If you’re here, that likely means you’re dreaming of a Big Sur wedding or a Big Sur elopement! How exciting! As a Big Sur elopement photographer, I believe you’re choosing an amazing California elopement location! Big Sur is incredibly beautiful, and is such an ideal location whether it be for an intimate elopement or intimate wedding celebration!
With that being said, it can feel incredibly stressful to plan a Big Sur wedding or Big Sur elopement. Where should you elope? Or what are the best Big Sur wedding venues? When should you elope in Big Sur? How do you elope in Big Sur? These are all questions I’m going to dive into, plus more so that you can have the Big Sur wedding or elopement of your dreams without the stress of planning! Don’t fret, I’m about to go over everything you need to know about planning your Big Sur elopement, so stay tuned! First let’s dive into what the word elopement actually means.
Elopement Definition
TO SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON WHAT IT MEANS TO ELOPE IN TODAY’S WORLD, LET’S ANSWER THE QUESTION: WHAT IS AN ELOPEMENT?
Today, the word “elopement” symbolizes more than just a way to get married; it’s an intentional, personalized, one-of-a-kind experience focused on the couple and their love. Elopements allow you to craft the wedding day of your dreams without limitations, unnecessary stress, or outside pressure. They bring the focus back to you and your love, allowing you to celebrate and honor your marriage in a way that is authentic to you without distractions. When you’re eloping, you can plan an epic adventure together in the great outdoors, rediscover each other, embrace each moment, and create memories that will last forever. Check out my “11 Reasons to Elope in 2024: Why You Should Elope“.
Where is Big Sur Located?
Big Sur is located on the Central Coast in California, located in the United States. Big Sur is located between the Carmel Highlands and San Simeon. It’s well known for its beautiful coastline, rugged landscapes, and steep cliffs.
4 closest major cities/towns to big sur, ca
Here are 4 of the closest major cities/towns to Big Sur, CA along with their approximate driving times:
Monterey, California, CA – Approximately 30 min
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA – Approximately 40 mins
Pacific Grove, CA – Approximately 45 mins
Salinas, CA – Approximately 1hr
- Note that driving times are approximate and may vary based on traffic and road conditions.
How to Get to Big Sur California?
Big Sur is easy to get to! Transportation options include by vehicle. While the roads can be winding, it is easy to access by the main way to get to Big Sur which is Route 1, also known as Pacific Coast Highway.
4 closest airports to big sur ca
These are four of the closest airports to Big Sur, California. I recommend looking into all of these options as pricing varies between them and you may be able to find a better deal to one a bit farther away if you don’t mind driving a bit longer to get to Big Sur!
- Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) 45 min drive Google Maps
- San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) 3-3.5hr drive Google Maps
- San Jose International Airport (SJC) 2hr drive Google Maps
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) 2.5hr drive Google Maps
5 Reasons to Elope in Big Sur
As a Big Sur elopement and wedding photographer, I truly believe that you cannot go wrong in choosing this location for your wedding celebration! Whether for a small wedding or intimate elopement, it truly is perfect. That’s also why it lands in my 3rd spot in the 12 of The Best Places to Elope in California section of my “How to Elope in California: Comprehensive Guide”. Now let’s dive into the top 5 reasons to get married or elope in Big Sur California!
Big Sur is well known for its stunning coastline and rugged landscapes. It truly does offer breathtaking scenery and backdrops for portraits. It’s also home to the iconic Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges along the Pacific Coast Highway!
Big Sur is conveniently located between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean! It really is a nature lovers dream. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you and your partner and even wedding guests can enjoy the many hiking trails and take in the beauty of Big Sur together! It’s also close to San Francisco and Santa Cruz!
Another great reason to get married in Big Sur is the many beautiful wedding venues! Don’t worry, we dive deeper into this below!
From beautiful hikes, delicious restaurants, Bixby Bridge, beautiful beaches, and more, you’re sure to have fun with outdoor activities and adventures in and around Big Sur!
Having a Big Sur wedding or Big Sur elopement means you’ll be creating everlasting memories with your partner and wedding guests (if applicable). Big Sur is unique and so are the adventures and memories to be made here!
Top 5 FAQ's About Eloping in Big Sur
Q: How much does it cost to get married in Big Sur?
A: This will vary depending on if you’re having an intimate elopement or small wedding. It will also vary greatly on your guest count if you are inviting guests. For an elopement, you can expect to spend anywhere from $2,500 – $15,000+.
Q:How much is the Big Sur wedding permit?
A wedding permit in Big Sur Costs anywhere from $400-425. This will depend on the location you choose. Most of the State Parks in Big Sur will require a special use permit.
- I have a planner permit for Carmel sections (Garrapata SP) for elopements under 10 guests. Couples who book with me will receive a discount permit for $50 instead of $400. Only a few vendors have this permit!
Q: The Best Time of Year to Elope in Big Sur?
A: The best time of year to elope in Big Sur is from spring & fall! Big Sur is beautiful all year round, but spring and fall will offer milder temperatures. See more on what season is best for your elopement a little further into this guide!
Q: Why elope in Big Sur?
A: You should elope in Big Sur because it offers stunning coastlines, fun outdoor activities nearby, is conveniently located, and has tons of beautiful wedding venue options if you’re leaning more towards an intimate wedding versus an elopement!
Q: Can you get married on the beach in Big Sur?
A: Yes, you can get married on the beach in Big Sur. Most locations do require a permit. Some notable locations are Pfeiffer Beach (no permit required), Garrapata State Park, and Andrew Molera State Park.
Big Sur Elopement Permits
In order to legally get married in Big Sur, you will need a special use permit. Where you get this permit will depends on where you are getting married or eloping. So first decide on your location.
Once you know where you are going to get married in Big Sur, you can apply for your special use permit. If you are eloping at a state park, you’ll contact the California State Parks. If it’s on public land, you’ll contact the local county office.
California State Parks: [email protected] Phone: 831-667-0507
NOTE: Garrapata State Park & Garrapata Beach is part of Monterey Sector and will require a separate Special Use Permit.
If you would like a ceremony at Garrapata State Park or at Carmel State Beach, contact the Monterey Sector Special Event Office.
Monterey Sector Special Event Office: [email protected] (831) 624-3407
Submit a Marriage License Online here if marrying on public land in Big Sur.
How to apply for your Big Sur Elopement permit:
In order to legally get married in Big Sur, you will need a special use permit. Where you get this permit will depend on where you are getting married or eloping. So first decide on your location. You will need this permit if you are eloping at Andrew Molera State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and/or Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Once you know what date and time you’d like to elope in Big Sur, you’ll want to contact the Special Event Coordinator to check if your requested date is available so you can request an application.
- “Events are not placed on the calendar until after the Special Event Coordinator’s office receives the completed application and applicable non-refundable filing fee.”
Complete your special event application and then mail with the applicable non-refundable filing fee to:
Special Event Coordinator
California State Parks
47555 HWY 1
Big Sur, CA 93920
- (emailed/faxed applications are not accepted)
If your application is approved, the Big Sur Sector office will email your Special Event Permit with instructions that you will then return to them with all of the requested information they need from you! See more details on the California Department of Park and Recreation page!
PERMIT CONDITIONS FOR YOUR BIG SUR ELOPEMENT
- Decorations are not permitted (exception for beaches) aside from one handheld item such as your bouquet.
- You may not have glass, porcelain, candles, lanterns, bubbles or balloons at your elopement event.
- Scattering of rice, birdseed, flowers, flower petals, or confetti is not allowed at your elopement.
- You cannot release birds or butterflies at your event.
- You cannot have a fire during your elopement. You can however if you choose to have a campsite elopement inside their designated park fire rings.
Where to Elope in Big Sur?
When it comes to eloping in Big Sur, there are multiple options to choose from. From state parks, beautiful wedding venues, and even options for reception dinner to follow! The options here truly feel limitless and it just depends on what you envision your Big Sur elopement to look like! The first step to really planning your elopement is figuring out WHERE you want to elope. If you’re looking for coastal views, then you’re probably going to want to elope at a state park. If you’re looking for redwoods views, then I recommend eloping at a venue! You can still get the best of both worlds and we can always venture out to the coast for portraits!
Below you’ll see a map that list’s some beautiful state parks, wedding venues, and even a few restaurants that are great for your Big Sur reception dinner!
Eloping at a State Park:
- A very intimate setting right on the coast
- Looking for more adventure with the possibility of hiking
- You’ll have to find your own overnight accommodations and dining
- Offers epic views but you may run into tourists or locals out and about
Eloping at a Venue:
- Tons of Redwood options (though you will find some that are coastal or the best of both worlds!)
- Ideal if you’re looking for more than just a few guests
- Many times overnight accommodations and dining is available at the venue
- You’ll have more privacy
Big Sur State Park Elopement Locations
If you’re looking to elope right on the coast with epic views and landscapes, then choosing a State Park might be best for you. Check out these amazing elopement locations that you may want to consider!
Pfeiffer Beach
beach (small & big Wedding)
- No permit required as it’s not actually a state park! Although there is no maximum guests, there are limited parking spaces (no shuttles) so smaller crowd will be ideal
Pfeiffer Beach is an amazing location to elope in Big Sur! It is located in Los Padres National Forest and is well known beach in Big Sur, for good reason! It has beautiful purple sand and a keyhole arch that makes for a stunning backdrop for portraits! One of the best things aside from the beauty when it comes to eloping at Pfeiffer beach is you do NOT need a permit! Check out this “Pfeiffer Beach Elopement In Big Sur” to see what your elopement here could look like!
Garrapata State Beach
BEACH & COAST (up to 200 participants)
- Permit required ($400-$850)
Garrapata State Park is located in Northern part of Big Sur and it is a stunning Big Sur elopement location! If you’re looking for miles of beautiful and dramatic coastlines with beautiful beaches, this location is perfect for you! In early spring, you can enjoy the calla lilies blooming in the valley!
Garrapata State Park
COAST (up to 25 participants)
- Permit required, no beach access
Garrapata State Park is located in Northern part of Big Sur and it is a stunning Big Sur elopement location! If you’re looking for miles of beautiful and dramatic coastlines with beautiful beaches, this location is perfect for you!
Andrew Molera State Park
COAST (up to 10 participants)
- Permit required ($425 for 4 hours)
If you’re looking for a state park that may give you more of a private and intimate wedding ceremony experience right on the coast, Andrew Molera State Park might just be perfect for you! Here you’ll have stunning views of the coast with gorgeous hillsides as well!
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
COAST & Redwood (up to 10 Participants)
- Permit required ($425 for 4 hours)
Another breathtaking location for your Big Sur elopement in Partington Cove. It’s located within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The hike to Partington Cove is considered a “moderately challenging” hike, but the views are epic and absolutely worth the hike! It takes about 40 minutes or so to get there!
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Redwood (up to 10 Participants)
- Permit required ($425 for 4 hours)
If you love to hike in the redwoods, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is the perfect location for a 2-person elopement! You can stay at Big Sur Lodge which is inside the park and offers a perfect 1 stop location for your elopement needs!
Big Sur Weddings Venues
If you’re looking for a Big Sur wedding venue for an intimate elopement, here are some of the beautiful options! Most will give you the redwoods factor, but some are coastal or even have the best of both worlds!
Glen Oaks Big Sur
REDWOODS (ceremony, reception, & Lodging)
Max Participants: 100
Glen Oaks Big Sur is a stunning Big Sur wedding venue. If you dream of eloping or have an intimate wedding under the redwoods yet right next to the coast, Glen Oaks Big Sur is the perfect venue for you! It’s truly such a majestic and beautiful location for your Big Sur elopement. Come see what your wedding or elopement at Glen Oaks could like like on this blog “Glen Oaks Big Sur Elopement”
Big Sur Lodge
REDWOODS (ceremony, reception, & Lodging)
Max Participants: 100 (ceremony), 160 (reception)
Big Sur Lodge is another stunning Big Sur venue option. If you imagine your special day being surrounded by the beautiful redwoods and the Big Sur River, then Big Sur Lodge is perfect for you! They have four venues that have indoor and outdoor seating, and also offer overnight accommodations for you and your guests.
Big Sur River Inn
River (Ceremony, Reception & Lodging)
Max Participants: 160 (ceremony), 250 (reception)
The Big Sur River Inn is a great location for not only your wedding, but for overnight accommodations for you ad your guests with 20 charming rooms! There are beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for your big day. They even have an onsite restaurant with high ceilings and a beautiful stone fireplace! You can also enjoy their heated swimming pool and general store!
Big Sur Grange
REDWOOD(Ceremony, Reception)
Max Participants: 85
Looking for a quaint little grange tucked into the redwoods? Big Sur Grange Hall is perfect for an intimate and woodsy rustic kind of Big Sur wedding!
Ventana Campground
REDWOODS (Campground Reception)
Max Participants: 2 Per Tent, but can reserve more tents for guests.
If you dream of having a camp wedding experience being surrounded by the redwoods, then Ventana Campground is perfect! Their glamping experience is where luxury meets the outdoors! There’s a glamping bath house, WiFi, and you can even friend your dogs (up to two) for a fee!
Henry Miller Memorial Library
REDWOODS (Ceremony & Reception)
Max Participants: 150
Another beautiful Redwoods Big Sur wedding venue is The Henry Miller Memorial Library! If you dream of having your ceremony at a venue that’s surrounded by the redwoods, then this is perfect! Typically they only book weddings from April 20th-October 20th, but you can book outside of this timeframe at your own risk. Henry Miller Memorial Library is full of so much history and charm, and is the perfect Big Sur venue for your special occasion!
Ventana Big Sur
REDWOODS & COAST (Ceremony, Reception & Lodging)
Max Guests: 175
Ventana Big Sur is absolutely stunning. It offers multiple indoor and outdoor locations, epic coastal views, intimate redwood trails and multiple wedding and elopement packages depending on your guest count. If you’re looking for a luxury experience with coastal views in Big Sur, Ventana is perfect!
Post Ranch Inn
REDWOODS & COAST (Ceremony, Reception, Lodging)
Max Guests: 20 (Elopement Package available)
If you’re looking for a beautiful and intimate coastal setting, The Post Ranch Inn is an amazing venue option for your Big Sur elopement! Their are multiple ceremony options including The Post House, Castro House, Cliff House, or Peak House! Or you can even have your ceremony in the magical Redwoods or even your guestroom terrace!
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
COAST (ceremony, Reception, Lodging)
Max Participants: 150 (Elopement Package Available)
While Hyatt Carmel Highlands isn’t technically in Big Sur, it’s only about a 30 minute drive and offers stunning views of the Pacific Coast! There are indoor and outdoor venues as well. Their Gazebo Meeting Deck which is pictured offers a stunning space for a beautiful ceremony! Come see what your intimate wedding at Hyatt Carmel Highlands could look like on this bog “Coastal Big Sur Elopement: This Was Their Plan B“!
Wind and Sea
COAST (ceremony, Reception, & lodging)
Max Participants: 60
- Special Elopement Rates for up to 12 guests.
If you dream of a gorgeous coastal view for your intimate elopement ceremony that doesn’t involve a sandy beach, Wind and Sea Big Sur is perfect for you! What I also love about Wind and Sea is that they also offer overnight accommodations for you and your guests if you choose to also stay! The modern home is 3,000 square foot and can sleep up to 12 guests with a two night minimum! They have awesome amenities such as outdoor showers, Jack and Jill copper soak tubs, and even a dry sauna!
Point 16
COAST (ceremony & Reception)
Max Participants: 160
If you dream of a Big Sur wedding venue that offers not only the dreamiest coastal views, but lush mountainsides as well, then Point 16 is the perfect location! It is truly such a stunning location, and you can’t go wrong in choosing Point 16 as your venue!
Loma Vista Gardens
GARDEN (Ceremony & Reception)
Max Participants: 210
If you dream of a garden wedding venue in Big Sur, then Loma Vista Gardens is the perfect choice! It gives redwood bohemian vibes, and truly is such a gorgeous venue. There’s just something so romantic about being surrounded by greenery and florals!
Big Sur Reception Venue Options
If you’re planning a very small and intimate elopement but want to have dinner with friends and family later on, there are beautiful locations in Big Sur where you could have dinner! Several couples that I’ve had the pleasure of capturing have enjoyed dinner with just themselves, or family and friends after their elopements!
Nepenthe
Nepenthe is a pretty iconic and well known location in Big Sur! They offer a delicious menu and epic views of the coast! On top of that, Nepenthe’s Verandah’s deck offers views of the the Santa Lucia Mountain Range as well! Imagine enjoying sunset with your new spouse or with guests? Don’t believe me? Check out Nepenthe’s Live Weather Cam! The only downside to Nepenthe is you cannot make reservations. It’s first come first serve.
Rio Grill
Another great location for a reception dinner following your Big Sur elopement would be Rio Grill! While it’s actually located in Carmel and not Big Sur, it isn’t too far of a drive for a nice dinner, especially if you’re already staying in Carmel to begin with. Rio Grill also has a great menu, and you CAN make reservations online! Or if you want a private space, you can rent their Santa Fe room which can accommodate 45-80 depending on seating style, or The Barrel Room which can accommodate 26-45 depending on seating style!
Or Opt For Pizza on The Beach!
If you are wanting an even more intimate reception dinner, order a pizza and bring it down to the beach! This couple chose to have the cutest charcuterie board and pizza together on the beach during sunset and it was the perfect way to end their elopement!
When is The Best Time of Year For Big Sur Elopement?
When it comes to planning your Big Sur elopement, I wouldn’t say there is a “right or wrong” time. It truly depends on what you envision for your day and what is priority to you. Some things to consider when planning on what month or season would be weather, tourist, and cost!
Pros: The scenery is stunning and greenery is lush. Typically the weather is more mild. There also tend to be less crowds in the spring time.
Cons: The cost of eloping in the spring can be a bit higher compared to other months.
Pros: Scenery is still beautiful, and there are a ton of activities and attractions to check out during the summer months.
Cons: Crowds and tourists increase, therefor prices may be even higher during the summer months.
Pros: In the fall you may find more seclusion and privacy as tourist number are typically lower in the fall. Scenery is still nice, and you can still adventure around Big Sur and check out local attractions.
Cons: There is more potential for rain, so it’s best to be prepared for any weather changes.
Pros: Less tourism before spring break. Best time to see Calla Lilies blooming from Feb-March!
Cons: Higher potential for rain
Activities to Check Out
During Your Time in Big Sur
When it comes to Big Sur, there are plenty of activities and local attractions to check out! From scenic drives, camping, day hikes, the iconic Bixby Bridge, and so much more! Your time here can and will be so much fun! There are attractions for everyone, no matter what it is that you and your partner are interested in.
Where to Stay For Your Big Sur Elopement?
When it comes to where to stay during your Big Sur elopement, there are a TON of options! From local hotels, lodges, and even Airbnb’s, you’re sure to find the perfect place for you and your partner to stay! Let’s get into some of the best places to stay in Big Sur. There are also some options below that are located in Carmel, which is a longer drive but with more options.
Big Sur Elopement Packages
Looking to elope in Big Sur, California and searching for Big Sur elopement packages? Photography packages for eloping in Big Sur start at $4,500-$7500. Keep in mind this isn’t just photos, but the experience. I’m here to help you find the perfect location, give unlimited help, guidance, lodging and activity recommendations, timeline creation, vendor recommendations, and travel and lodging are included in each elopement package! See below for more details!
Elopement Packages
All Elopement Packages include:
- Discovery Questionnaires to help craft the experience tailored to you
- Help finding THE location that resonates with your love story
- Unlimited help & guidance
- Lodging & Activity Idea Recommendations
- Craft one-of-a-kind Timeline for your adventure
- Vendor Recommendations
- Creative & Journalistic documentation to capture genuine memories
- Travel & Lodging included with each package
Big Sur Elopements Starting at $5000
*Packages starts with 4 hour coverage
*Payment Plans Available
Big Sur Elopement Testimonial
“Julia was such a pleasure to work with from beginning to end! She was so kind and having her help throughout the elopement process really made us feel at ease. Our special day was everything we wanted and she captured it beautifully. On the day of, she arrived early and throughout the entire experience she was so easy going and patient. We didn’t have to stress because she drove us around, was organized, and knew the landscape well. It felt like we were just going on an adventure with a friend! She is truly an expert at what she does which is reflected in her amazing photography. I highly recommend her to anyone and everyone. Thank you Julia, you’re awesome!” – Patricia & Allen
Ready to Elope in Big Sur?
I hope this Big Sur Elopement Guide answered all of your questions and left you feeling prepared to plan your Big Sur elopement!
Now that you’ve made it to the end of this guide, are you feeling ready to elope in Big Sur? Big Sur is a coastal dream that also gives you not only coastal vibes, but access to the redwoods as well. It truly is the best of both worlds.
It can be very simple and easy to plan your elopement although it can be overwhelming at the same time. This is why I’m here as a Big Sur Elopement Photographer and Guide to help you simplify your planning process and take care of things to give you the freedom to dream up your day!
Are you ready to start planning your Big Sur Elopement adventure? Book your free consultation with me to see if we are a good fit! Not set on Big Sur as your elopement location? Check out my Elopement Guides for other location ideas and the blog for real life Big Sur elopements and inspiration!
7 Responses
This is an amazing guide to help couples find their way in Big Sur. I’d never heard much about it before but it looks incredible. From all the info you shared, it is amazing how affordable it looks and my favorite location has to be Garrapata, thanks for sharing!
Wooow! What an epic guide! You put so much work and thought into this; your clients are so lucky!
Thank you so much for this guide! It’s extremely helpful, I love how you went into detail about the permit requirements, as that’s one of the most confusing parts of elopement planning. Love your work!
Truly an ultimate guide, so much useful information packed in here! I’m sure the couples who consider eloping in Big Sur will greatly appreciate it. Loving the photos too, absolutely beautiful!
Wow, the GO TO reference blog! Nothing can be missing here!
This is such a comprehensive guide I have been there before and did not know about all these spots!
This is the best guide I’ve seen on planning to elope in Big Sur. You really made it easy to read and find info, thank you! Your beautiful photos are a bonus!