The Complete Guide to

Eloping on the Oregon Coast

Updated for 2026-2027

I'm just going to say it. There is no place in the world like the Oregon Coast.

Now, does it have some similarities to the coast of Galway and Northern Ireland? Absolutely. It even makes me think of Iceland in so many ways. But the Oregon Coast stands alone in it's incredible accessibility, it's proximity to so many soulful coastal communities, and my favorite distinction - the fact that you can experience the breaking waves, rugged shoreline, misty sea stacks, sandy beaches, towering cliffs, hidden caves, rushing waterfalls and even thousands of acres of ANCIENT FORESTS simply by turning and walking a few feet in another direction!

There is no place on earth like Oregon, and quite possibly no one who adores it more than I do. ;)

Okay.. so that last claim isn't really quantifiable, but hey... how many people commute 5000 miles round trip to work BY CHOICE? *rasies hand* I do!!!!

Here's the thing... the beauty of this region isn’t just in the scenery; it’s in the way it makes you feel at home, at peace, connected, FREE... It's a part of the world that gives visitors that feeling of grounding and love that is exactly what you want on the day you start your married life together. It all sounds a little "woo-woo-ey", I know. And I'm sorry... but, I'm not wrong! :)

Choosing the Oregon Coast for your elopement is a decision you'll never regret.

I'm just a native PNW girl who has had to live in the south for decades, but I am crazy passionate about the magic of this place and I cannot wait to share it with you.

So let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan your unforgettable Oregon Coast elopement!

IN THIS GUIDE

Oregon Coast Elopement Checklist

Getting Here

The Best Places to Elope on the Oregon Coast

The Best Time of Year for Your Oregon Coast Elopement

Where to Stay

How to Legally Elope in Oregon

Our Favorite Oregon Elopement Vendors

Oregon Coast Elopement Photographer

Dramatic coastal landscape with crashing waves between rugged cliffs and tall evergreen trees along the Oregon coast.

Bride and groom sit together on a misty coastal cliff, wedding veil blowing in the wind, overlooking the foggy ocean.

1 Your Oregon Coast elopement checklist

(How to elope on the Oregon Coast)

1 - Start thinking about where and when

It's good to have some kind of idea what type of landscape and season you're looking for in the beginning. But you dont have to make any decisions before starting this processes with me. In fact, it's actually pretty exciting when you come into the planning process with big dreams and flexibility. I am going to match your dreams and ideas with a selection of beautiful places that are a great fit.

2 - Schedule a completely free consultation call

Every elopement I help plan is completely unique, which makes getting on a call together really important. We'll get to know each other a little bit, talk about the two of you and what your ideas are so far, and I'll explain my process and types of coverage. We'll even start a little of the planning! By the time you get off the call, you'll have a much better grasp on how to make this happen and how much help you're going to have. (Hot tip... the sooner you reach out, the sooner I can help!)

3 - Choose your location

If you're working with me, 'll send you specific location suggestions including details, links and photos, that fit everything you've told me about the kind of wedding day you want to have. All you have to do is choose the one that you love the most.

4 - Book your vendors

Other vendors are optional, but some examples of vendors that you might be interested in are: a florist, hair & makeup artist, cake artist, officiant or private chef.

5 - Secure your travel & accommodations

Book your flights or plan your road trip, find your rental car, and book a place to stay!

6 - Apply for any necessary permits

Some locations require a special use permit — but don't worry about researching this yet. I’ll help you figure this out based on your chosen spot and elopement details so that you don't have to.

7 - Apply for your marriage license

Oregon has a 3-day waiting period, so apply in advance or plan to arrive early. Worried you'll screw this part up? Don't worry! I'll send you a reminder email with step-by-step instructions on the day you are eligible to apply.

8 - Pack your bags

Pack your wedding attire, rings, personal vows, hiking boots, and everything else on your list. (Psssttt... I'll have a day-of packing list for you so you dont have to worry about that either!)

9 - Get married and throw yourselves a private dance party!

Soak it all in, breathe the salty air, cry a little (I'll totally do this for you if you're not a big crier..) and celebrate your unique love story in one of the most incredible places on earth.

LET'S START HERE

Bride in white gown and groom stand on coastal cliffside trail with ocean and mountain views on wedding day.

Bride and groom exchange vows on a dramatic coastal cliff overlooking a grey ocean on their wedding day.

A couple strolls hand in hand through a sunlit forest with tall trees and ferns creating a romantic woodland setting.

2 Getting to the Oregon Coast

(Travel tips for your Oregon elopement)

One of the best things about the Oregon Coast is how easy it is to get to—and how beautiful the journey is once you're on the road. Whether you're flying in or road-tripping from nearby states, getting here is all part of the adventure.

If you're flying in

Portland International Airport (PDX) is the most popular and accessible option. From PDX, it’s a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive to the northern and central Oregon Coast—perfect if you're eloping in places like Cannon Beach, Cape Kiwanda, or Oswald West State Park

For the southern coast (like Gold Beach, or Brookings), the smaller MFR airport (Rogue Valley International–Medford) will get you closer!

Renting a car

Having a car is essential—many of the most beautiful spots are remote, and you’ll want the freedom to explore. While traditional rental companies are available at all airports, I recommend checking out Turo.com. It’s like Airbnb for cars, with unique vehicles, great rates, and flexible pickups. (Be sure to check with your insurance company to see if you're covered, and always buy the rental insurance if you're not 100% certain you have coverage.)

It's always a good idea to rent an AWD vehicle in case we're going to be taking forest roads to your particular location. (Higher clearance is also a bonus and useful more than you might expect!) So keep that in mind when looking for a rental.

For couples who are driving

If you’re already in the Pacific Northwest (or love a scenic drive), Highway 101—the iconic Pacific Coast Highway—runs the full length of the Oregon Coast. It’s full of jaw-dropping views, charming towns, and countless places to stop and explore. You absolutely MUST drive this highway at least once in your life!

Two silhouettes sit on a cliff edge watching a golden sunset over the ocean horizon.

People walking together along a misty beach shore at sunset with waves crashing in the background.

A romantic beach wedding photoshoot with a couple embracing near rocky coastal cliffs and crashing waves.

A rustic floral bouquet with orange and brown roses rests on a dramatic coastal cliff overlooking crashing ocean waves.

Dramatic coastal cliffs rise above the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean along a rugged shoreline.

A couple in wedding attire sits together on a scenic coastal cliff overlooking dramatic ocean views and rocky shoreline.

A couple in wedding attire poses together on rocky cliffs overlooking a dramatic ocean coastline at sunset.

A romantic beach wedding photoshoot with rocky cliffs and ocean waves in the background.

A couple in wedding attire embrace on a misty beach at dusk with waves and rocky coastline in the background.

A couple stands together on a scenic forest path during their intimate outdoor wedding ceremony.

Scenic coastal landscape with dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean on a cloudy day in Northern California.

Silhouetted figures stand against a bright sunset sky at the beach with waves crashing in the background.

Newlywed couple sits together against dramatic dark rocky cliff face at sunset.

A romantic sunset photoshoot at a dramatic coastal rock formation with golden light streaming through the cliffs.

A couple shares a romantic moment on rocky cliffs overlooking dramatic ocean waves at sunset.

A couple in wedding attire poses on rocky coastal cliffs at sunset with ocean waves crashing in the background.

Silhouetted figures on a scenic beach at sunset with dramatic shadows cast across golden sand and rocky cliffs.

Close-up of bride and groom's feet standing in shallow water at beach during sunset wedding ceremony.

Couple walking along a misty beach shore with waves crashing against rocky outcrops in soft natural lighting.

A series of black and white coastal photographs showing dramatic rock formations and cliffs along a misty shoreline.

A couple poses with lanterns on a beach at dusk, surrounded by rocky cliffs and ocean waves.

A couple shares an intimate moment at sunset on a rocky beach as golden light illuminates the coastal landscape.

3 when to elope on the oregon coast

(What are the seasons like anyway?)

What time of year is best for an Oregon Coast elopement?

The Oregon Coast is spectacular year-round, each season offering something different. The temperature range for the entire year is only about 45 to 75 degrees, so the main difference isnt temperature as much as it is weather patterns and tourist vibes.

June through October are the most mild weather months, bringing more sun, less rain, and golden light. But it also brings the most tourists. :) Thankfully, the entire Oregon coastline is public land, so crowds in Oregon arent the same as crowds on say.. Florida beaches. I can always find a beach that I have almost entirely to myself, no matter what time of year it is. That doesnt mean the traffic on the 101 doesnt suck in the summer though.. ;)

(A little note about weather.. obviously rain is always a possibility in any season. The key to eloping ANYwhere is to embrace the elements. Fog? Yes please. Sun? Of course! Drizzle? Why not?? Most people come to the PNW for that moody backdrop anyway, because it creates an opportunity for artful, cinematic photos! Most days on the Oregon Coast bring a little bit of EVERYthing which is one of my favorite things about working here.

November through May: If you love the idea of having the coast almost to yourselves, consider eloping in the off-season. (Check out this stormy February elopement.) The misty mornings, dramatic waves, and cozy vibes make for an intimate and wildly romantic experience. Plus, vacation rentals are cheaper in the off season (helloooo insane beach house!) I will say that from November to early March, there are a lot more stormy days, so be sure your'e okay with that moody rainy vibe if you choose to elope during these months!

What day of the week should we elope?

I always try to book elopements Monday-Thursday. Eloping on a weekday is one of the best ways to enjoy privacy and an stress-free elopement experience together. Eloping on Monday-Thursday means more privacy, easier parking, and a much more intimate atmosphere.

With that said, if weekends are your only option, you better believe I'll show you all of my favorite places that are a little off the beaten path so you can enjoy some privacy too! :)

*tip - It's not uncommon for some small businesses like wineries and restaurants to be closed on Mondays, so if you're thinking of incorporate a winery visit or if you have another specific business in mind, check to see if they are open on the day you want to elope! Of course, I'll check this for you if I know your preferences before we choose a date.

Should we have our ceremony at sunrise or sunset?

Aaahhhh... the golden hours for elopement photos. Mornings bring tranquility, soft light, and solitude... perfect for those who want an intimate and peaceful start to the day. But I have to say that sunset elopements are my favorite. We are on the west coast after all! It's really hard to beat sunsets here.

Another thing I love about sunset elopements is the opportunity for dark sky/star photos when the sky is clear. When you book a full day, we have time to relax by a beach fire after the sun goes down, waiting for those stars to come out. It's one of my favorite parts of the whole thing!

Tides are extremely important to understand when you have an Oregon Coast elopements

Thankfully, I've got you! :) There are places you can't even access during certain tides. And more seriously, there are beaches and coves that are absolutely beautiful, but where it is very easy to get trapped by a high tide if your timing isnt right. (Oregon also has "king tides" which can be extremely dangerous and require knowledge and caution.)

This is all part of the planning and timeline creation process that I do for every couple. Part of my job is making sure your day is amazing from start to finish.. and that definitely includes making sure you don't miss out on all of your favorite spots because you didn't know to plan around the tides!

4 the best places to elope on the oregon coast

(from north to south)

Watercolor map of Oregon state highlighting Portland's location in the northwest corner with a decorative star marker.

Northern Oregon Coast

From Astoria to Nehalem. An easy drive from Portland and plenty to explore. This is a busier region, especially in the summer.

HIGHLIGHTS: ASTORIA, ECOLA STATE PARK, CANNON BEACH, ARCADIA, HUG POINT, ARCH CAPE, OSWALD WEST STATE PARK, NEHALEM, MANZANITA

Astoria

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

This charming port city sits at the northern tip of Oregon where the Columbia River meets the Pacific. Full of history, waterfront views, and iconic film locations—perfect for a quirky, artsy vibe.

Ecola State Park

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

Ecola State Park is a coastal dream with sweeping views of sea stacks, forested cliffs, and the iconic Cannon Beach coastline. With easy trails and dramatic overlooks, it’s perfect for couples who want a mix of adventure and classic Oregon beauty.

Let me show you an elopement in Ecola State Park.

Bride and groom walking on a rocky Pacific Northwest beach with dramatic cliffs and evergreen trees in the background.

Cannon Beach/Haystack Rock

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

Cannon Beach is one of Oregon’s most iconic coastal spots, known for its wide sandy shoreline and the towering Haystack Rock rising from the waves. It’s a dreamy, easily accessible location that’s perfect for a romantic stroll and sunset portraits. However, it's very busy in the summer season, so I only recommend eloping here in the off season (fall-spring).

Couple holding hands walking on Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock in the background on a sunny day.

Couple sharing a romantic kiss on the beach with iconic Haystack Rock in the background at Cannon Beach, Oregon.

Couple sharing a romantic kiss on a misty beach with iconic sea stacks rising from the ocean at Cannon Beach, Oregon.

Couple in wedding attire holding hands on sandy beach with iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, Oregon.

Arcadia

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

Arcadia is a great spot for a combination of wide open beach and really cool rock formations. It's also a great alternative to Hug Point when the tide is high since it's accessible in any tide.

This couple had their ceremony at Arch Cape, and took couple photos at Arcadia and Elk Flats.

Bride and groom stand on coastal rocks with ocean waves and blue sky backdrop in a romantic beach wedding photo.

Hug Point

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

Hug Point State Recreation Site, located just south of Cannon Beach, USED to be a hidden gem along the northern Oregon coast. It's grown in popularity over the years however, and for good reason. At Hug Point you'll see a waterfall, sandstone caves, and tide pools assuming you go at low tide. In fact, this spot isnt even accessible at high tide so precise planning is required. (You're probably figuring this out by now, but I'll make sure our timing is right!)

Bride and groom hold hands near a dramatic rocky sea cave on a pebble beach during their elopement.

Bride and groom hold hands near a rocky waterfall on a beach, wearing wedding attire in an outdoor elopement setting.

A bride and groom share a romantic kiss on a rocky Pacific coast beach with misty ocean waves in the background.

Arch Cape

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

One of my favorites. Arch Cape is a quiet spot south of Cannon Beach with beautiful bluffs, a creek that runs into the ocean, and giant seastacks and caves. It also has really easy beach access, perfect for guests who need to avoid stairs to access the beach.

Couple in wedding attire embracing on a misty Oregon coast beach with dramatic sea stacks in the background.

Oswald West State Park

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

This is one of my favorite areas on the northern Oregon coast. Elk Flats, Cape Falcon, and Short Sand beach are all places that make you stop and ask yourself if what you're seeing can possibly be real.

Nehalem:

REGION: NORTHERN OREGON COAST

This is one of my favorite little towns on the coast. Rent kayaks or SUPs, take a pottery lesson, enjoy a tasting at the Nehalem winery, get matching tattoos, play at a pinball arcade or try the best local ice cream and chowder. Just 10 minutes from the coast and so much small town charm.

Combine Nehalem with Oswald West for a full day of stunning Oregon beauty.

Watercolor map of Oregon state in teal green with Portland marked by a star icon in the northwest region.

Lower Northern Coast

From Pacific City to Newport. Still an easy drive from Portland with the best waterfall and a secret beach full of seastacks

HIGHLIGHTS: CAPE KIWANDA - NESKOWIN GHOST FOREST - ROAD'S END - DRIFT CREEK FALLS - YAQUINA BAY - DEVIL'S PUNCHBOWL

Neskowin Ghost Forest

REGION: lower NORTHERN COAST

This is one of the most unique places on the Oregon Coast. At low tide, you can walk out onto the beach and see barnacle-encrusted stumps appearing above the waves, relics of a prehistoric forest buried long ago by encroaching sand. It feels a little eerie, a little magical, and completely unlike anywhere else.

Pair it with Proposal Rock (right nearby) and it’s an incredible spot for a slow morning, exploring, or even a really moody elopement moment.

(photo from google)

Road's End

REGION: LOWER NORTHERN COAST

When I first found this area I felt like I shouldn't tell anyone who didn't already know. It seemed like a secret that I wasnt meant to find. This cove has rock formations that rival those of the southern coast. You just have to see a spot like this to understand the feeling it brings. Accessible only at low tide.

Dramatic rocky coastline with waves crashing against rugged cliffs and sea stacks along the Pacific Ocean shore.

A couple in wedding attire holds hands on a sandy beach with dramatic rock formations in the background.

Two silhouettes embrace on a rocky beach at sunset as golden light streams through coastal cliffs.

Rugged coastal rocks and cliffs emerge from the misty ocean waves along a dramatic shoreline at sunset.

A bride in a flowing white gown stands on rocky coastal cliffs at sunset while a silhouetted figure watches.

Silhouetted couple embracing on rocky coastline during golden sunset with crashing waves in background.

A couple in formal wear embraces on a scenic beach surrounded by dramatic rock formations and ocean waves.

Romantic couple embracing on a misty beach at sunset with dramatic rock formations in the background.

Couple shares romantic sunset moment in wedding attire along rocky coastal shoreline with crashing waves and dramatic lighting.

A couple walks along a dramatic rocky beach with towering sea stacks in black and white.

Two people walking on rocky coastal shore with dramatic sea stacks and crashing waves at sunset.

A couple in wedding attire shares an intimate moment on a rocky beach during their coastal ceremony.

Dramatic coastal sunset over rugged ocean cliffs with golden sunlight streaming through clouds and crashing waves below.

A romantic beach wedding photo session at sunset with glowing lanterns and rocky coastal backdrop.

A couple embraces on a rocky beach at sunset with waves crashing in the background.

Drift Creek Falls

REGION: LOWER NORTHERN COAST

This spot requires a 45 minute drive inland, but the pay off is so worth it. After hiking for about an hour through peaceful forest, you reach the most incredible suspension bridge and waterfall where you can climb the rocks and wade in the water. This is one of those places you just want to bring a book a stay all day.

Bride and groom walking hand in hand through a lush forest path surrounded by tall trees and ferns.

Bride and groom walk through towering redwood forest on their wedding day.

Bride and groom stand on a wooden suspension bridge surrounded by tall evergreen trees in a lush forest setting.

A wooden suspension bridge with cable railings leads through a lush green forest with tall evergreen trees.

Bride and groom sitting on a fallen log in a forest with a waterfall in the background.

Groom embraces bride in a white lace gown on a wooden suspension bridge amid a dense evergreen forest.

Wedding couple walks toward stunning waterfall surrounded by lush green forest.

Couple stands on rocky terrain beside a dramatic waterfall cascading down a rugged cliff face.

Couple in wedding attire sitting on mossy rocks surrounded by lush forest and rocky cliffs during outdoor elopement.

Sunlit redwood forest path with towering ancient trees, lush green ferns, and fallen logs in a misty woodland setting.

Bride in lace gown and groom in grey suit embrace among tall redwood trees.

Couple walks on a wooden suspension bridge surrounded by lush forest with a waterfall below.

Couple walking through lush green forest holding glowing lights in a magical woodland setting.

Watercolor map of Oregon highlighting Portland with a decorative star marker in teal and white tones.

Central Oregon Coast

Centered around the town of Yachats (pronounced YA-hots), this area will require a longer drive from PDX, but man is it worth it! There are views and geological features here that will blow your mind.

HIGHLIGHTS: Thor’s Well, Cape Perpetua, Neptune Beach, Strawberry Hill

Panoramic view of rugged coastal cliffs with crashing ocean waves against rocky shoreline during stormy weather.

Panoramic view of a coastal property with multiple buildings and palm trees overlooking the ocean on a sunny day.

Vibrant pink wildflowers bloom against a misty mountain landscape with dramatic cloudy skies.

Dramatic coastal landscape with driftwood scattered along a misty Pacific Northwest beach at sunset.

Panoramic view of rocky coastal cliffs with crashing ocean waves and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.

Rocky coastal cliffs meet the crashing waves of the ocean on a dramatic shoreline.

A couple in wedding attire embraces on rocky coastal cliffs overlooking a misty ocean.

Panoramic coastal views along the rugged Oregon coastline with cliffs, beaches, and dense forest meeting the Pacific Ocean.

A couple shares a romantic moment in a lush garden setting surrounded by greenery and natural light.

Wedding couple walks through a lush forest path surrounded by tall evergreen trees and dappled sunlight.

A scenic coastal pathway winds through lush greenery along the water's edge on a sunny day.

A couple stands on a scenic coastal cliff overlooking mountains and ocean on their wedding day.

Misty coastal cliffs overlook a dramatic Pacific Northwest shoreline at sunset.

Dramatic rocky coastline with waves crashing against cliffs under a misty Pacific Northwest sky.

Couple walking along rugged coastline with mountains and ocean views on foggy afternoon.

Misty coastal landscape with couple embracing on grassy cliff overlooking the ocean.

Scenic coastal landscape with misty cliffs and crashing waves along the Pacific Northwest shoreline on a foggy day.

Silhouetted couple embraces on a hilltop during golden hour with dramatic sunlit clouds in the background.

Silhouetted couple embracing on a beach at golden hour with dramatic coastal cliffs in the background.

Newlyweds pose on rocky coastal cliffs with foggy ocean views in the background.

A romantic coastal wedding photoshoot along the rugged Oregon coastline at sunset with dramatic cliffs and ocean waves.

Wedding party poses near vintage truck on foggy coastal road with dramatic cliffside views.

Watercolor map of Oregon state in mint green with Medford city marker indicated in the southern region.

Southern Oregon Coast

(Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor)

Arguably the most beautiful part of the coastline because of the drama of the seastacks and rock formations here. But if you ask me, the biggest seller for this area is the easy access to the redwoods. If you dont want to drive down the entire coast to get here, fly into Medford instead of Portland.

HIGHLIGHTS: Lone Ranch beach, Pistol River, Indian Sands, Natural Bridges cove, Secret Beach, Jedediah Smith State Park

Indian Sands

REGION: SOUTHERN COAST(Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor)

Indian Sands is one of those spots that feels like a secret even when you're standing in it — a surreal stretch of wind-sculpted sand dunes and sea stacks tucked within Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor on Oregon's southern coast. The trail is short but opens up dramatically onto a bluff above the Pacific, where the views stretch endlessly in both directions and the landscape shifts between coastal forest, sandy outcroppings, and raw ocean cliffs. It's rugged and wild in the best way, with a feeling of real remoteness despite being just off the coastal highway.

A couple in dark formal attire stands on cliff edge overlooking dramatic rocky coastline and misty ocean view.

Two people stand on a scenic coastal trail overlooking rugged cliffs and the ocean in Northern California.

Natural Bridges Cove

REGION: SOUTHERN COAST(Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor)

This location became insta-famous several years ago and for good reason. However, the dangerous unmarked trail has undergone serious erosion (an all too common side-effect of internet popularity) and is no longer safe. There is now a sign posted that requests that people no longer go down to the bridge. I will mourn the day when this place is destoyed, so I no longer shoot here. However, there are tons of other stunning places in the area! Reach out and I'll show you!

Dramatic Pacific Northwest coastline with evergreen trees and rocky cliffs overlooking stormy ocean waves during overcast weather.

Secret Beach

REGION: SOUTHERN COAST(Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor)

It’s just a half-mile hike down to this must-see beach in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor. Once you reach the bluff overlooking the beach, there is a bit of a rock scramble down to the sand. This spot is best at a lower tide but still definitely worth visiting even if the tides don't line up for you!

A romantic sunset photoshoot at a rocky coastal beach with dramatic cliffs and ocean views.

Silhouettes against a misty coastal landscape with rugged cliffs and evergreen trees at sunset.

Couple embraces on a scenic beach with rocky cliffs and ocean waves during golden hour sunset.

Couple walking along a dramatic coastline with rocky outcrops during golden hour.

Couple splashing in ocean waves at sunset near rugged coastal rocks.

Sunset beach scene with waves crashing against rocky cliffs and warm evening light.

Two figures watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean from a rocky beach overlook.

Couple playing and laughing together on a misty beach with rocky cliffs in background.

Rocky coastal landscape at sunset with dramatic cliffs and ocean waves crashing against the shore.

A glowing campfire illuminates a secluded beach cove at dusk with dark cliffs and gentle waves in the background.

Jedediah Smith State Park

REGION: SOUTHERN COAST/NORTHERN CA

Just a short drive south of Brookings, this park is a stunning introduction to Northern California’s ancient redwoods. These are some of the tallest trees on earth. Just walking beside them is incredibly sobering. The fact that this can be combined with the southern Oregon Coast makes it an elopement spot that's hard to top!

Tip: A day-use parking fee applies. Permits are usually required for ceremonies, but not for photos.

A wedding couple stands among towering redwood trees in a lush forest, dwarfed by the majestic ancient giants.

A romantic wedding photoshoot among towering redwood trees in a misty forest setting.

A couple stands on a wooden bridge over a tranquil mountain lake with dramatic reflections and misty peaks in the background.

A couple shares romantic moments on a rocky beach surrounded by evergreen forest in the Pacific Northwest.

A couple in white wedding attire embraces in a lush forest, gazing upward with joyful smiles.

Two brides hold hands on a rocky shore surrounded by a serene river and lush evergreen forest on their wedding day.

Check out my map of favorite views, elopement spots, and places to stay or visit!

where to stay along the oregon coast

The place you stay sets the mood for your entire experience. So I think choosing a place that you really feel good in is something to prioritize for your elopement. Not everyone values the same thing when it comes to a vacation rental though. Do you want a place that feels secluded? Maybe tucked away in Oregon's coastline forest. Or maybe you want to be steps from the waves or on a lake with your own private dock. There are options with amenities like a pool, hot tub, sauna or private trails on site. There are places that are within walking distance of coffee shops and dog parks.

Look for a space that has lots of natural light. Beautiful design is wonderful, but without plenty of sunlight streaming through windows, the photos probably won't have the look you want. (Plus, natural light makes hair and makeup prep so much easier.)

If you plan to host a small dinner or celebration at your rental, double-check with your host about events. Sometimes listings say no parties allowed, but many hosts are flexible if you’re having a low-key gathering—usually under 10 guests. It’s always best to be upfront and let them know your plans to avoid surprises.

Bringing your dog? Make sure your accommodation is pet friendly. It’s easy to overlook this detail while organizing everything else, but ensuring your pets are comfortable and allowed will save you stress later.

Before booking, map out the distance from your lodging to your ceremony and photo locations. Of course, I'll help with this too!

All that being said, if you book with me before you book your stay, I'll be here to give suggestions that will make everything work together beautifully.

A few vacation rentals that we like along the coast

Astoria

Astoria Loft

Captain Johnson House in Downtown Astoria

Near Cannon Beach

Soapstone Woodland River Retreat (My absolute favorite stay ever.)

The Haystack Haus

Manzanita

Here's a list of several great rentals in Manzanita.

Fern Hook Cabins (for a very simple secluded nature vibe)

Chetco River View forest home

River Living Oasis - A-frame cabin

Beachfront Home with 3 bedrooms in Brookings

6 how to get your marriage license in oregon

Here are the basics on how to get your marriage license in Oregon. Let's work together so I can help with more detailed instructions as well as tips on how to make it much simpler - especially if you live out of state!

Q: Where do you get your Oregon marriage license?

A: You can get your marriage license at ANY County Clerk’s office in the state (it doesn't have to be the county where you get married.) The fee for your license varies depending on the county, but is usually around $60.

Q: Is there a waiting period for Oregon marriage licenses?

A: Yes! There is a 3-day waiting period before your license is valid. However, the waiting period can be waived by filling out an additional form and paying a rush fee of $10. This makes your marriage license effective immediately.

Q: What do you need to bring to the County Clerk's office when you apply for a license?

A: Unless you know how to get around this pre-elopement day trip to the county clerk, you'll both need to show up and bring the following:

your photo I.D.
mothers' maiden name
location where each applicant was born
social security number of each applicant
application fee

Q: How many witnesses do we need, and what if we are eloping alone?

A: Oregon requires that two witnesses sign your marriage license. If you dont have any guests with you, fellow hikers or beach goers are always happy to sign as witnesses!

Q: Do we need to hire an officiant?

A: If you want formal officiating services, then yes. (And I have several companies I can recommend!) If you would prefer a more private ceremony experience, where you exchange vows and rings without the traditional guidance of an officiant, I am ordained and can sign your license for you.