Sunset Cliffs Elopement
If you’re dreaming of a minimalist, adventurous elopement in California, a Sunset Cliffs elopement might be what you’re looking for. With golden cliffs and ocean views, this spot has it all for an unforgettable “just us” kind of wedding day.
When Mikey + Ashley first reached out about possibly eloping at Sunset Cliffs, they didn’t have a full plan in place, just a vision. I had originally planned to fly to California for a Lake Tahoe elopement, but once I heard from them, I knew I had to make a road trip out of it. I packed up the car, brought my partner along, and turned it into an adventure. They drove in from about an hour away and met me just before sunrise at Sunset Cliffs. It was simple, fun, and intentional. And everything an elopement should be.
From handwritten vows by the ocean to playful heart-shaped sun glasses and some wind catching Ashley’s veil, their day was packed with genuine fun and zero pressure. If you’re wondering how to actually plan a wedding or elopement like this that feels fun, stress-free, and just like you, keep reading. This guide covers everything you need to know about Sunset Cliffs Elopement and how to elope at Sunset Cliffs, including permit info, the best time to go, where to stay, and what it costs to get married at Sunset Cliffs.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1- Eloping at Sunset Cliffs
2- Why Plan a Sunset Cliffs Elopement?
3- The Best Time to Elope at Sunset Cliffs
4-How to Elope at Sunset Cliffs
5- Do You Need a Permit to Get Married at Sunset Cliffs?
6- How Much Does It Cost to Get Married at Sunset Cliffs?
7- What to Bring for Your Elopement
8- Best Sunset Cliffs Elopement Locations
9- Where to Stay Near Sunset Cliffs
10- Sunset Cliffs Elopement Timeline Example
11- Planning Tips from a California Elopement Photographer
12- FAQs: Permits, Costs & Legalities
13- Other California Elopement Guides You’ll Love
14- Sunset Cliffs Elopement Photographer | Why Work With Me
Eloping at Sunset Cliffs
Mikey and Ashley’s elopement was the kind of morning that just felt so stress free and just like them. They arrived at Sunset cliffs while the sky was still dark and blue, just as the first light began rising over the ocean. There were no guests, no chairs, no timelines to rush through. Just the two of them, having fun, saying vows, getting married, and holding hands on the edge of California.
They stayed with a friend nearby the night before, making it an easy early morning drive. We’d been planning the logistics together in the weeks leading up, what time to meet, where to park, how to avoid crowds, and where the light would hit best at sunrise. I helped them lock down the perfect spot along Sunset Cliffs, with wide open space and gorgeous ocean views that felt completely private even in such a popular area.
Ashley brought a flowy veil that blew in the wind, and they brought along heart shaped sun glasses that they both wore for such a fun and playful vibe. They read vows from the cutest custom vow books, laughed the entire time, and were totally down for anything. After photos and cuddling up in the morning, we wrapped up their ceremony and they drove off to get coffee and breakfast.
Why Plan a Sunset Cliffs Elopement
There’s just something about Sunset Cliffs that just hits different! Whether you’re wanting an intimate ceremony or an adventure with coastal views and that windy breeze in your hair, Sunset Cliffs checks all the boxes.
It’s free to access, easy to get to, and absolutely stunning at golden hour or even at sunrise to avoid the crowds. The natural cliffs, dramatic ocean backdrops, and endless cliffs make for an absolutely gorgeous day without the chaos of a traditional wedding day. Plus, if you’re planning from out of state, it’s only about 15 minutes from the San Diego airport and close to so many options of great food, coffee, and places to stay.
You also get the best of both worlds here! Wide open nature and those California beaches, while still being super accessible. No intense hiking or permits for long trail use if you don’t want to. Planning your elopement at Sunset Cliffs means you can truly focus on each other, not the guest list, the table settings, or what everyone else thinks you should do.
Click this link for more information on getting married at Sunset Cliffs.
The Best Time to Elope at Sunset Cliffs
Alright, let’s talk timing, because when you elope at a spot like Sunset Cliffs, the lighting and crowds can totally make or break the vibe.
Sunrise at Sunset Cliffs
Sunrise is hands down the vibe if you want that soft, glowy, dreamy light and way less crowds. Mikey and Ashley chose a sunrise elopement, and let’s be honest, t was pure magic. The cliffs were quiet, the ocean was calm, and they basically had the place to themselves. If you’re not a morning person, I promise this one’s worth setting the alarm.
Sunset at Sunset Cliffs
Sunset is iconic at Sunset Cliffs for a reason. The name says it all. The cliffs literally light up with that warm golden glow. But, it’s also the most popular time, which means more people, more photographers, and less privacy. If you choose sunset, consider a weekday to avoid the bigger crowds.
Seasons at Sunset Cliffs
San Diego is pretty dreamy year round, but her’s some tips:
Spring at Sunset Cliffs
Spring in San Diego is gorgeous! Cooler temperatures, blooming flowers, and way less crowds. Temperatures usually sit around 54-69 degrees Fahrenheit.
Summer at Sunset Cliffs
Summer in San Diego is beautiful, but keep in mind it can be super busy and HOT. Warm and sunny temperatures, and lush greenery. Temperatures usually sit around 62-78 degrees Fahrenheit .
Fall at Sunset Cliffs
Fall in San Diego is stunning! Mild temperatures and gorgeous golden light make for the perfect time to elope at Sunset Cliffs. Temperatures usually sit around 66-71 degrees Fahrenheit,
Winter at Sunset Cliffs
Winter in San Diego is epic! You’ll get those gorgeous moody vibes, less crowds, and still get all the sunny weather.
How to Elope at Sunset Cliffs
Eloping at Sunset Cliffs is way more than just showing up and saying your vows (though it can feel that effortless when it’s planned right). Here’s the lowdown on how to actually make it happen, from permits to packing.
Do You Need a Permit to Get Married at Sunset Cliffs?
If you plan to have a ceremony and photos at Sunset Cliffs, you will need a permit. However, if you are only taking elopement/wedding photos and not having the actual ceremony there, you won’t need a permit. You can find the application online, and the fee is around $250. You are limited to specific ceremony locations like Osprey Point and Luscomb Point if you choose to have your ceremony at Sunset Cliffs, but you can go anywhere in the park for couples portraits afterwards!
Keep in mind even with a permit, Sunset Cliffs is a public park, so it’s still best to have your ceremony at sunrise if you’re trying to avoid crowds. Regardless of where you choose to elope, you’ll need to get a marriage license from a County Clerk’s office. Lastly, permit regulations and prices can change so it’s always best to check first.
You can fill out the wedding/elopement permit here
What to Bring to a San Diego Elopement
-Vow Books
-Veil
-props
-florals
-details
-blankets, picnic basket, towel, etc
-water, snacks, sunscreen
Best Sunset Cliffs Elopement Locations
-Luscomb’s Point
-Osprey Street area
-Ladera Street
-Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Where to Stay for Your Sunset Cliffs Elopement
Homestay Sunset Cliffs Dream Home
Sunset Cliffs Elopement Timeline Example
Every elopement is different, but here’s a sample timeline that works great for laid back elopements by the season!
Sunrise Sunset Cliffs Elopement
5:00 am- Meet at airbnb for getting ready photos
5:45 am- Arrive at Sunset Cliffs
6:00 am- Ceremony and vows at sunrise
6:30 am- detail photos
7:15 am- go to other sunset cliffs spots for photos
8:30 am- break for brunch and coffee
9:30 am- mini cake cutting
10:30- canoe, kayak, picnic, hike
12:30- head back to airbnb, jump in pool/ ocean
1:00- photography is done
Sunset Elopement at Sunset Cliffs
1:30- getting ready and detail photos at airbnb
3:00- First look on the beach or at airbnb
4:00- Coffee, bakery, and book store mini date
4:30- Kayak and picnic
6:00- head to Sunset Cliffs for Ceremony
6:30- Sunset Cliffs Ceremony
7:30- go to other sunset cliffs spots for photos
8:00- Lantern hike and blue hour photos
8:30- go back to airbnb for flash photos, pizza, champagne, cake cutting, and late night hot tub/pool
9:30- photography is done
Spring Sunset Cliffs Elopement
March and April: sunrise is around 6:00- 7:00, sunset is around 5:45- 7:30.
May: sunrise is around 5:40- 6:00, sunset is around 7:30- 7:50.
Summer Sunset Cliffs Elopement
Sunrise is around 5:40-6:20, sunset is around 7:15-8:00.
Fall Sunset Cliffs Elopement
September: Sunrise is around 6:20-6:40, sunset is around 6:30- 7:15
October: Sunrise is around 6:45- 7:00, sunset is around 6:00- 6:30
November: Sunrise is around 6:10-6:30, sunset is around 4:40- 5:00
Winter Sunset Cliffs Elopement
December: Sunrise is around 6:30-6:50, sunset is around 4:40- 4:50
January: Sunrise is around 6:40-6:50, sunset is around 4:50- 5:20
February: Sunrise is around 6:15-6:40, sunset is around 5:20- 5:45
Planning Tips | California Elopement Photographer
As someone who literally road tripped from Wisconsin to photograph this San Diego dream day, I got you!! Here are a few planning tips that’ll make your Sunset Cliffs elopement smooth, stress-free, and so dreamy:
Choose sunrise, off season, or weekday elopements for less crowds
Sunset Cliffs is gorgeous, and also popular. If you want privacy/ less crowds, plan for off season, a sunrise elopement, or elope on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Keep things minimal (but intentional)
You don’t need a ton to make this day meaningful. A vow book, a bouquet, and a backdrop like this? That’s the stuff. But if you want to bring props — like a arch, decor, picnic basket, blankets, props, or a long veil for movement, do it up.
Scout your spot early
There are multiple access points along Sunset Cliffs! I’ll help you choose the right one with the best light and fewer crowds. Some spots are rocky, others more walkable. I’ll send you options ahead of time and we will plan everything together!
Check for tide + weather
The tide can change how much beach/cliff access you have. I’ll monitor this for you, but always good to be aware! Also pack layers, even in San Diego, mornings can be chilly and windy.
Pack snacks and Celebrate
A sunrise elopement means an early wake up call. Bring snacks, water, or plan a breakfast picnic. OR do what Mikey + Ashley did and head straight to a local café after to soak it all in and grab some much needed coffee.
FAQs: Permits, Costs, and Legalities for a Sunset Cliffs Elopement
1- Can you get married at Sunset Cliffs?
-YES. It’s one of the most gorgeous and iconic spots in San Diego for elopements. You’ll just need to secure a permit!!
2- How much does it cost to get married at Sunset Cliffs?
-Permit: Around $250
-Marriage License: $70-$100
-Officiant: varies in cost
-Airbnb: varies in cost
You can keep it super affordable or go all out and make it a mini vacation! Either way, eloping at Sunset Cliffs is so much more affordable than having a big wedding.
How Do I Get a Sunset Cliffs Elopement Permit
-Apply online through the City of San Diego
-Pay the permit fee
Make sure to apply early and on time to avoid it being declined and extra fees.
Is Sunset Cliffs free to Visit?
Yes! Sunset Cliffs is completely free and open to the public
Do I still need a permit If I only plan on having photos at Sunset Cliffs, and not the ceremony?
Nope! If you are only wanting photos done at sunset cliffs and having your ceremony elsewhere, it’s completely free. It is always best to double check as things like this can change!
Other California Elopement Guides You’ll Love
The Ultimate Big Sur Elopement Guide
Why Work With Me | Sunset Cliffs Elopement Photographer
If you’re planning an elopement at Sunset Cliffs, you deserve a photographer who’s not just there to take pretty pictures! You deserve someone who’s in it with you from start to finish.
I’m Jessica, a Wisconsin-based travel wedding and elopement photographer. When Mikey and Ashley reached out while I was already planning a California trip, I literally shifted my entire travel schedule because I knew I had to document this day.
From helping you pick the best location and time of day, navigate permits and timelines, plan fun, personal experiences like kayaking, coffee runs, or cliffside picnics, to delivering sneak peeks that’ll make you cry within a few days, I got you. I’ll help you slow down, be fully present, and actually enjoy every second of the wedding or elopement you’re planning together.
If you’re dreaming of a Sunset Cliffs elopement (or honestly any California wedding or elopement), I’d love to help you bring it all to life!!
Let’s start planning your elopement
Hey there!! I’m Jessica, your go to Wisconsin and destination/ travel wedding, elopement, and boudoir photographer. I help couples ditch the big wedding stress and plan a wedding day that’s is authentic to them. Whether you’re dreaming of an adventure elopement, a breathtaking micro wedding, a wedding at a venue, a cozy in home session, a picnic engagement session, or an intimate boudoir session in Milwaukee, I got you! I’m here to guide, plan, and capture it all in an authentic way. My style is storytelling, so expect real moments, genuine emotions, and photos that really feel like you. Let’s create a day that feels unique to the two of you
