A Dreamy Sunset Cliffs Elopement in San Diego | Kathy & Scott’s Romantic Day
If you’ve ever dreamed of exchanging vows with the waves crashing below you, golden cliffs glowing behind you, and the sun melting into the ocean as you celebrate with champagne and charcuterie—Kathy and Scott’s San Diego elopement is the kind of magic you’re going to want to bookmark.
These two flew in from Colorado to celebrate their love in one of the most iconic and romantic spots in Southern California: Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. Their day was intentional, emotional, joyful, and full of thoughtful touches—proving that an elopement can be just as meaningful (if not more!) than a traditional wedding day.
First Look at Sunset Cliffs
Kathy and Scott started their elopement with a heartfelt first look at Sunset Cliffs, one of the most stunning oceanfront elopement locations in San Diego. With the Pacific Ocean stretching behind them and the wind catching Kathy’s dress just right, the moment was pure magic. Their reactions were emotional and beautiful—exactly the kind of first look every couple hopes for.
There’s something about Sunset Cliffs that naturally slows everything down. The sound of the ocean, the golden light reflecting off the sandstone, and the feeling of being tucked into a pocket of nature in the middle of a vibrant city—it’s an unforgettable place to begin your forever.
Tearful Vow Exchange by the Cliffs
Just steps away from their first look, Kathy and Scott found a quiet spot to share their vows privately. Their words were full of raw emotion, happy tears, and the kind of laughter that comes from deep connection.
If you’re planning a Sunset Cliffs elopement, this is one of the best parts—there are plenty of tucked-away spots along the cliffs for a peaceful, intimate ceremony without the need to hike far or worry about big crowds.
A Luxury Picnic Celebration with a View
After their vows, Kathy and Scott celebrated with a beautifully curated luxury picnic by San Diego Picnics—a perfect example of how to elevate your elopement experience. The picnic included:
- Fresh florals
- A cozy lounge setup with pillows and blankets
- Elegant low-table dining with candles and a personalized sign
- A refreshing pitcher of lemonade
- The dreamiest charcuterie board
- And the cutest heart-shaped cake from Violet Cake Company
It was the perfect way to pause, soak in the joy of the moment, and celebrate just the two of them with the ocean as their backdrop.
Photos at Osprey Point & Along the Cliffs
We wandered together through some of my favorite Sunset Cliffs photo spots, including Osprey Point, where the textures of the rocks and views of the waves below made for some cinematic portraits. As their San Diego elopement photographer, it’s always such a joy to guide couples through hidden gems along the coast that give us beautiful variety without needing to travel far.
Every little detail—from the way Kathy and Scott held hands to how they laughed with ease—felt effortless and joyful.
Hiking, Champagne, and Golden Hour at Torrey Pines
To wrap up the day, we headed north to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, where they popped champagne on the cliffs and soaked in the golden light of sunset. With the ocean breeze swirling around them and views that stretched for miles, this moment was one of their favorites from the entire day.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we ended their elopement with lantern photos—a romantic and whimsical way to close out a day that was entirely and perfectly them.
Planning Your Own San Diego Elopement
Whether you’re flying in like Kathy and Scott or you’re a local couple looking for a non-traditional way to say “I do,” San Diego is one of the best places to elope. With its incredible natural beauty, variety of coastal and cliffside locations, and dreamy sunsets year-round, you truly can’t go wrong.
Top Tips for Eloping at Sunset Cliffs
- Time your ceremony with the tides & sunset. Sunset Cliffs lives up to its name, and golden hour here is unmatched.
- Get your permit. Elopement ceremonies (even small ones) require a permit from the City of San Diego. I help all my couples with this!
- Weekdays are best. The cliffs can get crowded on weekends, so choose a weekday for a more intimate experience.
- Wear comfy shoes for the rocky terrain. You’ll be glad you did.
- Add a picnic or adventure element. Whether it’s a styled picnic, a hike, or a post-vow surf session, make it yours.
San Diego Elopement FAQ
Do you need a permit to elope at Sunset Cliffs?
Yes! Even small ceremonies require a permit. I guide all my couples through this process to make it easy and stress-free.
What time of year is best to elope in San Diego?
San Diego is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall tend to have the best balance of light, temperature, and fewer crowds.
Can we bring a picnic or cake?
Absolutely! Kathy and Scott’s luxury picnic and heart-shaped cake were highlights of the day. Just make sure to clean up after to leave no trace.
How long should we plan for our elopement day?
I always recommend 4–8 hours depending on how many locations and activities you want to include—like a first look, hike, picnic, or sunset photos.
What’s included in your elopement packages?
All of my San Diego elopement packages include planning help, timeline creation, location scouting, permit guidance, drone coverage, GIFs, and storytelling photography.
Let’s Plan Your Sunset Cliffs Elopement
If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable San Diego elopement, I’d love to help you bring it to life—from finding the perfect spot on the cliffs to curating a timeline that feels true to you.
Kathy and Scott’s day is proof that you can skip the big venue and still have a day filled with beauty, emotion, and unforgettable moments.
📍Only 15 couples per year. Let’s make your elopement wildly you.
👉 Inquire here to start planning your Sunset Cliffs elopement.
