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Last Updated November 2025
Big Sur is one of the most popular places people come to elope, and for good reason! With its epic coastal views and redwood forests, this gem on the California coast is a place full of wonder and natural beauty. But it can also be a daunting process trying to figure out how to get married here. You might have questions like:
Big Sur Elopements At-A-Glance
Permit Costs: $400-$425, Venues: $0-$9,375, can be less if working with a photographer/planner
Best Time of Year: April-November Planning Timeline: 3-12 months ahead, book photographer first Guest Count: Up to 25 people, more options if less than 10 people Need Permits? Contact f[email protected] for coastal elopements, Contact [email protected] for redwoods elopements The Ultimate Big Sur Elopement Guide for 2026Table of ContentsFrequently Asked Questions
Looking for quick answers? Here are the most frequently asked questions about planning an elopement in Big Sur.
1. Where can I elope in Big Sur?You can elope at two main types of locations in Big Sur: state parks and venues. State parks typically require obtaining a permit to hold a ceremony there. Venues offer various packages to elope there, ranging from no fees if booking a hotel stay, to hourly site fees, to all-inclusive elopement packages. 2. Do I need a permit to get married in Big Sur state parks?Yes, most Big Sur state parks require permits. Here are the key details: Garrapata State Park: $400 (up to 25 people) In addition to a special event permit, your photographer will need to obtain a photography permit. PLANNING TIP: You can save costs and paperwork by working with a photographer/planner (like me!) who already has annual permits with the park! 3. Can I have guests at my Big Sur elopement?Absolutely! Whether you're eloping at a state park or a venue, you can include guests on your wedding day. Here are some helpful factors to consider: Ceremony/Venue Options: For elopements with 0-10 people, you'll often find more ceremony and venue options. Some state parks only offer elopement permits for up to 10 people (vendors included), and hotels/venues often have different packages for intimate weddings. Consider the experience as well: Will you have a standing or sitting ceremony? Will your guests need an accessible ceremony location? Are there kids or older guests? Will you be hosting a dinner reception? Timeline: Couples planning an elopement with 0-10 people tend to focus more time on adventuring from the redwoods to the coast with just the two of them, oftentimes picnicking on the beach and returning for dinner at a restaurant after sunset. Couples planning an intimate wedding with 10-30 people may not want to spend 2-4 hours away from their guests, or may want to host a more formal dinner reception at a venue to celebrate. Budget: While more guests usually mean higher costs, these can increase significantly in Big Sur. With no guests, couples tend to spend between $0-600 on a ceremony site fee or permit. Ceremony sites, venues, and permits that accommodate larger guest counts range between $600-7000. 4. What is the best time of year to elope in Big Sur?April through November is the best time to elope in Big Sur due to lower rainfall and better weather conditions. Spring is popular for wildflowers, and fall is popular for warmer weather. 5. How much does a Big Sur elopement typically cost?Most couples spend between $9,000-$13,000 for their Big Sur elopement. This includes vendors such as a photographer, accommodations, ceremony site, wedding attire, hair/makeup artist, officiant, florist, and food. For an intimate wedding with guests, most couples spend between $13,000-$25,000. 6. What does a typical Big Sur elopement day look like?Most couples spend their elopement day adventuring from the redwoods to the beach to the coast, taking advantage of all the stunning scenery of the California coast! You can even drive a classic car down the famous Highway 1, stop by the iconic Bixby Bridge, or have a romantic picnic or first dance on the beach. For more ideas, check out the blog post on 30 Unique Ways to Personalize Your Elopement. 7. How far in advance should I plan a Big Sur elopement?Ideally plan your Big Sur elopement 3-12 months in advance. Simple elopements on weekdays with no guests and few vendors can be planned in as little as 1 month, but if planning for peak season (spring and fall), with guests, or on a Friday through Sunday date, start planning earlier. Here's a typical planning timeline: 3-12 months ahead: Book photographer and apply for permits 2-9 months ahead: Secure accommodations and vendors 1-2 months ahead: Finalize timeline and details 8. How do I plan a Big Sur elopement?Here's the process when working with me: 1. We chat about your story, what inspires you to elope in Big Sur, and what's most important to you. I'm here to answer any of your questions, to help you feel at ease in knowing that you don't have to figure this all out on your own. I walk you through what your day could look like and what package fits your needs the best. 2. We look at dates together. I go over the important things to consider before finalizing the date, depending on what kind of weather you're looking for and if there are any restrictions on state parks or venues to be aware of. 3. If you're ready to book, I'll send over next steps! You don't need to have anything else decided on at this point - I'll walk you through all the best ceremony locations, portrait locations, timeline, and vendors as we plan together. 4. Once we're officially booked, I'll send over a Big Sur Elopement Planning Checklist, my comprehensive guide for everything you need to know to plan your day. This checklist includes PDFs from venues, video walkthroughs, a custom map of portrait locations, trail information, vendor recommendations, and my personal travel guide recommendations. I'll also include personalized recommendations based on our conversations, whether it's a customized timeline, dog-friendly locations, or best venues for your guest count or needs. 5. We'll keep in touch throughout the planning process. You don't have to visit any locations beforehand. I'll provide all the details you need to know to help you choose the best locations, hire vendors who specialize in elopements, and create a day that you're absolutely stoked about. 6. The day is here! I'll be your guide throughout the day as we adventure from one location to the next. Don't worry if you're not comfortable in front of the camera - my job is to create atmosphere and space where you can just be your authentic selves. After your wedding day is over, we'll say our goodbyes. I'll go home and immediately start working on your sneak peeks so that you get to share in the excitement as soon as the day after! You'll then receive a fully edited gallery within a few weeks. Sound like a dream? Let's chat about planning your Big Sur elopement!
Why elope in Big Sur?
Big Sur is one of the few places in the world where you can drive 30 minutes and see coast, beach, mountains, and redwoods all in one day. As a local photographer who grew up here in California and has been photographing weddings for over 14 years, I chose to specialize in Big Sur elopements because it truly is such a magical, unforgettable experience. Not only is Big Sur a popular destination for its scenic landscape and romantic drive, but it also provides easy access to Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley, Pebble Beach, and Pacific Grove. These cities provide activities for every kind of visitor - whether you want to wander the fairytale cottages of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, play golf on the famous Pebble Beach courses, taste wines surrounded by the hills of Carmel Valley, visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, or look for otters and other incredible sea-life on the coastal trails of Pacific Grove.
Some common myths I hear from couples:
Sample Elopement GalleriesBook a Big Sur Elopement Package
As a photographer and planner all-in-one, I'm here to help you with:
Getting Legally Married in California
Before planning your Big Sur elopement, it's important to know about how to get legally married in California. You'll need to obtain a California marriage license, which can be obtained at any California county clerk office within 90 days of your wedding day. That means you don't have to live in California or get a marriage license from the county you're getting married in. The closest county clerk office to Big Sur is the Monterey County Clerk Office located in Salinas, but you could also go to any office near the airport you land in. Be sure to plan your travel so you have at least one weekday to pick up your license, as clerk offices are open during regular business hours. Some offices may require an appointment.
If you prefer, you can legally marry at home and celebrate in Big Sur. In this case, your marriage license will reflect the date and location of the legal ceremony, but you can still celebrate your elopement date. On your Big Sur elopement day, you can choose to have a non-legal ceremony (everything except signing the license) or have a private vow reading without an officiant. Where to Elope in Big Sur
If you've never been to Big Sur, you may not realize that it is actually quite a large area and can take up to 1 hour to drive from the north end to the south end. Before diving into where to elope, you'll want to check out this map of Big Sur. Many of the coastal areas are in the north end whereas the redwood areas are in the middle and south end. As you drive down Highway 1 from Carmel, you'll start to see the stunning coast the moment you leave town, starting with Garrapata State Park. Known for its coastal trails, this is the perfect place to start your adventure. Continuing down Highway 1, you'll cross the iconic Bixby Bridge. Once over the bridge, you won't find many coastal access spots, but you'll start to see the giant redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Parks. From there, you'll find Big Sur venues, hotels, and restaurants. If you're planning for both the redwoods and coast, plan for 30-45 minutes of travel between the two.
Beyond the north end, there are some landmarks but there are few and far in between. Due to Highway 1 closures which are common and can last for months (even into the summer and fall), I highly recommend staying within the north side - you'll thank yourself later! As of September 2025, the full Highway 1 route is expected to reopen in March 2026 barring any weather related delays. So if you're planning on driving the full San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, be sure to plan for detours! State Parks vs. Venues
Now that you have a general idea of the Big Sur landscape, there are two types of locations that you can elope at: state parks and venues. While both state parks and venues offer redwood and coast views, in my experience, it is easier to plan for a coastal ceremony at a state park, or a redwood ceremony at a venue. If you're wanting to see both the redwoods and coast, I recommend eloping at a redwoods venue and then continuing on to the coast for portraits for the best of both worlds. This saves you travel time and gives you the best light for both landscapes.
HOW S + B DECIDED TO ELOPE AT A VENUE INSTEAD OF A STATE PARK
Eloping at a State Park
Below is an overview of the commonly used state parks for elopements:
From personal experience exploring all the different parts of Big Sur, if there's one place I recommend for coast and beach ceremonies, it's here. There's no venue, no private land, no other location that can truly rival its views. This area is just 15 minutes south of Carmel & Monterey, which offers more options for accommodations and restaurants for an intimate dinner reception. It has countless turnouts from Highway 1, each one leading out to the coast where you can spend hours adventuring there.
How to Get a Permit: Email f[email protected] or call 831-624-3407 Cost: $400 for up to 25 people, with a $75 rush fee for permits requested less than 60 days prior to the event date and event insurance. Restrictions: Permits are not issued on holiday weekend dates. Crowds: Weekdays are always recommended, though weekends are possible. Helpful Tips:
HOW E + C PIVOTED THEIR CEREMONY LOCATION AT GARRAPATA STATE PARK
Imagine eloping in the redwoods instead? Pfeiffer Big Sur, Julia Pfeiffer, and Limekiln are further south from Garrapata and have many redwood trails to explore. If you're up for hiking to ceremony location, this might be a great redwoods ceremony option for more adventurous couples! Speaking from experience though, I typically recommend booking a redwoods venue instead for more privacy, less hiking, and better views.
How to Get a Permit: For Pfeiffer Big Sur and Julia Pfeiffer Burns, email [email protected] or call 831-667-0507. Limekiln does not require a permit. Cost: $425 for up to 10 people (children and vendors included), with a $75 rush fee for permits requested less than 45 days prior to the event date. Restrictions: This permit can only be obtained on weekdays unless you are having a campsite elopement or not having a photographer. Julia Pfeiffer Burns does not issue photography permits for McWay Falls. Crowds: Only weekdays are allowed due to how narrow the trails are. Helpful Tips:
Good news - permits are not required to elope here! However, there's a few challenges to be aware of:
Eloping at a Venue
Many hotels and venues allow elopements onsite, oftentimes with a 2-hour ceremony site rental. This is usually the simplest and least expensive option, where sometimes chairs may be provided but otherwise the rest is up to you! Some offer all-inclusive elopement packages that include accommodations, ceremony/reception sites, coordination, and catering. Check out these Big Sur elopement venues:
If you're not sure about which venue fits for what you're looking for, I'm here to help as your elopement guide and photographer and can provide you with more info on the ins-and-outs of each venue! In addition to these venues, I also have access to private and unlisted venues.
See photos from R + M's Glen Oaks Big Sur Elopement and D + A's Glen Oaks Intimate Wedding.
For a romantic escape to a cabin in the woods, Glen Oaks Big Sur is the way to go. Of all the locations in Big Sur, this is the one I've personally photographed at the most and recommend the most for elopements with no guests. When I mentioned earlier that state park redwood ceremonies can sometimes be underwhelming, Glen Oaks Big Sur is exactly the opposite. I've had so many couples tell me over and over again that they absolutely loved the experience here, from exploring the forest trails surrounding their cabin to sitting on the Adirondack chairs by the river. The property is separated into two areas - the upper area with the Adobe Motor Lodge and Oak Tree Cottages, and the lower area with the Redwood Grove and Bridge House. Elopements with no guests are allowed for no additional site fee as long as you are staying there, making it one of the best spots for elopements. For intimate weddings, Glen Oaks can also be a great option but can be on the expensive side. For intimate weddings, the Fairy Circle can be booked for a ceremony for up to 20 people with the booking of the Bridge House property, a beautiful 2-bedroom house with a full kitchen, living room, and dining room. For weddings larger than 20 people, a lawn ceremony site is available. If you're looking to also host your reception onsite, the Big Sur Roadhouse is available for private receptions and allows outside catering. For more detailed information, check out the Glen Oaks Elopement and Wedding Guide. 
See photos from R + M's Big Sur Grange Wedding and B + B's Big Sur Grange Wedding
Situated right next to Glen Oaks Big Sur, this community hall offers a ceremony and reception site perfect for intimate weddings with guests. There are various options for ceremony sites, ranging from a small redwood grove to a maple grove along the river. One downside is that Grange shares a parking lot with Glen Oaks, so if there is a wedding at Glen Oaks, it can feel like your ceremony is in a parking lot. From personal experience here, I have found that it can be a bit alarming if this does happen, so be sure to call Glen Oaks to double check beforehand. I also recommend choosing an off-peak date (Monday through Thursday) and/or off-peak season to avoid this. Update as of 2025: Big Sur Grange now requires a 3-hour minimum. 
See photos from J + M's Big Sur Lodge Intimate Wedding.
Nestled right in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur Lodge brings you right into the redwoods. With both elopement packages for 2-10 guests and wedding packages for larger events, it's a beautiful redwoods ceremony site with the option to host an intimate dinner reception on the patio. Popular trails at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are just within walking distance of the ceremony site, but just be sure to obtain a photography permit for the park as well which must be on a Monday through Thursday date. One thing to note about Big Sur Lodge is that it can be somewhat public with hikers walking within viewing distance of the ceremony site, so keep that in mind when planning! While I don't personally find it too noticeable, it may be something you want to consider if you prefer more privacy.
See photos from S + D's Henry Miller Library Wedding.
An eclectic place of art, music, and literature, Henry Miller Library offers a unique wedding ceremony/reception site for intimate weddings, with the choice of either the lawn or redwoods canyon for a minimum of 2 hours for up to 30 people. You might even run into the friendly cat roaming the grounds! I always recommend this location for couples wanting a more organic and wild landscape - you'll see that it has various elevations and flora and fauna compared to the flat trails at other venues. Henry Miller Library can only take a certain number of elopements per year, however, so you may find that they are booked up if planning less than a year in advance. Update as of 2025: Currently access to the redwoods canyon that you see photographed above is not available.
See photos from S + B's Loma Vista Gardens Wedding and W + B's Loma Vista Gardens Wedding
A little different from the redwoods and coastal venues - Loma Vista Gardens is a magical garden venue with a few different ceremony sites. It's perfect for a whimsical wedding, with a yurt onsite for getting dressed and countless paths throughout the multi-level garden. For elopements and intimate weddings, Loma Vista offers 2-hour elopement packages for up to 12 guests, 5-hour mini-microwedding packages for up to 20 guests, and 8-hour microwedding packages for up to 25 guests. If you're wanting to host your ceremony and reception in one place, this is definitely one of the best venues to consider for a more traditional wedding feel.
See photos from K + J's Wind and Sea Wedding.
For an intimate wedding overlooking the ocean, Wind & Sea Estate offers a luxury getaway and an elopement special for up to 12 guests. Because most Big Sur hotels discourage group bookings and gatherings onsite in order to preserve the peace and quiet of the surroundings, this is the place to go if you've always imagined having your loved ones staying together in one house for the weekend! I've seen so many guests walk around in awe of this venue, as there's few wedding venues where you can be surrounded by the cliffs and ocean on almost all sides. One very important thing to note is that Wind & Sea is farther south than the other venues - be sure to account for a 30-60 minute drive to iconic Big Sur views and additional costs to bring vendors in. I've worked with many couples who love the coastal portraits at Garrapata State Park but want to have their wedding ceremony and reception at Wind and Sea. This is definitely possible, but you'll need to book more hours of photography, and decide on if sunset portraits are on the cliffs are important to you. Highway 1 road closures are also more likely to affect Wind & Sea due to how remote it is, so plan accordingly. Update as of 2025: New regulations by the California Coastal Commission banning vacation rentals in Big Sur affect this venue, as vacation rentals are no longer allowed in Big Sur.
See photos from C + D's Hyatt Carmel Highlands Wedding.
With an oceanview gazebo, Hyatt Carmel Highlands offers some of the best sunsets over the coast. It's a short 15-minute drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea, making it an easy choice for those wanting an intimate ceremony site that also has accommodations for guests to stay at. And just a short 5-minute drive down Highway 1 is Garrapata State Park, one of the best places for coastal views. Hyatt Carmel Highlands does offer 90 minute ceremony rentals that include a getting ready room, ceremony on the gazebo, and cocktail hour, but this can only be booked closer to the date. While the views are not as rugged as Garrapata State Park, I usually recommend this as the best ocean-view ceremony site for couples who want a more accessible or dog-friendly ceremony location for their guests, while still being able to easily drive 5 minutes out to take portraits on the coast with just the two of them. I've photographed many intimate weddings here that have worked out perfectly for couples who still want a more traditional wedding experience for their guests, but nontraditional experience exploring the coast with the two of them.
See photos from D + C's Sur Grove Elopement.
Tucked away on a windy road off Highway 1 is the Sur Grove, a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom redwoods cabin. This 1930's cabin has an enclosed front yard where you can have a ceremony for up to 10 guests. While it doesn't have redwoods trails of its own due to being in a residential area, it's the perfect getaway for those looking for a cabin in the redwoods experience, has a stocked kitchen for those wanting a space to cook, and includes living spaces perfect for entertaining a few guests. This cabin is just 15 minutes from the coastal state parks and 30 minutes from the redwoods state parks.
See photos from H + E's Ventana Big Sur Elopement and B + D's Ventana Big Sur Intimate Wedding.
One of the most iconic and romantic resorts in the United States, Ventana Big Sur offers elopement and intimate wedding packages for those looking for an all-inclusive package. Though more expensive than most other venues, it has a variety of activities within the resort, from dining at the Glass House where you can watch the sunset, to getting up close with falcons, to walking around its own private redwoods trails. With three ceremony options - an intimate vista point overlooking the ocean, a private circle of redwoods, and a larger open space with redwoods, it is my favorite place to go for redwoods and coastal views all in one place (which is actually very rare for hotels in Big Sur! The only other option is Post Ranch Inn). For that reason, I highly recommend it for those who want to sit back, relax, and celebrate both their wedding and honeymoon here. Hot tip: Since it is on the more expensive side, I've had many couples use points to book their stay here. For those wanting to bring their dog(s) to their elopement, it's also my favorite dog-friendly hotel in the area! I've photographed the sweetest elopement ceremonies with the pup sitting right beside the couple. Trust me, there's no cuter moment than a pup who decides to wander and find a stick to play with in the middle of the ceremony!
If you're looking for a luxury elopement, Post Ranch Inn is the place for you. This hotel sits on over 100 acres of land covering both redwoods and ocean views. Rooms range from modern treehouses to panoramic ocean views. They offer a variety of all-inclusive elopement packages for just the couple or intimate wedding packages for up to 20 people.
See photos from A + D's The Village Big Sur Wedding.
Newly opened in 2024, The Village is the place to go - whether it's getting coffee and pastries in the morning, grabbing brunch on a Sunday, sitting down for a 4-course dinner, or even taking a yoga class. Better yet, The Village also serves as a private event venue, offering both ceremony and reception options with menus curated with care that highlight local farms and seasonal produce. This beautifully designed space is centered around its hearth, a focal point that reflects its heart for community gatherings, but walk around and you'll also be charmed by its rustic wood panel walls, industrial garage doors, and romantic string lights that light the patio at night. If you're looking for a place with good vibes, The Village is definitely one of my favorite wedding venues - you can tell that it was crafted and built with love. 
Airbnbs & Vrbos
See photos from W + B's Intimate Wedding, B + A's Intimate Wedding, and K + J's Intimate Wedding.
If you've ever imagined a wedding weekend, Airbnbs and Vrbos might be the option for you! Instead of just focusing on celebrating one day, you can spend a weekend or week together with your loved ones, exploring the Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur area together (see the list of Things to Do on the bottom of this blog post!) There can be something so special about getting your loved ones together in the same place and having spaces for everyone to spend time together. Whether that's having an intimate dinner in the backyard under the stars, or playing board games in the living room, or cooking together in the kitchen, there are so many beautiful memories you can make together. If you are planning on having your wedding at an Airbnb or Vrbo though, always check with the owner beforehand. Keep in mind that there are more risks involved, such as last-minute cancellation from the owner and liability issues, site fees may apply, and you'll need to account for some extra drive time if you're getting ready in the Monterey Peninsula instead of Big Sur. Update as of 2025: Note that new regulations by the California Coastal Commission have banned most vacation rentals in Big Sur and Carmel Highlands. Big Sur Elopement Packages
Some luxury resorts offer elopement packages that already have select vendors included. This can include the ceremony site, photographer, officiant, and/or bouquet/boutonniere. Additional hours of photography, hair/makeup, dinner, or other vendors typically cost extra, and most packages have a minimum stay requirement at the hotel as well. Big Sur elopement packages from resorts like Ventana Big Sur and Post Ranch Inn range from $5,100-$7,800 for a 1-hour elopement with no guests and $6,500-$10,000 for a 1-4 hour intimate wedding with guests. If you don't need an all-inclusive package though, I highly recommend booking your own vendors! This will allow you to better personalize your day and allocate your budget for the vendors that matter the most to you. For couples planning an elopement in a time crunch or couples who are overwhelmed by planning, I do offer all-inclusive Big Sur elopement packages which include photography, planning, videography, officiant, and a coastal ceremony permit! These packages are designed to highlight the best parts of Big Sur with local, experienced vendors who have been well vetted.
Where to Stay in Big Sur
For places to stay, most of the venues above provide accommodations, so you may want to choose a hotel based on where you want to get married. For a cabin-in-the-woods experience, check out Glen Oaks Big Sur for modern cabins, Deetjen's for rustic cabins (and friendly cats!), or maybe even glamping at Ventana Big Sur. For a more luxury resort stay, Ventana Big Sur and Post Ranch Inn can't be beat. If you're wanting to be right by the coast, check out Hyatt Carmel Highlands and Tickle Pink Inn. For more budget-friendly stays in Big Sur, check out Big Sur Lodge, Big Sur River Inn, or Big Sur Campgrounds.
Alternatively, you can also find plenty of accommodations outside of Big Sur including Airbnbs and Vrbos, and just make Big Sur a day trip! Just keep in mind that if you'll need to account for some extra drive time if you're getting ready in the Monterey Peninsula instead of Big Sur.
Dog-Friendly Locations
If you're looking to bring your dog to Big Sur, there's so many dog-friendly beaches such as Garrapata State Beach or Pfeiffer Beach for your pup to run around in! For hotels, Alila Ventana Big Sur is one of the best venues for a dog-friendly elopement. Big Sur is also just a 30-45 minute drive to Carmel, one of the most dog-friendly cities and perfect as a home base if you're wanting to be closer to restaurants, activities, and shopping.
There are so many different ways to include your dog in your day - whether that's booking a dog-friendly hotel and getting ready with them, choosing a dog-friendly ceremony site, or spending some time at the beach running around with your pup. I believe pets are a part of the family (we named ours Bixby after the bridge!) so don't worry, I got you. As part of the planning services included, I provide a list of dog-friendly hotels, ceremony sites, and restaurants, as well as ideas on how to incorporate your dog into your day.
Family-Friendly Locations
There can be something so special about getting to join two families together - whether that's a private elopement with just the parents and kids, or an intimate wedding with family to witness the celebration. While not all locations and hotels are family-friendly (Alila Ventana Big Sur and Post Ranch Inn have 18+ requirements), there are a handful of spots that are perfect for bringing your family with you on your elopement day. Some hotels provide easy trails to trails or activities like Big Sur Lodge, which is right next to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, or Big Sur River Inn, which has a riverside dining area where you can even wade in the river. Another great option is booking a hotel or Airbnb in Monterey or Carmel for easy access to amenities and kid-friendly activities such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Remember - the best part about getting married here is that you're rarely staying in one place, so you can always get ready at one hotel, have your ceremony nearby, and take portraits at a different location to get the best of both worlds.
How much does a Big Sur elopement cost?
Elopement budgets can range widely depending on what you want for your day. As you envision your wedding day, think about what's most important to you. Do you envision a luxury getaway or an outdoors adventure? Do you want to elope with just the two of you, or have a few closest loved ones to celebrate with you? Is this your chance to splurge on the details that matter to you - like a dream photographer or a dream dress - because you won't have to budget for a traditional wedding, or do you prefer to keep it low key? Remember, you don't have to do anything! Many couples do their own hair/makeup, skip the bouquet, or do burritos on the beach instead of a fancy dinner.
Alright, but give me some numbers, right?! Most couples spend between $9,000-$13,000 for their Big Sur elopement. Here's a sample breakdown of how couples typically budget for their elopement with no guests:
For an intimate wedding with guests, budgets can range widely depending on how many guests you have, what day of the week and season your wedding is, and what you envision your day to look like. Do you envision having a house for your guests to spend the day at, maybe having a floral arch for your ceremony and a private chef with beautiful table settings? Or do you envision a day more focused on exploring the vast landscapes, maybe renting a 2-hour ceremony site and a private room at a restaurant? Most couples spend between $13,000-$25,000 on a Big Sur intimate wedding with guests. Here's a sample breakdown of how couples typically budget for their intimate wedding:
Best Time of Year to Elope in Big Sur
Located in the northern part of California, Big Sur is absolutely beautiful year round - I've photographed some of my all-time favorite elopements even in the winter! This area is also known for its microclimates. That means that the weather can quickly change from one mile to the next even within the same day - you could get warm sun in the redwoods and foggy clouds on the coast. Typically it can be 5-10 degrees colder on the coast than it is in the redwoods especially due to the wind, hence why many couples prefer to start their day in the redwoods and end on the coast. So if there's one thing to know about the weather, it's that it can be sunny on one moment and cloudy the next in any time of year.
SPRING (April, May): 60-70°F, 15% rainy days in a month
SUMMER (June, July, August): 70-80°F, 5% rainy days in a month FALL (September, October): 60-70°F, 10% rainy days in a month WINTER (November, December, January, February, March): 50-60°F, 30% rainy days in a month There are definitely some advantages to eloping in off-season - though it's a bit chillier, you get to avoid the crowds, and some of my all-time favorite trails are only accessible in the winter due to the poison oak overtaking these trails during the warmer seasons. Spring and fall are typically peak season in Big Sur. The spring brings more wildflowers and greenery, though there is a chance of rain. The fall brings warmer weather, though that also means having a few hot days that get up to the 80's and 90's (which might be uncomfortable when hiking in your wedding attire, plus hot weather also brings more gnats especially when there's no wind!) If you are sensitive to heat or cold, choose a time of year that makes sense for you. Wildfire season is one other important factor to be aware of. This is typically during the late summer and fall. Pfeiffer Beach, which is managed by the Los Padres National Forest, often has closures during this time in order to concentrate firefighter efforts in California. During the winter, Pfeiffer Beach also closes for periods of time due to road flooding in the winter and spring. Because of the unpredictable nature of eloping outdoors, it is important to hire someone who is familiar with the area in case you need to change plans. As a photographer shooting locally year round, you can rest assured that I've navigated everything from rescheduling when it comes to all-day rain forecasts, to changing locations when certain spots are closed or inaccessible due to wildfires, road closures, or overgrown with poison oak. The best part about eloping in Big Sur is that there's no scarcity of incredible locations! That leads us back to the question - when are the best months to elope in Big Sur then? Then answer is there is no best month to elope in Big Sur. But there are best months to elope based on what you envision for your day. Here's what I would personally recommend:
HOW B + A CHANGED PLANS LAST MINUTE DUE TO WEATHER
How to Create a Day-Of Timeline
Your elopement day deserves to be treasured and documented with the same care and importance whether you have 0 guests, 10 guests, or 100 guests. Think of your day as a day to be experienced and a day to make memories - it's not just about the epic landscapes! Your wedding day starts the moment you wake up. And one of the best things about choosing to elope is that your day can be anything and everything you want it to be. Do you love to share slow mornings together, drinking a warm cup of coffee, dancing in the kitchen as you make breakfast? Start your elopement day doing exactly that! Love to play board games? Pack your favorite game and play it in your cabin or at a picnic on the beach. Procrastinated on your vows? Spend a little quiet time together writing your vows. Want to get ready together but also still have a first look? Get ready in a place where you can still talk to each other or get walkie talkies. The options are truly limitless!
6-HOUR ELOPEMENT TIMELINE
1:00 - 2:30 Getting Ready in a Cabin 2:30 - 2:45 First Look in the Redwoods 2:45 - 3:15 Ceremony 3:15 - 4:15 Adventuring in the Redwoods 4:15 - 5:00 Pack Up and Travel to Coast 5:00 - 6:00 Picnic on the Beach 6:00 - 7:00 Chasing the Sunset on the Coast
8-HOUR INTIMATE WEDDING TIMELINE
12:00 - 1:30 Getting Ready with Loved Ones 1:30 - 2:30 First Look and Adventuring in the Redwoods 2:30 - 3:00 Gather for Ceremony 3:00 - 3:30 Ceremony 3:30 - 4:00 Family/Group Photos 4:00 - 4:30 Travel to Coast 4:30 - 6:30 Chasing the Sunset on the Coast 6:30 - 7:00 Travel to Reception 7:00 - 8:00 Toasts and Guest Candids
For more help on planning, check out the step-by-step guide to planning your elopement!
Planning Tips
HOW K + T INCLUDED THEIR HOBBIES ON THEIR WEDDING DAY
Travel Guide and Things to Do
Big Sur is the perfect getaway if you want to create a full weekend of adventure or extend it to a road trip for a week long honeymoon. Besides hiking through the coast and redwoods, here are things to do in Big Sur:
Planning on making it a road trip? Here's an itinerary for things to do when driving from Big Sur to Monterey to Santa Cruz to San Francisco. Monterey / Carmel / Pacific Grove
Fully inspired and ready to start crafting a day full of adventure together? 
17 Comments
5/27/2020 09:43:59 am
Such a great informative post! Anyone wanting to elope in this area should check this out! Also, your photos are absolutely so beautiful! 5/27/2020 10:35:02 am
This is such an amazing resource! So much detail has been packed into this!
Chelsi
5/27/2020 10:44:45 am
This is amazing and so informative! Big Sur is on my list of places to visit and now I'm even more excited!
Julia
5/27/2020 05:56:44 pm
Wow, this article is packed with information! This made me so excited about visiting Big Sur! 5/28/2020 08:55:32 am
Wow, this is such a helpful post! Big Sur is such a beautiful place to elope!!
Heather
5/28/2020 09:38:29 am
This is a wonderful guide on Big Sur!! Your photos are so stunning too!!! <3
Michael Lambert
8/1/2020 04:18:30 pm
This is an amazingly comprehensive article. Thank you so much for the effort put in! 2/17/2021 12:49:51 am
"Browse our Designe <a
Alli Timberlake
6/26/2021 04:11:00 pm
Thank you so much for this detailed post! It’s so helpful. I do have one question that maybe you could answer. A few other blogs have said that elopements/weddings aren’t permitted on Pfieffer Beach during certain months of the year (including October, when me and my fiancé are looking to elope there!) Just trying to find the right info! Haha. It’s our number one spot so I hope that’s not true!
Lynn Lewis
7/6/2021 03:51:29 pm
I always recommend calling the office and asking, as policies can change. But from my last communication with the office that manages Pfeiffer Beach, elopements are allowed but weddings are not. Make sure to take into consideration weather conditions and parking though! The wind is no joke, and I've found parking to be difficult even on weekdays. 11/3/2021 05:29:44 pm
I like how you mentioned that the next step is to choose the location of your elopement after you envision what your ceremony would look like. A close friend of mine mentioned to me last night that he and his fiance are planning to have an elopement and asked if I have any idea what is the best option to do. Thanks to this informative article and I'll be sure to tell him that they can consult a well-known wedding ceremonies services as they can answer all their questions.
Nicole Fedora
10/19/2022 10:03:10 pm
Wow what amazing info - this REALLY HELPS organize ones thoughts! Thank you! I've been telling my fiancé - I just want to get married under a tree with great photography - Done - ..... little did I know it was so complicated even to do that. I had no idea permits were even a thing! Thank you for breaking everything down. 11/8/2022 11:40:59 pm
Thank you for mentioning that choosing the location of your elopement ceremony is the first choice. My sister stated that she desired a lovely location for her wedding. I'll assist her in selecting an elopement venue for her wedding. 11/17/2022 09:46:04 pm
It helped when you mentioned that adventure elopement won't make you stay in one place. My friend wants to have an adventure for his wedding. I think it's best to have an adventure elopement photographer to capture every moment. 6/4/2025 06:47:36 pm
The depth you go into for every aspect of planning a Big Sur elopement is seriously amazing, and the custom google map is awesome! This guide is pure gold. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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