Lake Tahoe is one of the most scenic wedding locations in California, bordering Nevada and featuring beautiful beach-lake views. Lake Tahoe offers a wide variety of backdrops: from the serene, mountainous North Shore to the lively and luxurious resorts of South Lake Tahoe.
Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or a hint of Vegas energy, Lake Tahoe delivers. This is your ultimate elopement guide — complete with a cost breakdown, how to get a marriage license and permits, top Lake Tahoe elopement spots, and a sample timeline. If you’re planning to elope in Lake Tahoe, this is for you.
Why Elope in Lake Tahoe?
Endless Natural Beauty
From national parks and forest trails to turquoise beaches and alpine peaks, Lake Tahoe is filled with locations that feel tailor-made for elopements. Whether you envision a barefoot beach ceremony, a snowy mountaintop “I do,” or something in between — Lake Tahoe delivers stunning backdrops in every season.
Two States, Twice the Options
One of the most unique things about Lake Tahoe is that it straddles the border of California and Nevada. That means double the options when it comes to venues, marriage licenses, and vibes. Want something peaceful and scenic? Head to North Lake Tahoe in California. Craving excitement, nightlife, and casinos? South Lake Tahoe in Nevada has you covered. From luxury Airbnbs to ski resorts and boathouse ceremonies, the region is perfect for couples with a sense of adventure.
Eloping Made Easy with the Lake Tahoe Wedding Pros
With the right planning (and the right team), a Lake Tahoe elopement can be both stress-free and affordable. The Wedy app connects you with curated elopement packages that bundle your venue, permits, officiant, photographer, florals, and more — all in one streamlined price. Packages start around $2,850 and can be customized to your vision and budget. Local vendors know the ins and outs of both Nevada and California legal requirements, helping you avoid the paperwork headaches and focus on what matters: getting married.
How to Get a Marriage License in Lake Tahoe
To get a marriage license in Lake Tahoe, you will need to find out which county you are getting married in. Since Lake Tahoe borders California and Nevada, you will need to apply to either for a license at either a Californian or Nevadian Wedding Registry, depending on your ceremony location.
If You’re Getting Married in California (North Lake Tahoe):
You’ll need a California marriage license. These are available at any County Clerk’s office (about $90–$100) and are valid anywhere in the state for 90 days. No witness is required.
If You’re Getting Married in Nevada (South Lake Tahoe):
You’ll need a Nevada marriage license, which can be obtained through the appropriate county. In Nevada, you do need an officiant and at least one witness — your photographer can often serve this role. Make sure to apply in the state your ceremony is actually happening in.
Lake Tahoe Wedding Gallery
1. Sand Harbor
Site Fee: $400 + $10/vehicle
Capacity: 200 (100 seated)
Permit Info: Weddings take place in the Ramada area with a signed group use agreement, with permits given on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Vibe: Beachfront with turquoise water, surrounded by rocky coves and pine trees. Ideal for summer ceremonies with nearby recreational activities.
Payment and agreement is due within two weeks of booking, so that Lake Tahoe can secure your date. To apply for a wedding permit for Sand Harbor, click here. For help booking Sand Harbor, and to see all inclusive Lake Tahoe packages, click the button below!
2. Kings Beach
Capacity: 300 guests
Permit Info: No permit required, but you must contact the North Tahoe Special Events Office, reachable at: No**********************@******ca.gov.
Vibe: A vibrant beach town with a 200ft pier, nearby restaurants, and clear water. Perfect for lively, adventurous couples.
3. Logan Shoals Vista Point
Capacity: 20 guests
Permit Info: Contact the special permit office at (530) 543-2636.
Vibe: A quiet, scenic overlook near Highway 50 in Nevada. Best for intimate ceremonies with sunset views, handicap accessible.
For more information on Logan Shoals, you can check out their website or call the special permit use office at (530) 543-2636.
4. Emerald Bay Park Lookout
Site Fee: $695–$795 + permit
Capacity: 20 guests
Permit Info: Special Use Permit is required and depending on the size of your group, you may require liability insurance for the event. For help booking Emerald Bay Lookout, click the button below.
Vibe: Jaw-dropping views, a historic castle nearby, and perfect golden-hour light. Popular for sunrise or sunset elopements.
You can even go kayaking, paddle boarding, or boating on the lake. There are also several hike trails, and the overlook is at an elevation of 6830 feet.
5. Tahoe Paradise Park
Site Fee: $1,025–$1,225 (permit included)
Capacity: 300 guests
Permit Info: 2-hour minimum. Site rental fee includes ceremony permit. Application link can be found here! For help with booking this elopement site, click the button below!
Vibe: A more hidden gem surrounded by forest and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Clubhouse and tent options for larger groups.
There is also a clubhouse, and tented area that holds up to 300 people! One more thing to note is that there is a 2 hour minimum if reserving this elopement spot. Truly a park of paradise for your Lake Tahoe elopement.
Lake Tahoe Elopement Cost Breakdown
Low End Elopement Budget
Here is the cost breakdown for a lower end elopement budget for a Lake Tahoe Elopement.
Marriage license: $100
Permits for Lake Tahoe: $410
Photographer: $1,400 for two hours
Wedding Officiant: $650
Bridal Hair and Makeup: $500
Floral bouquet and boutonnière: $550
TOTAL BASE COST: $3,610
Moderate Elopement Budget
Here is the cost breakdown for a moderately elopement budget for a Lake Tahoe Elopement.
Marriage license: $100
Permits for Lake Tahoe: $600
Photographer: $2,400 for four hours
Wedding Officiant: $650
Bridal Hair and Makeup: $650
Floral bouquet and boutonnière and a ceremony arch: $2,300
TOTAL BASE COST: $6,700
High End Elopement Budget
Here is the cost breakdown for a high end elopement budget in Lake Tahoe.
Marriage license: $100
Permits for Lake Tahoe: $700
Photographer: $4,800 for six hours
Wedding Officiant: $650
Bridal Hair and Makeup plus makeup trial: $800
Floral bouquet and boutonnière and a ceremony arch: $2,300
TOTAL BASE COST: $9,350
Lake Tahoe Elopement Timeline
Wondering what to do for your Lake Tahoe elopement? Check out this example timeline to get some inspiration.
4:00 PM – Arrive at your elopement spot with your vendor team (photographer, HMUA).
4:15 PM – Get ready on-site or in a nearby Airbnb.
5:00 PM – First look photos with your spouse.
6:15 PM – Begin ceremony, exchange vows, sign the license.
7:00 PM – Golden hour portraits with guests and each other.
8:00–10:00 PM – Celebrate! Whether it’s a cozy dinner at a rental, dancing at a casino, or a sunset cruise on the lake — this is your time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Tahoe
Yes, you can elope and get married at Lake Tahoe, CA. There are several locations you can visit to elope, including right on the lake shore.
To elope in Lake Tahoe, you will need a marriage license from California or Nevada, and a permit to hold your ceremony. The scenic location is quite popular, so apply for your license and permit in advance, to avoid any delays or stock outs.
Yes, you will need a permit for most of the elopement locations at Lake Tahoe. The cost of a permit depends on the site, and the permits generally range from $400-$1225. To find out more about getting a special use permit for your ceremony, click here! You will need a permit and marriage license to elope or get married in Lake Tahoe.
Yes, here are three tips you must know from long-time Lake Tahoe wedding planners.
1. Be prepared for snow, especially if you are eloping during the winter season, as Lake Tahoe is one of the snowiest areas in the States.
2. Budget time for driving, as Lake Tahoe is quite a popular location, so be prepared for some traffic, and difficult parking.
3. Budget your funds wisely. Rentals, food, and recreational activities can sometimes be on the steeper end in the Lake Tahoe area, especially if you don’t book in advance. To make your elopement more affordable, plan ahead! You can also check out the Wedy app for some all-inclusive elopement packages in Lake Tahoe, to save money.
Lake Tahoe Elopement Packages
Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by crystal-clear waters and towering Sierra peaks. Lake Tahoe offers the perfect backdrop for intimate ceremonies, from alpine meadow settings to elegant lakefront venues. Wedy’s comprehensive Lake Tahoe wedding packages handle every detail, so you can focus on what matters most.
Complete Lake Tahoe wedding packages feature:
- Full venue coordination and planning
- Marriage license assistance and guidance
- Professional officiant services
- Expert photography and videography
- Bridal hair, makeup, and floral design
- Permit coordination and logistics support
Transform your wedding dreams into reality with our carefully curated Lake Tahoe elopement experiences. Explore our complete package options and begin planning your perfect mountain celebration today. Click here to learn more about all inclusive Lake Tahoe Elopement packages!
