SAN DIEGO ELOPEMENT & WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
So you’ve decided you wanted to have your dream elopement in sunny & beautiful San Diego! The idea of eloping may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! I’ve created an easy guide below to help you! Let’s get started!
How to Elope in San Diego
With its dreamy beaches, stunning parks, and jaw-dropping coastal views, San Diego sets the stage for the ultimate intimate elopement. But hold your horses, folks! Before you dive in headfirst, read my tips on how to elope in San Diego. Because let’s face it, this is a moment you’ll be bragging about for years to come, so let’s make sure you nail it.
Aside from spilling the tea on the perfect timing to say “I do” in this sunny city, I’ll dish out the absolute best elopement spots. Plus, I’ve got the inside scoop on snagging permits and all the details to ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.
So, read on, and I’ll help you make your San Diego elopement something you’ll cherish forever!
Choose the Best Time to Elope in San Diego
San Diego is an amazing place to elope, but nailing the season is crucial, given the city’s varied climates. Dodge the gloomy June weather, avoid tourist peaks, and aim for those mild temperatures to ensure optimal conditions for your special day.
Check out my season breakdowns below to help you snag the perfect date for your epic elopement.
ELOPING IN SAN DIEGO DURING THE WINTER
Who says winter’s a no-go to elope in San Diego? With its year-round chill vibes, you’re in luck. Since winter is not a popular time for elopement, you can easily snag your dream elopement location and vendors on a budget. And with fewer elopements happening this time of the year, you’re more likely to have your friends and family present. Just watch out for holiday travel clashes when picking your date!
December and February are excellent choices, but with Christmas parties and Valentine’s events happening this time, elopement locations are limited and often at inflated prices! January and November are your sweet spots. They still have that magical ambiance of the holiday season but without the high price tags.
ELOPING IN SAN DIEGO DURING THE SPRING
Spring is all about fresh blooms and dreamy vibes, making it a prime time for elopements in San Diego—especially outdoors! This is an ideal time if you’re into soft hues and pastels. After chilly winter weather, your guests will be excited to attend your sunny celebration.
April’s a good time, but with the occasional rain, it may not be ideal for outdoor elopements. May’s also an excellent time to elope. However, with Mother’s Day, prom, and more, plan your dates well and expect some floral splurges. But despite the cost, those blooms are worth the splurge!
ELOPING IN SAN DIEGO DURING THE SUMMER
Summer is the perfect elopement season in San Diego. The weather is warm but not scorching, with gorgeous evenings. Flowers are still blooming, and outdoor elopement locations are even more stunning. And since it’s the summer break, your squad’s got no excuses to miss your elopement.
With seasonal blooms and tasty treats galore, summer is an incredible time to elope in San Diego. Just beat the rush by booking early. But trust me, it’s all worth it!
ELOPING IN SAN DIEGO DURING THE FALL
Fall is a favorite time to elope in San Diego! Who doesn’t love the cozy vibe or those toasty hues with a hint of crispness perfect for fireside snuggles? Plus, those warm florals and foliage? And let’s not forget the autumnal treats! But beware – it’s a peak season for elopements, so snagging elopement locations and vendors might be trickier. Oh, and watch out for Halloween and other celebrations that could clash with your dates.
BEST TIME OF THE DAY
For a serene coastal elopement in San Diego, mornings offer tranquility. Late afternoon to early evening is also ideal, with mild weather and stunning sunset vistas, perfect for outdoor ceremonies. Sunset timing varies by season, with some spots offering better views for those enchanting elopement photos.
Decide on the Perfect Location
Once you’ve nailed down your San Diego elopement date, it’s time to hunt for that perfect elopement location. Lucky for you, San Diego’s bursting with fantastic elopement spots, giving you loads of options. To simplify your search, I’ve handpicked a few top recommendations for you.
Here are some ideas to consider:
BLACK’S BEACH
Nestled beneath rugged cliffs, Black’s Beach offers a breathtaking backdrop for a coastal elopement. Its secluded setting and stunning ocean views create an intimate and romantic atmosphere. While events with over 25 attendees require permits, smaller elopements may not need one. Couples can exchange vows against the crashing ocean waves and golden sands, capturing unforgettable moments.
BALBOA PARK
Renowned for its enchanting gardens and stunning architecture, Balboa Park is an ideal elopement spot in San Diego. Here, you can exchange “I dos” amidst the lush greenery or the backdrop of ornate Spanish-style buildings. While permits are necessary for large celebrations, small elopements typically don’t need one. Couples can exchange vows in this picturesque setting without worrying about bureaucratic hurdles, making Balboa Park a dreamy location for an intimate and memorable ceremony.
WINDANDSEA BEACH
If you’re looking for a romantic backdrop for beach elopements in San Diego, Windansea Beach is an ideal spot. With iconic surf breaks and stunning coastal cliffs, it’s perfect for intimate ceremonies and breathtaking photoshoots. If you’re planning a small elopement celebration in Windansea, you typically don’t need a permit. Exchange vows with the crashing waves as your soundtrack, creating unforgettable memories against the backdrop of one of San Diego’s most beautiful beaches.
GLAMIS SAND DUNES
Glamis Sand Dunes, situated in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area near San Diego, boasts a surreal desert landscape, perfect for couples looking for a stunning backdrop for their elopement. Exchange vows amidst the vast, golden dunes, creating a truly unforgettable elopement experience amidst a breathtaking landscape. Note that permits are necessary for events exceeding 75 attendees.
DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
Located east of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Death Valley National Park features dramatic desert vistas and unique geological formations of salt flats and sand dunes. It’s another elopement spot to consider if you want to exchange vows amidst an incredibly stunning backdrop. Take note that you need a permit for elopements in national parks. You must submit a Facility and Park Use Permit application 14 days before your elopement date.
BIG BEAR LAKE
Big Bear, nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains near San Diego, offers a picturesque elopement setting. The serene lake, surrounded by towering pine trees and mountain vistas, provides a romantic backdrop for exchanging vows. Permits are necessary for ceremonies in public areas, but private elopements may not require one. At Big Bear, you can enjoy a tranquil and intimate elopement ceremony surrounded by the beauty of nature in this charming mountain retreat.
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK
Located east of San Diego, Joshua Tree National Park offers otherworldly desert landscapes and iconic Joshua trees, making it an enchanting elopement spot. As mentioned, permits are necessary for elopements in a national park, so you must apply for one if you want a ceremony in Joshua Tree. Whether it’s the backdrop of rugged rock formations or the vast desert expanses, you’ll have plenty of incredible options to exchange vows in Joshua Tree National Park.
MOUNT LAGUNA
Mount Laguna, nestled in the Cleveland National Forest near San Diego, offers breathtaking mountain vistas and tranquil pine forests, making it a stunning elopement spot. While permits may be necessary for ceremonies in certain areas, many secluded spots allow for intimate gatherings without permits. Whether it’s a rustic woodland ceremony or a mountaintop affair, Mount Laguna provides a romantic and secluded setting for couples seeking an unforgettable elopement in San Diego.
Making it Legal to Elope in San Diego
Securing a permit or marriage license is necessary before sealing your love at one of San Diego’s stunning elopement spots. If you’re not a resident, navigating the process might seem daunting, but fear not – it’s simpler than you think.
SAN DIEGO MARRIAGE LICENSE
Before you have your ceremony, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license! To obtain a marriage license, you’ll need to first book an appointment at the San Diego County Clerk’s office. Here is the link to book an appointment online! Appointments are available up to 7 weeks in advance.
Next, you’ll need to complete the Marriage License Application which will be reviewed at your appointment. Here is the link to the San Diego Marriage License application!
Both of you must be present at your appointment. Bring valid and current government-issued photo IDs, your completed application, and $129 payment.
Once you receive your marriage license, you’ll have 90 days to complete your ceremony within the state of California. Have a witness from the ceremony sign the license, and you’re all set to elope!
After you complete your ceremony, sign and submit your marriage license, then you can request a copy of your marriage certificate here!
Book your Travel to San Diego
To get to San Diego for your elopement, you can fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN) or consider driving if you’re within a reasonable distance. Alternatively, Amtrak and Greyhound offer train and bus services to the city.
If you’re coming from neighboring cities, you can also opt for commuter trains or buses. Once in San Diego, you can use rental cars, rideshare services, taxis, and public transportation such as buses and trolleys to get around. Always check travel advisories and plan for the most convenient and comfortable elopement journey.
Fun Things to Do When Eloping in San Diego
One thing that makes San Diego a popular choice for elopements is couples have plenty of opportunities to bond before and after the elopement, as it’s bursting with romantic adventures.
Start your day with a sunrise stroll along the iconic beaches, hand in hand, as you watch the sky transform to hues of pink and orange.
If you’re feeling artsy, explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Balboa Park, where you can admire beautiful architecture, stroll through lush gardens, and discover eclectic museums. Don’t forget to capture those precious moments with a photo shoot against stunning backdrops like Sunset Cliffs or the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Indulge your taste buds with a food tour, sampling local delicacies from trendy food trucks to upscale restaurants. And when the sun sets, dance the night away under the stars at a beach bonfire or rooftop bar, toasting to your love with craft cocktails and live music.
What to Pack When Eloping in San Diego
When packing for your San Diego elopement, start with the essentials, such as your attire for the big day. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days and layers for cooler evenings, as temperatures can change. Don’t forget swimwear and sunscreen for beach outings!
Since San Diego is known for its outdoor beauty, pack hiking shoes or sandals for exploring trails and flip-flops for sandy beaches, and don’t forget sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to shield from the California sun.
Ensure you have proper identification and any required documents for the marriage permit. If traveling from outside the United States, don’t forget your passport and secure the visa, if necessary.
Lastly, pack a sense of adventure when eloping to San Diego. The city is full of surprises and unexpected delights, so embrace the journey and make unforgettable memories with your partner as you embark on your elopement adventure in one of America’s most beautiful cities!
SAN DIEGO ELOPEMENT PACKING LIST SUMMARY:
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Swimsuits
- Sunglasses
- Hiking Shoes
- Sandals / Flip Flops
- Wedding Dress/Suit in a garment bag as a “personal item” carry-on
- Photo Identification
- Marriage License & Permit
Book your San Diego Elopement Photographer
As your elopement photographer, I will help you navigate all the above steps! In addition to capturing every special moment on your elopement day, I also provide timeline creation & management, an informative guide, personalized planning, permit assistance, location scouting, unlimited communication, sneak peeks within 48 hours, optional officiant services, and all photographer travel fees covered! Let’s start planning your San Diego elopement today! Contact me here!
