How to Elope in California – Locations, Permits, & California Elopement Packages

Alright guys, it’s time to pin up your hair, sit back, and coast down Highway 1 as we talk about eloping in California.  From chic beaches to pinnacle granola-girl national parks, California has it all, and I’m here to tell you about it.  Let’s jump into why California might be the perfect place for your future elopement.

Why Elope in California?

Romantic Coastal Areas

The coastal areas of California are perfect for romantic elopements because of the dramatic cliffs, ocean views, secluded beaches, and charming seaside towns that can't help but make things intimate for couples that visit.  Picture you and your honey sitting sea-side, toes in the warm, soft sand and the pink sunset reflecting off the water.  Doesn’t it scream fairytale?

Flexible Marriage Laws

In California, marriage laws are designed to be inclusive and straightforward. Both parties must be at least 18 years old, although minors can marry with parental consent and court approval. Couples must obtain a marriage license from a county clerk’s office, with no residency requirement or waiting period. California recognizes same-sex marriages and follows a no-fault divorce system, meaning couples don’t need to prove wrongdoing to dissolve their marriage. While common-law marriages aren’t recognized, valid marriages performed elsewhere are accepted.

Geographical Diversity

California's geography features bold contrasts, including the dramatic Pacific coastline, the Death Valley desert, and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The state's geography includes beaches, deserts, and mountain ranges, with distinct microclimates in between. The laid-back city atmosphere and surf-town vibes further add to the unique areas you can find in California.

What is California Known For?

Entertainment and Social Movements

California has always been a center for entertainment and progressive culture. The state's entertainment industry, centered in Hollywood, has created a global media empire, influencing film, television, and music. Beyond that, California is the birthplace of social movements advocating for civil rights, environmental protection, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Tech and Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley is the world’s hub for tech innovation and is home to big companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook. It’s unique for its concentration of startups, venture capital, and research in AI and biotechnology. Silicon Valley symbolizes California’s entrepreneurial spirit and not only shapes the state’s economy but also adds to its character as a land of opportunity and forward-thinking culture.

Surf Culture

The surfer lifestyle, synonymous with California, originated in the mid-20th century and reflects the state’s connection to the Pacific Ocean. The "surfer-dude" aesthetic—marked by a carefree attitude, sun-bleached hair, and the “hang loose” hand sign—became iconic through media and pop culture and has lingered as a famous California trait ever since.

What Animals Are Unique to California?

California was once home to the California grizzly bear. However, due to hunting and habitat loss during the Gold Rush and the state's rapid development, the last known California grizzly was killed in the 1920s. Today, no wild grizzlies remain, but the state is still home to species like the endangered California condor, the largest North American land bird, sea otters, Channel Islands fox, and the California tiger salamander.

Is Eloping in California Right for Me?

Not the perfect fit? Try these similar states instead:

Oregon

Illinois

Texas

Washington

New York

How to Elope in California

Learn about commitment ceremonies!

Obtain a Marriage License

Apply for a marriage license at any County Clerk's office in California with a valid ID. Fees typically range from $50 to $110, depending on the county. There's no waiting period, and the license is valid for 90 days.

Find an Officiant:

California allows various officiants, including judges, religious leaders, and even friends or family members, to be deputized for a day. The officiant must be physically present, and online or virtual officiants are prohibited from legal ceremonies.

Choose Your Location(s):

Choose from famous places like Yosemite National Park, the Redwoods, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree. Some spots may require ceremony permits, with fees ranging from $100 to over $1,500. Work with your photographer (me!) to find the most scenic and lesser-known spots.

When is the Best Time to Elope in California?

Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.

Spring (March to May)

Northern California, like San Francisco, experiences mild temperatures around 50-70°F, while Southern California can reach 60-80°F. Tourism increases during springtime, particularly in spots like Yosemite, leading to higher accommodation prices and long wait times for reservations. If you plan to explore or elope in popular locations, prepare by booking early and arriving early on the day.

Summer (June to August)

Temps range from 60-75°F along the coast to over 100°F inland and in desert areas like Death Valley. Popular destinations like Los Angeles, San Diego, and national parks experience high tourist traffic, driving up accommodation prices and causing even longer waits for reservations.

Fall (September to November)

Coastal regions average at about 55-75°F, and inland areas average at 60-85°F during fall. The state experiences fall colors in Napa Valley and the Sierra Nevada. Fall is when you’ll start to see tourism crowds thin out; however, national parks and wine country remain pretty popular.

Winter (December to February)

The coast experiences mild temperatures between 45-65°F, while inland regions and the mountains can see cooler weather ranging from 30-60°F. Snow covers places like Lake Tahoe and Big Bear and high tourist activity migrates to the ski resorts. Coastal destinations remain less crowded but can have increased rates during holiday times.

Earthquakes:

Earthquakes can occur at any time of year in California. Due to the state's location on major fault lines, including the San Andreas Fault, it's important to be prepared year-round, even when visiting. Key preparations include having an emergency kit ready and knowing earthquake safety procedures. Use this official resource to prepare for earthquake emergencies in California.

Wildfires:

California’s wildfire seasons are increasingly unpredictable, extending into winter. For outdoor weddings, consider spring (March-May) for lower fire risk and have a backup indoor venue and event insurance for closures.  Use this official resource to prepare for wildlife emergencies when visiting California at any time throughout the year.

Current Park Closures Due to the Palisades Wildfire

Where to Elope in California

Read about whether you should elope in a State or a National Park!

National Parks

  • Alcatraz Island

    Butterfield Overland National Historic Trail

    Cabrillo National Monument

    California National Historic Trail

    Castle Mountains National Monument

    César E. Chávez National Monument

    Channel Islands National Park

    Death Valley National Park

    Devils Postpile National Monument

    Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site

    Fort Point National Historic Site

    Golden Gate National Recreation Area

    John Muir National Historic Site

    Joshua Tree National Park

    Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail

    Lassen Volcanic National Park

    Lava Beds National Monument

    Manzanar National Historic Site

    Mojave National Preserve

    Muir Woods National Monument

    Old Spanish National Historic Trail

    Pinnacles National Park

    Point Reyes National Seashore

    Pony Express National Historic Trail

    Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

    Presidio of San Francisco

    Redwood National and State Parks

    Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park

    San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

    Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

    Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

    Tule Lake National Monument

    Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

    Yosemite National Park

  • Admiral William Standley State Recreation Area

    Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park

    Albany State Marine Reserve

    Anderson Marsh State Historic Park

    Andrew Molera State Park

    Angel Island State Park

    Año Nuevo State Park 

    Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve

    Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park

    Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

    Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park

    Asilomar State Beach

    Auburn State Recreation Area

    Austin Creek State Recreation Area

    Azalea State Natural Reserve

    Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park

    Bean Hollow State Beach

    Benbow State Recreation Area

    Benicia State Recreation Area

    Benicia Capitol State Historic Park

    Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area

    Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park

    Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park

    Big Basin Redwoods State Park

    Bodie State Historic Park

    Bolsa Chica State Beach

    Border Field State Park

    Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

    Brannan Island State Recreation Area

    Burleigh H. Murray Ranch Park Property

    Burton Creek State Park

    Butano State Park

    Butte City Project Park Property

    Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    California Citrus State Historic Park

    California Indian Heritage Center Park Property

    California State Capitol

    California State Mining and Mineral Museum Park Property

    California State Railroad Museum Point of Interest

    Cambria State Marine Park

    Candlestick Point State Recreation Area

    Cardiff State Beach

    Carlsbad State Beach

    Carmel River State Beach

    Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Carpinteria State Beach

    Caspar Headlands State Natural Reserve

    Caspar Headlands State Beach

    Castaic Lake State Recreation Area

    Castle Crags State Park

    Castle Rock State Park

    Caswell Memorial State Park

    Cayucos State Beach

    China Camp State Park

    Chino Hills State Park

    Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park

    Clay Pit State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Clear Lake State Park

    Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park

    Columbia State Historic Park

    Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area

    Corona del Mar State Beach

    Crystal Cove State Park

    Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    D. L. Bliss State Park

    Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park

    Delta Meadows Park Property

    Dockweiler State Beach

    Doheny State Beach

    Donner Memorial State Park

    Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

    El Capitán State Beach

    El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park

    Emerald Bay State Park

    Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve

    Emma Wood State Beach

    Empire Mine State Historic Park

    Estero Bluffs State Park

    Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park

    Fort Humboldt State Historic Park

    Fort Ord Dunes State Park

    Fort Ross State Historic Park

    Fort Tejon State Historic Park

    Franks Tract State Recreation Area

    Fremont Peak State Park

    Garrapata State Park

    Gaviota State Park

    George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area

    Governor's Mansion State Historic Park

    Gray Whale Cove State Beach

    Great Valley Grasslands State Park

    Greenwood State Beach

    Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

    Grover Hot Springs State Park

    Half Moon Bay State Beach

    Harmony Headlands State Park

    Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area

    Hatton Canyon Park Property

    Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument

    Heber Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Hendy Woods State Park

    Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

    Henry W. Coe State Park

    Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Humboldt Lagoons State Park

    Humboldt Redwoods State Park

    Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Huntington State Beach

    Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park

    Indio Hills Palms Park Property

    Jack London State Historic Park

    Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

    John B. Dewitt Redwoods State Natural Reserve

    John Little State Natural Reserve

    Jug Handle State Natural Reserve

    Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

    Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area

    Kings Beach State Recreation Area

    Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve

    La Purísima Mission State Historic Park

    Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area

    Lake Oroville State Recreation Area

    Lake Perris State Recreation Area

    Lake Valley State Recreation Area

    Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park

    Leo Carrillo State Park

    Leucadia State Beach

    Lighthouse Field State Beach

    Limekiln State Park

    Little River State Beach

    Locke Boarding House Museum Point of Interest

    Los Angeles State Historic Park

    Los Encinos State Historic Park

    Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve

    MacKerricher State Park

    Mailliard Redwoods State Natural Reserve

    Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

    Malibu Creek State Park

    Malibu Lagoon State Beach

    Manchester State Park

    Mandalay State Beach

    Manresa State Beach

    Marconi Conference Center State Historic Park

    Marina State Beach

    Marsh Creek State Park State Historic Park

    Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

    Martial Cottle Park State Recreation Area

    McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

    McConnell State Recreation Area

    McGrath State Beach

    McLaughlin Eastshore State Park State Seashore

    Mendocino Headlands State Park

    Mendocino Woodlands State Park

    Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

    Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve

    Montaña de Oro State Park

    Montara State Beach

    Monterey State Historic Park

    Monterey State Beach

    Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve

    Moonlight State Beach

    Morro Bay State Park

    Morro Strand State Beach

    Moss Landing State Beach

    Mount Diablo State Park

    Mount Tamalpais State Park

    Natural Bridges State Beach

    Navarro River Redwoods State Park

    New Brighton State Beach

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Old Sacramento State Historic Park

    Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

    Olompali State Historic Park

    Pacheco State Park

    Pacifica State Beach

    Palomar Mountain State Park

    Pelican State Beach

    Pescadero State Beach

    Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

    Picacho State Recreation Area

    Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park

    Pío Pico State Historic Park

    Pismo State Beach

    Placerita Canyon State Park

    Plumas-Eureka State Park

    Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

    Point Dume State Beach

    Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

    Point Lobos Ranch Park Property

    Point Mugu State Park

    Point Sal State Beach

    Point Sur State Historic Park

    Pomponio State Beach

    Portola Redwoods State Park

    Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

    Providence Mountains State Recreation Area

    Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

    Rancho San Andrés Castro Adobe Park Property

    Red Rock Canyon State Park

    Refugio State Beach

    Reynolds Wayside Campground

    Richardson Grove State Park

    Rio de Los Angeles State Park State Recreation Area

    Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach

    Robert Louis Stevenson State Park

    Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach

    Russian Gulch State Park

    Saddleback Butte State Park

    Salinas River State Beach

    Salt Point State Park

    Salton Sea State Recreation Area

    Samuel P. Taylor State Park

    San Bruno Mountain State Park

    San Buenaventura State Beach

    San Clemente State Beach

    San Elijo State Beach

    San Gregorio State Beach

    San Juan Bautista State Historic Park

    San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

    San Onofre State Beach

    San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park

    San Timoteo Canyon Property

    Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park

    Santa Monica State Beach

    Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park

    Schooner Gulch State Beach

    Seacliff State Beach

    Shasta State Historic Park

    Silver Strand State Beach

    Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

    Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

    Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve

    Sonoma State Historic Park

    Sonoma Coast State Park

    South Carlsbad State Beach

    South Yuba River State Park

    Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area

    State Indian Museum State Historic Park

    Stone Lake Property

    Sue-meg State Park

    Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

    Sunset State Beach

    Sutter Buttes State Park

    Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park

    Tahoe State Recreation Area

    The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

    Thornton State Beach

    Tijuana Estuary NP Point of Interest

    Tolowa Dunes State Park

    Tomales Bay State Park

    Tomo-Kahni State Historic Park

    Topanga State Park

    Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

    Torrey Pines State Beach

    Trinidad State Beach

    Trione-Annadel State Park

    Tule Elk State Natural Reserve

    Turlock Lake State Recreation Area

    Twin Lakes State Beach

    Van Damme State Park

    Verdugo Mountains Property

    Ward Creek Property

    Washoe Meadows State Park

    Wassama Round House State Historic Park

    Watts Towers of Simon Rodia State Historic Parl

    Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park

    Westport-Union Landing State Beach

    Wilder Ranch State Park

    Wildwood Canyon Property

    Will Rogers State Beach

    Will Rogers State Historic Park

    Willian B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park

    Woodland Opera House State Historic Park

    Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area

    Zmudowski State Beach

melody+walberto elopement

USDA Forest Service:

  • Angeles National Forest

    Cleveland National Forest

    Eldorado National Forest

    Inyo National Forest

    Klamath National Forest

    Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

    Lassen National Forest

    Los Padres National Forest

    Mendocino National Forest

    Modoc National Forest

    Plumas National Forest

    San Bernardino National Forest

    Sequoia National Forest

    Shasta-Trinity National Forest

    Sierra National Forest

    Six Rivers National Forest

    Stanislaus National Forest

    Tahoe National Forest

Bureau of Land Management:

  • North Fork American River

    Red Hills ACEC

    Red Hills Recreation Management Area

    Chimney Peak Wilderness

    Chimney Peak Recreation Area

    Pine Hill Preserve ACEC

    Pine Hill Preserve Area of Critical Environmental Concern

    South Yuba Recreation Area

    Cache Creek Natural Area

    Merced River RMA

    Mecca Hills Wilderness

    North Algodones Dunes Wilderness

    Condon Peak

    South Fork American River

    Sand to Snow National Monument

    Harper Dry Lake

    Knoxville Recreation Area

    Williams Hill

    Tumey Hills Wildflowers

    Panoche Hills

    Jacumba Wilderness

    Point Arena-Stornetta Unit

    North Cow Mountain Recreation Area

    El Mirage OHV Area

    McCabe Flat Campground

    Old Flume Trail Trailhead

    Steel Bridge Campground

    Mattole Campground

    Junction City Campground

    Douglas City Campground

    Tuttle Creek Campground

    Buttercup Ranger Station

    Cahuilla Ranger Station

    Merced Wild & Scenic River

    North Fork Primitive Camp

    Greenwood Creek River Access

    Lost Coast Trail

    Stevens Trail Trailhead

    Cronan Ranch Trailhead

    Dave Moore Nature Area

    Indian Valley Recreation Area

monique+ray joshuatree elopement

Unique Stays

Each photo is credited to AirBnb.

Most Popular Elopement Locations in California

  • Glacier Point - Yosemite National Park

  • McWay Falls - Big Sur

  • L’Auberge Carmel - Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes - Death Valley National Park

  • Santa Barbara Courthouse - Santa Barbara

  • Bel Air Bay Club - Pacific Palisades

  • Greystone Mansion - Beverly Hills

sonny+jasmine angeles national forest elopemen
Lauren and Brittany Joshua Tree Elopement

Where to Visit for Unique Photos in California

Have the freedom to choose a unique elopement location and a variety of smaller, lesser-known areas that make for creative and memorable photo opportunities. Remember, these are only a few examples! I have many more options we can visit together

If you want to prioritize finding the best photographer for you, read how to find the best one.

  • Old Point Loma Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse with coastal views

  • Font’s Point: A dramatic desert backdrop.

  • Estuary Boardwalk: A boardwalk trail.

  • Tufa Formations: Unique limestone formations rising from the lake.

  • The Getty Villa: Roman-inspired architecture and gardens.

Please respect all natural areas and leave it better than you found it.  Vandalism will result in the closing and protection of such unique areas.

How Much Does it Cost to Elope in California?

Read about what you should do to budget for your elopement!

  • $110 — marriage license

    $500 — 3 night Airbnb stay

    $5500 — photographer

    $300 — bouquet + boutonniere

    $500 — wedding dress

    $200 — suit rental

    $200 — restaurant dinner + drinks

    free – national forest ceremony venue

    free — DIY hair + makeup

    Total: $7,310

  • marriage license — $110

    4 night luxury Airbnb stay — $2000

    photographer — $10500

    bouquet, boutonniere, florals for ceremony and dinner — $1000

    wedding dress — $3000

    suit purchase — $1000

    private chef — $800

    5-6” custom cake — $350

    Onsite hair + makeup — $800

    Yosemite National Park permit fee — $150

    Total: $19,710

California Elopement Checklist

An all in-one, comprehensive guide on how to elope. From an iceberg in Alaska to a boat deck in the Florida Keys, this guide will give you all the steps on how to plan your perfect elopement day.

 

California Elopement Packages

Your elopement experience is fully customized from the very beginning. All California elopement packages include:

  • All travel within California (your investment does not change based on location)

  • Personalized location recommendations based on season, accessibility, and your vision

  • Permit research and guidance (when required)

  • Curated vendor recommendations (florals, hair + makeup, private chefs, etc.)

  • Activity ideas unique to your relationship and interests

  • A handcrafted elopement timeline designed for a relaxed, intentional experience

Every elopement gallery includes high-resolution digital images with printing rights, delivered through a private online gallery where you can view, download, print, and share your images with loved ones — so you can relive your experience for years to come.

Multi-Day Elopement Experience

Starting at $10,500

Designed for couples who want their elopement to unfold over multiple days. This experience allows you to exchange vows in one iconic California location and spend another day exploring a completely different landscape — creating space for both adventure and restoration.

This option is ideal if you’re dreaming of a deeply immersive experience that feels more like a getaway than a single-day event. An example of this would be eloping in Yosemite Valley and ending your evening at your Airstream in Autocamp Yosemite. The next day, enjoying a swim or kayaking at Tenaya Lake followed by a picnic.  

Full-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 12 Hours)

Starting at $8,500

Perfect for couples who want the freedom to experience their entire elopement day without watching the clock. This coverage allows time for getting ready, your ceremony, multiple locations, longer hikes, scenic drives, and a relaxed celebration — all at a natural, unhurried pace.

This is the most popular option for couples who want a complete, story-driven elopement experience.

Half-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 6 Hours)

Starting at $5,500

Designed for couples who want a beautifully intentional elopement while keeping the day more streamlined. This experience is ideal for a single primary location, a short hike, and a relaxed ceremony followed by portraits and a meaningful activity. 

Unique Things to Do in California

Whether you want to celebrate or combine a fun honeymoon with your elopement experience, there are a variety of unique things to do around the state that will add to your fun.

Read about the best places to honeymoon in the US.

  • Visit the Last Bookstore

    A historic L.A. bookstore, housed in an abandoned bank.

  • Visit the Wood Line

    A fairytale area located within a man-made eucalyptus forest.

  • Visit the Japanese Tea Garden

    Relics of the 1894 Midwinter Exposition.  (This spot can make for unique photos as well!)

  • Take Pictures at the Secret Tiled Staircase

    An artsy hidden staircase that leads to a nice view of San Francisco.  

mackenzie+nathan jedediah redwoods elopement

California Elopement Timeline Examples

  • 7 - 9 am: Breakfast Together/with Family, Enjoying Coffee

    9 - 11 am: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together

    11:15 am: Depart to Garrapata Beach

    20 minute commute to Garrapata Beach from Carmel-By-The-Sea

    11:35 am: Arrive at Garrapata Beach

    11:45 pm: Begin short hike along the coastline and rugged cliffs

    12 - 12:30 pm: Ceremony at viewpoint

    12:30 - 12:45 pm: Photos with family

    1 - 1:35 pm: Picnic lunch on the beach with family

    1:35 - 2:20 pm: Continue short hike to Calla Lily Valley

    2:20 - 3 pm: Portraits in Calla Lily Valley and along the beach

    3:30 - 6 pm: Cruise along the CA HWY 1 and stop at some of the iconic sights – Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Big Creek Cove Vista

    6:00 pm: Return to Airbnb in Carmel for private dinner

    75 minute commute back to Carmel-by-the-Sea

    7:30 - 9 pm: Enjoy a 3-course dinner prepared by a private chef

    9 pm: Cake and Champagne to end the evening

  • On Day 1:

    9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View at your Airstream at Autocamp Yosemite

    11am - 2pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together

    2 pm: Depart to Yosemite Valley

    60 minute commute to Yosemite Valley from Autocamp Yosemite

    3 pm: Arrive at Sentinel Beach Picnic Area

    3:30 - 4 pm: Ceremony on Sentinel Beach

    4 - 4:30 pm: Picnic Celebration at Picnic Area

    4:30 - 5 pm: Portraits in Yosemite Valley

    5 pm: Head back to Autocamp Yosemite

    60 minute commute back

    6 pm: Arrive Back at Autocamp Yosemite, Grill at your Airstream, Watch the Sunset, and Enjoy one of your Favorite Boardgames

    On Day 2:

    9:30 am: Pack a picnic and head over to Tenaya Lake

    1 hour 50 minute commute from Autocamp Yosemite

    11:20 am - 1 pm: Unpack your kayaks and set off into the calm waters of Tenaya Lake

    1 pm - 4 pm: Enjoy a swim at Tenaya Lake before drying off on the lakeshore for a picnic

Get Inspired By Other California Elopements

Which Elopement Package is Right for Me?

Multi-Day Elopement Experience

This experience is ideal for couples who want their elopement to feel like a once-in-a-lifetime journey rather than a single moment.

This experience is right for you if:

  • You want to combine your elopement with a getaway or honeymoon

  • You’re drawn to multiple California landscapes and don’t want to choose just one

  • You value slow mornings, golden evenings, and complete storytelling

  • You want space for both adventure and restoration

Full-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 12 Hours)

This experience offers the most flexibility and creative freedom within a single day.

This experience is right for you if:

  • You want to document your entire day from start to finish

  • You’re planning multiple locations, activities, or longer hikes

  • You want time for getting ready, your ceremony, portraits, and a celebration

  • You prefer a relaxed flow rather than a tightly scheduled timeline

Half-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 6 Hours)

This experience is best suited for couples who want something intimate, meaningful, and beautifully simple.

This experience is right for you if:

  • You want a short, intimate ceremony

  • You prefer minimal transitions and a calm pace

  • You plan to stay close to your accommodations

  • You envision one primary location with little to no driving

Read More About pricing

Current Specials for California Bookings

George+Nicola Henry Cowell Redwoods Elopement

California offers everything from beaches to mountains to deserts. With relaxed marriage laws and a range of beautiful spots like Big Sur and Yosemite, it's a great choice for eloping couples. Whether you want a simple ceremony or a full adventure, California has you covered with over 200 outdoor locations that I’d be happy to take you to.

 

I want to elope in California!

 

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