We curate bespoke, destination elopement experiences.
Eloping in Big Sur is for couples who dream of windswept cliffs, the music of crashing waves, and the quiet intimacy that only this iconic California coastline offers. Whether you crave a rugged redwood grove, a dramatic coastal bluff, or a secluded beach, Big Sur’s natural beauty turns the simplest vows into an unforgettable experience.
But beyond the wild romance lies thoughtful planning—balancing logistics, budget, and vision to create a day that’s as effortless as it feels magical. This is your all-in-one guide to eloping in Big Sur, from permits and venue tips to sample budgets and practical advice.
Average Cost of a Big Sur Elopement
Big Sur elopements come in all shapes and sizes, and your cost will depend on your guest count, the vendors you select, and whether you go all-out or keep it simple. Here’s what most couples can expect in 2025:
State park permits for a simple elopement (up to 10 guests) typically cost $150–$425, depending on the location.
Venue site fees for private properties (for elopements and micro weddings) can range widely, sometimes included with lodging or ranging from $500 to $4,000 for a ceremony window.
Expect vendor travel fees and minimums—Big Sur is remote, so budget a bit more for photographer, florist, and planner travel.
Pro Tip: Eloping on a weekday or in the shoulder/off-season (November–March) often saves money and offers quieter venues.
Average Vendor Costs
Your largest expenses are likely photography, ceremony site or permit, and accommodations.
First, the experience level of your vendor plays a significant role. Seasoned photographers with refined portfolios and years in the industry will naturally charge more than newer talent.
Second, travel distance matters. Big Sur’s remote location means you’ll often need to cover travel fees for vendors coming from out of town.
Finally, seasonality affects everything. Peak wedding months (May through October) come with premium pricing due to high demand
Here’s a sample vendor spend for a classic Big Sur elopement:
Photographer: $1,200-$1,500 for 2 hours of coverage
Officiant: $500–$1,000
Florals: $400–$850, depending on intricacy of the bouquet, types of florals, and seasonality of the florals
Hair & Makeup: $450–$800 for onsite services for the bride (1 service)
Accommodations: $350–$1,800+ per night (from cozy cabins to luxury lodges)
At Wedy, cost transparency isn’t a bonus, it’s a priority. We believe you deserve to know exactly where your investment is going, and more importantly, to feel confident that every dollar is well spent. That’s why we offer curated, bundled experiences in Big Sur that combine top-tier vendor services into one seamless, thoughtfully priced package, so you get the value you deserve, without the guesswork.
Big Sur Elopement Gallery
What to Know Before You Elope in Big Sur
Before eloping in Big Sur, it’s important to consider the following factors:
Permits: Make sure to secure a wedding or special event permit for state parks. These are required even for small elopements and photo sessions.
Privacy: Beaches and parks can be busy, especially on weekends. Consider sunrise or weekday ceremonies for more seclusion.
Weather: Big Sur’s climate is unpredictable—fog, wind, and chilly evenings are common. Bring layers and comfy shoes for trails.
Navigation: Download maps in advance; cell service is often spotty along the coast.
Leave No Trace: Avoid confetti, rice, or decorations that harm the environment.
With so many details to navigate, Wedy’s experienced planners handle everything for you from start to finish, the permits, vendors, timelines, and local logistics, so you don’t have to lift a finger. Simply show up and soak in the beauty of Big Sur while we take care of the rest.
Navigating Big Sur
Getting to Big Sur is part of the experience itself, with dramatic cliffside roads and sweeping ocean views at every turn. The main route is Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, which runs directly through Big Sur. If you’re driving from the north, you’ll take Highway 1 south from Monterey; from the south, you’ll head north from San Simeon or Cambria. The drive can take longer than expected due to winding roads and scenic stops, so plan accordingly. For your elopement day, ensure your vendors and guests use accurate directions, as cell service is spotty along the coast. You can find the general driving route here: Google Maps – Big Sur Directions.
Always check Caltrans for current road closures before your trip, especially after winter storms or heavy rain. For larger groups, we recommend arranging shuttles or group transportation from Monterey, Carmel, or Big Sur proper.
Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in Big Sur
Planning a wedding at Wind and Sea Estate? Here are the top questions couples ask when considering this breathtaking Big Sur venue, along with expert answers to help you plan the perfect day!
Most locations, from secluded state park spots to private venues, welcome anywhere from just the couple to up to 25–50 guests
Lucky for you, our Wedy Planners know the ins-and-outs of Big Sur, and will curate an elopement experience that fits your guest count, vision and budget.
Yes! Many couples who elope in Big Sur often choose a dramatic overlook, beach, or forest for their vows, securing only the necessary permit.
Located on the Central Coast of California, Big Sur offers of the most intimate and breathtaking settings for an elopement. From stunning beaches, towering redwoods, and dramatic cliffs, to woodland cabins, charming cocktails bars, and eclectic restaurants — Big Sur has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventurous couple ready to exchange vows on a cliffside or are simply drawn to the magical coastal views, you won’t regret eloping in Big Sur!
The cost of your Big Sur special use permit will depend on the ceremony location you select. For a ceremony at Garrapata State Park, your permit will cost $400 for a wedding with up to 25 people. By contrast, at a ceremony at Pfeiffer Beach, your permit costs $425 for up to 10 people, while a ceremony at Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is completely free!
Most permits in Big Sur will range between $0-$400. When you book a tailored Big Sur elopement package with Wedy, our expert wedding planners will guide you every step of the way and take care of securing your special use permit for you! You can browse customized Big Sur elopement packages here, or download the Wedy App to get started!
The best time of year to get married in Big Sur is May through October, when the weather is typically sunny with refreshing breezes, and temperatures range from 50 to 65 degrees fahrenheit.
If you’re planning to elope in Big Sur during these months, aim to book your vendors 8-12 months in advance. May through October is the busy season for wedding photographers, florists, and officiants.
You can browse Big Sur wedding vendors and creatives on the Wedy App, where you’ll find talented wedding professionals, from the best film photographers to editorial floral designers, to the finest caterers. Wedy curates an unparalleled selection of services to create an unforgettable experience!
To elope in Big Sur, you will need a Special Use permit, a marriage license, a wedding photographer, and a bouquet and boutonniere. Lucky for you, Wedy provides all-inclusive packages that include assistance with securing your special use permit, hand-selected photographers based on your style, custom personal florals, and so much more – including dedicated wedding officiants, cinematic photographers,
When you book an all-inclusive package with Wedy, you will receive 2-3 vendor options per category, so you don’t have to compromise on quality or style for price!
Big Sur is known for its mild climate, with cool breezes and coastal fog in the mornings and evenings. Summer temperatures range from 50-70°F, so we recommend planning for layers or renting heaters for your outdoor ceremony and reception.
To ensure availability, we recommend booking your vendors (photographers, florists, caterers, etc.) at least 8-12 months in advance, especially during peak wedding season (May through October).
Big Sur Elopement Experiences
Your Big Sur elopement should be an immersive experience. imagine adventuring from redwood forests to coastal cliffs, sharing a private picnic, and truly soaking in the peace of an intimate celebration that’s entirely your own.
To make your Big Sur elopement seamless and stress-free, book Wedy’s curated Big Sur wedding packages that bundle your photographer, officiant, permits, florals, and planning, allowing you to focus on the magic of the moment while every detail is taken care of.
Terms to Know
If you’re planning a wedding for the first time, we’ve compiled a helpful list of definitions below. This glossary will guide you through common wedding terms and make the planning process easier.
Big Sur Elopement Package
A turnkey bundle of vendor services, often including photography, officiant, florals, and permits, tailored for intimate ceremonies in Big Sur. Wedy’s pre-vetted packages streamline logistics and costs in one place.
Permitting (Garrapata, Pfeiffer Beach, etc.)
Many iconic Big Sur locations require state park permits for ceremonies and photography. Permit fees typically range from $100 to $500 depending on location and scope.
Officiant vs. Self-Solemnization
California allows officiants, whether professional or personal, to legally marry couples. Unlike Colorado, California does not allow self-solemnization. A local officiant familiar with Big Sur terrain is essential.
Golden Hour Photography
A premium time slot, often booked early, for portraits during sunrise or sunset. In Big Sur, this light is especially striking along Highway 1 cliffs and coastal overlooks.
Adventure Elopement
A non-traditional wedding set in a scenic or remote location such as Big Sur’s redwood groves or coastal bluffs. May require hiking, permits, and timeline flexibility due to weather.
Private Venue Buyout
Renting a private property, such as Glen Oaks Big Sur or Wind & Sea Estate, for exclusive use. This option is popular for micro weddings or elopements with guests. Costs range from $3,000 to $15,000 depending on season and amenities.
Microwedding
A wedding with fewer than 50 guests. Slightly larger than a two-person elopement but still intimate. Many Big Sur venues have guest limits due to environmental regulations and parking constraints.
Leave No Trace (LNT)
A wilderness principle followed by eco-conscious vendors and couples to minimize environmental impact. Especially important in Big Sur where many elopement sites are ecologically sensitive.
Marriage License (Monterey County)
Required for legal weddings in Big Sur. Couples must obtain it in person from a California county clerk, with Monterey being the nearest option. The license fee is approximately $90.
Fog Delay
A common local phenomenon where dense morning fog covers the coast. Couples and photographers often adjust timelines for better visibility and lighting. Flexibility is essential.
