If you are getting married and are wondering where to elope, you should definitely consider the Oregon Coast! From rugged cliffs overlooking the ocean to cozy forests, this place has it all. There’s a lot that can go into planning an elopement but this Oregon Coast elopement guide is here to help answer all your elopement planning questions!
Choose Your Oregon Coast Elopement Location
The Oregon Coast is full of so many gorgeous locations to choose from! While it may be hard to narrow it down, my advice is to think about what scenery you like. What kind of backdrop do you envision? Jagged rocks, smooth beaches, ocean-carved arches? Thankfully, the Oregon Coast has it all.
You’ll also want to consider where you will be staying and where you will be traveling from. While most locations will require some driving, choosing a place to stay that is near your ceremony or portrait location will help cut down on travel time throughout the day.
Another thing that can help you narrow down your locations is considering what activities you would like to do on your day. Whether you want to go on a hike or take a stroll on the beach, these can also help you when choosing your location.
Top Locations for Eloping on the Oregon Coast:
- Hug Point
- Distance from Portland: 1hr 30m
- Closest City: Cannon Beach
- Cape Kiwanda
- Distance from Portland: 1hr 50m
- Closest City: Pacific City
- Neskowin Beach/Proposal Rock
- Distance from Portland: 2 hrs
- Closest City: Neskowin
- God’s Thumb
- Distance from Portland: 2 hrs
- Closest City: Lincoln City
- Secret Beach
- Distance from Portland: 6 hrs
- Closest City: Brookings
Obtain the Proper Permits & Marriage Licenses
Most areas on the Oregon Coast do not require a permit for ceremonies under 50 people. Once you decide on a location you will still want to do some research as this information can change at any time. If this seems overwhelming though, don’t worry! I help all my couples with permit research to find out if one will be required for your elopement.
To legally get married in Oregon, you will need an Oregon marriage license. Once you’ve decided on a location, you can visit the county’s website to find the specific information to obtain your marriage license. Most counties have an online application form you can fill out and submit with an application fee. All Oregon marriage licenses have a 3-day waiting period before the license becomes effective after which they are good for 60 days. Make sure you give yourself enough time to pick up your marriage license before your elopement, otherwise you will need to pay an additional rush fee.
Oregon also requires an officiant and two witnesses to be legally married. If you don’t plan on having any other guests, I am happy to be either your officiant or sign as one of the witnesses! Another vendor or nearby person can act as a second witness. In my experience, people are always happy to help out!
Decide what Activities You Would Like to Include
When choosing to elope, there are so many activities that you can incorporate into your day to make it more personal. Think about what activities you like to do together or what activities you like to do for fun. How could you incorporate what you love to do into your elopement? Is there a new activity that you have always wanted to try together? Below are some fun activities that you could incorporate into your elopement day on the Oregon Coast.
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Horseback riding
- Bonfire on the beach
- Wine tasting
- Dune buggy riding
- Bike riding
- Private chef diner
- Relaxing in a hot tub
- Having a picnic
The options are endless!!
Choose Your Oregon Coast Elopement Vendors & Lodging
Elopements can be a little different when it comes to choosing vendors. The good news though is that you can customize this as much as you want. You can choose to keep things simple or add in as many traditional vendors as you would like.
Oregon Coast elopement vendors to consider
- Elopement Photographer
- Elopement Videographer
- Florist
- Hair/Makeup Artist
- Catering/Baker
- Decor Rentals
- Elopement Planner/Coordinator
- Picnic Setup
When choosing where you want to stay for your elopement, there are a few things to consider. Think about how far away your lodging is from your ceremony location. I suggest keeping your drive no more than an hour away.
Also, think about what you will be using the space for. Will you be using it for getting ready? Will you be having dinner there after? Make sure the space matches your aesthetic and vibes especially if you will be having some of your professional photos done at the lodging.
The Oregon Coast is such a beautiful location choice for your elopement! Whether you are looking for rugged coastlines or cozy forest vibes, there are so many incredible places to choose from.
As an Oregon Coast elopement photographer, I would love to capture your elopement and help you plan your special day! Part of what I offer to all my couples is help with finding the perfect location, getting any required permits, sending vendor recommendations, helping choose activities, and planning out timelines.
Ready to start planning the most perfect day on the Oregon Coast? Reach out now!
