Big Sur Elopement Package

Big Sur Elopement Packages & Intimate Weddings

Stretching for 90 miles along the central coast of California, the Big Sur region is one of the most breathtaking places to elope in the world. With dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, towering redwoods, and sweeping ocean views, Big Sur offers an unforgettable setting for an intimate wedding or elopement.

At Weddings in Monterey, we have been offering Big Sur elopement packages since 2009 and are deeply familiar with the area’s locations, permits, and logistics. Our team has helped couples create meaningful, stress-free ceremonies in some of the most scenic and private spots along the Big Sur coast.

Best Locations for a Big Sur Elopement Ceremony
Big Sur offers a wide range of ceremony locations depending on your guest count, accessibility needs, and desired scenery. Over the years, we have organized weddings and elopements in:

Secluded Big Sur Beaches with dramatic coastal views (There are two of them, but you need to know the limitations of one of the beaches before it’s too late)
Redwood Grove Elopements (including State Parks and private hotel properties)
Private Homes in Big Sur with sweeping ocean vistas and maximum privacy
Ocean Cliffs and Overlooks with panoramic views of the coastline and mountains
Big Sur Hotel Venues featuring outdoor chapels, scenic patios, and intimate event spaces

Many of these locations have specific permit requirements or seasonal restrictions, and some are temporarily closed. Working with a local company ensures you have up-to-date guidance when choosing your ceremony site. In Northern Big Sur, we are one of the few companies with a special micro permit, which allows elopements to take place (without a ranger asking you to leave)

Experience Planning Big Sur Elopements Since 2009
With over 17 years of experience and 350+ weddings along the Big Sur coast, we bring unmatched local knowledge to every elopement we plan. From understanding traffic patterns on Highway 1 to knowing which locations work best at certain times of day, we help couples avoid common pitfalls and enjoy their wedding day fully.
Our local insights include:

Location accessibility and privacy considerations
Seasonal weather and fog patterns
Permit availability and guest count limits
Restaurant and lodging recommendations

Big Sur Elopement Permits, Fees & Legal Requirements
Most elopements in Big Sur require permits, particularly for ceremonies held in California State Parks or popular coastal areas.

Permit fees can range from under $100 for small ceremonies (fewer than 10 guests)
Hotel venues and private estates involve higher site or rental fees (the best deals are with weekday weddings)
Some locations restrict décor, seating, amplified sound, or guest counts

We are fully insured and work closely with California State Parks to ensure all permits and requirements are properly handled for your Big Sur elopement. Why is this important? Especially in areas with uneven grounds, you want to make sure that you hire someone that has the proper insurance (not only for their benefit, but also for yours). Also, although it has been fairly rare, we've been asked for our proof of permits before a wedding (you don't want to be asked to leave right before your wedding starts!)

Big Sur Elopement Packages & Pricing Information
Our Big Sur elopement packages are available under the Elopements and Weddings tabs on our website. We also offer curated elopement packages through www.ElopeinMonterey.com, including options at:

Glen Oaks Big Sur
Big Sur Lodge

Packages vary based on location, guest count, and services selected. A nominal travel fee applies for Big Sur weddings. There are also some great locations in the southern Carmel area on the way to Big Sur.

Best Time of Year to Elope in Big Sur

Choosing the right time of year can greatly impact your elopement experience.

Late summer and early fall (September–October) often offer clearer skies and fewer visitors and nice temperatures
Summer may bring fog, which can create a soft, romantic atmosphere
Winter elopements offer dramatic skies and quiet beaches (always best to have a bad weather backup plan)

Weekday elopements are strongly recommended for couples seeking the most privacy and ease, and lower hotel rates/better availability.

What a Typical Big Sur Elopement Timeline Looks Like

Every elopement is unique, but a common flow includes:

Arrival and short walk to the ceremony location
An intimate 10–15 minute ceremony
Family or guest photos (if applicable)
Couple portraits at one or two nearby scenic spots
A celebratory meal at a Big Sur or Carmel restaurant

We help structure your timeline to maximize light, privacy, and the overall experience.

What to Wear for a Big Sur Elopement
Big Sur’s coastal environment is beautiful but can be unpredictable. We recommend:

Dressing in layers to accommodate wind and temperature changes
Comfortable footwear for walking on sand, cliffs, or uneven ground
Securing veils and lightweight fabrics for windy conditions
Brides can bring two pairs of shoes - one for walking to the location and one for the ceremony (if you prefer wearing heels)

We’re happy to offer guidance based on your chosen location and season.

Restaurants to Celebrate After Your Big Sur Elopement
After your ceremony, Big Sur offers several exceptional dining options:

Nepenthe – Iconic ocean views and an eclectic, well-loved menu (You may have to stand in line for a bit)
Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn – Cozy, romantic dining tucked beneath the redwoods (Feels like dining in a family home)
Big Sur Roadhouse – Relaxed atmosphere with a river-view deck
Sierra Mar (Post Ranch Inn) – An elevated, serene dining experience highly praised by our couples with ultimate privacy
Sur House (Ventana Inn) - Fantastic menu with outstanding views at one of the country’s top resorts

Why Couples Choose Big Sur for Their Elopement

Couples are drawn to Big Sur for its:

Natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. It’s a memory that will last forever, and the landscape is reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast in Italy (without the travel)
Sense of intimacy and privacy
Freedom from traditional wedding expectations
Deeply meaningful, experience-focused ceremonies
Proximity to Carmel and Monterey (for nightlife or extending your stay in our county)

Remember that Big Sur isn’t just a backdrop — it becomes part of your story.

Ready to Start Planning Your Big Sur Elopement?

Big Sur elopements require thoughtful planning, local knowledge, and an experienced team to guide you through the permitting process, location selection, and timing. We would love to learn more about your vision and help you determine the best options for your day.

📞 Call us at 831.393.0445
Or use our contact us form to begin planning your Big Sur elopement
Once we receive your inquiry, we’ll be in touch shortly to discuss availability, locations, and next steps.