If you're wondering how to have a Big Sur Elopement, this guide has you covered. This is a super comprehensive guide that contains everything you need to know on how to elope in Big Sur! I'll cover the following:
- How to Elope in Big Sur
- Elopement Locations in Big Sur
- Big Sur Elopement Permits
- Big Sur Elopement Timeline Samples
- And More!
Steps to Elope in Big Sur
STEP 1: Decide Your Guest Count!
Your Big Sur wedding guest count will help determine where you'll have your elopement.
Most Big Sur Hotels / Venues have packages for elopements or large weddings. There aren't as many options for middle range guest counts (25 - 50 people). When it comes to a Bi Sur elopement, it's easiest to go really small and intimate OR go large with something like 75 people ore more.
Once you select your guest count, that will guide everything else since it will determine the "elopement" or "big wedding" route, which affects the venue choice.
STEP 2: Decide if You’ll Elope at a Big Sur Hotel, Airbnb, or on Public Land
Keep in mind that most Big Sur hotels are also wedding venues that offer elopement and intimate wedding packages for smaller guest counts. Having your ceremony at a local Airbnb is also an option, as long as it's disclosed with the owners. Another option is to elope on public land at a state park. Below are my personal suggestions on how to decide which option to go with!
If you have more than 10 guests and crave simplicity, consider eloping at a Big Sur Hotel
There are multiple Big Sur Hotels that include breathtaking spaces for elopement ceremonies.
Pros of this option:
- This offers intimacy and easy accessibility for your guests
- Fewer guest restrictions as public lands or state parks typically only allow ceremonies of under 10 people, including vendors
- Hotels are often all inclusive and provide dinner and lodging options, making the wedding day simple and stress free
- You'll avoid permit requirements that are often necessary with having a ceremony at a state park or on public land
- You have a built in getting-ready location
- Fewer pet restrictions as most hotels in the Big Sur are pet friendly
If you have more than 10 guests and crave customization, consider eloping at an Airbnb
Pros of this option:
- Most Big Sur Airbnbs are in a secluded part of the forest or on the coast with private beach access, meaning you'll be surrounded by breathtaking nature!
- Fewer guest restrictions as public lands or state parks typically only allow ceremonies of under 10 people, including vendors
- This offers intimacy and easy accessibility for your guests
- Since Airbnb's only include the space for your Big Sur elopement, you'll have the opportunity to customize more. For example, you'll be able to choose your own catering, vendors to work with, etc.
- You'll avoid permit requirements that are often necessary with having a ceremony at a state park or on public land
- You have a built in getting-ready location
If you're having a wedding with less than 10 people, consider eloping at a State Park
Pros of this option:
- Budget friendly
- Provides spectacular views of the coastline
- Can offer a sense of adventure often associated with elopements
Key Info About this Option:
- Each state park has different rules and restrictions so you will want to be sure to research this in advance to ensure you obtain any necessary permits to have a ceremony and/or photography taken there.
- There are very few publicly accessible beaches in Big Sur. This is because the coastline is extremely steep, so the shore is not easily accessed. However, there are incredible, sweeping views of the coast from trails and vista points within the parks as well as from turnoffs on Highway 1. I'll include some state park options that offer the possibility for an elopement ceremony below!
STEP 3: Select Your Big Sur Elopement Location
Hotels That Offer Big Sur Elopement Ceremony Packages
Glen Oaks Big Sur Elopement
★ For Elopements, Intimate Weddings, and Large Weddings | Max Capacity: 100
Glen Oaks is my personal favorite as far as Big Sur wedding venues go. This is because of its beauty and versatility. The great thing about this venue is that you can plan a 100 guest wedding here or simply stay the night with your partner and elope. It offers a ceremony site for big weddings and a ceremony site for intimate weddings or elopements. In my opinion, it's the best private redwood grove in all of Big Sur. The backdrop includes the magical Redwoods and Pfeiffer Beach is located nearby, a perfect place to stop for some more breathtaking Big Sur wedding photos.
This venue also has wonderfully cozy cabins on site, making everything very convenient. These cabins woodsy, but also, modern, hip, and comfortable.
They allow registered guests to hold a small elopement ceremony for free as long as it is 4 people or less.
Ventana Big Sur Elopement
★ For elopements or large weddings | Max Capacity: 1000
When it comes to luxurious Big Sur wedding venues, the Ventana definitely excels as it offers both high end hotel rooms and hip, glamping sites. This venue is perfect for larger scale weddings as it can hold up to 1000 guests. The backdrop is the ocean/coast and Pfeiffer beach, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Partington Cover are all nearby for other photo locations. This is a pricier venues, but well it for the spectacular views.
Loma Vista Gardens
★ For elopements, intimate weddings, or large weddings | Max Capacity: 300
This venue is a little different than the rest in that it showcases the forest, rather than ocean. It sits on the edge of redwoods, which is actually a plus to a lot of Big Sur wedding photographers because it gets better access to sunlight, making for brighter for more ethereal photos.
Pheiffer Beach is nearby and overall, I'd say this venue has a lovely rustic and intimate quality that a lot of people adore.
Big Sur Grange Elopement
★ For elopements or intimate weddings | Max Capacity: 85
Big Sur Grange is surrounded with large redwood trees. There are plenty of areas around this location that are perfect for ceremonies, receptions, and pictures
Wind and Sea Elopement
★ For elopements or intimate weddings | Max Capacity: 70
This Big Sur wedding venue is great for intimate weddings as it has a maximum of 70 guests. It has gorgeous views of the coast; Partington Cove and Julia Pfeiffer Beach are nearby!
Point 16
★ For elopements, intimate weddings, or large weddings | Max Capacity: 160
Point 16 is secluded and offers breathtaking views of the mountainsides and dramatic cliffs.
Henry Miller Memorial Library Big Sur Elopement
★ For elopements, intimate weddings, or large weddings | Max Guest Count: 200
This is a unique Big Sur wedding venue with a bookshop and art exhibit. There is a canyon filled with redwoods right behind it. This venue has a laidback vibe, great for couples looking for a some private space to say "I do" while avoiding all the expenses that come with larger scaled venues.
Post House Inn - Big Sur Elopement
★ For elopements or intimate weddings | Max Guest Count: 40
As far as wedding venues in Big Sur, Post House Inn is great for intimate weddings of up to 40 people. It sits on the coat and offers amazing panoramic views.
Big Sur Lodge
★ For elopements, intimate weddings, or large weddings | Max Guest Count: 120
Your ceremony at the Big Sur Lodge will be surrounded by majestic redwoods and the peaceful Big Sur River and your reception can be held in their indoor space with catering offered by their staff. Big Sur Lodge also offers accommodations with family style rooms, including kitchenettes and fireplaces.
Public Land & State Parks For Your Big Sur Elopement
Ancient Redwoods
★ For elopements or intimate weddings | Max Guest Count: 10
The ancient redwoods near the Big Sur offers acres upon acres of redwood trees, making this area the perfect place for an intimate wedding or elopement. Enjoy an intimate ceremony underneath the redwood trees with a farm to table dinner late on in the evening.
Is a permit needed?
Yes. A permit can be obtained here. The permit is $425 for up 10 people (including vendors + children)
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
★ For elopements | Max Guest Count: 10
Point Lobos State natural reserve has incredible coastal views, hiking, bright blue waters, and more!
Is a Permit Needed?
Yes. A permit can be reserved here.
Garrapata State Park
★ For elopements | Max Guest Count: 25
Garrapata State Park is known for its wildflowers and breathtaking cliffside views. Keep in mind there will be a bit of hiking involved. This is a great location to find a secluded area for a private elopement. How can one access it? There are several access points all on Highway 1. The state park is located 15 minutes away from Carmel and Monterey, both of which offer plenty of restaurant and hotel accommodations!
Is a Permit Needed?
Yes. A permit can be reserved here. To elope at Garrapata State Park a permit of $400 is needed. This is applicable towards an elopement up to 25 people. There is a possibility of a $75 rush fee for permit requests made 60 days or less from the event date.
Recommended Elopement Spot Here: Soberanes Point Trail
Best Hikes:
- Garrapata Bluff Trail (easy)
- South Plateau-Mound Meadow Loop Trail (easy)
- Doud Peak via Soberanes Canyon Trail (hard)
Andrew Molera State Park
★ For elopements | Max Guest Count: 10 | Receptions are Not Permitted
Andrew Molera State Park has gorgeous hillsides that provide stunning views of the Big Sur coast. It has one of the most accessible trails to a less crowded beach! Please keep in mind that this state park is pretty under-developed, making it a good choice for the more adventurous type! It’s perfect for couples who want a little more peace and quiet on their elopement day. Pets are not permitted at this state park.
Is a permit needed?
Yes. A permit can be reserved here. A permit of $300 is needed. This is applicable towards an elopement up to 10 people.
Best Hikes:
- Creamery Meadows Trail (easy)
- Bluffs and Panorama Trail via Creamery Meadow (moderate)
- East Molera Trail to Post Summit (hard)
Pfeiffer Beach
★ For elopements | Max Guest Count: 25
This beach is known for it's unique rock formations. One thing to keep in mind is that the parking area tends to be full and they don't allow entry until there are available parking spaces. It can also be very windy at this beach.
Is a permit needed?
A permit is not needed to have a ceremony here, however elopements and weddings are not permitted from March 15th until October 15th.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
★ For elopements | Max Guest Count: 10
Receptions are permitted at the Group Picnic Areas at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and require
a separate standard Special Event Permit
Pfeiffer Big Sur State park is known for being a "mini Yosemite" as it's recognized for its redwood trails. This park is very developed with campgrounds and lodging.
Is a permit needed?
Yes. A permit can be obtained here. The permit is $300 for up 10 people (including vendors + children).
- Pets are permitted only in the campground, parking lots, and park roads and must be on a leash at all times.
- Pets are not permitted on any trails in the park.
Best Hikes:
- Pfeiffer Falls Trail (easy)
- Buzzards Roost Trail (moderate)
- Valley View Overlook (moderate)
- Manuel Peak Trail (hard)
Limekiln Stae Park
★ For elopements | Max Guest Count: 25
Is a permit needed?
There is no permit necessary for Limekiln State Park
Best Hikes:
- Hare Creek and Limekiln Trails (easy)
- Limekiln Creek Falls Trail (moderate)
- Twin Peak (hard)
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
★ For elopements | Max Guest Count: 10 | Receptions are not Permitted
Is a permit needed?
Yes. A permit can be obtained here. The permit is $300 for up 10 people (including vendors + children)
Best Hikes:
- Overlook Trail to McWay Falls (easy)
- Ewoldsen Trail (moderate)
- Tanbark Trail and Tin House (hard)
More Honorable Mentions for State Parks / Public Lands
- Los Padres National Forest
- Keyhole Arch
- Keyhole Arch is managed by Los Padres National Forest. So you’ll need to follow the rules & regulations outlined on the national forest’s website when it comes to permits and special events.
- You only need a permit to get married in this national forest unless you have a group of 75 or more people, so you won’t need to worry about applying for any sort of special use permit!
- Bixby Bridge
Big Sur Elopement Airbnb Options
It's important to note that while it's very possible to have an intimate ceremony and reception at a Big Sur Airbnb, all of this needs to be disclosed with the owners. First, please make sure they allow this on their property. This will allow you to avoid any potential fees or fines.
- Home in Carmel by the Sea
- Carmel Oceanview Charmer
- Big Sur Cabin in the Redwoods
- Quaint Countryside Cottage
- Home in Carmel by the Sea
- Big Sur Dream Home
- 5 Acre Home
STEP 4: Research Your Location Permit Requirements
If you're having your elopement ceremony at a Big Sure hotel/wedding venues, permits won't be required. However, if you're having your ceremony on public land or at a state park, a permit is required in most cases.
IMPORTANT:
Although each location has different permit requirements, here's the general key point to keep in mind: If your Big Sur elopement ceremony is UNDER 10 people, you will be eligible for an elopement permit. If your ceremony is OVER 10 people, you will required to apply for a standard special event permit.
Permits need to be obtained in advance to avoid getting a fine.
How to Secure Permits for Your Big Sur Elopement
Here are the links where you can secure permits for their corresponding state parks:
The following State Parks require permits:
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park - Permit Cost: $300 | Apply for Your Permit Here
- Andrew Molera State Park - Permit Cost: $300 | Apply for Your Permit Here
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - Permit Cost: $300 | Apply for Your Permit Here
- Garrapata State Park - Permit Cost: $400 | Apply for Your Permit Here
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve - Permit Cost $300 | Apply for Your Permit Here
Limekiln State Park and Pfeiffer Beach DO NOT require permits
How to Know Whether to Apply for an Elopement Permit Vs Special Event Permit at Big Sur State Parks
Be sure to check out this site for the most updated Big Sur State Park permit info. However, here are some things to consider when deciding if your ceremony qualifies for an elopement permit at a Big Sur state park.
If you have answer “YES” to any of the questions below, your event will NOT qualify for an
Elopement Permit. Your event will be required to use a set event location with a standard
Special Event Permit.
To determine if your event will qualify as an Elopement Wedding, please answer the following:
Will your event have more than ten (10) people? This number must include the
wedding party, officiant, all guests including children, any vendors such as a
photographer, and any persons that will be at the event.
Will your elopement hinder or block any park visitor’s access to a site or trail at
any point during the event?
Will the Elopement Wedding be at or adjacent to a set Special Event site? The
following sites are set event locations:
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: The Waterfall Overlook & Trail and the Redwood
Picnic Area & the first ½ mile of the Ewoldsen Trail from the parking lot. - Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: The Group Picnic Areas, the Softball Field, the
Campfire Center, Group Camp, or any adjacent trails, paths, and/or fire road.
Will the Elopement Wedding be at or adjacent to a set Special Event site? The
following sites are set event locations:
Will the event have any music (acoustic or amplified) or any amplified sound?
Will there be any decorations larger than a bouquet or decorations that are not
handheld?
Will your event occur during non-day-use hours? Day-use hours are sunrise –
sunset. The event time must include the hike in and out.
Will there be a reception or food/drink served at the site/event?
Special Events Permit Coordinator Contact Info
If you have additional questions, you’ll have to contact the Special Events Coordinator by phone at 831-624-3407.
Before contacting them, make sure you already know:
- your ceremony location
- how many people will be there (including your vendors as well)
- what time of the day your ceremony will be
Knowing this will give the Coordinator a better idea of how much your application will cost and if it will get approved or not.
A good rule of thumb is to keep everything simple when getting married outdoors.
To get your permit approved, you will most likely have to keep the maximum amount of participants under 10 people, and you won’t be able to bring chairs or any decoration besides a handheld bouquet.
STEP 5: Obtain Your Marriage License
Below are the steps on how to do this:
1. Contact your County’s Clerk Office to get your marriage license
Every County is different. Some require appointments and some don’t. In some counties, the marriage license costs $55, and in some cost $100. Once you’ve picked your elopement location and date, you can start doing your research to find what are the requirements for the Clerk’s Office you’ll use.
For a Big Sur elopement specifically:
A marriage license can be obtained from the Monterey County Clerk’s office. Applications can be submitted in advance online, but keep in mind that both parties must go into the clerk’s office within two weeks of submitting or your request will be cancelled. Both parties must present proof of age and identification such as a driver’s license or passport and pay the $90 application fee. Once you have been issued a marriage license, it is valid immediately and there is no waiting period, however, the ceremony must take place within 90 days or else you will need to re-pay the application fee obtain a new license.
2. Bring the documents needed
- Both of you must be present when picking up your marriage license!
- Government-issued ID for both of you
- Cash for the application fee (which will vary county by county)
- You’ll need to know the full name, birthplace, and birth date of you, your partner, and your parents!
- If you’ve been married before, you’ll need to show proof of divorce
Important things to know:
- Same-sex marriages are allowed in California!
- In California, you must request to have a copy of your marriage license sent to you, it is not automatically sent. The fee for that may also vary.
- If you wish to do so, you may apply for a confidential marriage license.
- Your marriage license is valid for 90 days. If you don’t get married within 90 days, you’ll have to apply for a new one.
3. Secure an Officiant
This can be a close friend or family member who is over 18 years old and has been ordained online, a professional officiant, a minister, priest, or rabbi!
Once you’re married, you’ll need your witnesses signatures, and your officiant will be responsible for taking the license back to the Clerk within 10 days.
STEP 6: Choose Your Elopement Date
Fall
September - October (Fall Time): 60 - 70 degrees / 10% change of rainy days
The best time to elope in Big Sur is definitely the Fall, specifically September - October.
The pros of eloping in the Fall include the following:
- The fog disperses, so it's lifted
- The beaches are less crowded
- Venues are less expensive
- The weather is still nice
Winter
November - February: (Winter Time): 50 - 70 degrees / 30% change of rainy days
The one major pro of eloping in December is that you'll avoid the crowds. However, Big Sur tends to experience the most rain during this time, so I highly recommend having a backup plan for rain and wind.
Spring
March - May (Spring Time): 60-70 degrees / 15% chance of rainy days
Big Sur is so lovely during the spring time. This when the waterfalls are at their peak, the wildflowers are out, and the temperature beings to get warmer. Please keep in mind it still tends to rain around this time, so a backup plan is also recommended for a Spring Big Sur wedding.
Summer
June - August (Summer Time): 70 - 95 degrees / 5% change of rainy days
Summer is the most popular season in Big Sur, meaning you'll have crowds. There is also a ton of fog during the mornings that doesn’t go away until midday, so if you’re not a fan of fog, I recommend choosing a different season to have your wedding. However, if you love foggy images with a soft, dreamy, muted look summer may be the best season for you.
When is the Best Day of the Week to Elope in Big Sur?
I advise couples to elope on a weekday when possible. This helps avoid the crowds since tourists are likely to visit these popular locations during the weekends. You'll be less likely to run into crowds, struggle with parking, or have people in the background of your photos! This will also provide you both with more intimacy and privacy for your ceremony and photos.
What Time Day is The Best for a Big Sur Elopement Photos?
Sunrise vs Sunset
If you're taking your elopement photos in the redwoods, aim for 2-2.5 hours before the sun sets. I recommend this because trees provide an abundance of shade in a forest, causing it to get darker earlier than in open areas.
If you're taking your elopement photos near the sea, about 1.5 hours before the sun sets. This will help to avoid sun shadows and the light will also be glowy and beautiful! An additional perk is that most of the fog often present around the Big Sur area lifts later on in the day!
STEP 7: Book Your Vendors
After selecting your wedding venue and date, it's time to start selecting your vendors. Vendors typically include:
- A Photographer
- Wedding Day Coordinator
- Florist
- Hair & Makeup Artist
- Officiant
- Caterer (if the venue doesn't provide this)
- Live Music or DJ
I always recommend reaching out to vendors as early as possible, as they tend to book up to a year in advance.
If you're looking for a Big Sur Elopement Photographer, feel free to reach me HERE!
The Cost of Eloping in Big Sur
The average Big Sur elopement costs between $2,000 - 15,000. The final cost depends on the following factors:
- Your Guest Count - A larger guest count will always increase costs since it leads to higher meal costs, etc.
- Accommodations - Are you planning on staying at an upscale hotel? A trendy Airbnb? Or a campground?
- Accommodations for Guests - Are you planning on paying for your guest's accommodations?
- Meal Costs - Will you be providing food and beverage for your guest count?
- Marriage License
- State Park Permits - If you're eloping on a public land or at a Big Sur State Park, a permit for a ceremony there typically ranges between $300 - $700.
- Photography
- Videography
- Wedding Attire
- Hair and Makeup
- Florals - Such as a bouquet, boutonniere, table centerpieces or ceremony floral arch.
STEP 8: Select Your Accommodations for Your Big Sur Elopement
Keep in mind that if you're having your Big Sur elopement at a hotel, that will most likely double up for your lodging since most hotels provide elopement packages that include a ceremony, dinner, and lodging. However, if you decide to have your Big Sur ceremony on public land or at a state park, here are some great options for accommodations!
Hotels in the Big Sur
- Post Ranch Inn
- Hyatt Carmel Highlands
- Glen Oaks Big Sur
- Big Sur River Inn
- Carmel Fireplace Inn
- Big Sur Lodge
- Ventana Big Sur
- Ripplewood Resort
- Treebones Resort
Big Sur Airbnbs
- Carmel Oceanview Charmer
- Big Sur Cabin in the Redwoods
- Quaint Countryside Cottage
- Home in Carmel by the Sea
- Big Sur Dream Home
- 5 Acre Home
Big Sur Camping Sites
- Ventana Campground
- Andrew Molera State Park
- Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground
- Fernwood Campground and Resort
- Kirk Creek Campground
- The Village RV
Intimate Dinner Recommendations for Your Big Sur Elopement
If you're eloping on public land or at a Big Sur State Park, some restaurants I recommend around these areas that offer a cozy, intimate space after your ceremony are:
- Tagmino
- Dametra Cafe
- La Bicyclette
- Cultura
- Tree House Cafe
- Deetjens
- Lucia Lodge
- Big Sur Roadhouse
- Post Ranch Inn
Big Sur Elopement Timeline Samples
Elopement Timeline (No Guests)
6 HOURS
12:00 - 2:00 Getting Ready (Together, Separately, Whatever You'd Like!)
2:00 - 2:15 Head to First Look Location
2:15 - 2:45 First Look + Some Portraits
2:45 - 3:00 Head to Ceremony Location
3:00 - 3:30 Ceremony
3:30 - 4:00 Travel to Coast
4:00 - 5:00 Lunch on the Beach or at a Restaurant
5:00 - 6:00 Sunset Photos
Elopement Timeline (With Guests)
8 HOURS
12:00 - 1:30 Getting Ready (Together, Separately, Whatever You'd Like!)
1:30 - 2:30 First Look + Portraits in the Redwoods
2:30 - 3:00 Relax Before Ceremony
3:00 - 3:30 Ceremony
3:30 - 4:15 Family/Group Photos
4:15 - 4:45 Travel to Coast
4:45 - 6:30 Sunset photos
6:30 - 7:00 Travel to Reception
7:00 - 8:00 Toasts + Dances + Guest Candids
Important Info to Know About Your Big Sur Elopement
1. There's Little to No Cell Phone Service
Cell phone service and wifi is tricky in the Big Sur. For this reason, it's important to get everyone the information they need in advance. Great communication is key here! Download Google Maps Offline & favorite your meeting location ahead of time. If possible, I recommend driving WITH your photographer in the same car; this dramatically simplifies things.
2. There's A lot of Hiking
Wear comfortable shoes. Many of the trails for the best photo locations are somewhat steep. It's no fun being in pain on your elopement or wedding day.
3. It Gets Crowded!
Big Sur attracts a ton of visitors, particularly during the summertime. Consequently, this causes a lot of traffic since many of the roads only have 1-2 lanes. Make sure to allot additional time between locations for travel!
4. It Can Get Very Windy
The Big Sur is notorious for its fog, chilliness, and wind. If wind is something you don't prefer, I recommend the following:
- Stick to photos in the redwoods over photos at the beach as it is always much windier at the beach
- Elope during Summer time when it isn't as windy. Just keep in mind there tends to be a lot of fog until around midday during Summer. This is almost the most crowded season.
- Pack layers for warmth!
5. Plan to Bring Extra Cash
Big Sur is a touristic destination, so everything costs more than usual. Keep this in mind when planning for activities, meals, etc.
6. Don't Forget to Secure Permits!
Many beaches require permits to photograph at. Please make sure to research location permits in advance so that you're not fined at any of the locations. This prevents a lot of potential stress!
Big Sur Wedding Activities for Your Guests!
- Enjoy beautiful, scenic views of Big Sur going on a hike with your guests. Some great hiking options include:
- 1. McWay Falls - This is one of the shortest and most popular hikes in the area. It’s only about .5 miles to the vista point, which showcases an incredibly bright blue waterfall nestled in a little cove.
- Soberanes Canyon Trailhead - This is a 6 mile loop that offers a lot of variety - a bit of everything that Big Sur has to offer.
- Beach, Bluffs, Panorama, Ridge, and Creamery Meadow Loop - Enjoy this 8.0-mile loop trail that takes an average of 3 h 48 min to complete. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.
- Jade Cove - Enjoy a hike to this beautiful cove!
- Rent a boat and enjoy beautiful sea views with your friends and family at Sail Monterey.
- Explore the charming coastal town of Carmel by the Sea.
- Enjoy a scenic drive with the 17 Mile Drive Route. This is a privately owned road with plenty of spaces to stop. It's scenic and can be done at a slow, relaxing pace to take in all of the sights!
- Take in the sights of a spectacular castle by visiting Hearst Castle.
- Enjoy a fine-dining experience at the Sierra Mar for dinner.
- Visit a small, but quirky bookstore nestled in the forest by stopping at the Henry Miller Memorial Library. It has a great atmosphere to sit and read or just for a quick stop.
- Tour the amazing Monterey Aquarium.
- Learn about some history at Point Sur Lighthouse.
- Relax by soaking in some hot springs.
- Enjoy a picnic on the cliffsides of Big Sur.
- Grab a bite to eat at Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey.
Still Unsure About Eloping?
Who is a Big Sur Elopement Ideal For?
- Those who want a stress free ceremony
- Those who want to save money
- Those who want to spend more time with loved ones
- Those who don't want a strict wedding day timeline
- Those who want to get married anywhere
- Those who are relaxed and perhaps introverted. They don't enjoy being in the spotlight or a lot of small talk.
Who is a Big Sur Elopement NOT For?
- Those who want larger guest counts
- Those who want more of a party atmosphere with dancing and traditions such as "speeches," "first dance," "parent dances," etc.
- Those who are extroverted and love going to social events. They envision a high energy atmosphere for their wedding day.
Big Sur Elopement Elopement Packages
Are you in need of a Big Sur elopement photographer? Feel free to get in touch about photography for your Big Sur Elopement! I offer the following Big Sur Elopement packages!
- 4 Hours of Coverage to Full Day Coverage by Elyana in the Big Sur
- Photo Editing Time
- All of the Edited, High Resolution Image on an Online Gallery
- Image Download, Print, and Share Rights
Get in Touch!
I’m Elyana, a Los Angeles wedding photographer whose intention is to capture relationships in a manner that is artistic and heartfelt.
My goal on your wedding day is to make sure you feel beautiful, celebrated, and seen.
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