If you’re dreaming about a secluded elopement in Big Sur, you’re probably not looking for crowds, timelines packed to the minute, or locations everyone on Instagram already knows by heart. You want space. You want the coast.

That’s exactly what this elopement was.

I met this couple during a fun elopement styled shoot in Big Sur, and from the start, it was clear they were down for a real adventure. The kind where you wear rain ponchos, dodge poison oak, and earn your view.

This blog isn’t just a recap of their day. It’s also a real guide for outdoorsy couples who want a quiet, low-key, and meaningful elopement in Big Sur without dealing with heavy permits or packed viewpoints. I’ll walk you through how this day unfolded, what worked, what to watch out for, and whether a spot like this is right for you.

If you’re planning a secluded elopement in Big Sur, this will help you decide if this style of day fits you.

Why Big Sur Is Still Worth It for a Secluded Elopement

Let’s get this out of the way. Big Sur is popular. Very popular. On busy weekends, Highway 1 can feel more like a slow-moving parade than a scenic drive. Some of the most well-known pullouts and trails are crowded from sunrise to sunset, especially during peak months like May through October.

But here’s the thing most people don’t tell you. Big Sur is long. And layered. And full of spots that you only find after scouring satellite images on Google Maps and exploring the area on foot.

If you’re willing to:

• Wake up early
• Walk farther than most people want to
• Accept fog, wind, and imperfect weather
• Trust someone who knows the area

You can still have a secluded elopement in Big Sur that feels private and calm.

This couple understood that from the start. They didn’t want the easy option. They wanted something quiet, even if it meant dealing with a few challenges along the way.

Starting the Day at Bixby Bridge at Sunrise

We started the day early at one of Big Sur’s most iconic places: Bixby Bridge. Sunrise is one of the only times you can experience this spot without crowds parked along the side of the road. Even then, it’s never empty. But it’s manageable.

The morning we met was foggy. Thick fog. The kind that moves fast and changes the mood every few minutes. Some couples worry when they see fog in the forecast. This couple leaned into it.

Fog in Big Sur is normal. According to NOAA data, coastal fog is most common between late spring and early fall, especially in the mornings. It’s caused by cold ocean water meeting warm air inland. Translation: if you plan a summer elopement here, fog is part of the deal.

And honestly, it worked in our favor. The fog softened everything. It made the bridge feel quieter than usual. We kept things simple here without vows or big moments. We had time to settle in, move slowly, and get comfortable in front of the camera. This part of the day felt like a deep breath before the real adventure started.

Engagement Photos at Garrapata State Park

After sunrise, we headed south to Garrapata State Park for engagement photos.

Garrapata is one of my favorite areas in Big Sur because it offers a mix of coastal views, bluff trails, and beaches. It’s also one of the most popular parks in the Big Sur region. However, it’s totally worth the stop, despite the crowds.

The fog stuck around this morning, which made everything feel quiet and moody. We walked along the bluffs and let the couple just be themselves. After this, they changed into their wedding attire, and that’s when things got interesting.

Finding a Truly Secluded Elopement Location in Big Sur

This next location is one of those places you’d never find on your own. You won’t see it from the road and there’s no sign pointing you where to go. If you didn’t know it was there, you’d drive right past it without a second thought. It’s located on Los Padres National Forest land, which is important for a few reasons.

National forest land doesn’t require permit for a simple elopement with no setup. There are way fewer rules compared to state parks and it’s far less trafficked. That said, this spot is not for everyone.

The beginning of this specific trail is often overgrown with poison oak. And not the small, easy-to-avoid kind. I’m talking about sections where it crowds the path and brushes your legs if you’re not careful. Once we made it past that first section, the trail opened up. And suddenly, it felt like we had the entire coast to ourselves.

A Private Cliffside View with Bixby Bridge in the Distance

At the end of the trail, we reached a cliffside area that felt completely removed from the rest of Big Sur. Just ocean air, rocky ground, and a distant view of Bixby Bridge tucked into the background. This is where the couple exchanged vows.

They stood on a rocky hillside, facing each other, without an audience except our group. This is one of the reasons I love elopements like this. There’s no pressure to perform.

If you’re considering a secluded elopement in Big Sur, this is the level of adventure you should expect if you want full privacy without needing a permit or reservation.

Portraits Without an Audience

After vows, we explored the area for portraits. Because the location was so quiet, the couple had space to move naturally. They climbed over rocks, held hands, sat together, and took breaks when they wanted.

This is something I see again and again when there’s no crowd. Couples relax faster, their shoulders drop, and they stop checking who’s watching. That’s when photos feel real. If you’re worried about feeling awkward or stiff, choosing a secluded location helps more than any posing guide ever could.

Ending the Day at Garrapata Beach

We finished the day at Garrapata Beach. Beaches in Big Sur can feel totally different depending on tide, weather, and time of day. This one felt playful and open. The couple kicked off their shoes and ran through the sand. Ending the day here gave the elopement a lighter feel after the intensity of the cliffside vows. It reminded me why breaking your day into different environments works so well.

Planning Tips for a Secluded Big Sur Elopement

A few things I always tell couples:

• Weekdays are quieter than weekends
• Sunrise beats sunset for privacy
• Layers matter. Coastal weather changes fast
• Expect limited to no cell service once you leave Carmel
• Pack shoes you can walk in comfortably

Want Help Planning Your Own Secluded Elopement in Big Sur?

If this kind of day feels like your style, I’d love to help. I don’t just show up with a camera. I help with:

• Location ideas
• Permit guidance
• Timelines that make sense
• Realistic expectations

If you’re planning a secluded elopement in Big Sur and want someone who knows the area, reach out. Big Sur still has quiet corners. You just have to know where to look.