Best Adventure Elopement Locations in California
Where to Elope in California | Adventure Elopement Inspo
California Adventure Elopement Photographer | Summit and Sur Photography
Planning an adventure elopement in California and wondering which location will be best for your big day? You’ve come to the right spot! As a California elopement photographer, I have been able to capture couple’s elopements all over the state and this list represents my absolute favorites for those looking to incorporate a little adventure on their wedding day. So whether you are looking for a desert landscape, a whimsical forest, or gorgeous mountains, keep reading for some of the best elopement spots in California…
Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Let’s begin with one of the lesser known yet incredible elopement locations on this list: Anza Borrego. This state park, located in Southern California, offers some of the most dramatic and diverse desert landscape in the state. From slot canyons to cliffside views, if you are wanting to elope in the desert, don’t look past this amazing location.
Big Bear Lake
It’s no secret that Big Bear, CA is one of the most visited places amongst Californians looking to get in a summer hike to escape the heat or shred some powder on the slopes during the winter. But did you know that Big Bear makes for the perfect place for an adventure elopement too? Between the lake, the mountains, and the forest, this spot is just a quick drive for SoCal locals to get away and say “I do” in the quiet of nature.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is one of the quintessential elopement spots in Southern California…and for good reason! Not only is the landscape diverse and mesmerizing but it’s close enough to some of Southern California’s major cities that finding vendors usually isn’t difficult at all; it’s also a nice “staycation” for many couples looking to elope in the desert while still feeling like they are getting away .
Bonus: Joshua Tree has some of the prettiest and plentiful vacation rentals I have ever seen in an elopement destination!
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
If you want to get married amongst the giants, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is the place to go! It’s an underrated location, in my opinion, with mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and towering trees galore. There are also spots in the park designated for ceremonies that can accommodate a larger group of people which is great if you are including guests in your adventure elopement!
Mammoth Lakes
Speaking of underrated elopement locations, this might be the top one right here! Mammoth Lakes (and the entire Eastern Sierra range, if we are being honest) has some of the most breathtaking views in all of California and honestly, the world. This is the perfect spot for a couple looking to really elevate their adventure elopement experience. Does backpacking to the summit of a mountain and being greeted by a glacial lake sound like an awesome plan? Then this is the spot for your elopement!
Yosemite National Park
There can’t be a “best of elopement locations” list without including Yosemite (honestly, it would just be wrong). Whether you want to say your vows at Glacier Point, down in the valley or away from the crowds in the northern part of the park, there is literally no where you could get married in Yosemite that would be bad. It is literally a gorgeous dreamscape from the southern part of the park (including its own amazing Sequoia groves) to the trails around Tioga Pass. Having an adventure elopement in Yosemite National Park is always a good idea!
Big Sur
As a destination close to the bay area, Big Sur welcomes couples from all over the world every year for their elopements. As if it’s incredible coastline wasn’t enough, there are some serious old-growth redwood groves in the area that make for another epic spot for your adventure elopement!
Muir Woods
If you are looking for an adventure elopement location that is gorgeous yet still close the comforts of a big city, look no further than Muir Woods! With its proximity to San Francisco, this makes for the perfect elopement spot for couples who want the beautiful scenery but also want to eat at a Michelin Star restaurant for dinner to celebrate. Plus, there’s loads of great spots around the city to incorporate for some variety too!
Point Reyes National Seashore
Just an hour and a half drive from the bay area, Point Reyes National Seashore has been on my list for incredible elopement locations for a very long time now. This quiet, remote section of coastline makes for the perfect place to run away with your significant other and say your vows amongst the towering cliffs and cypress trees. If you are looking for a secluded place to elope while still close to the city, this is the place!
Lake Tahoe
No matter the time of year, Lake Tahoe delivers in every way, shape, and form for elopements. Whether you are looking to have some fun on the crystal blue lake in the summer or get your heart racing on the slopes in the winter, Lake Tahoe is an excellent elopement destination in California. There are tons of vendors and vacation rentals in the area and its proximity to the Reno airport make it a great choice for adventurers of all kinds!
Redwood National Park
Last but most certainly not least, if you are looking to elope amongst the best redwoods in California, head up to Redwood National and State Parks. Close to the border of Oregon, this collection of parks makes up some of the oldest and tallest redwood trees in the state, making for the perfect backdrop for your whimsical adventure elopement! While finding vendors up here can sometimes be a little bit tricky, the trade-off is an incredibly quiet elopement experience, especially in the spring and fall. It’s no wonder so many of my couples elope here…it’s nearly perfect!
So, there you have it, my favorite elopement locations in California! Did any of these spark some ideas for your elopement? If so, reach out today to book your adventure elopement photographer and to get started on planning the best day of your life!