Southern California Elopement Guide

There are so many beautiful spots in Southern California that are perfect for intimate elopements. Raining from beach to desert, all are within two hour driving distance, and unique on their own; yet beautiful.

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.

SANTA CATALINA ISLAND

Off the coast of Newport Beach lies a island- Santa Catalina Island. The town of Avalon can be reached via ferry. It’s a perfect destination for a local destination wedding. Take a look at Descanso Beach Club, which is perfect for a Catalina wedding. The island has lots of charm, which reminds you of a small italian island. Catalina is full of vast greenery and hiking trails, the options for the perfect ceremony are endless!

HAMILTON COVE
Located on Catalina Island, around a hill and away from the main cove of Avalon (where the ferry’s come in) is a secluded community of rentals, called Hamilton Cove. The water is crystal clear, and the location looks like the Mediterranean. Rentals are available yearly, and are a ideal location for elopements, the perfect hidden gem in Southern California.

Joshua Tree & Palm Springs

Heading west to the desert; Joshua Tree area is about a 2 hour drive from San Diego. Driving through valleys and desert, you will feel as you were in a different state, but you’re still in California!

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

Known for its natural rock formations and joshua ‘trees’, there is something magical about the sun setting over the rocks. There is no place like Joshua Tree; the national park has a small fee to enter, but it’s totally worth it. There are also designated spots you can park your car and elope, or you can go off the beaten path and choose your own location for ceremony and celebration.

PIONEERTOWN

Located before Joshua Tree, this small town offers the appearance of being in the middle of nowhere. Yet, there are few venues here to give you that desert style. Even though this is away from the Joshua Tree National Park, there are still some cool rock formations and trees. Some venues here are Ruin the Venue and Rimrock Ranch. For a fun celebration head to Pappy and Harriet’s in Pioneertown. It is a well-known desert destination for good barbecue and great live music, popular by the locals; an ideal space for couples that is looking for a laid back wedding with a fun, bohemian style; dancing under the endless sky of stars is a must!

KORAKIA PENSIONE, PALM SPRINGS

For those wanting a classic touch to the desert scene, head over to Palm Springs Korakia Pensione. A historic, Moroccan Villa will take you away to Morocco for the weekend. The 1.5 lush acres, consists of bungalows, guest houses, gardens and pools; which can be exclusively rented out for weddings. The property features gorgeous Moroccan fountains and a stone waterfall spread across the main courtyard area; a memorable mediterranean experience for a small elopement.

GLAMIS SAND DUNES
About 2 hours east of San Diego, you can find actual sand dunes that look like Morocco, its pretty amazing! You can view a elopement style shoot I shot there here. For those seeking a intimate location for just the two of them or a small group, this is perfect!

Ways to make it epic!

LOCATION—

Pick a location that reflect you two, or that is a favorite. If you can scope it out so you can get an idea of how it looks and look or elopements shots there.

CREATE TIMELINE—

What are you envisioning? Will be it just you two or a small group or family & friends? What time will sunset be that day? About 1-2 hours before sunset is best time to shoot. Permits- most San Diego locations need a permit if it is a smaller group. Book any vendors you may want, such as make-up/hair + florals.

CELEBRATE!

Whether is a intimate ceremony of two or a small group, the day should be celebrated! There are many good restaurants in the SD. Bring some champagne or cake to you location!