Let’s be real: California is stacked with epic elopement locations. Misty redwood groves, ocean cliffs, desert monoliths, alpine lakes… so it’s no wonder that so many couples tell me, “We know how we want it to feel—but how do we actually choose where?”

Maybe you know you’re craving the hush of the forest, the drama of the coast, or the laid-back charm of a Northern California vineyard elopement—but translating a general setting into a specific trail, overlook, or region? That’s where it gets trickier.

Or maybe you don’t have any idea at all for your elopement location, and everything sounds amazing (the paradox of choice is a real thing). You want your elopement to feel like yours, and picking the right spot is kind of like setting the emotional tone for the whole day. So how do you make the call?

That’s where I come in: I’m an elopement photographer and planning partner based in Northern California who’s helped dozens of couples navigate exactly this choice. Together, I help them design custom, emotionally-aligned wedding experiences in natural settings.

Here’s how I help my couples find the locations that don’t just look good, but feel like them.

How to Choose Your California Elopement Location (Without the Overwhelm)

This part’s less about logistics and more about emotion. You’re not looking for the “best” elopement spot in California. You’re looking for one that:

• Matches how you want to feel on your wedding day—calm, wild, nostalgic, maybe even playful?
• Respects your pace, your privacy, your energy.
• Supports the kind of memories you’ll want to return to.

It’s not just about the view. It’s about what the view means to you. To start, ask yourself these four grounding questions:

1. What kind of energy feels right?

Do you feel most alive in places that are:

• Quiet and sacred (like a redwood grove)?
• Expansive and raw (like the open coast)?
• Bold and cinematic (like desert rock formations)?
• Whimsical and textural (like a tucked-away vineyard or quirky town)?

Trust your gut. Where do you actually feel at ease?

2. What kind of access do you want (or need)?

Are you up for a short hike in wedding attire, or do you want a drive-up overlook with minimal logistics? Accessibility, comfort, and energy levels all matter. There’s no right answer—just what feels sustainable and celebratory for you.

3. Are you bringing guests?

Even a few guests can shape what’s logistically possible (and what permits are required). If it’s just the two of you, we have more room to roam. If your inner circle is tagging along, we’ll prioritize ease and comfort without sacrificing beauty.

4. What do you want your photos to bring you back to?

This is my favorite one. Picture looking at your photos ten years from now. What feeling should they bring back?

California Elopement Vibes & Who They’re Perfect For

Let’s map a few real options to emotional “types”—not just aesthetics.

Redwoods (Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Humboldt— iconic redwood elopement destinations)

• Energy: Sacred, still, grounding
• Perfect for: Couples who want a sense of reverence. You’re looking for something deep, quiet, and real.

Coastal Cliffs (Big Sur, San Luis Obispo, Mendocino)

• Energy: Expansive, dramatic, awe-inspiring
• Perfect for: Ocean-obsessed romantics who feel most themselves with salty air in their hair and at the edge of the coast.

Desert & High Sierra (Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Mammoth)

• Energy: Bold, elemental, backcountry adventure
• Perfect for: Couples who want the satisfaction of ‘we did that.’ Whether it’s climbing boulders or just being surrounded by open space and golden light—this is the place for minimalism with edge.

Hidden Gems (Napa foothills, Lassen Volcanic, Eastern Sierra towns)

• Energy: Understated, textured, quietly offbeat
• Perfect for: Couples who like a little quirk with their elegance. Maybe you’re not into crowds, but you want something with soul. These locations feel like well-kept secrets—and make for stories you’ll keep telling.

But What If We Can’t Agree?

Totally normal. You’re two humans with two sets of nature-crushes and logistical preferences.

This is where a planning consult really helps. I’ll guide you through a few reflective prompts (and gently mediate when needed). Often, there’s a natural middle ground that checks both of your boxes.

Sometimes it’s a region that offers both forest and coast. Sometimes it’s about prioritizing how you want to feel, then reverse-engineering the setting. Sometimes it’s simply saying out loud, “I think I want this,” and your partner agreeing, “Ok, let’s do it.”

How I Help My Clients Choose Their Elopement Location

Here’s what usually happens:

You tell me:

“We’re thinking redwoods, or maybe the coast. Definitely outdoors. We want something intimate, maybe with some hiking—but not, like, a trek.” (I’m summarizing; this is the CliffsNotes of what a couple might submit in my detailed elopement vision questionnaire)

I ask questions that get into the feel of what you want. Not just the look. Then, I send you 5-8 tailored location ideas—some popular, some offbeat—with:

• Photos, weather notes, access info
• Permit requirements
• Local logistics (lodging, light, seasonality)

Sometimes, couples choose one right away. Sometimes, we keep refining. Either way, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got a 21st-century Nancy Drew on your team digging up the right elopement location with strategy and care.

Quick Elopement Location FAQs

Q: Can we elope somewhere we’ve never been?

Yes! Many couples do. I’ll give you everything you need to feel confident—even if you’re setting foot there for the first time on your wedding day.

Q: How far in advance do we need to choose?

Ideally, 3-6 months before your date. But I’ve also helped people decide in a few weeks. The earlier we lock it in, the more options we have.

Q: What logistics should we know upfront?

The big three are permits (some locations require them, some don’t), seasonality (coastal fog, mountain snow, wildflower timing, etc.), and guest accessibility. I handle the research on all of this, but it’s helpful to talk about it during our consultation so we’re choosing locations that actually work for your situation and preferences.

Q: Can we do multiple locations in one day?

Usually, yes—with intention. If it adds to the experience (not the stress), we’ll build it in. Just be warned: I’m protective of your energy and overall experience, so I might recommend adding an extra day or two depending on where those additional locations are.

Q: Can you help us decide between eloping and doing a small wedding?

Absolutely. Many couples start with one idea and shift once we talk it through. I can help you explore what fits your values, vision, and guest dynamics—no pressure either way.

Q: What if we want to include a meaningful activity in our day (like kayaking, stargazing, or a picnic)?

Hell yeah! I regularly help couples incorporate custom experiences into their timeline. We’ll talk about what feels most like you—and I’ll help you find a location that supports it logistically and emotionally.

Let’s Find Your Perfect California Elopement Location

If you’re nodding along thinking, Yes, this is the part that’s been stalling me—you’re not behind. You’re just ready for a guide.

During my free planning consults, we’ll talk about:

• What you want your elopement experience to feel like
• What kinds of settings match your values & vibe
• What makes sense logistically for you (and any potential guests)

By the end, you’ll have specific location and activity recommendations tailored to you—not generic Pinterest inspiration. Just real, grounded options that respect your vision and give you a place to start.

If you’re ready to feel grounded and move forward with confidence, I’d love to meet you.
Get started here and let’s get you unstuck.