Elopement Locations Near San Diego, CA

I love living in San Diego, one of the best things about living here is the ability to head to the ocean, the desert, and the mountains (all in one day if you really wanted)! The next best thing? The weather!! We get sunshine and clear skies pretty much year round , making it the perfect candidate to have your elopement in or near San Diego.

If you’re in the planning process of dreaming up your elopement take a look at my list of elopement worthy locations that are near/in San Diego!

Mount Laguna

Mt Laguna

Only a 48 minute drive from Downtown San Diego and you’re immediately transported to a wonderland of trees, hiking trails, and meadow galore! This is my go-to place it has accessible locations that are just a few steps from the parking lot, or if you’re more adventurous there are tons of amazing hiking trails with killer views (The PCT- Pacific Crest Trail actually runs through here). A notable feature of Mount Laguna is that not only is it a mountain wonderland but it also features killer viewpoints of the Anza Borrego desert making it the perfect place to finish off the day overlooking the blazing red sunset.

Palomar Mountain

Palomar Mountain State Park

Palomar is also a great choice for a mountain setting. It features a sweeping meadow lined with pines, a large pond, and wonderful hikes. Intimate ceremonies are magical here!

Bonus: you can camp here and end your night with a celebratory bonfire and s’mores while having your first dance under the stars! If you are looking to camp it’s best to reserve a site ahead of time, the group sites are perfect for a celebration after your ceremony to host friends and family.

Permit: You’ll need to acquire a permit ahead of time, get in direct contact with the Park at 760-742-3462 .

Sunset Cliffs - Ocean Beach

Sunset Cliffs

This is probably the most popular location for elopements and with good reason! It’s perfect because you can have a small ceremony on top of the coastal cliffs/bluffs while overlooking the ocean. There are also arches and keyhole arches that make for dramatic photos-which I love!

Lake Cuyamaca - Julian

Lake Cuyamaca - Julian

Have your ceremony overlooking the lake at sunrise or sunset, walk through the meadows, and beautiful trails, and then head to town to celebrate with fresh pie and cider! Trails are easily accessible and you can even bring your pup along!

Permit: For elopements just pay the day use parking fee (about 10 dollars)

Coronado Beach

Coronado Beach

This location is a classic San Diego beach with the famous Coronado hotel in the background. I personally enjoy shooting at this beach because you can get up close to the water and also shoot with the “small sand dunes” that are here too!

7. La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores

Perfect for those staying in La Jolla or at the classic Valencia Hotel, enjoy a small beach ceremony with sandy coves, and admire the sea lions (from a safe distance of course!).

Solana Beach

Solana Beach

If you’re looking for a larger group ceremony you can opt for using the Fletcher Cove Community center (you do need to book in advance to reserve). Or if it’s just a two person elopement you can go down to the main Fletcher cove beach and have it on the sand.

Other Location Ideas…

Imperial Sand Dunes

Imperial Sand Dunes (Glamis)

This is probably the furthest location on the list, definitely not near San Diego but this place is something else! You can share your vows overlooking a sea of dunes that go on and on, celebrate with a picnic, or finish off the day by renting ATVS or a Polaris and zip through the dunes for a major thrill!

You’ll want to go to Hugh T. Osborne Lookout Park, this is where I go, it’s basically a viewpoint that gives you access to the dunes, it has pit toilets, and parking. The dunes that are here are easily accessible I’d recommend a sunrise ceremony to avoid any drivers interrupting on the dunes! Keep in mind that people are often on atv’s and off road vehicles zip through the dunes so be aware of your surroundings. Drivers tend to leave behind tire marks in the sand, if you’re looking for dunes that are “fresh” or not so marked, you can walk down the hill about a 10-15 min walk from the parking for more secluded dunes.

Also, this location can be very windy so be up for the adventure!

More Elopement Location Ideas:

• Ramona Grasslands Preserve - Near Julian, has an open meadow with a big oak tree perfect for a spring or summer elopement when the tall grass is at it’s peak.

• Laguna Beach - Just a bit shy north of Oceanside, Laguna beach makes for a great elopement location with it’s stunning coves and turquoise waters!

• Fiesta Island - could be the right fit for you, it’s right against the San Diego bay waters, dog friendly, and you could pull up your car for grilling and a bonfire.

• Oceanside Pier or Harbor

• Balboa Park allows (small elopements) to take place in the Rose Garden or Alcatraz Garden. A great option if you wanted to incorporate the rest of the park for portraits.

Start Planning

The hardest part will be deciding what kind of adventure you want for your elopement experience, hopefully by now you are excited to start planning your elopement day at one of these amazing locations near San Diego! Cheers xx

Hey there! I’m Nelly

YOUR SAN DIEGO PHOTOGRAPHER

READY TO CAPTURE YOUR LOCAL SAN DIEGO ELOPEMENT? AWESOME! REACH OUT AND LET’S CHAT.