With its diverse landscapes and idyllic settings, its rugged coastline and majestic mountains, its cultured cities and its weekend wineries, California offers endless possibilities for a picture perfect elopement.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to elope in California and why they make for the perfect backdrop for your special day.
We will take you through many options, from nature-based elopement locations, to city venues, to beachfront spots and everything in between!
While you’re here, be sure to see our ultimate guide on eloping in California, which tells you everything you need to know about eloping in CA, from the legal requirements, to the costs involved, to tips on keeping the budget down.
Whether you’re envisioning a seaside ceremony, a mountaintop exchange of vows, or a city ceremony, California has something to offer every couple.
So let’s get looking!
The best places to elope in California
California really does offer something for everyone.
Here, we break down the top places to elope in California by destination-type, from nature, to city, to beaches, and more.
If you would like us to cover any other types of California elopement locations, let us know in the comments below!
The best nature-based places to elope in California
Let’s take a look at some of the best nature-based locations to elope in CA.
Big Sur
Big Sur is a stunning location on the central coast of California.
No guide to the best places to elope in California would be complete without this awesome location.
It is known for its rugged coastline, towering redwoods, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Big Sur is an ideal location for couples who want to exchange vows in a natural and secluded setting.
With its stunning natural beauty, Big Sur offers a picturesque backdrop for your elopement.
From rocky cliffs to verdant forests, there are endless opportunities to capture beautiful photos that will last a lifetime.
Check out our in-depth guide on eloping in Big Sur, here!
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic locations in California.
With its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees, it’s no wonder that Yosemite is a popular choice for couples looking to elope.
The park offers a range of stunning locations to exchange vows, from the granite cliffs of El Capitan to the serene meadows of Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite is an unforgettable location that is perfect for couples who love nature and want a dramatic backdrop for their ceremony.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is a unique and otherworldly desert landscape in Southern California.
The park is famous for its twisted Joshua trees, massive boulders, and stunning sunsets.
Joshua Tree is a great choice for couples who want a more unconventional and adventurous elopement experience.
The park has plenty of opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the stunning desert landscape.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking alpine lake located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
With its crystal-clear waters, snow-capped peaks, and dense forests, Lake Tahoe is an ideal location for couples who love the great outdoors.
The lake provides a variety of picturesque locations to exchange vows, from the lakeside beaches to the scenic mountaintop vistas.
Lake Tahoe is a top location for couples who want a rustic and romantic elopement experience.
Be sure to see our in-depth guide on eloping in Lake Tahoe, here!
Mendocino Coast
The Mendocino Coast is a stunning coastal region located in Northern California.
With its rugged cliffs, stunning ocean views, and charming coastal towns, it’s no wonder that the Mendocino Coast is a popular location for elopements.
The area gives a grand selection of awesome locations to exchange vows, from secluded beaches to dramatic headlands.
The Mendocino Coast is a top choice for couples who want a romantic and intimate elopement experience with stunning coastal views.
Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes is a stunning coastal area located just north of San Francisco.
The park is known for its dramatic ocean views, rugged cliffs, and wildlife such as tule elk and harbor seals.
Point Reyes has a range of stunning locations to exchange vows, from the scenic lighthouse to the sandy beaches.
The park is an ideal location for couples who want a secluded and romantic elopement experience with stunning coastal scenery.
Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks are located on the north coast of California and are home to some of the tallest trees in the world.
The park offers a range of beautiful locations to exchange vows, from the towering redwood forests to the rugged coastline.
The Redwood parks are a wonderful choice for couples who want an elopement experience surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Anza-Borrego is the largest state park in California and is located in the Colorado Desert.
The park is known for its beautiful wildflower blooms, unique geological formations, and dark night skies.
Anza-Borrego offers a range of stunning locations to exchange vows, from the rugged badlands to the blooming desert wildflowers.
The park is an incredible choice for couples who want an adventurous and unconventional elopement experience in the midst of a unique desert landscape.
Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta is a stunning volcanic peak located in Northern California.
The mountain is known for its stunning views, hiking trails, and spiritual significance.
Mount Shasta provides a complete set of stunning locations to exchange vows, from the serene mountain meadows to the dramatic summit views.
The mountain is an ideal location for couples who want a spiritual and serene elopement experience in the midst of a stunning alpine landscape.
Sonoma Coast State Park
Sonoma Coast State Park is a stunning coastal park located in Sonoma County.
The park is known for its rugged cliffs, stunning ocean views, and diverse wildlife.
Sonoma Coast State Park offers many gorgeous locations to exchange vows, from the sandy beaches to the dramatic bluffs.
This park is a great choice for couples who want a romantic experience with stunning coastal views.
These locations all offer unique and unforgettable backdrops for your elopement.
Whether you’re looking for towering redwoods, blooming desert wildflowers, or stunning mountain vistas, California has something for everyone.
Each location is perfect for couples who want to exchange vows in a natural and intimate setting surrounded by the beauty of nature.
The top California beach elopement locations
No list of the best locations to elope in California would be complete without including beaches!
So let’s look at some of the top beach elopement locations in CA.
Carmel Beach
Located in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Beach boasts a stunning white sand beach and picturesque ocean views that make it a popular destination for weddings and elopements.
The town offers a range of accommodations and dining options for couples and their guests, making it an ideal location for a romantic beach wedding experience.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach, situated in Orange County, is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, rocky cliffs, and artistic community.
The area is home to some of California’s most beautiful beaches, such as Victoria Beach and Crescent Bay Beach, making it a perfect backdrop for a romantic elopement ceremony.
Laguna Beach is a fantastic choice for couples who want a beach wedding experience infused with artistic flair.
Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach, situated in the heart of Santa Monica, is a top destination for weddings and elopements.
Its iconic pier and stunning ocean views make it a popular choice for couples seeking a classic and timeless beach wedding experience.
The beach also offers a variety of accommodations and dining options for couples and their guests, making it a convenient location for a wedding celebration.
Big Sur
Nestled along the central coast of California, Big Sur is known for its rugged cliffs and stunning coastline.
The area is home to several breathtaking beaches, including Pfeiffer Beach and Garrapata Beach, which provide an ideal backdrop for an intimate and dramatic elopement ceremony.
Big Sur is a great choice for couples who want a secluded and awe-inspiring coastal wedding experience.
Don’t forget to check out our in-depth guide to eloping in Big Sur, including advice on permits, costs, and specific elopement locations.
Coronado Beach
Located in San Diego, Coronado Beach boasts a wide expanse of white sand and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Its proximity to the iconic Hotel Del Coronado offers couples and their guests a range of luxurious accommodations and dining options.
Coronado Beach is a perfect choice for couples seeking a beach wedding experience with a touch of elegance and luxury.
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay, situated along the coast of San Mateo County, offers a serene and charming small-town atmosphere, making it a popular destination for a beach elopement.
The area is home to several stunning beaches, including Half Moon Bay State Beach and Montara State Beach, which provide a romantic and intimate setting for exchanging vows.
Malibu Beach
Malibu Beach, located in Los Angeles County, is known for its stunning coastline and celebrity homes.
The area offers a range of beautiful beaches, including El Matador State Beach and Zuma Beach, making it a popular location for a beach wedding experience with a touch of glamour and luxury.
Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore, situated along the coast of Marin County, boasts a stunning natural setting with diverse wildlife and stunning coastal vistas.
The area is home to several beautiful beaches, including Limantour Beach and Point Reyes Beach, making it an ideal location for a beach elopement in a wild and natural setting.
Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach, located along the coast of San Luis Obispo County, offers a relaxed and laid-back beach wedding experience.
The area is home to several beautiful beaches, including Pismo State Beach and Shell Beach, which provide an ideal backdrop for an intimate and romantic elopement ceremony.
Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park, located in Orange County, boasts historic beach cottages and stunning beaches, making it an ideal location for a beach elopement infused with nostalgia and history.
The area offers several beautiful beaches, including Crystal Cove Beach and Reef Point, which provide a romantic and picturesque setting for exchanging vows.
These beach locations offer a range of different experiences, from relaxed and laid-back to glamorous and luxurious.
Each location provides a stunning backdrop for your elopement ceremony and offers a range of accommodations and dining options for couples and their guests.
Whether you’re looking for a small-town atmosphere, wild and natural scenery, or a touch of history and nostalgia, California’s beaches have something for everyone.
The best city locations to elope in California
If you are looking for a city-based elopement location, California has a lot to offer.
With their unique architecture and cultured surroundings, some of these city locations could easily make the very top of the list of best places to elope in California by themselves.
Here are the best city venues to elope in California:
San Francisco City Hall
San Francisco City Hall is a popular spot for couples looking for an elegant and historic venue for their elopement.
The stunning Beaux-Arts building features a grand staircase, ornate ceilings, and gorgeous natural light.
The location offers several different areas to host a ceremony, from the Rotunda to the Mayor’s Balcony, and even private rooms.
It’s also conveniently located in the heart of the city, offering easy access to accommodation and dining options.
Santa Barbara Courthouse
The Santa Barbara Courthouse is a Spanish Colonial Revival-style building with beautiful architecture and stunning views.
The courthouse has many possible elopement ceremony locations, including the Mural Room and the Sunken Gardens.
The location is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere for an elopement.
Santa Barbara is also a popular destination for wine tasting and exploring the local arts scene.
Los Angeles City Hall
Los Angeles City Hall is a popular choice for couples looking for a sophisticated and urban elopement experience.
The Art Deco building features a grand entrance, stunning views of the city, and several different ceremony locations, including the Observation Deck and the Board of Supervisors Room.
The location is also surrounded by a vibrant arts scene, world-class dining, and luxury accommodations.
The Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is a unique and stunning location for an elopement, with its Art Deco architecture, stunning views of the city, and romantic stargazing opportunities.
The venue has several spaces for a ceremony, including the Samuel Oschin Planetarium and the Gunther Depths of Space exhibit.
The location is also surrounded by the natural beauty of Griffith Park, making it a perfect spot for a nature-inspired city elopement.
The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco
For couples looking for luxury and sophistication, The Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco offers a range of elegant venues for an elopement.
The historic hotel features several different spaces, including the Terrace Courtyard, the Ballroom, and the Lobby Lounge.
The location also offers easy access to some of the city’s best dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
The Beverly Hills Hotel
The iconic Beverly Hills Hotel offers couples a chance to elope in a historic and glamorous location.
The hotel’s grounds feature lush gardens, stunning pools, and elegant architecture, providing several different areas to host a ceremony.
The location also offers easy access to some of Los Angeles’ best shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Balboa Park, San Diego
Balboa Park is a stunning location for a city elopement, with its lush gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene.
The park has many good possible elopement ceremony spots, including the Botanical Building, the Rose Garden, and the Japanese Friendship Garden.
The location is also home to several museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions.
The Oviatt Penthouse, Los Angeles
The Oviatt Penthouse is a unique and intimate location for a city elopement, with its Art Deco architecture, vintage furnishings, and stunning views of the city.
The venue offers several different spaces for a ceremony, including the Art Deco Ballroom and the rooftop terrace.
The location is also surrounded by some of Los Angeles’ best dining and entertainment options.
The top cheap places to elope in California
Next on our list are the top cheap places to elope in California.
Some of these locations are completely free, or only require the small cost of a permit (usually in the tens of dollars).
These make a great option for couples on a budget!
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park offers a stunning desert landscape that is perfect for a unique and affordable elopement.
Couples can choose from several beautiful spots throughout the park, such as Hidden Valley or Jumbo Rocks.
The park has a $30 entrance fee per vehicle, and there is a special use fee of $120, which covers weddings and elopements, which covers you for 25 guests.
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Mount Tamalpais State Park is a beautiful location for elopements located just north of San Francisco in Marin County.
The park offers stunning views of the Bay Area, including the Golden Gate Bridge, and features an array of natural landscapes such as redwood forests, rolling hills, and scenic overlooks.
There are several areas within the park that are great for elopements, including the Muir Woods National Monument, the Dipsea Trail, and the East Peak Summit.
Each area offers a unique experience for couples looking to exchange their vows in a natural setting.
The cost for an elopement in Mount Tamalpais State Park varies depending on the location and time of day.
Couples can obtain a wedding permit from the park for a fee of $150, which allows for two hours of use of a designated location.
Additional fees may apply for parking, and some areas may require a reservation.
It’s worth noting that the park can be busy on weekends and holidays, so it’s recommended to plan your elopement on a weekday if possible.
The cost to enter the park is $8 per vehicle.
Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles is a popular location for elopements, thanks to its stunning views of the city and the stars.
Couples can hold their ceremony on the observatory lawn or on the rooftop terrace.
The observatory charges a small fee of $125 for elopements.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a beautiful natural destination that offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the lake.
The area offers several free or low-cost locations for elopements, such as Emerald Bay State Park or Sand Harbor Beach.
We go in to more detail in our guide on how to elope in Lake Tahoe.
Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks offer a stunning forested landscape that is perfect for couples who love nature.
The park has several beautiful locations for elopements, such as Lady Bird Johnson Grove or Fern Canyon.
The park charges a $10 entrance fee per vehicle.
There is no specific fee to elope in Redwood National and State Parks, but there are fees associated with using certain facilities and areas within the park.
For example, if you plan to hold your ceremony in a developed picnic area, you may need to pay a fee for a reservation.
There may also be fees for parking, camping, and other activities within the park.
It’s important to note that certain areas of the park, such as Tall Trees Grove, require a permit to access, which can be obtained for a fee.
Additionally, if you plan to have a large group of guests or require special accommodations, such as a wedding arch or chairs, you may need to obtain a special use permit, which can also come with a fee.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park in San Diego offers a beautiful and historic setting for couples who want a romantic elopement without spending a lot of money.
The park has several beautiful locations for elopements, such as the Botanical Building or the Lily Pond.
The park charges a small fee of $331 for a wedding permit.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is a stunning beach location in San Diego that offers a beautiful backdrop for elopements.
The beach is free to access and offers several stunning spots for a ceremony, such as the rocky cliffs or the sandy beach.
There is also no fee to get married at La Jolla Cove.
Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park is a beautiful park located in Malibu, California.
It offers a stunning coastline, picturesque rock formations, and lovely beachside caves.
The park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, and it makes a perfect location for an elopement.
The park has several options for elopements, including the beach, the park’s amphitheater, and a few other areas within the park.
The beach is a popular spot for elopements due to its beauty, and couples can choose from several different beach areas, depending on their preferences.
One of the best things about eloping at Leo Carrillo State Park is the affordability.
The park only requires a small fee for entrance, and couples can choose to have a beach wedding or elopement at no additional cost.
The park also has several affordable lodging options nearby, making it a great choice for couples on a budget.
The cost to enter the is $15 per vehicle.
Marin Headlands
Marin Headlands is a popular spot for elopements in Northern California.
It is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay.
Here are some reasons why it’s a great place to elope:
- Scenic Views
Marin Headlands has breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, making it a perfect backdrop for wedding photos.
- Privacy
There are plenty of secluded spots throughout the park where you can hold your ceremony in peace without any interruptions.
- Hiking Trails
The park has many hiking trails, including the Coastal Trail and Miwok Trail, which offer spectacular views and are ideal for couples who love the outdoors.
- Beaches
Marin Headlands also has several beaches, such as Rodeo Beach and Black Sands Beach, where you can take beautiful photos or even exchange vows.
- Historic Sites
The park has several historic sites, such as the Point Bonita Lighthouse and the Nike Missile Site, which add a unique touch to your elopement.
There is no fee to enter Marin Headlands, and there is no specific fee to elope at Marin Headlands, but you may need to obtain a permit for your ceremony or photography session.
Contact the park for more information.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a stunning location for an elopement in Southern California.
This state park is located along the Big Sur coastline and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline.
One of the highlights of this state park is the McWay Falls, a picturesque waterfall that cascades onto the sandy beach below.
This spot is a popular spot for elopements, as it provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photos.
In addition to McWay Falls, the park offers several hiking trails that wind through the coastal redwood forest and along the coastline.
These trails offer fantastic views of the ocean and provide plenty of opportunities for couples to explore and take photos.
There are no fees to elope at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, but couples must obtain a special use permit from the California Department of Parks and Recreation if they plan to have more than 25 guests.
The permit application fee is $300, and the permit itself costs $100.
The cost to enter the park is $10 per vehicle.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is covered in our guide to eloping in Big Sur.
Los Angeles City Hall
The iconic Los Angeles City Hall building offers a stunning backdrop for couples looking to elope in the city.
You can use the building’s beautiful rotunda or the building’s observation deck to tie the knot.
The cost to rent the observation deck is $487 for a 2-hour rental.
Oakland City Hall
This historic building in downtown Oakland offers a stunning backdrop for couples looking to elope in the city.
Couples can exchange vows in the building’s beautiful rotunda or on the building’s rooftop garden.
The hire cost of the rooftop garden is $750 for 2 hours.
San Francisco City Hall
San Francisco City Hall is a beautiful and historic venue that offers couples a stunning backdrop for their elopement ceremony.
The venue charges a nominal fee for a civil ceremony, which ranges from $92 to $200 depending on the day and time of the ceremony.
All of these locations offer beautiful and unique settings for couples looking to elope in California, without breaking the bank.
The best places to elope in Southern California
Southern California is known for its year-round sunny weather.
This makes it a great choice for eloping couples who want to give themselves the best chance of not having rain on their wedding day.
Here are some of the best places to elope in Southern California:
Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park is located in the Santa Monica Mountains and is known for its scenic hiking trails, creeks, and waterfalls.
This is an excellent location for couples who want a peaceful and serene natural setting for their elopement.
The park has several beautiful spots for ceremonies, including the Rock Pool and the Century Lake Overlook.
It also has a range of camping options, and there are several nearby accommodations and dining options in Malibu.
There is a special use fee for wedding ceremonies or events, including elopement ceremonies.
The fee varies depending on the location and number of guests, but it typically ranges from $150 to $500.
It’s important to note that you will also need to obtain a special event permit from the park in advance of your elopement.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island is located off the coast of Southern California and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and charming small-town atmosphere.
The island offers a range of wedding venues, including the Catalina Island Conservancy and Descanso Beach Club, which provide an ideal backdrop for a romantic elopement ceremony.
Couples can enjoy a wide range of activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking. Catalina Island is a great choice for couples who want a beach wedding experience in a unique and secluded location.
The cost of an elopement on Catalina Island can vary depending on the elopement venue of choice and what you require from them, but it can range from $500 to $5,000.
Balboa Park, San Diego
Balboa Park is located in San Diego and is known for its beautiful Spanish architecture, gardens, and museums.
This is an ideal location for couples who want a city-based elopement with a touch of elegance and sophistication.
The park has several stunning outdoor locations for ceremonies, including the Botanical Building and the Rose Garden.
There are several nearby accommodations and dining options in San Diego.
The fee for a wedding ceremony in the park is $400, which includes a two-hour reservation of the wedding site, chairs, and the services of a park ranger to ensure the event runs smoothly.
Additional fees may apply for other amenities or services, such as audio equipment or additional time at the site.
It is recommended to check with the park’s administration office for the latest fee schedule and any other regulations that may apply to eloping in Balboa Park.
La Jolla Cove, San Diego
La Jolla Cove is a picturesque beach located in San Diego and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
This is an ideal location for couples who want a beach elopement without the crowds.
The cove has several scenic spots for ceremonies, including Ellen Browning Scripps Park and the cliffs overlooking the ocean.
There are several nearby accommodations and dining options in La Jolla.
There is no fee to elope at La Jolla Cove in San Diego.
Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is located in Arcadia and is known for its beautiful gardens, ponds, and peacocks.
This is a great choice for couples who want a peaceful and scenic natural setting for their elopement.
The garden has several locations for ceremonies, including the Queen Anne Cottage and the Meyberg Waterfall.
There are several nearby accommodations and dining options in Arcadia.
The fee for a wedding or elopement ceremony at the Arboretum is $600 for a maximum of 30 guests, including the couple.
This fee includes the location fee, one hour for the ceremony, and a one-hour photo permit.
Additional fees may apply for extra time, additional guests, and certain areas of the Arboretum.
It is recommended to contact the Arboretum directly for the most up-to-date pricing and availability.
Coronado Island, San Diego
Coronado Island is located in San Diego and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic Hotel Del Coronado, and charming downtown area.
This is a perfect location for couples who want a beach elopement with a touch of luxury and elegance.
The island has several scenic spots for ceremonies, including Centennial Park and the beach overlooking the Hotel Del Coronado.
There are several nearby accommodations and dining options on the island.
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is located in Orange County and is known for its beautiful beaches and surfing culture.
This is an ideal location for couples who want a laid-back and fun beach elopement.
The beach has several locations for ceremonies, including the Huntington Beach Pier and the beach near the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve.
There are several nearby accommodations and dining options in Huntington Beach.
Entrance to the beach is free, but you may need to obtain a permit from the city if you are planning to hold your ceremony on the beach itself, which can cost between $150-$300 depending on the location and time of day.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is located in the high desert of Southern California and is known for its unique rock formations and stunning desert landscapes.
This is a perfect location for adventurous couples who love the outdoors and want a unique and rustic desert setting for their elopement.
There are many scenic spots throughout the park, including Hidden Valley and Skull Rock, which make for perfect elopement ceremony sites.
The park has a range of camping options and is open year-round, making it an affordable option for couples looking for a low-cost elopement.
Entrance fees are $35 per vehicle, and camping fees vary depending on the campground.
A special use permit is required for all weddings and elopements, and the permit fee is $120.
The permit allows for a 3-hour event and up to 25 guests.
Temecula Valley Wine Country
Temecula Valley Wine Country is located in Riverside County and is known for its beautiful vineyards and rolling hills.
The area offers a range of wineries and wedding venues, including Ponte Winery and Lorimar Winery, which provide an ideal backdrop for a romantic elopement ceremony.
Couples can enjoy a scenic wine tasting tour, a romantic picnic among the vineyards, and even horse-drawn carriage rides.
Temecula Valley Wine Country is a great choice for couples who want a unique and romantic wedding experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
The cost of an elopement in Temecula Valley Wine Country will come down to the venue you choose, but it can range from $500 to $5,000.
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is located in the Coachella Valley and is known for its hot springs, desert landscapes, and mid-century modern architecture.
The area offers a range of wedding venues, including The Saguaro Palm Springs and The Parker Palm Springs, which provide an ideal backdrop for a chic and stylish elopement ceremony.
Couples can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, hot air balloon rides, and relaxing in a spa.
Palm Springs is a great choice for couples who want a unique and trendy wedding experience with a touch of retro glamour.
The cost of an elopement in Palm Springs can vary depending on the venue and services selected, but it can range from $500 to $5,000.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is located on the central coast of California and is known for its stunning beaches, Spanish-style architecture, and thriving wine country.
The area offers a range of wedding venues, including the Santa Barbara Courthouse and the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, which provide an ideal backdrop for a romantic elopement ceremony.
Couples can enjoy a wide range of activities, including wine tasting, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.
Santa Barbara is a great choice for couples who want a wedding experience that combines natural beauty with cultural and culinary richness.
The cost of an elopement in Santa Barbara will change based on the venue and services required, but it can range from $500 to $5,000.
The most unique California elopement locations
Next up on our list for the best places to elope in California are unique locations.
These are places that will make your elopement stand out.
For us, the top unique places to elope in California are:
The Glass Chapel
This stunning chapel in the Sierra Nevada mountains is made entirely of glass and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
McWay Falls
Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls is a picturesque waterfall that flows directly into the ocean.
Couples can exchange vows on the nearby beach.
The Wave Organ
This unique installation in San Francisco’s Marina District is made of PVC pipes that create sounds as the waves move in and out.
The sounds of the ocean can be heard as you exchange vows.
Salvation Mountain
This colorful and whimsical art installation in the desert town of Niland is made entirely of adobe, straw, and paint.
It makes for a truly unique and unforgettable backdrop for a wedding ceremony.
The Treehouse at The Mohicans
Nestled in the woods of Northern California, this charming treehouse is the perfect setting for a whimsical and intimate elopement.
The Bristlecone Pine Forest
Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, this ancient forest is home to some of the oldest living trees in the world.
The unique landscape provides a stunning location for a ceremony.
The Ruins of the Sutro Baths
Located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the ruins of the Sutro Baths are a unique and dramatic setting for a ceremony.
The former public baths were built in the late 1800s and are now a popular destination for visitors to the area.
The Labyrinth at Land’s End
This stunning labyrinth is located on the edge of a cliff in San Francisco’s Land’s End park.
Couples can get married while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge.
The Integratron
This dome-shaped structure in the Mojave Desert is said to have healing properties, and provides a peaceful and serene setting for a ceremony.
The Griffith Observatory
Located in Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of the city and the night sky.
Eloping couples can tie the knot on the terrace overlooking the city.
Each of these locations offers a unique and memorable backdrop for a wedding ceremony.
Be sure to check with each location for any specific rules or fees related to elopements or weddings.
What do you are the best places to elope in California?
Have you been to any amazing elopements in CA where you think the location should be included in our list for the best place to elope in California?
Let us know in the comments below!
More Resources
Be sure to check out our in-depth ultimate guide to eloping in California.
Have you considered eloping in Hawaii?
