5 Romantic Elopement Timelines for Big Sur Sunsets
Big Sur Elopement Photographer’s Guide to Magical Golden Hour Moments
Dreaming of a golden hour elopement on the California coast? Big Sur is one of the most breathtaking places in the world to say “I do.” With its rugged cliffs, wild coastline, and dreamy sunsets, this stretch of Highway 1 is pure romance. But to fully soak in the magic, your elopement timeline matters more than you think.
As a local Big Sur elopement photographer, I help couples craft intentional timelines that let you be present, not rushed—whether you're keeping it short and sweet or making it an all-day adventure. Below are five romantic elopement timelines to inspire your perfect Big Sur sunset experience.
1. The Golden Hour Getaway
Perfect for: Minimalist “just the two of us” elopements
Timeline (2 Hours Total)
4:30 PM – Meet at trailhead or location
5:00 PM – Private vow exchange
5:30 PM – Couples portraits begin
6:30 PM – Sunset photos on the cliffs
Pro Tip: Choose accessible spots like Garrapata State Park or Rocky Ridge Trail—both offer sweeping views with minimal hiking required.
2. Sunset & Champagne Cliffside
Perfect for: Couples who want to celebrate with a toast
Timeline (3 Hours Total)
3:30 PM – Final touches or getting ready nearby
4:30 PM – First look in the redwoods
5:30 PM – Cliffside vows
6:00 PM – Champagne toast & mini charcuterie picnic
6:30 PM – Sunset portraits overlooking the ocean
Pro Tip: Want the ultimate ease? I can recommend local vendors who deliver custom grazing boards and bubbly right to your location.
3. Half-Day Adventure Elopement
Perfect for: Couples who want variety + a scenic drive on Highway 1
Timeline (5 Hours Total)
2:00 PM – Getting ready at a cozy Big Sur Airbnb
3:00 PM – Rent a classic car or convertible for your coastal cruise
3:30 PM – First look in the redwoods
4:30 PM – Beach portraits at Garrapata or Pfeiffer Beach
5:30 PM – Ceremony at a scenic overlook
6:30 PM – Sunset champagne & portraits
✨ Pro Tip: Cruising the coast in a vintage convertible? Iconic. I’ll recommend trusted Big Sur car rental vendors for that unforgettable experience on Highway 1.
4. Sunrise-to-Sunset Lovers’ Day
Perfect for: Adventurous couples who want a full storytelling experience
Timeline (8 Hours Total)
9:00 AM – Getting ready photos
10:30 AM – First look in redwoods
11:00 AM – Midday break or picnic
3:00 PM – Vows at location #1
4:00 PM – Portraits in new location (beach, forest, or cliffs)
6:00 PM – Final golden hour & sunset shots
7:00 PM – Blue hour wrap-up + celebration
✨ Pro Tip: This is ideal if you're booking video coverage, multiple outfits, or want to explore Big Sur’s variety of landscapes.
5. Just Vows & Views
Perfect for: Simple, spontaneous, low-key elopements
Timeline (1 Hour Total)
5:30 PM – Arrive at cliffside or beach location
5:45 PM – Exchange vows with the ocean as your backdrop
6:00 PM – Portraits during golden hour
✨ Pro Tip: Even short sessions benefit from planning. I’ll help you select the best easy-access Big Sur spots for epic views with minimal hiking.
Final Thoughts on Planning Your Big Sur Elopement Timeline
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to eloping in Big Sur—and that’s the beauty of it. Whether you’re exchanging vows on the cliffs with just the two of you, or road-tripping through redwoods and beaches in a vintage car, your elopement deserves to be uniquely yours.
Want help planning your Big Sur elopement timeline?
I’m here to help with location guidance, permit info, trusted vendors, and photo coverage that captures every unforgettable moment.
