The Best Big Sur Elopement Locations
Where to Elope in Big Sur | Local Photographer’s Favorite Spots
If you're dreaming of eloping along the rugged California coast, Big Sur offers some of the most breathtaking locations in the world. Think golden cliffs, towering redwoods, and quiet beaches that feel completely untouched.
As a Big Sur elopement photographer, I’ve explored dozens of these locations with couples just like you. Whether you're looking for redwood serenity or sunset cliffside vows, here are my top picks for the best Big Sur elopement locations.
Garrapata State Park
Best For: Cliffside views, ocean waves, sunset glow
Why I love it: It’s iconic Big Sur — dramatic cliffs, crashing waves and golden coastal light. There are multiple easy-to-access trailheads that lead to breathtaking ceremony spots. Plus, it’s perfect for post-ceremony portraits.
Easy-access trailheads
Gorgeous at sunset year-round
Ideal for intimate elopements or proposals
Close to Carmel & Monterey
Pro Tip: Great for short hikes with epic views. Popular but spacious enough to feel private on weekdays.
Pfeiffer Beach
Best For: Unique purple sand, Keyhole Arch and other keyholes, moodier lighting
Why I love it: Pfeiffer Beach has this wild, mystical vibe. The iconic rock Keyhole Arch is a natural backdrop like no other. It works especially well for winter or golden hour elopements when the sun sets directly through the arch.
Iconic arch backdrop
Golden hour magic (especially in winter)
Permit may be required
10-minute walk from parking lot
Pro Tip: The access road (Sycamore Canyon Rd) is narrow and unpaved. Arrive early and carpool when possible.
Glen Oaks Big Sur
Best For: Cozy redwood elopements with rustic luxury
Why I love it: Tucked beneath a redwood canopy, Glen Oaks is ideal if you want an earthy, peaceful feel. It’s one of the few places you can elope and stay all in one magical redwood escape.
Book a cabin, bridge house, or lodge suite
Rain-friendly indoor options
Beautiful mix of nature + comfort
Pro Tip: Ideal if you want to simplify logistics—get ready, elope, and stay all in one magical place.
Alila Ventana Big Sur Glamping Tents
Best for: Redwoods, cozy luxury, and a touch of adventure
Why I love it: If you're dreaming of redwoods with a boho-luxury twist, the glamping tents at Alila Ventana Big Sur are a hidden gem. Nestled beneath the trees, these canvas tents offer the perfect mix of rustic charm and upscale comfort. Couples can say their vows among the redwoods and then head down to Pfeiffer Beach for golden hour portraits with iconic coastal views.
Unique luxury glamping experience
Private ceremony spots in the redwoods
Perfect base for exploring Big Sur
Easy drive to Pfeiffer Beach for sunset
Pro Tip: Book a weekday stay for maximum privacy and dreamy light filtering through the trees. Bring champagne to toast in the forest before chasing the sunset down the coast.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Best For: Forest + ocean views, adventure elopements
Why I love it: This park has dramatic overlooks and redwood trails — plus it’s home to McWay Falls (a stunning 80-ft waterfall dropping into the Pacific). You can’t get married at the falls, but nearby areas are incredible.
Trails through redwoods + coastal cliffs
Epic views of Big Sur coastline
Permit often required (I’ll help with that)
Pro Tip: Great for multi-location elopements—pair this with Pfeiffer Beach or a hidden pull-off.
Ventana Big Sur
Best For: Luxury elopements, couples who want it all
Why I love it: If you want to combine the wildness of Big Sur with luxury, Ventana is the perfect venue. It offers private ceremony spaces with cliff views, redwoods, and curated elopement packages.
Stay and marry in one place
Ideal for micro-weddings or private ceremonies
Redwoods, cliffs, and ocean views on site
Pro Tip: Great choice if you want to avoid public crowds and have a seamless, stress-free day.
Hidden Trails & Pull-Offs
Best For: Couples craving privacy, spontaneity, and adventure
Why I love it: Big Sur is full of secret locations—quiet redwood groves, cliffside bluffs, and hidden paths you won’t find on Google. If you’re flexible, I’ll guide you to the most photogenic, off-the-beaten-path spots.
Weekday elopements = ultimate privacy
Ideal for car cruising along Highway 1
Flexible timeline for light and scenery
Pro Tip: Renting a convertible or Jeep adds to the experience. We can create a route that turns your elopement into a coastal road trip.
Eloping in Big Sur: Quick Tips
Permits: Locations like Julia Pfeiffer and Pfeiffer Beach often require permits—I'll handle the research and help you apply.
Best Season: Spring and fall are ideal—mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning light.
Guests: Most locations are best for 2–10 guests. Some (like Ventana) allow more.
Accessibility: Big Sur has limited cell service and remote access. I’ll provide directions, parking info, and a full day-of plan.
Need Help Choosing Your Dream Spot?
Every elopement package includes custom location guidance—with access to private pull-offs, redwood groves and ceremony spots I only share with clients. Whether you're envisioning cliffside vows, forest serenity or a beachside sunset, I’ll help plan every detail and document it beautifully.
Local Big Sur Elopement Photographer
Based in Monterey | Available for redwood, beach, and cliffside ceremonies
