25 Places in California to Get Married
California truly has it all when it comes to deciding where to get married in California. There’s so many different locations from the beach, in the mountains, in the forest, in the desert, or in a city. Not to mention all the National Parks and State Parks throughout California too; you really do have so many incredible options!! Making sure you know all your options is why this guide was created on where to get married in California from sharing locations, activities to do, answering FAQs, and more! Get ready to say absolutely fall in love with this beautiful state.
Where is California?
California is on the west coast right up against the Pacific Ocean. California also touches Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon.
Why You Should Get Married in California
California is beautiful with beaches, mountains, desert, and cities. It has it all! Southern California is known for being sunny and warm throughout the year, while Northern California experiences seasons with a bit more of snow in the mountains in the winter and leaves changing color during the fall.
FAQS About Getting Married In California
Do I need to live in or be from California to get a marriage license? Nope! You do not need to be a resident of California to get a marriage license from California. The marriage license is only good for the state of California though.
How much does it cost to get a marriage license in California? The cost depends on the county you get married in in California. After attaining your marriage license, you have 90 days to get married. Be aware that each county in California has a different marriage license, so be sure to double check which county you will be getting married in.
Can we have a family member or friend perform the ceremony in California? Yes! That family member or friend must be deputized prior to perform a wedding ceremony. They can apply in person or through mail. Once the application and the payment fee goes through, the applicant will get sample vows, instructions on how to complete the marriage license, and the commission certificate.
Do we need a witness? In California, one (1) witness must sign the marriage license. A witness can be a guest, a vendor, or you can ask a stranger that is hanging out near your ceremony. I’m always happy to sign your witness paper if you do not want any guests present at your elopement in California too!
Best Location in California For a Wedding
*All locations are in order of Northern California to Southern California.
Beach Elopement Locations in California
San Fransisco
Big Sur
San Luis Obispo
Santa Barbara
Malibu
Los Angeles
Catalina Island
Laguna Beach
Mountain Elopement Locations in California
Lake Tahoe
Yosemite National Park
Mammoth Lakes
Big Bear Lake
Mount Laguna
Desert Elopement Locations in California
Death Valley National Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Palm Springs
National Park Elopement Locations in California
Please note that most National Parks requires a permit to get married in. You can go to the National Park Service website here to further research what the permit process looks like since it’s different for each park.
Redwood National and State Parks
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yosemite National Park
Sequoia National Park
Kings Canyon National Park
Pinnacles National Park
Death Valley National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
The Best Time Of Year To Elope in California
California has a variety of different climates and temperatures given at any time of year. However, the best time of year to elope in California is from February to May and September through November, which is the off-season. Prices are low, crowds are minimal, and, for the most part, the weather is nice.
Avoid the busy summer months (June through August) if possible. This time of year is when the prices are the most expensive, more crowds, and has the worst traffic.
Keep in mind that California has very different weather throughout the year. Southern California is popular for being sunny and warm throughout the year, while Northern California experiences seasons a bit more with snow in the mountains in the winter and leaves changing color during the fall. Be sure to do your research during the month you’re planning on eloping in or ask your elopement for the best time of year in specific locations.
Activities to Do on Your Elopement Day
- Go on a hike. There are lots of short and easy trails or there are more challenging and longer hikes! Even if you’re by the beach, there’s typically walking paths to explore too.
- Spend the day on the water. Whether you choose to rent a boat, a kayak, or a canoe, you can spend your day out on the water either on the Pacific Ocean or by a nearby lake near your location.
- Go to a local brewery or a winery. There are always breweries and wineries to choose from almost no matter where you go.
- Have a picnic lunch. Picnic companies are gaining popularity, so you’ll most likely be able to find one nearby! The picnic company usually sets up a spread for you and your partner – whether you want it up on a short hike or by a lake.
- Go skiing or snowboarding or snowshoeing. This is obviously an activity for the winter time, but a go-to classic for a winter mountain elopement.
- For the history lover, stay on or near a historic site to explore. There is SO much history in California from Native American history to the Mexican influence to the Gold Rush to Hollywood and more.
- Go check out live music. No matter what type of music you’re into, there’s a place for everyone! A lot of the time, there is live music at bars, lounges, music clubs, etc.
- Explore the local area. Go sightseeing and hit the tourist spots, eat at a nice restaurant, and be present in the moment together.
California Wedding and Elopement Photographer
Well hey there – if you didn’t know me already, I’m Emily! I’m a California and Destination wedding and elopement photographer based in Southern California. I spend a lot of time photographing adventure elopements of rad couples around the world. I love all things elopements, being out on the water, outdoor adventure, and am truly so grateful that I get to call this my job!!!
If you’re looking for a photographer for your California elopement who will:
- Photograph your beautiful California elopement ceremony and activities through storytelling photos that you can look back on for the rest of your life
- Help you come up with your dream elopement day and itinerary
- Help you find activities in the California area to make your elopement intentional, unique, and memorable
…then I’m your person!!!
Visit my website to learn more about me, get to know my approach to photography, and then reach out to me if you think we are a good fit. I cannot wait to hear from you and start planning your dream California elopement!!
Final Tips For Planning a Wedding In California
- Sunrise is the best time of day to have a ceremony to avoid crowds. A sunrise ceremony is also the best way to beat the heat during the warmer months and allows for less crowds.
- If you’re wanting a beach elopement, the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean which also makes for the best lighting for photos
- Should I Do a First Look on My Wedding Day? and Alternatives if Not
- How to Plan Your Dream Elopement: Advice from Someone Who Eloped
- All-Day Elopement Timeline Examples
