Known for breathtaking views of the rocky Pacific coastline and majestic redwood forests, it’s no wonder why so many couples choose Big Sur as their dream elopement destination. From fog lined beaches to stunning cliffside views and a thick, canopied wilderness, there’s something for every nature loving romantic to love about this popular gem along the California coast.

As someone who chose this very location for her own elopement, I can attest that getting married in Big Sur amongst such stunning views is truly a magical experience. However, that’s not to say it doesn’t come with its own set of challenges. Like all weddings – big or small – an elopement in Big Sur takes planning, prepping and, of course, location scouting, to ensure that your big day is as perfect as it can be.

If you’re serious about saying ‘I do’ amongst the gorgeous backdrop that is Big Sur, there’s a few nitty gritty facts you need to get in order before the big day. I’m no boy scout (obvs) but their motto – “always be prepared” – definitely resonates with me both in my personal life and my professional pursuits. And Big Sur is for sure one location you’re going to want to iron out a few important details before the big day. Trust me, I know from experience how overwhelming eloping can be. That’s why I’ve compiled this easy list of FAQs I get asked the most about getting married in Big Sur.

Not to sound crass but, Mother Nature couldn’t care less about your wedding day. If she wants to ruin it with mudslides and flooding rains, she’ll do it. Hatch your bets for a picture-perfect day and choose your elopement season wisely.

A winter elopement in Big Sur can be a gamble. Frequent road closures due to rockslides or flooding is a definite possibility – which could put you in a pickle if you have your heart set on a specific location.

On the flip side, however, you’ll practically have the place to yourself as most tourists flock to the central California coastal attraction in summer. And, whereas rain won’t really be a concern in summer, crowds will, making it hard to find that “solitude” you’re looking for during their busiest time of June-August.

Springtime in Big Sur brings warmer temps, blooming wildflowers and fog – plus potential for frequent rains and still the occasional road closure. But the crowds are definitely manageable.

Which brings me to the money season — fall. Not only is the weather beautiful (not too hot, not too cold) but the summertime crowds have thinned out by then and (bonus!) the rates in town are less expensive too. Leaving you with more cash to spend on your post-nuptial celebrations!

Regardless of the time of year, you should be aware that the weather on the Big Sur coastline is known to be fickle. It may be bright and sunny at your hotel, but then five minutes up the road, the beach could be fully blanketed by thick fog. However, this can be looked at as a positive – how many others get totally different and cool looking weather scenarios during their elopements?

One of the greatest draws of Big Sur is that it has a little bit of everything ­– rocky beaches, breathtaking forests, beautiful vistas – all with vastly different terrain and stunning photo opportunities. And one of the perks of eloping here is that you can visit all of them on your wedding day if you want. After all, there’s no giant wedding party stopping you from exchanging vows beneath the giant redwoods before heading to Pfeiffer State Beach for a gorgeous sunset photo with the famous Keyhole Rock as your backdrop. And, thankfully, you won’t have to trek from forest to sand in your gorgeous, adventure-worthy wedding gown. The epic views you’ll want to commemorate forever on your wedding day are totally drive-able.

Personally speaking, I love suggesting photo locations specifically based on my client’s unique personalities and wedding day wants. In the end, having a plan about where exactly it’ll all happen will help us all stay on the same page, so you get those perfect pictures you’ve been dreaming about.

It’s my job to make sure the beauty of whichever location you choose shines brightly in your wedding photos, so no need to worry about that. As for which is better, that’s a matter of personal preference. Exchanging vows amongst majestic redwoods or tucked within a secluded cove is definitely a draw for having your elopement at one of the many State Parks in and around Big Sur. Plus it can be a lot less expensive than getting married at a venue.

However, if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of obtaining a permit and/or avoiding curious onlookers at your adventure wedding-destination (not to mention those unforeseen circumstances that can occur out in the wild) then a private venue might make more sense for you (more on that below).

Like I mentioned earlier, one of the best things about eloping in Big Sur is that you have so many different types of natural environments to choose from! You can even choose to incorporate a few of these locations into your day to fully take advantage of everything the area has to offer.

If you decide you want to go public parks all the way, here are some of my favorite spots! Within each, there are also different trails and viewpoints that I can recommend based on your wedding day desires.

• Garrapata State Park:
  • Easy beach access with seriously stunning views from the coastal cliffs, on the soft sand below, or in the wildflower-filled valleys
  • Requires the couple to secure a permit for elopement
  • On the northern end of Big Sur, this is closest area to Monterey

• Andrew Molera State Park:
  • Beach access with an easy 1-mile hike through a canopy of eucalyptus trees (but so worth it)
  • Home to some pretty cool driftwood forts built by previous visitors
  • Permit required for elopements

• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park:
  • Popular for its redwood groves and trail access to Pfeiffer Falls.
  • No beach or ocean access though there are gullies, creeks and, well, a waterfall.
  • Yup, you need a permit.

• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park:
  • While there is NO beach access here, there is beautiful panoramic ocean view and access to McWay Falls.
  • More redwood groves, waterfalls and lots of green.
  • Permit required for elopements.

• Limekiln State Park:
  • Coastal views, redwood groves and culturally historic limekilns all add to the magic of this state park.
  • Access to a small ROCKY beach area.
  • NO permit required for elopements.

• San Padres National Forest:
  • An expansive, spread out area around Big Sur that includes redwood forests, a waterfall trail AND beaches.
  • Some beaches are under management of a private company.
  • NO permit required for elopements.

• Pfeiffer Beach:
  • Part of San Padres National Forest, it is a public California beach under the jurisdiction of a private management company, which means it requires a separate fee for entry.
  • Beautiful for sunset photos and home of the famous Keyhole Rock.
  • Does NOT require a permit for elopements but technically weddings are not permitted during March 15th-October 15th. However, permission may be granted on a case-by-case basis for small elopements.
  • Flooding during rainy seasons can cause road closures, making this location inaccessible.

Once you’ve decided that a public park is for you, it’s time to figure out the whole permit situation. Each of the parks above may under a different jurisdiction and have different policies for permits – whether one is needed at all, limits to usage if one is required, if an additional permit is required for photography… and it can get pretty confusing! But the good news is, I’m here to help!

For most California State Parks, applications are accepted up to 6 months in advance though, apply less than 2 months in advance of your desired wedding date and you may face larger fees for a turnaround. According to the State Park website, Big Sur elopement special event permits allow for small, simple weddings that don’t require any decorations other than a single, handheld bouquet and are held at locations “that can be hiked into.” In other words – it better be a legit elopement vs. a “small wedding.”

The guest list – including the happy couple and vendors – is not to exceed 10 people. You’re allowed one officiant, one wedding coordinator and one elopement photographer. But that’s it. If the guest list is any larger, you will technically be considered a small wedding as opposed to an elopement and will have to pay a different fee and obtain a different type of permit. The good thing about obtaining a Big Sur elopement permit is that you can apply for it up to 6 months in advance of the big day, which is advisable. Because, technically, the region only allows 1 elopement per day and it has to be approved by the parks system. If you have your heart set on eloping in Big Sur, you might need to be flexible on the exact date. This is why weekday elopements are always suggested as a first option. Your date is more likely to be available, and you’re also likely to face fewer crowds and onlookers.

Ok, so now that you know all of the restrictions involved in eloping at a state park, perhaps you’d rather go the venue route instead. You should be prepared for it to cost a little more – and you’ll probably have to spend a night or two on location – but you’ll generally have more flexibility with decorations, guest list and music. Although, you will be limited to the grounds of the site, so the views may not be as vast as you would find in unabridged nature.

Here are a few of my suggestion of beautiful Big Sur venues that allow elopements on site:

For breathtaking coastal views in the lap of luxury you’ll want to consider:

Ventana Big Sur, Wind & Sea and Post Ranch Inn.

If you want something a little more down-to-earth and boho chic, consider these unique spots for your big day: Loma Vista Gardens, Big Sur Bakery and the Henry Miller Library.

To feel “at one with nature” while you exchange vows consider a rustic cabin vibe: Glen Oaks Big Sur and Big Sur Grange.

Pledge your love to each other immersed in the majesty of the California Redwoods: Big Sur River Inn and Big Sur Lodge.

If you’re looking to splurge (and why not, you deserve it) then you won’t be disappointed staying at either of these luxurious resorts: Ventana Big Sur and Post Ranch Inn.

You could also keep things simple and go for a quaint and adorable cabin or cabin-esque room to commemorate your wedded bliss: Glen Oaks Big Sur and Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn.

If you’ve always wanted to try “glamping” now is the time: Treebones Resort Big Sur and Fernwood Resort Big Sur.

You could camp at one of the many gorgeous Big Sur campgrounds: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Limekiln State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur Campgrounds and Cabins and Riverside Campgrounds and Cabins .And if you’d rather a cute and quaint hotel in a simple seaside town, try one of these in the neighboring towns of Cambria or Monterey: The Hotel Carmel, The Normandy Inn, Fogcatcher Inn and Hyatt Carmel Highlands.

While there are so many beautiful hikes and scenic byways you’ll want to experience here in Big Sur, the fact of the matter is you’ll need a car to get you there via the historic 101 or windy Pacific Coast Highway.

Depending on the area of Big Sur you’re planning to visit, it can be a 5 to 6-hour drive from Los Angeles. It’s often quicker to take the 5 freeway up, but it’s definitely not as scenic as the 101 to the PCH.

If you’re traveling in via plane you’ll want to rent a car at the airport for your stay in Big Sur. Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is the closest airport to Big Sur, about 30 miles from the Big Sur Valley, but is a smaller airport and therefore direct flights and airlines are limited. However, flying in to MRY from a bigger airport like San Jose International (SJC) and San Francisco International (SFO) is a definite possibility. Oakland Airport (OAK) is another option for distant travelers who don’t mind tacking on a scenic drive to their travel plans.

• A good portion of the 90-mile stretch of road going through Big Sur is gorgeous, scenic and windy. Plus, Highway 1 goes down to single lane traffic in several stretches so be prepared for a leisurely drive.
• Poison oak is very, very common so be prepared to protect yourself if your elopement includes any hiking (even around the beaches).
• With the poison oak in mind, secure and protective footwear is a must! I always suggest that if their dresses cover them, brides can simply wear hiking boots or sneakers. But if they want something fancier for the ceremony and photos, I encourage clients to pack and change into their (reasonable) heels for those moments to avoid any injuries.
• Cell service is scarce in this part of the world so you should consider planning out your route — and the must-see stops you want to make – well in advance. This Travel & Leisure post has some good tips on how best to do this.
• Popular hotels and venues can fill up fast, especially during busy travel seasons. Book your reservations well in advance, especially if you’ll be having family or friends joining in on the festivities.
• Some vendors have to travel in to Big Sur to service your elopement and may need to stay the night, thus requiring additional fees.
• Big Sur Bakery has the BEST chocolate chip cookies!

Wedding dress and attire aside, supporting local businesses for your other wedding day essentials not only will make your special day easier but can help keep this beautiful region of California thriving. Use a talented local florist for your bouquet or get your hair and make-up done by a resident stylist who knows how to make you look just as stunning as your gorgeous wedding destination. Even hiring a local officiant (like the one I used for my wedding) can add an extra bit of charm to your already charming experience.

Whether you parlay your elopement into a honeymoon, or just use it as an excuse to unwind amongst some of California’s most breathtaking scenery, you most definitely should not miss out on all of the fun and relaxation that Big Sur has to offer. Take a few days before or after your wedding to hike the gorgeous state park trails, snap selfies by waterfalls, enjoy a luxurious spa day or just read a book under the trees. Don’t forget to have a delicious meal with a view and sip some wine from a nearby winery. Remember, you’re elopement isn’t just a wedding – it’s an experience. So lean in and enjoy every moment. You deserve it!