Elope in San Diego | Everything you need to know
Why Elope in San Diego
San Diego is a remarkable destination known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant attractions. The world-renowned San Diego Zoo is a highlight, home to thousands of animals and a commitment to conservation. Just a short drive away, the San Diego Safari Park offers an immersive experience of the world of animals in a more natural setting. In addition to its iconic parks and zoos, San Diego boasts beautiful beaches that have many different views and perspectives so each spot is different and unique. The blend of nature and culture in San Diego creates an incredible environment for both relaxation and adventure. So why wouldn’t you want to elope here right?!
Where to Elope in San Diego
Sunset Cliffs
Sunset cliffs are just as it sounds! It’s a beautiful place full of jagged cliffs and breathtaking views that overlook the ocean. Our favorite times to photograph elopements there are during sunrise and sunset. Imagine saying your vows in stunning golden light!
San Diego Safari Park
A safari park? Sounds crazy right?! But yep, you can elope there too! For all the animal lovers and adventure seekers the Safari Park is a stunning backdrop to any intimate wedding or elopement! You have a few ceremony sites to choose from and can have animal encounters the day you get married!!
Cabrillo National Monument
If you want views with a lighthouse in the background and have a love of history all in one place then the Cabrillo National Monument is the spot for you! A permit is required to elope and be married there but worth it. The area is very big so you don’t have to worry about crowds, and can have some incredible memories exploring this National Monument all while marrying your best friend!
Cleveland National Forest
Just an hour's drive from San Diego, Cleveland National Forest is a beautiful place to elope. There are tons of mountain views and a large variety of forests and lakes to explore. So if you booked an all-day elopement with us we could start at the beach and end with a magical sunset in the mountains!
Where to Stay in San Diego
Hotels
San Diego is known to get lots of visitors year round so they are not lacking in hotels by any means! If you want to stay at a remarkable spot right on the beach with TONS of history then Hotel del Coronado is the best place. It’s the ideal location if you want to add some pampering to your adventure and have extra activities to do.
Airbnbs + VRBO
There are tons of options to choose from when looking into Airbnb and VRBO. It all depends on your budget and the location you want to be in. The closer you are to the ocean the pricier it can get. Downtown San Diego can also be a fun spot to stay as you are close to a lot more attractions such as Little Italy, the Midway Museum, the Gaslamp District, and more!
Camping
Want to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean? Then camping is the thing for you! There are SO many great camping options in San Diego. From Camping on the beach to glamping in a cabin, there are lots of places to choose from. We especially love Hipcamp when looking into campsites.
When to elope in San Diego
The beautiful thing about San Diego is that it is in Southern California so the weather is almost always incredible!
Spring: This time of year it is occasionally rainy, but don’t worry because that’s what brings all the wildflowers! Temperatures can range from 60 to the low 70s (Fahrenheit).
Summer: San Diego in summer is exactly how you would imagine. Warm water and weather and the beaches are always full and lively! The colors of the vegetation are vibrant from the spring showers and there are plenty of opportunities for adventures!
Fall: San Diego doesn’t look much different in the fall. There may be a bit more of an overcast in the mornings but it burns off by late afternoon leaving a cool crisp in the air.
Winter: This is typically the “off-season” for San Diego. Fewer crowds and the beaches just have a different feel to them with a light chill to the air. This is also a great time to see Gray Whales migrating from Alaska and heading to Baja California, passing by San Diego during their journey!
Permits + Fees
Permits and fees depend on where exactly you want to elope as each location has its own set of rules and regulations. It is always important to plan ahead as some places can take 30-90 days for permits to go through.
California Marriage laws
You will need to go to a county clerk’s office to pick up and register your marriage license. California recognizes self-uniting marriage, it just requires two witnesses to sign the marriage license. Taylor and I are always here and ready to sign if you ever need a witness! If you want someone specific to marry you and your partner then you will want to make sure they get ordained ahead of time which they can just do online. If you have someone ordained who is going to marry you, you’ll just need one other person to sign your marriage license!
San diego elopement photographers
If we’ve convinced you to get married in the stunning, sunny San Diego, we’d love to document your elopement. If you are looking for an epic mountain or beach elopement adventure or maybe something with some animals on your wedding day than San Diego is your spot!
