Top 10 Oregon Coast Elopement Locations
You've finally taken the leap to ditch the traditional wedding and create an intentional elopement day of your dreams. Now where to do it?!
In my years of being an elopement photographer in Oregon, Ive done plenty of exploring (how could I not?!) and I've curated a list of the sweet spots for the adventurous wedding.. There is an abundance of beauty from the Oregon Coasts crashing waves and rugged cliff sides, to Portlands mossy forests and quirky neighborhoods, all the way to the high desert and even higher peaks. There are so many great elopement options but here are my choices for the top 10 Oregon Coast elopement locations.
What are the best months to elope in?
The Oregon Coast can have some pretty intense weather involving gusting winds and king tides. To elope in a calmer climate I would suggest choosing a date close to summer beginning in May. June-August should great you with plenty of sunny days and are perfect for beach days. The only downside would be more crowded beaches.
Early fall can also be a beautiful time at the Oregon Coast, just prepare for colder nights and know that rainy season is approaching.
Check out the graphs below to see annual Canon Beach weather.
Graphs from weatherspark.com
Oregon Coast Locations
North to South
Ecola state park takes you on trails through the trees that lead to viewpoints and beaches like Indian Beach (4.3mi)and Crescent Beach(2mi.). Its just north of Canon Beach and won't disappoint those who want both the forest and beach views.
2. Cannon Beach
Cannon beach is one of the most popular elopement locations on the list and for a good reason. You can see the iconic Haystack Rock for miles of hiking along the beach so although its a tourist destination, you will have plenty of space to set up an intimate wedding ceremony. After eloping, head to the town to celebrate with some ice cream from Schwieterts Cones and Candy or a brew from Pelican Brewing
3. Hug Point
Hug Point is such a unique location. As you walk along the beach you will find a small waterfall pouring from the hills that glows in the setting sun. Make sure to go at low tide if you want to reach the waterfall. Walk a bit further to climb some rocks for a beautiful ocean view or explore the small caves amongst the rocks.
4. Cape Kiwanda
As the sun begins to set before the Cape Kiwanda cliffs, the rocks turn to a beautiful warm hue that just feels..right. This is on the top of many couples lists and as an Oregon elopement photographer I can see why. The rugged cliffs create a dramatic effect and the crashing waves compliment them down below. The lollypop loop is short and sweet at 1 mile long.
5. Gods thumb
Gods thumb is located in Lincoln City and gives off some serious otherworldly and LOTR vibes. Its lush greenery seems to mimmic the ocean below creating a wave shaped hill. Its 4.3 miles and a bit of a climb at some points but definitely worth the journey in this interesting landscape. Make sure to park in the correct location since there has been some confusion about where the trail begins in the past.
Smugglers cove, also known as short sands beach, is a surfers paradise and a beach you will find plenty of solitude at for your elopement on the coast. It's a short walk through the woods to the beach and hugged by two cliff sides. If you walk to the far end of the beach you will be treated by a gushing water flow that spills right into the ocean. Perfect.
7. Hobbit Beach
Hobbit beach is another short (1 mile) hike from the parking lot to the ocean. The trail is a mossy wonderland which includes a bushy tunnel that you walk through to the coast. From sandy, to rocky ground, this beach is another beautiful location to get married at. Situate yourselves in front of large tree covered hills or with your toes dipped into the ocean because with elopements- anything goes!
8. Oregon Dunes
If your looking for something a little softer than the rocky Oregon cliffs, the Oregon Dunes may be what you're looking for. Starting in Florence Oregon, the rolling sand dunes are a sight to behold. Shaped by wind and waves, there is a feeling of transience and change as you walk along the sand. If you are searching for activities, there is no shortage of ATV rentals. For the more monstrous dunes head down to Winchester Bay.
Banana Belt Loop is a fun one because its commonly explored by fat tire bikes. You start at Cape Sebastian Corridor and make your way down the coast exploring tide pools at Myers beach and stopping along the way for whatever you fancy. Its a great way to scope out multiple spots in one journey and to spot your perfect elopement location. Don't have a bike? Check out Newport Rentals on your way down the coast!
10. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
The last location on the list and one of the dreamiest portions of the Oregon Coast in my opinion. Its a 12 mile stretch filled with gems like the Secret Beach and Arch Rock. One place that elopement photographers and couples seek out most is a place called Natural Bridges. There is a rout to the viewpoint and a rout to the arch. Getting to the arch is a steep trail with drop offs so making sure to go on a dry day with proper shoes and mindset is extremely important.
These are just a handful of spots that highlight Oregons beautiful coastline. You'll be sure to get an amazing sunset and memories for years to come. Remember, lots of areas in the state require a permit to elope, but on the coast there's no need as long as you aren't setting up chairs or any structures. Pretty perfect if ya ask me.