bad), crowds at popular spots
Our recommendation: If possible, book full-day or multi-day coverage so you're not limited to one time slot.
What should we wear for a Big Sur elopement?
Consider:
Weather: Layers for wind and temperature changes
Terrain: Can you hike/walk in your outfit? Many ceremony locations require at least short walks
Personal style: There's no "right" answer - we've seen everything from formal gowns to casual bohemian dresses to jumpsuits
Popular choices:
Flowy dresses that move beautifully in wind
Suits with casual elements (no tie, rolled sleeves)
Comfortable shoes for walking (many couples bring dress shoes for photos and hiking shoes for transitions)
Can we have our dog at our Big Sur elopement?
Many Big Sur locations allow dogs! Check specific regulations:
California State Parks: Dogs allowed on leash in most areas (not on all trails)
Private property: Depends on property owner
Beaches: Regulations vary
Just factor in logistics (who holds the leash during ceremony, where does dog stay during portraits, etc.).
What if it rains on our Big Sur elopement day?
Rain in Big Sur can create some of the most dramatic, beautiful photos. Here's how to handle it:
Backup Plan Options:
Covered outdoor areas at your accommodation
Redwood groves (tree canopy provides natural coverage)
Embrace it with clear umbrellas and rain gear
Work with photographers who:
Have experience shooting in rain
See it as an opportunity rather than a problem
Have backup locations ready
How do we get to Big Sur?
By Car:
From San Francisco: ~3 hours south on Highway 1 or US-101
From Los Angeles: ~4.5 hours north via US-101 and Highway 1
From Monterey: ~45 minutes south on Highway 1
By Air:
Fly into San Jose (SJC) or San Francisco (SFO) - 2-3 hour drive
Fly into Monterey (MRY) - 45 minute drive (closest airport)
Note: Highway 1 closures can impact access. Always check Caltrans road conditions before traveling.
Is Big Sur wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility in Big Sur is limited due to the rugged terrain. However:
Some locations (like certain State Park overlooks) have paved, accessible paths
Accommodations vary (call ahead to confirm accessibility)
Private property locations may offer more flexibility
Work with your photographer to identify accessible locations that still offer Big Sur's dramatic beauty.
Can we have a fire or campfire at our Big Sur elopement?
Fire regulations are STRICT in Big Sur due to wildfire risk.
Fires are typically prohibited except in designated fire rings at campgrounds
Never have open flames during fire season (summer/fall)
Some private properties may allow fires in controlled settings
Check current fire restrictions before planning any fire elements
Alternatives: Battery-operated candles, string lights
What about cell phone service in Big Sur?
Cell service in Big Sur is spotty at best.
Tips:
Download offline maps before arriving
Share your itinerary with someone outside Big Sur
Don't rely on GPS alone - print or screenshot directions
Some accommodations have WiFi; many don't
Embrace it: Being off-grid is part of Big Sur's magic.
Final Thoughts: Is Big Sur Right for Your Elopement?
Big Sur is one of the most spectacular elopement destinations in the world - but it's not for everyone.
Big Sur is perfect for you if:
You want dramatic, jaw-dropping natural beauty
You're comfortable with some unpredictability (weather, logistics)
You value privacy and intimacy over convenience
You're willing to plan ahead (permits, accommodations, etc.)
You want an adventure, not just a photo shoot
Big Sur might not be right if:
You need guarantees and predictability
You want easy, accessible locations with minimal planning
You're not comfortable with outdoor elements (wind, weather, hiking)
You want a large guest count (50+ people)
Our philosophy: Big Sur rewards couples who embrace its wild, unpredictable nature. The couples who have the best experiences are the ones who see fog as atmospheric, wind as movement, and changing weather as part of their story.
If you're ready to plan a Big Sur elopement that's as unique and breathtaking as the coastline itself, we'd love to talk with you.
[Book a free Big Sur elopement consultation]
This guide was created by Amanda & Joe of Kamp Adventures, Big Sur elopement photographers and creative directors who have been photographing elopements along this iconic coastline since 2019. We're based in NYC + California and specialize in adventure elopements in Big Sur, Joshua Tree, and Acadia National Park.
