How to Elope on the Oregon Coast
Ultimate Oregon Coast Elopement Guide (2026)
you want to elope on the Oregon Coast, but Don't know where to start...
you don't have to do this alone.
I know planning your elopement may have you feeling overwhelmed, but I've got your back.
The decision to elope was easy - you ditched the big wedding and now you know you want to have a day that's all about making you feel celebrated and doing things you love.
But now that you can go anywhere and do anything, you may feel overwhelmed and like you don't know where to even start with planning.
Well don't worry too much! I've put together this comprehensive guide on exactly how to elope on the Oregon Coast, so that you can get started with confidence. Let's get into it!
Or skip all this and...
Table of Contents
- Winter Elopements on the Oregon Coast
- Spring Elopements on the Oregon Coast
- Summer Elopements on the Oregon Coast
- Fall Elopements on the Oregon Coast
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- Marriage License Information
- How Much Does it Cost to Elope on the Oregon Coast?
- How to Include Family & Friends?
- How to Get Privacy on the Trails?
- Where to Stay for My Oregon Coast Elopement?
- Should We Invite Guests?
- Location Permits
- How to Prepare for the Weather?
- Winter Elopements
- Spring Elopements
- Summer Elopements
- Fall Elopements
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- Marriage License Info
- Location Permits
- How much does it cost?
- How to include guests?
- Should we include guests?
- Where to stay?
- How to get privacy?
- How to prep for bad weather?
I'm your Oregon Coast Elopement photographer and planner all in one!
Hey, I'm Desiree! I am a photographer who specializes in helping eloping couples plan and get beautiful photos of their elopement days. Oregon is my favorite state in the U.S. and I love traveling out to the coast. Just call me an Oregon Coast aficionado.
I've also eloped myself, so I've been in your shoes as an eloping couple trying to figure it all out. I remember how excited I was, but also how stressful it felt. And I wished I had a guide telling me exactly what to prep for.
Which brings us to this guide to How to Elope on the Oregon Coast, I have a unique skill set that can help eloping couples just like you. I'm here to spill the secrets, and make planning more smooth and less stressful for you!
Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock are some of the most popular and iconic locations along the Oregon Coast. Just a quick drive from Portland, it's a convenient elopement location if you're traveling from out of state. The town of Cannon Beach is also so cute and fun to explore during your elopement adventure!
Cannon Beach
Main features: sea stack, cliffs, close to portland
From secluded beaches with epic sea stacks to old growth classic PNW forests, the Oregon Coast has so many beautiful elopement destinations to choose from!
Choose an Elopement location on the Oregon Coast
Step 1. Find a location!
Pros:
Cons:
Like I said... it's popular. Probably the most popular location on the coast. If you're wanting something more secluded (and those hidden gems do exist!), I work with couples to find epic locations nearby that are just as gorgeous (or more gorgeous, but who's counting).
Pacific City is a great homebase for your Cape Kiwanda elopement. There are beautiful beaches and sand dune areas at Cape Kiwanda, and other epic hikes and sights are a quick drive away. Wanting to include a waterfall in your elopement experience? There's an epic one a short drive away!
Pacific City is a great homebase for your Cape Kiwanda elopement. There are beautiful beaches and sand dune areas at Cape Kiwanda, and other epic hikes and sights are a quick drive away. Wanting to include a waterfall in your elopement experience? There's an epic one a short drive away!
Pacific City & Cape Kiwanda
Pacific City & Cape Kiwanda
Main features: sand dunes, coastal cliffs, close to portland
Main features: sand dunes, coastal cliffs, close to portland
Pros:
Cons:
The beach at Cape Kiwanda can get pretty popular since it's right in town. However, there are definitely some tricks to finding privacy in the area that I love helping couples with!
The area around Yachats and Florence is packed with epic sights. From off-the-beaten-path beaches to super cool natural phenomenon like Thor's Well, you can experience a lot of variety during your elopement. The Florence area is also super close to some epic sand dune trails that are perfect for hiking or adding a bit of OHV adventure to your elopement. Another pro? Yachats is a super cute town that's the perfect homebase for an elopement.
Yachats & Florence
Main features: overlooks, secluded beaches, sand dunes, close to eugene
Pros:
Cons:
I don't feel like there are any major cons to this area. It's convenient and locations feel more off the beaten path!
Bandon is one of my favorite towns along the Oregon Coast. There are plenty of places to stay and eat in town, and the beach is super long and has a ton of great sea stacks. Bandon is also home to one of the horse stables along the Oregon Coast, so if you'd like to do a romantic horseback ride during your elopement, this is the spot.
Bandon is one of my favorite towns along the Oregon Coast. There are plenty of places to stay and eat in town, and the beach is super long and has a ton of great sea stacks. Bandon is also home to one of the horse stables along the Oregon Coast, so if you'd like to do a romantic horseback ride during your elopement, this is the spot.
Bandon
Bandon Beach
Main features: Epic beach with rock formations, close to eugene
Main features: Epic beach with rock formations, close to eugene
Pros:
Cons:
Bandon is a busy vacation town so likely to feel crowded during peak seasons. Definitely avoid the height of summer!
From hidden beaches to epic overlooks, there are so many cool spots to explore during your elopement. It's also conveniently located near the Oregon and California Redwoods, so you can easily do both with a multi-day elopement experience (which many couples opt for!). Brookings is also a super cute town to explore!
samuel H. Boardman & Brookings
Main features: overlooks, secluded beaches, close to california redwoods
Pros:
Cons:
This is the most remote area of the Oregon Coast so it can be difficult to find vendors on short notice if you're looking for a hair and makeup artist, florist, officiant, etc.
Not sure where to elope on the Oregon Coast? Check out my guide on some of my favorite locations on the coast!
Get the in-depth guide
If you are aiming for the lowest chance at crowds on the Oregon Coast, winter is the time. This period sees the fewest number of tourists on the coast, so you're more likely to have even popular spots to yourself. Winter on the coast is also pretty mild (temperature-wise) compared to weather further inland.
Winter Elopements on the Oregon Coast
Pros:
Of course, winter is going to see the lowest temperatures on the coast. You'll also want to make sure to avoid king tides (unless you want to make viewing the tides part of the fun of your day), which make some beaches inaccessible/dangerous for a period of time. This is also the stormy season on the coast, so definitely plan for your Airbnb as a a backup location just in case!
Cons:
Best time of year to elope on the Oregon Coast
Step 2. Pick a date!
It's important to time your elopement just right for the type of weather and scenery you'd like for your day
Late spring is beautiful on the Oregon Coast! Late April into May is a nice shoulder season where the Coast isn’t quite as busy yet and the weather starts to get better. This is also a good season for whale watching!
Spring Elopements on the Oregon Coast
Pros:
Early spring has a lot of the same challenges as winter like rainier weather and colder temperatures. Make sure you have some solid back up plans like an epic Airbnb in case of stormy weather! Spring is also super windy on the coast, so just be mentally prepared for that!
Cons:
The months of June to August see the best weather on the Oregon Coast. You're more likely to have warmth and sunshine for your elopement, which is always a plus!
Summer Elopements on the Oregon Coast
Pros:
Because the weather is so nice, the busiest season on the Oregon Coast is the summer - especially in July and August. If you're eloping during this season, make sure you work with your Oregon Coast elopement photographer to help you avoid crowds and pick the best timing.
Cons:
Early fall on the Oregon Coast is really lovely. It's the shoulder season for tourism so there are a lot fewer people around. The weather is also super nice and September is almost like a second summer. You may also get a peek at some beautiful changing foliage.
Fall Elopements on the Oregon Coast
Pros:
The weather will start to get colder the further you get into fall. Later fall gets some of the king tides I mentioned before, so unless you are wanting to specifically add viewing king tides to your day, keep in mind that beaches can become inaccessible or dangerous during them.
Cons:
Any time in summer and fall is going to be a nice period for eloping on the Oregon Coast. My overall favorite month on the Coast is September - you're likely to get good weather and the tourist crowds have died down!
Your photographer's picks
Work with a photographer who can help you through the elopement process. As an elopement photographer, I'm here to not only provide beautiful photos of your elopement day, but also help you plan a day unique to you and your relationship. And most importantly... to help take the stress off!
1. Hire your Oregon Coast Elopement photographer
The Oregon Coast is huge - like 8 hour drive huge, so I know it can be difficult to narrow down where to elope! Whether you want to get married on coastal cliffs or at a secluded beach, I can help find your ideal location for your unique elopement vision.
2. Choose your location
It's time to finalize the details! Book your lodging, make reservations, and hire any additional vendors (like an officiant, florist, hair and make up artist, etc.). Need help with recommendations? This is something I help with as your photographer so you don't have to spend hours on Google!
3. Finalize your Plans
You can get your marriage license sorted at any county in Oregon that's most convenient for you! Just make sure you check that specific county's requirements and either keep in mind the 3-day waiting period before you can get legally married or pay extra to waive the waiting period.
Depending on your elopement location, you may also need a permit from the appropriate park office or department. This is something I help the couples I work with know how to do!
4. Take care of the legal stuff
It's time to elope! Say your vows, have an amazing and stress-free day, and officially tie the knot in an epic location!
5. Elope!
How to elope on the oregon coast
Step 3. Figure out the details
This process doesn't have to be hard. Here's how to elope on the Oregon Coast in 5 simple steps!
Let's break down some of that stressful stuff
Getting your Oregon Coast marriage license
Where to get An Oregon Coast Marriage license?
You can get the marriage license in any county in Oregon. Be sure to check with the county where you are obtaining your marriage license on their specific requirements, costs, and expiration dates. Even if you submit an application online, please note that you both will need to show up in person to complete your marriage license application.
Once you have your marriage license, you can officially elope (there is a three day waiting period, but you are often able to apply for a waiver for an additional cost). If you want to observe the 3-day waiting period, just grab your license in the county you fly into and head to the coast!
How soon can we get married?
This part's easy! You just need to be married by an ordained officiant with two witnesses present.
Want to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I’m ordained and can act as your officiant as well as your photographer! And we can ask passersby to serve as your witnesses.
Officiant? Witnesses? What do we need?
this probably sounds scary, but bear with me here...
Oregon COast Elopement Location Permits
What is a location permit?
This is going to be entirely dependent on the location and what you are planning for your day. In general, beaches in Oregon only need a permit for you to perform a ceremony there if you have 50+ guests or an elaborate set up.
What locations need a permit?
Some locations require a special use permit before you can host a wedding (elopements included!) or take professional photos there. This is to ensure the entity in charge of the location is aware of the activity and that the activity falls in line with what's allowed there.
Your will need to call the park office, let them know what you are planning, and reserve your date and time. Pro tip: don't ever trust ChatGPT (often incorrect!) or anyone other than the office in charge for this information!
How do I know if I need a permit?
Want to skip the research? Permits are something I help eloping couples with!
Multi-Day elopement sample timeline
- 11:00 AM: Get a slow start, sip coffee, have some snacks, and write vows together cuddled up on the couch
- 11:30 AM: Get ready separately
- 12:30 PM: Meet for a first look outside your rental cabin
- 1:00 PM: Head to your first location, a secluded beach
- 1:30 PM: Arrive at the beach and wonder down the shoreline
- 2:00 PM: Arrive at your ceremony location and get set up
- 2:10 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license, and soak up being married
- 2:50 PM: Portraits at your ceremony location
- 3:30 PM: Enjoy some cake together
- 4:00 PM: Head to your second location, a cliffside hike
- 4:10 PM: Arrive at the second location and start your hike
- 4:30 PM: Reach the cliffside and spend time soaking it up, exploring, and hanging out together
- 5:30 PM: Head back to your rental cabin
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at your rental cabin and have a picnic on the lawn. Read letters from your loved ones congratulating you.
- 7:00 PM: Cuddle up and roast s'mores by the fire
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
- 11:00 AM: Get a slow start, sip coffee, have some snacks, and write vows together cuddled up on the couch
- 11:30 AM: Get ready separately
- 12:30 PM: Meet for a first look outside your rental cabin
- 1:00 PM: Head to your first location, a secluded beach
- 1:30 PM: Arrive at the beach and wonder down the shoreline
- 2:00 PM: Arrive at your ceremony location and get set up
- 2:10 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license, and soak up being married
- 2:50 PM: Portraits at your ceremony location
- 3:30 PM: Enjoy some cake together
- 4:00 PM: Head to your second location, a cliffside hike
- 4:10 PM: Arrive at the second location and start your hike
- 4:30 PM: Reach the cliffside and spend time soaking it up, exploring, and hanging out together
- 5:30 PM: Head back to your rental cabin
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at your rental cabin and have a picnic on the lawn. Read letters from your loved ones congratulating you.
- 7:00 PM: Cuddle up and roast s'mores by the fire
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
- Morning & afternoon: Drive to the Columbia River Gorge and get settled in your new rental cabin
- 3:00 PM: Meet at the waterfall trailhead & start hiking in
- 4:00 PM: Arrive at waterfall, take it in, and do couples portraits
- 5:00 PM: Hike out
- 6:00 PM: Stop for a quick snack at a local food truck
- 7:00 PM: Arrive at your second location, a beautiful overlook on the Gorge and wait for sunset
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
- Morning & afternoon: Drive to the Columbia River Gorge and get settled in your new rental cabin
- 3:00 PM: Meet at the waterfall trailhead & start hiking in
- 4:00 PM: Arrive at waterfall, take it in, and do couples portraits
- 5:00 PM: Hike out
- 6:00 PM: Stop for a quick snack at a local food truck
- 7:00 PM: Arrive at your second location, a beautiful overlook on the Gorge and wait for sunset
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 14 hour Multi-day elopements in Oregon. Here's an example of what that could look like:
Example Oregon Coast elopements
Step 4: Get inspired!
elopements are a chance to be your unique selves on your wedding day. Let's see what's possible!
Full-Day elopement sample timeline
- 9:00 AM: Get a slow start, sip coffee, have some snacks, and write vows together cuddled up on the couch
- 10:00 AM: Get ready separately
- 11:30 AM: Meet for a first look outside your rental cabin
- 12:00 PM: Head to your first location, a secluded beach
- 12:30 PM: Arrive at the beach and wonder down the shoreline together
- 1:30 PM: Have a picnic together on the beach & enjoy some cake
- 2:30 PM: Pause photo coverage for a break
- 5:30 PM: Meet at your second location, an overlook hike
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at your ceremony spot overlooking the ocean and get set up
- 6:15 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings
- 6:45 PM: Hangout together and wait for sunset, sunset portraits together
- 8:30 PM: Head back to your cabin for s’mores
- 10:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 10 hour Full-day elopements on the Oregon Coast and the option to add in a short break. Here's an example of what that could look like:
Half-Day elopement sample timeline
- 3:00 PM: Meet at cabin and put the finishing touches on getting ready.
- 4:00 PM: First look outside of cabin.
- 4:30 PM: Head to scenic overlook for ceremony.
- 5:00 PM: Ceremony, say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license.
- 5:30 PM: Enjoy a celebratory picnic together.
- 6:30 PM: Portraits and exploring just the two of you while waiting for sunset.
- 9:00 PM: Wrap up.
I offer 6 hour Half-day elopements on the oregon coast. Here's an example of what that could look like:
"I’ve never been totally comfortable in front of a lens, but her calm, warm, and playful energy made all of that melt away. The shoot itself was so much fun! We were laughing and giggling away trying new ideas and poses. My Husband and I were just genuinely enjoying the moment with Desiree. Nothing felt stiff or overly posed, which can be hard to achieve! It was all so natural and easy, which honestly made the entire experience unforgettable."
-Gabby & Hunter
"What really stood out was how much care and planning she put into helping us beyond just the photography. She provided amazing insight and guidance for our entire elopement, from recommending a wonderful Airbnb for us to stay in, suggesting places that could cater a small reception, and even helping us navigate the marriage license process, timelines, and travel ideas. Her experience and organization made everything feel simple and seamless."
-Felicia & Hunter
Your elopement doesn't have to be Some cookie cutter, average day
I help couples plan unique and awesome elopement days that allow them to be themselves and do things they actually enjoy doing (not the boring traditional stuff we all think we have to do during a wedding day!). Let's craft your perfect day together!
Mid-Range Elopement Costs
- Photographer for full-day elopement: $4,600
- Wedding dress & accessories: $1,500
- Wedding suit: $500
- Florals: $300
- Hair & Makeup: $250 at a salon
- Location Permit: $0 - $200 depending
- Marriage License: $50 - $60 depending on county
- 3 nights at a nice rental cabin: $900
- Food & drinks: $300
Frequently Asked Questions
Step 5: Let's answer those last questions!
You may still have some questions about how to elope on the Oregon Coast. Let's get those answered!
How much does it cost to elope on the Oregon Coast?
High-end Elopement Costs
Elopement costs vary widely and depend on the kind of activities and experiences you'd like to have for your day. You can spend anywhere from a few thousand to ten thousand or more for luxury experiences. No matter your budget, you can find awesome activities and locations to suit it!
- Photographer for multi-day elopement: $5,600
- Wedding dress & accessories: $4,000
- Wedding suit: $1,000
- Florals: $600
- Hair & Makeup: $600 on site
- Location Permit: $0 - $200 depending
- Marriage License: $50 - $60 depending on county
- 3 nights at a luxury rental cabin: $1,800
- Private chef dinner: $700
Total: $8,610
Total: $14,560
How to include your family & Friends in your elopement?
Whether you want to elope just the two of you or bring some guests along, there are a ton of different ways to include your loved ones.
- Your ceremony
- Celebratory meal
- Yard games
- Bonfire
If they're coming with:
- Reading letters from your family & friends
- Calling your family & friends after your ceremony
- Having a post-elopement celebration
If it's just the two of you:
- Do these guests make me and my partner happy? Do we enjoy being around them? Would we enjoy being around them on our elopement day?
- Would these guests attending become the center of our attention on our elopement day or cause any negative drama or feelings?
- Do we want our elopement day to be solely focused on spending time together and doing things we enjoy with one another? Or do we want to use some of that time to spend with other people?
Should You include guests in Your elopement day?
Here are some questions to ask yourself to help decide:
1 day for guests, 1 day for you!
Your housing is one of the most important parts of your elopement - you're going to be doing getting ready photos, first looks, writing vows, and more there! Look for unique a-frame cabins, glamping tents, tree houses, and tiny homes that will look awesome in photos! You'll want to make sure your accommodations are good as a potential rain location for your elopement as well, so don't be afraid to splurge on something cute!
Where to stay for your Oregon Coast elopement?
I help the couples I work with find epic accommodations for their elopement day. No more googling for hours and wondering if you're missing out on something awesome!
Stay somewhere epic
Here's how I help
How can we maximize privacy for our Oregon coast elopement?
You're eloping, that means you don't want a crowd of random people looking on or asking to take pictures with you. I'm here to help.
Aim for weekdays
Find hidden gem locations
Work with your photographer
- Warm rain jacket
- A light down jacket
- Light gloves
- Water-resistant hiking boots
- Handwarmers
I also know that a rain jacket doesn't always do the trick, so I help you plan for rain locations - like epic cabin recommendations where you wouldn't mind spending your entire elopement!
How to prepare for rain?
My top recommendation is to embrace the unpredictable coastal weather and go with the flow! Some of the best photos come out of unexpected circumstances, and rain during your elopement is supposed to be good luck!
Stay flexible
make sure you're ready
Plan outside of rainy season
The Oregon Coast has rainy and dry seasons. If you're wanting the months with the fewest number of rainy days, aim for July or August. June and September are a close second!
Aiming for a location on the Southern Oregon Coast is another good way to minimize your chance of rainy weather. The closer you get to California, the less rain you'll see!
Start Planning Your Oregon Coast elopement
Step 6: Let's work together!
Work with a photographer who specializes in elopements & will help you plan your unique elopement day
As your elopement photographer and someone who's done it myself, I'm here to help guide you along the way so you can have a fun-filled, epic, and stress-free day all about celebrating your relationship.
I'll be your dream big cheerleader, off-the-beaten-path location finder, day-of sidekick, and adventure planner.
Your elopement photographer, PLanner, & adventure buddy
Hi, I'm Desiree!
