Best Elopement Locations on the Oregon Coast | Romantic Coastal Wedding Spots
Planning an elopement on the Oregon Coast? You’re in the right place! The Oregon Coast offers some of the most stunning and romantic elopement locations, with dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and enchanting forests. From iconic landmarks like Cannon Beach to hidden gems like the Neskowin Ghost Forest, this guide will help you find the perfect spot for your special day. As a wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing love stories at many of these breathtaking locations. I’m excited to share my insights and help you choose the ideal backdrop for your elopement!
Why Choose the Oregon Coast for Your Elopement?
The Oregon Coast offers a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and a sense of adventure that makes it a perfect choice for couples looking to elope. Here are a few reasons why you should consider eloping on the Oregon Coast:
Epic Scenery Around Every Corner
From dramatic cliffs to misty forests and tidepools teeming with life, the Oregon Coast is like stepping into a nature documentary. Whether you're drawn to the windswept beaches of Cannon Beach or the mossy trails near Cape Perpetua, the landscape alone makes every photo feel straight out of a dream.
Privacy Without Compromise
Unlike more crowded elopement spots, the Oregon Coast offers a sense of seclusion that’s hard to find elsewhere. With miles of coastline and lesser-known beaches, it's totally possible to find a private place to exchange vows—even during peak season. You'll get the romance without the spectators.
Perfect for Adventure Lovers
If hiking in your dress or popping champagne on a cliff’s edge sounds like your kind of celebration, you’ll feel right at home here. The coast is filled with trails, tidepools, and hidden coves that are perfect for couples who want their wedding to double as an adventure.
Gorgeous in Every Season
While most wedding destinations have a sweet spot, the Oregon Coast stuns year-round. Moody skies in the winter, wildflowers in the spring, foggy mornings in the fall—it all adds a cinematic quality to your photos. And the unpredictable weather? That just adds character (and the best windswept hair).
Best Elopement Locations on the Oregon Coast
Cannon Beach & Ecola State Park
Cannon Beach and Ecola State Park are among the most iconic spots on the Oregon Coast, known for the towering Haystack Rock and expansive sandy beaches. The area offers a magical setting for elopements, combining coastal beauty with lush, forested backdrops in Ecola State Park. The park provides dramatic ocean views, forest trails, and hidden coves, perfect for adventurous couples. Whether you want sunset photos on the sand or a private ceremony among the trees, this location delivers an unforgettable experience. To enjoy a more intimate elopement, avoid the busy summer months when tourists flock to this picturesque destination.
Cape Kiwanda (Pacific City)
Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City is a stunning elopement location with a mix of unique sandstone cliffs, towering dunes, and powerful ocean waves. This dynamic landscape is ideal for adventurous couples looking for a mix of beach and cliffside scenery. The towering sand dunes provide an incredible vantage point for sweeping views of the coastline, offering fantastic opportunities for one-of-a-kind photos. Cape Kiwanda’s raw and rugged beauty makes it a perfect choice for couples who want their elopement to feel like a true adventure.
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (Brookings)
The Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a must-see for couples seeking rugged coastal scenery and epic elopement photos. This scenic corridor stretches along 12 miles of the coast, featuring sea stacks, hidden beaches, and lush forests. Secret Beach and the Natural Bridges are two standout spots that offer dramatic views and a sense of seclusion. The area’s untouched beauty and sense of adventure make it a dream location for elopements, especially for couples who love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Hug Point State Recreation Site
Hug Point State Recreation Site offers a beautiful and unique elopement location for couples seeking a mix of beach and natural elements. This spot features a waterfall cascading onto the beach, rocky caves to explore, and picturesque coastline views. It’s perfect for couples looking to incorporate a sense of wonder and romance into their elopement. Planning your ceremony during low tide allows you to access all the site’s natural features, adding variety to your elopement photos and ensuring a magical experience.
Cape Perpetua (Yachats)
Cape Perpetua in Yachats is a hidden gem on the Oregon Coast, offering a dramatic landscape that feels like a natural wonderland. It’s home to Thor’s Well, a fascinating natural feature that creates an illusion of the ocean draining into the earth. The area also boasts old-growth forests, rugged cliffs, and tide pools teeming with marine life. For couples who want a mix of forest and coastal views, Cape Perpetua offers the best of both worlds. The ideal time to visit is during high tide when Thor’s Well is most active, adding an extra touch of natural drama to your elopement.
Neskowin Ghost Forest
The Neskowin Ghost Forest offers a surreal and magical elopement location for couples looking for something truly unique. At low tide, ancient tree stumps, estimated to be over 2,000 years old, emerge from the sand, creating a hauntingly beautiful setting. This location is perfect for couples who want an elopement with a moody, otherworldly vibe. Winter months are the best time to visit, as the stumps are more visible due to seasonal changes in the sand levels, offering a rare and enchanting experience.
Bandon Beach
Bandon Beach is known for its iconic rock formations, such as Face Rock, and its stunning sunsets. It’s a quieter alternative to Cannon Beach but offers equally dramatic coastal backdrops for your ceremony and photos. The beach’s expansive shoreline and unique rock features make it a versatile location for elopements. Whether you want photos against the silhouette of the rocks at sunset or with the waves crashing behind you, Bandon Beach provides a serene and captivating setting for your special day.
Manzanita Beach
For a laid-back and charming elopement experience, Manzanita Beach offers a beautiful and less crowded alternative to more popular destinations. The beach features wide, sandy stretches with stunning views of Neahkahnie Mountain. It’s an excellent spot for couples who want a mix of coastal and mountain scenery. The nearby town of Manzanita also adds to the charm, offering quaint cafes and boutique shops to explore before or after your ceremony, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed and romantic elopement.
Otter Rock & Devils Punchbowl
Otter Rock and Devils Punchbowl offer a natural rock formation as a unique backdrop for your elopement. The Devils Punchbowl is a naturally formed bowl in the rocks where waves crash and swirl, creating a dramatic and mesmerizing view. The area is perfect for adventurous couples who want their elopement to feature the raw power of the Pacific Ocean. Early morning or sunset elopements are ideal here, as the light creates a magical atmosphere and helps avoid crowds, ensuring your ceremony feels private and special.
Oregon Coast Elopement FAQs
What is the average cost of an elopement on the Oregon Coast?
The cost of an elopement on the Oregon Coast can vary widely, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on permits, photographer, accommodations, and any additional services.
Do I need a permit to elope on the Oregon Coast?
Yes, many state parks and public beaches require a permit for elopements, especially if you’re bringing in vendors or setting up decorations. Check with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department for specific requirements.
What is the best time of year to elope on the Oregon Coast?
The best time to elope is typically late spring through early fall when the weather is mild and more predictable. However, winter elopements can offer a moody, dramatic feel and fewer crowds.
Oregon Coast Wedding Photographer
Hi, I’m Kelsey Layman, the owner of Kelsey Layman Photography! I specialize in capturing intimate and candid moments for elopements and weddings. My style is timeless and authentic, and I love helping couples feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera. I’m here to guide you through your elopement day, from choosing the perfect location to capturing every beautiful moment.
Oregon Coast Wedding Photography Packages
I offer customizable elopement photography packages to suit your needs. Whether you’re planning a quick, intimate ceremony or a full-day adventure, I’ll be there to document your story with care and creativity. Contact me today to learn more about my packages and how I can help make your elopement unforgettable!
Make Your Oregon Coast Elopement Unforgettable!
Eloping on the Oregon Coast offers endless possibilities for creating a magical and memorable day. With its stunning backdrops, adventurous spirit, and a mix of serene and dramatic landscapes, the Oregon Coast is an ideal destination for couples looking to celebrate their love in a unique way. Whether you envision saying your vows with waves crashing behind you, under a canopy of ancient trees, or against a backdrop of rugged cliffs, this coastline has it all.
As your wedding and elopement photographer, I’m here to not only capture these moments but also guide you through the entire process. My goal is to make you feel comfortable, help your vision come to life, and provide you with a gallery of photos that truly tell the story of your day. I’d love to connect with you, learn more about your elopement plans, and help you create memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to Elope on the Oregon Coast? Contact Me Today!
If you’re ready to start planning your dream elopement on the Oregon Coast, I’d love to be part of your journey. Contact me today to discuss your vision, get personalized location recommendations, and learn more about my photography packages. Let’s make your elopement day as beautiful and stress-free as possible!
