The Oregon Coast is an amazing elopement location. From the viewpoints overlooking the cliffs and oceans, to sea stacks and natural bridges. The Oregon Coast is one of my favorite places to shoot elopements. This guide is going to go over everything you need to consider, such as locations, crowds, seasons, and permits. Read on to find out exactly how to elope at the Oregon Coast, and see the most beautiful Oregon Coast elopement locations.
Where are Oregon Coast Elopement Locations?
Each section of the coast brings stunning and diverse options to the table. The southern Oregon Coast boasts natural bridges, and is nearby to the Oregon Redwoods. The Central Oregon Coast has sand dunes, stunning cliffside locations, and beautiful rock formations. The Northern Oregon Coast boasts the iconic “Cannon Beach” Ecola State Park, and much more.
Each section of the coast brings different things, including waterfalls, dense forest, and wildflowers. As an elopement photographer, I help my couples find the absolute best spot for their elopement based on what type of scenery they want to be in.
When to Elope at the Oregon Coast
Spring
Spring can be a beautiful time of year for an Oregon Coast elopement. The weather is a bit more volatile, bringing both sun and rain. This can create muddy trail conditions. This time of year, you’ll have bigger sections of the coast to yourselves since there won’t be many crowds. Low elevation flowers start to bloom, and the whale migration is happening! Temps are around 40-50s°F.
Summer
This is peak season for the Oregon Coast, and when you’ll see the most crowds, as well as the most sun. Temps on the Oregon Coast in the summer are around 70-80s°F making this a more mild beach location in the summer months. Lodging and rental cars will be the most expensive this time of year. Summer is still an amazing time of year for an Oregon coast elopement, but if you want privacy, you might need to opt for “hidden gem” locations over iconic locations such as Cannon Beach.
Fall
Fall is an incredible time for an Oregon Coast elopement. Temps are mild, around 50s–60s°F, crowds have tapered off, and the price of lodging goes down a bit. However, the chance of rain starts to rise this time of year. It’s still a lot drier than winter, but summer is still the best bet if you’re trying to avoid rain as much as possible.
Winter
Winter is a great time of year for an Oregon Coast elopement if you love the rainy and foggy classic PNW vibes. This time of year brings the most storms, and it’s best to assume you’ll get weather. Temps are around 40s–50s°F. Additionally, this is the best time of year for privacy, as well as travel deals like discounted lodging and rental cars. Sometimes there are trail closures to certain overlooks with extreme weather.
Oregon Coast Wedding Permit
Typically, you don’t need a permit for an Oregon Coast elopement if you aren’t setting up structures such as chairs, arches, florals, tables, etc. Guest count matters too, as most Oregon Coast elopement locations don’t require a permit for an event under 50 people.
However, State Parks can be different. Each will have their own application, application fee, and different parameters for what is allowed and what you do/don’t need a permit for. I help all of my couples acquire and fill out the correct permits for their elopement locations to make this process simple and smooth.
How to Get an Oregon Coast Marriage License
Getting a marriage license for your Oregon Coast elopement is fairly easy. You do not need to be a resident of Oregon to get a marriage license here. You will want to find a county clerks office near where you’re planning to have your elopement, as you’ll have to pick it up in person. For example, if you’re eloping at Cannon Beach you will apply for your marriage license at Clatsop County Clerk’s Office in Astoria, which serves that area.
The marriage license fees for Oregon Coast elopement locations is typically around $30-$50. Finally, you will both have to appear to pick up your marriage license. You will both have to bring in valid forms of ID. After that, you’re all set to grab your marriage license and use it right away!
How to Elope at the Oregon Coast
You plan an Oregon Coast elopement in similar ways as you’d plan any adventure elopement. There are a few major steps, and you can read about those here on my thorough guide on how to elope. For this Oregon Coast elopement guide, I’m going over the major things you’ll need to consider!
1. DECIDE IF YOU’RE HAVING GUESTS
This is an imperative part of the planning process for elopements. This is because some guests won’t have the hiking ability, some might not want to drive winding roads to cliffside locations, and certain locations only allow a specific group size. Choosing a location will be much easier once you’ve determined who you’re inviting, and how many guests total you’ll have.
2.HIRE YOUR OREGON COAST ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER
This might feel early in the planning process, but bear with me. Elopements don’t have wedding planners. Most elopement photographers have taken it upon themselves to help couples with some of the planning. Many actually help you find your location! And they will think of things you might not have considered, such as: lighting, elevation, low tide access, difficulty in hiking in a dress, permits, and so much more.
Each elopement photographer offers something different. Personally, I send my couples a customized list of locations, lodging options, and activity ideas based on their preferences, hiking ability, who they want to invite, and what they want to see. I also help them determine lodging options, get permits, get their marriage license, recommend vendors, and create a comprehensive day of timeline, and offer unlimited guidance calls for any questions along the way.
The being said, hiring your Oregon Coast elopement photographer early is going to take a massive amount of planning stress off of your shoulders. Wanna chat? Contact me here!
3.DETERMINE WHAT WEATHER YOU WANT TO BE IN
This is going to help you choose a date and location. Some areas are more mild year round, while some get very hot or very cold/rainy. Determine what type of weather you want to be in, and research what each season brings, and this will greatly help you determine a time of year for your elopement, as well as a general region.
4.PICK YOUR OREGON COAST ELOPEMENT LOCATION
Once you’ve decided on how much you’d like to hike, how many guests are coming, your ideal weather, and the landscapes you want, you’re ready to deep dive into researching Oregon Coast elopement locations. Finding the perfect spot will be a lot simpler after considering all of your needs and logistics.
This is information I collect from my couples through a questionnaire, and then use to make a customized list of Oregon Coast elopement location options for them.
5.HIRE VENDORS
Once you have your location, it’s time to consider if there’s anything you need vendors for. Do you need any event rentals? Do you want a friend or family to officiate, or do you want to hire an officiant? Will you go out to eat, or do you want something catered, like a meal at an Airbnb from a private chef?
Figure out what extra services you may want, and hire your vendors in advance!
6.GET YOUR PERMITS
You will need to get the correct permits for your elopement. These are usually “special use” permits that you apply for on the State Park websites, or National Forest/BLM websites.
Personally, I get all permit information for my eloping couples that hire me. With that, all you need to do is fill out the application when it’s sent to you and pay the fee. Fee’s vary, but are usually around $150 or less.
7.CHOOSE ADDITIONAL OREGON COAST ELOPEMENT ACTIVITIES
Activities are such a fun part of an elopement. When you choose to elope, you’re opening yourself up to having a wedding day celebration that feels unique and resonates with you. Incorporate things that will elevate your elopement day experience. Here’s just a few ideas to get you brainstorming:
- Going on a hike
- Having a bonfire
- Having a beach picnic
- Star-gazing or astrophotography
- Swimming
- Cliff jumping
- Visiting waterfalls
- Camping
- Glamping
- Hiring a private chef
- Hot air balloon ride
- Tide Pooling
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Hot tubbing
- Scenic driving with time to stop for pictures
- Visiting the Oregon Redwoods
- Exchanging gifts
- Reading letters from friends or family
8. MAKE A DAY-OF TIMELINE
Making a timeline is an important part of any elopement. It strings together all of your locations, activities, and lets guests know where to be and when. Creating a well thought out timeline will help you feel relaxed during the day, instead of stressed or rush. Make sure to include drive times as well as buffer times between each “event.”
Here are the things I include in the timelines I make for my couples:
- All addresses
- Sunrise time
- Sunset time
- Drive times
- Low Tide Charts
- A link to Accuweather
- A list of all names for group shots
- Vendor info
- Emergency contact info
- A packing list
Lodging at the Oregon Coast
Lodging is important when it comes to elopements. A lot of couples incorporate their lodging into aspects of their wedding day. For example, getting ready + getting ready photos, a first look, an intimate reception with friends, a dinner made by a private chef, etc. Once you’ve decided what you’ll incorporate in your day, pick a location that will allow everything you want to include.
If you want to host an intimate reception, I highly recommend a vacation rental such as a cabin or an Airbnb. You can also stay at hotels, resorts, campgrounds, etc. Pro tip: Picking a lodging accommodation that has private beach access will make your getting ready and first look photos easy and stunning. Here are some amazing lodging options at the Oregon Coast:
Crook Point in the Southern Oregon Coast
Our Place in Neskowin
How Much Does it Cost to Elope at the Oregon Coast
With a special use permit and entry fees, it costs $50-$200.00 to elope on the Oregon Coast. That being said, most couples spend an average of $5000-$20,000 on their elopement. This includes flights, lodging, permits, vendors, wedding attire, meals, and anything extra a couple might want.
Oregon Coast Elopement Locations
There are endless amounts of Oregon elopement locations to choose from. From cliffsides, natural bridges, and sand dunes. As an elopement photographer, I make a customized location list for my couples based on their needs, this includes: landscape, drive times, how much they do or don’t want to hike, ideal weather, and guest count. For now, here are some of the top stunning elopement locations on the Oregon Coast:
Sam H Boardman
Samuel H. Boardman is one of the most dramatic Oregon elopement locations on the coast. It features rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and hidden beaches.
Many spots are easily accessible from pullouts, making it great for low-hike elopements.
Face Rock
Face Rock is a classic Oregon elopement location near Bandon. It offers wide beaches, sea stacks, open coastal views, and is stunning at golden hour
Proposal Rock
Proposal rock is a unique and gorgeous Oregon elopement location. It’s a massive rock formation right off the shore of the beach, covered in moss and surrounded by shallow water.
Gods Thumb
God’s Thumb is a stunning and scenic Oregon elopement location overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It requires a moderate hike to reach the viewpoint. The payoff is sweeping cliffside views and dramatic coastal scenery.
Hug Point
Hug Point is a popular Oregon elopement location with waterfalls, caves, and a wide beach. It’s easy to access and works well for couples who want variety in one spot.
Low tide offers the best conditions here, and the waterfall is at it’s peak in the Spring
Oswald State Park
Oswald West is a lush Oregon elopement location where forest meets ocean.
It features tall trees, coastal trails, and short hikes to scenic overlooks. This is a great option for couples who want greenery and sea views.
Ecola State Park
Ecola State Park is a scenic Oregon elopement location known for its dramatic coastal viewpoints. It overlooks Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock, and miles of shoreline. This location is ideal for small, intimate elopements with sweeping ocean views.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a well-known Oregon elopement location with soft sand and sea stacks. Haystack Rock creates a timeless coastal backdrop. This area is best for early mornings, or the off season such as fall and winter to avoid crowds.
Cape Kiwanda
Cape Kiwanda is a striking Oregon elopement location with sand dunes and cliffs. It offers golden rock formations and open ocean views. Strong winds are common, making photos here super dramatic.
Packing for an Oregon Coast Elopement
Packing smart is key for an Oregon Coast elopement. The weather can change quickly, even in summer. Wind, fog, and cool temps are common along the coast. Bring layers like a warm jacket, sweater, or shawl, as well as hand and body warmers. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you’re walking on sand or uneven trails. Many Oregon elopement locations also get windy, so hair pins, clips, or a veil weight can help.
Plan for moisture. A waterproof jacket, towel, or blanket can make a big difference. If you’re eloping near cliffs or beaches, pack snacks, water, and a small bag for essentials. When packing for an Oregon Coast elopement, think practical first. Staying warm and comfortable helps you enjoy the day and focus on the experience.
Oregon Elopement Packages
Elopement photography by Emilee Setting Photo, and everything included in my packages:
- Explore anywhere on the Oregon Coast, all travel fees included in the price!
- Packages from half day elopements to multi-day elopements
- Receive a customized location list
- Help finding lodging that suits your needs if you’re having an intimate reception
- Included comprehensive timeline design
- Help obtaining your permits
- Help obtaining your marriage license
- A planning checklist
- Unlimited planning and guidance calls
- All of your stunning photos delivered under three months
- Day of polaroid sneak peeks
Oregon Coast elopement packages starting at $5800. Want more information on my pricing and what’s included? Click here
Ready to Elope at The Oregon Coast?
This Oregon Coast elopement guide is a way to get you excited about all the possibilities of what your day could look like. Although, this amount of information can be overwhelming. I’m here to help. I can answer any and all questions you have on a complimentary low pressure consultation call. If you then choose you’d like to work together, I’ll do all of this planning right by your said to alleviate any stress, and bring your Oregon Coast elopement vision to life. We can chat here!
Oregon Coast Elopement FAQ’s
If you want to avoid rain and be in warmth, go with summer. If you want to avoid crowds, go with Fall. For lush greens, moody mist, whale migrations and lush waterfalls, go with Spring!
Most often you do not need a permit to elope on the Oregon coast if you’re having under 50 total people, and not setting up structures (chairs, arches, etc.) State Parks have their own separate permitting systems and vary by park. Permits for the Oregon Coast are typically $150 or less.
Yes! You can invite guests to your Oregon Coast elopement, but locations, parking, and accessibility should guide your decisions. Some beaches and overlooks have limited space or permit limits.
Yes, there are endless no hike options with stunning rock formations, cliff views, greenery, and minimal walking!
Absolutely, most couples will rent out vacation homes for getting ready, first looks, and receptions. Most do dinner brought in by a caterer, or even have something less traditional like an intimate beach picnic, or beach bonfire.
