San Diego Elopement Info Guide

• What is the best time of year to elope in San Diego?

California is known for 360 days of sunshine out of 365 days. Most days are sunny and warm. If anything, it may be cloudy, but that isn’t a problem for photos. The winter months can be a bit unpredictable with rain/ wind if its El Nino. I recommend spring and fall for best times, as its shoulder season in San Diego and will be less busy. Summer is warmer, but will have more people.

• What time of day is best?

The light is best 1-2 hours before sunset. I suggest planning the ceremony somewhere between 2-3 hours before sunset, so we have enough time for photos afterwards, just in time for golden hour! Later in the day can also be cooler, which is ideal in summer months. Another option, is waking up before everyone else does at sunrise. It can a magical experience as you two would be the only ones around most likely. Ask your photographer, they will pretty familiar with the locations and light.

• What should we wear?

Wedding dress, of course, or your vision of it!  Not the traditional bride? No problem, I’ve seen lots of options- colored dresses, embroidered; there are many non-traditional wedding dress options out there. Feel free to bring whatever you’d like, and I can advise with styling. Some getting ready shots, details before hand are also fun, and can help tell the story of the day. Good walking shoes are ideal if we are hiking to a spot. (you can always change once we get there) Your favorite beer or champagne is always ideal to celebrate afterwards!

• What day of the week works best?

I usually recommend weekdays, so Monday – Thursday. The locations recommended usually have less people during the week, as opposed to weekend, which usually has tourist and visitors, especially in the summer months. Planning a weekday elopement is best for more privacy and to make the most of the scenery! Some of the locations listed below get quite a few hikers/tourists, especially in the summer months, so planning for a weekday is a good way to ensure the minimal amount of strangers around as you say your vows.

Elopement Location in Coastal San Diego

San Diego is known for its sunny beaches. Sunsets are the perfect time to elope on the beach, there are plenty options to choose from. Here are some of my favorite beaches to shoot at in the area.

Coronado Beach— One of San Diego’s iconic beaches, with its legendary Red Roofed Hotel Del Coronado in the background. Besides the hotel, the beach has gorgeous sunsets, as well as a rock jetty and sand dunes. If eloping with more people, there are also house rentals close by, that can be rented out for a small celebration afterwards, check on AirBnb and VRBO.

Torrey Pines— Hikers paradise! Located in south Del Mar, Torrey Pines Natural Reserve is a hiking trail with several options. The Beach Trail is the most scenic, as it descends to the beach view stunning views and greenery. If it’s low tide, you can get to the beach and view some rock formations, as well as walk back along the beach.

La Jolla— A must visit while in San Diego. La Jolla usually has many visitors, but there are several spots where you can still get some privacy to elope. One of my favorite is the La Jolla Coastal Walk, its north of downtown La Jolla, and offers a nice walk on the coast, while enjoying the scenery. Another quieter options is Windansea Beach, located more south of La Jolla, it is known for its beach bluffs and tidepools.

Sunset Cliffs— Known for its breaktaking cliffside views. There is miles of cliffs here, so there are endless options. Sunset time would be best. Going all the way south at Sunset Cliffs would give us access to the beach and pretty views.

San Diego City + Close By

Some favorite city locations as well as some popular locations about an hour north of San Diego!

San Diego County Clerk— A classic and traditional option, but not your average ‘City Hall’; San Diego’s County Clerk is pretty scenic. With views of the bay and pretty foliage out front, it is not just any city hall. For cemenory, couples have the option of saying vows inside or outside. Afterwards, we can go to your location of choice for portraits, Coronado Beach is close by.

Balboa Park— Hidden gem of San Diego. Balboa Park is located in central San Diego, and is easily accessible. It features spanish architecture and beautiful gardens. There is also a botanical greenhouse that is open during the day. Walk deeper into the park and you will also find a cactus garden (desert vibes!) as well as a rose garden.

Laguna Beach— Drive up the coast to SoCal’s iconic beach cities- Laguna Beach; just a bit over an hour’s drive from San Diego. Laguna is known for its stunning Pacific views and beach charm, perfect for a intimate elopement. Newest addition is Laguna Beach Hotel Joaquin, a boutique hotel on the beach that has a modern, classy charm. The hotel also has a restaurant.  Live the dream by walking to the beach, Shaw’s Cove just a two-minute walk from the hotel’s garden.