Choosing the Oregon Coast for your elopement or small wedding
Those who know me know that I’m constantly drawn to the allure of the Oregon Coast. I can’t resist the old growth forests, imposing black and red rocks, stormy waves, and romantic rolling grass fields. If you time your visit perfectly, you’ll almost certainly catch a glimpse of elk, and even the occasional sunbathing seal. Born and raised in Portland, I spend every summer escaping the city’s heat all up and down the coast. Now, as an elopement and wedding photographer, it’s my very favorite place to bring couples.
Whether you’re from the Pacific Northwest or you’re planning on traveling here for your elopement, you’ll find that there’s a location just for your vision.
Where to elope at the Oregon Coast
Elk Flats
If you’re dreaming of Ireland, but it’s not within budget, I’m going to recommend Elk Flats. The view down to the crashing waves, black rocks, and grassy fields are the perfect duplicate. The hike down to the view can get a little muddy and tricky, so I don’t recommend this spot if you want to have several guests. But it’s the perfect location to either privately exchange vows or do portraits before your ceremony.
Cannon Beach
Home to Oregon’s iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is one of my favorite locations. It’s close to Portland, for those who don’t want to stray too far from the airport. The town of Cannon Beach is also full of darling cafes, art galleries, breweries, and spaces to hang out during rainy days (which are typical at the Oregon Coast, no matter the time of year). The beach is also located at the foot of Ecola State Park, which offers misty forest trails and expansive views perfect for a ceremony and portraits.
Tunnel Beach
Literally located on the other side of a rocky, narrow tunnel, this beach feels so private. It’s also the perfect location for those looking for the moodiness of black rock surroundings.
Neskowin and surrounding areas
Those looking for soft, romantic, flowing grassy fields can find them all up and down the northern Oregon Coast. My personal favorite is Bob Straub State Park, but these pockets can be found in a few different locations. You can mix and match vibes, or spend the whole day basking in these fields.
Florence, Oregon
Home to the Heceta Head lighthouse, Oregon’s famous dunes, and charming old town Florence, this area is the perfect base to explore varying landscapes – from the dunes that inspired the book series, Dune, to massive rock formations and private coves.
The Southern Coast and Redwoods
One of the most well-known locations, for a reason, is the Southern Oregon Coast, which offers rocky coastlines as well as access to the area’s Redwoods forests. If you’re envisioning a mix of huge old growth forests as well as some of the state’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, the Southern Oregon Coast is likely what you’re looking for.
Other popular locations
There are so, so many spots along the coast that will serve every type of vision. If you’d like a more comprehensive list, or are interested in jamming on ideas with someone, let’s get in touch.
Getting to the Oregon Coast
Depending on where you’re traveling from, the best bet is to fly into PDX and rent a car. Public transportation to the coast is sparse, especially if you’re planning on visiting multiple locations. If you’re traveling during the summer, make sure to book all of your lodging ahead of time. The coast is extremely popular for folks who want to escape the heat during the warmer months.
The weather
Regardless of the time of year – even in the dead of summer – there is no getting around the chance of rain. That said – I absolutely love rainy elopements and can help you plan for ways to stay comfortable, find alternative venues, and embrace the look and feel of a rainy elopement. With a little bit of hardiness and a sense of adventure, a wet day at the coast can be an absolute blast.
That said, the best time of year to plan your elopement is from June through October. The chances of rain in summer are lower, and in the fall you’ll see an incredible transition in scenery.
Legally getting married in Oregon
To legally get married in Oregon, you and your partner will need to apply for a marriage license in any Oregon county. Both applicants must appear in person, be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if 17), and bring valid photo ID. Once issued, the license has a three-day waiting period before it becomes effective, though some counties allow you to waive this for a small fee. Make sure to take that into account when you’re traveling!
Once obtained, the license is valid for 60 days. To finalize the marriage, an officiant authorized in Oregon must conduct the ceremony and file the signed license with the issuing county.
Marriages in Oregon also require the signature of two witnesses over the age of 18. If you’re hoping to keep your union as private as possible, I’m happy to help find witnesses outside of your friends and family. I’m also ordained and can serve as your officiant, or as one of your witnesses (although do note that I can’t do both).
