An elopement deserves a setting as unforgettable as the moment you say “I do,” which is why I’ve put together a list of amazing spots to elope in Northern California. It’s filled with a range of terrains, from beaches to national parks and forests that stretch all the way to the Oregon border.

In my recommendations, I include places to stay, activities to enjoy, and extra hikes to check out. Plus, I’ve noted the closest airports to each location to make your planning a bit easier if you’re flying in.

Why Elope in Northern California?

Northern California is kind of the whole package when it comes to elopements—think redwoods, coastlines, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and foggy magic straight out of a fairytale. Whether you’re into hiking boots or barefoot beach vows, I’m sure there’s a spot that’ll fit your vibe. It’s also full of hidden gems that feel wildly private, even when they’re not far from the road. As a queer photographer who’s worked in NorCal, I can tell you that this region has a special kind of magic that makes it feel like your own little world for the day. And that’s what eloping is all about, at the end of the day!

What to Know About Eloping in Northern California

Before getting into all that this region has to offer, there are a few things to keep in mind to make your Northern California elopement go smoothly:

• Permits can take time. Many parks and natural areas require a special use permit for ceremonies, and the process can be a little tricky or slow. Always check with the specific location and give yourself plenty of time to apply (sometimes even a couple of months in advance!).
• Seasons matter. From wildfires in late summer to heavy snowfall in the mountains, Northern California has some serious seasonal shifts. Always check weather conditions and road closures—especially if you’re heading into higher elevations.
• Cell service can be spotty. If you’re eloping somewhere remote (which, let’s be honest, is part of the charm), download maps ahead of time and make a plan for how to meet up with your photographer or any guests.
• Leave No Trace is a must. For the record, Leave No Trace is a must anywhere you go. This area is full of sensitive ecosystems, so staying on trails, packing out all trash, and following park rules helps protect the places we love.

Read More: Leave No Trace Guidelines for Elopements

Read More: How to Elope: The Ultimate Guide

Epic Places for Your Northern California Elopement

Okay, now to the fun stuff. Here are some of the most epic places to elope in Northern California!

1. Sierra Buttes

Located in Tahoe National Forest, just a couple of hours from Reno, the Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail is a 4.8-mile out-and-back hike with views of lakes and even the Sacramento Valley on a clear day. 

You can start your day with a soak at nearby Sierra Hot Springs, hike up to exchange vows at the lookout, and then celebrate with food and a local beer at The Brewing Lair in Blairsden. 

For accommodations, you can stay at The River Pines Resort or go more rustic at Camp Dream Catcher, which offers both camping and RV-friendly stays.

Closest Airports: Reno-Tahoe International (RNO) and Sacramento International (SMF).

2. Point Reyes National Seashore

Just north of San Francisco, Point Reyes is the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a nature documentary, if you ask me. It has a beautiful coastline, dramatic cliffs, forests, and wide-open beaches—basically a little bit of everything. 

For the campers-at-heart, there are some beautiful backcountry campsites (hello, under-the-stars kind of night), but reservations are a must—either 3 months or 14 days in advance, depending on the site. And because this is part of the National Park System, permits are essential, and they can take a bit of time to secure, so plan ahead.

Not into camping? Stay nearby at Danehill Manor, where you can literally ride horses in your wedding attire (yes, seriously). After your ceremony, toast with something sweet at Heidrun Meadery—mead made from honey and coastal flowers? Sounds pretty good to me.

Closest Airports: Sonoma County Airport (STS) or San Francisco International (SFO).

3. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

If redwoods are your dream elopement backdrop, but you’d rather skip the more crowded or permit-heavy national parks, Humboldt Redwoods State Park might just be the place for you. I like this Northern Californian elopement spot because it gives you that classic, jaw-dropping redwoods feel without quite as many hoops to jump through.

A good hike to include could be the High Rock River Trail. You can then end your evening cozied up by a fire at Hidden Springs Campground, or if camping isn’t your thing, check out Miranda Gardens Resort. They’ve got charming cabins and plenty of suggestions for how to keep the adventure going post-ceremony.

Closest Airports: Humboldt County (ACV) or Sacramento International (SMF).

4. Schooner Gulch State Beach

If you’re into hidden gems and weirdly cool natural wonders, Schooner Gulch State Beach is a must. Just south of Mendocino near Point Arena, this spot offers the magic of cliffs and coasts. But that’s not all—just a few moments away is also Bowling Ball Beach. Yes, the rocks literally look like giant bowling balls, scattered across the shore. Keep in mind that low tide is pretty much non-negotiable if you decide to visit here!

For places to stay, Coast Guard House Historic Inn & Cottages offers adorable ocean-view cottages in Point Arena, with local seafood recs if you’re craving crab after your ceremony. Or, check out Oz Farm for something a little more unique—they’ve got yurts, domes, cabins, and you can even host your elopement there.

Bonus: The Pelican Bluffs Trail is a nearby, super scenic add-on if you want to sneak in an easy hike.

Closest Airports: Santa Rosa (STS) or San Francisco (SFO).

5. Burney Falls

Imagine this: you and your partner exchanging vows with a big waterfall as your backdrop. Burney Falls, located in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, is the ultimate dream spot for nature-loving couples. It’s…wait for it…a 129-foot waterfall. It’s also easily accessible via a short 1-mile loop trail.

After your vows, head over to The Fall River Hotel, a quiet retreat nestled between mountains, to unwind. 

Closest Airports: Medford (MFR) or Reno-Tahoe International (RNO).

6. Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon is really special, with ferns lining the canyon walls, creating an almost out-of-this-world backdrop for your Northern California elopement. I like that you have multiple options to hike either the short 1-mile loop or a more adventurous 11-mile trail to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center. How magical would it be to get married and be enveloped by ferns at the same time?

Keep in mind that this park requires timed entry permits, so be sure to plan ahead to secure your spot. Another stunning location nearby is the Big Tree, which (you guessed it) is a massive tree that could also serve as a fantastic ceremony backdrop. After your ceremony, head down to Gold Bluffs Beach and Campground for a quiet, beachside retreat, or stay at View Crest Lodge, a cozy spot perfect for getting ready or unwinding post-celebration.

Closest Airports: Eureka (ACV) or Medford (MFR).

7. Trinidad Head Lighthouse

Located in the cutest town of Trinidad, this spot offers a perfect mix of serene beaches, views, and a touch of history. Start your day with coffee at The Beachcomber, stroll along Trinidad State Beach, and then head up to the Trinidad Head Lighthouse for a stunning ceremony with panoramic views of Trinidad Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

After your vows, you can end the night with a delicious treat from The Lighthouse Grill. On the menu? A range of classics and more unique options—mashed potatoes served in a savory waffle cone, anyone? 

Closest Airport: Eureka (ACV) 

8. Castle Lake

Located in Shasta-Trinity National Forest, one thing I like about Castle Lake is how it gives you both mountain and lake views without needing a big hike to get there—it’s peaceful, scenic, and just the kind of place where it feels like time slows down. 

If you’re up for an adventure, you can also hike the 10.2-mile out-and-back trail from Mount Bradley to Castle Lake or go for a shorter hike to Heart Lake nearby for some beautiful views of Castle Lake. 

You’ve got options for staying the night, too. The Castle Lake Campground, for example, is great for classic camping under the stars. If you’re looking for something a little more comfy, Mount Shasta Resort has cabins with mountain views that are perfect for unwinding after your elopement. And if you want something even more unique, check out Jubilee Railroad. It’s a one-of-a-kind converted train car accommodation just a short drive away.

Closest Airports: Medford (MFR) or Redding (RDD) 

9. Trees of Mystery

Tucked into the heart of California’s Redwood Coast, the Trees of Mystery provides an unforgettable, out-of-the-box way to elope and explore the forest. One of the coolest things? You can walk high up on the canopy trail or take a gondola, called the SkyTrail, through that same canopy. In my opinion, this is a pretty epic way to soak in views from above during your elopement, whether it’s before, during, or after. I mean, how often will you be able to say “I do” while up in the trees? You can then stay nearby at Motel Trees. 

Closest Airports: Eureka (ACV) or Medford (MFR) 

10. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen is one of those places that is a total surprise. It’s got everything: steaming geothermal vents, clear alpine lakes, quiet meadows bursting with wildflowers in the summer, and a feeling of total seclusion. You’d think more people would be talking about it! If you’re into the idea of eloping somewhere that feels a little off the radar but still stunning, Lassen might just be your place.

There are easy trails if you’re keeping things lowkey, or you can hike out to Bumpass Hell (the name’s a little dramatic, I know) with an awesome boardwalk trail through bubbling pools and vents. 

One thing to keep in mind is the snow—this area stays snowy well into late spring, and the main road usually doesn’t open until around July.

For places to stay, there are some charming little cabins and campgrounds nearby. You can try the Mill Creek Resort, which has vintage cabins just outside the park’s southwest entrance. Another option is the Highlands Ranch Resort, a boutique lodge with beautiful meadow views and an on-site restaurant.

Closest Airports: Redding Municipal Airport (RDD) and Reno-Tahoe (RNO).

Bonus: Big Sur

While technically in Central California, Big Sur is one of those places that instantly takes your breath away, so much so that I had to add it as a bonus option on this list. 

When I first visited Big Sur, I was struck by its raw beauty and the sense of peace it offers. When you drive along the highway, you have the Pacific Ocean on one side and redwoods on the other. Places like Garrapata State Park offer amazing coastal views, while Pfeiffer Beach, with its unique purple sand and iconic rock formations, provides an incredible setting for an elopement ceremony. For those who love a library vibe, you can also have a fun little ceremony at the Henry Miller Memorial Library!

For accommodations, Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn provides a charming experience that’s deeply connected to the area’s history. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, though, Post Ranch Inn is a bit more of an upscale retreat.​ You can also stay at Big Sur River Inn (they even have wedding/event packages).

Closest Airports: Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) and San Jose International Airport (SJC).

Ready for Your Northern California Elopement?

There is certainly no shortage of epic places to elope in Northern California. One of my favorite things about this region is just how diverse the landscapes are, offering something for different couples with a range of vibes and preferences.

If you’re feeling inspired by any of these spots and are ready to plan your elopement, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Don’t hesitate to reach out—let’s chat about your ideas, your story, and how we can make your day as special as it deserves to be!