Dreamy Oregon Coast and Ancient Redwoods Elopement
Alyssa + Zach
A Day Straight Out of a Dream
Some days feel like they’re pulled straight from a storybook, and Alyssa + Zach’s elopement was exactly that. They wanted a day that felt immersive, moody, and magical — the kind of day that gave them space to soak up nature and each other, without distractions. Inspired by the iconic Pacific Northwest vibe (and even a little bit by the moody romance of Twilight), they set out on an adventure that wove together two of the most breathtaking landscapes on the West Coast: the ancient redwoods of Northern California and the dramatic cliffs of the Southern Oregon coast.
From beginning to end, their day was all about presence, connection, and letting the Pacific Northwest show off its wild beauty.
Morning Among Giants: Redwoods Adventure
The morning began in the quiet stillness of the redwoods. Towering trees stretched endlessly into the sky, their roots twisting into a lush forest floor dotted with ferns and bright green moss. Alyssa and Zach walked hand in hand down hushed trails, pausing to climb fallen trees, marvel at the scale of their surroundings, and laugh at the banana slugs making their slow journey across the path.
This was exactly what they had envisioned — the chance to explore, wander, and be small among giants. With no timeline pressure and no audience, they could simply breathe in the forest air and revel in the intimacy of the moment.
Vows at Secret Beach
After a few hours immersed in the redwoods, it was time to head north to the Oregon coast. Their ceremony spot? A dramatic and incredibly scenic beach known as Secret Beach, famous for its rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and tide pools.
With only the sound of crashing waves as their soundtrack, Alyssa and Zach exchanged vows on the cliffs overlooking the beach, rings glinting in the soft coastal light. The beauty of eloping just the two of them meant they could keep the focus entirely on their love and their promises. To make it official, I stepped in as their officiant (yes, I’m ordained too!), and even the trail of hikers who passed by became their honorary “witnesses.”
After sealing it with a kiss, they spread out a picnic blanket and enjoyed a cozy lunch: charcuterie, salad, a tart, and plenty of laughter. It was simple, sweet, and perfectly them.
Cliffside Overlooks & Meadows
Elopement days aren’t about rushing from one thing to the next — they’re about crafting experiences. After their ceremony, we made our way to a hidden gem cliffside meadow overlooking the Pacific. The cliffs dropped dramatically to the ocean below, waves crashing far beneath us.
Alyssa and Zach leaned into the moment, watching the water, cracking jokes, and taking in the kind of views that make you pause. This stop was unhurried, joyful, and exactly why they had chosen to elope: time to sit, talk, and savor.
Sunset on the Dunes
The final chapter of their day unfolded at a windswept beach with rolling sand dunes and striking sea stacks that towered from the surf. As the sun dipped low, the air grew chilly, but Alyssa and Zach bundled together and watched the horizon turn gold and then fade to twilight.
The seclusion of the spot meant they had the beach nearly to themselves. With sand beneath their feet and the rhythmic crash of waves around them, they ended their elopement day exactly as they had hoped — quietly, beautifully, and wrapped in Pacific Northwest magic.
Why the Oregon Coast & Redwoods Make the Perfect Elopement Destination
Alyssa + Zach’s day is proof of just how much variety you can pack into a single elopement. In one day, they experienced:
The towering majesty of the redwoods
The intimacy of a tucked-away beach ceremony
The grandeur of cliffside overlooks
The peacefulness of rolling dunes at sunset
If you’re dreaming of an elopement that feels adventurous but grounded, these locations offer the best of both worlds: dramatic scenery and quiet pockets of solitude.
Tips for Planning Your Own Oregon Coast & Redwoods Elopement
1. Mix landscapes.
Don’t feel like you have to choose just one setting. Pair the redwoods with the coast for a diverse and dynamic day. Morning in the forest, afternoon by the sea — it doesn’t get better. These spots are seriously only 30 - 45 min apart from each other so it makes it super easy to combine both in one day.
2. Embrace moody weather.
The Pacific Northwest is known for its mist and clouds, and that’s part of its magic. Plan for layers and lean into the atmosphere — it photographs beautifully and sets a romantic tone.
3. Choose secluded spots.
While the insanely popular spots like Fern Canyon, Secret Beach, and Stout Grove are stunning, they can feel a bit busy and make it feel like many people are watching you. Hidden gems or lesser-known beaches, trails, and meadows can offer privacy while still delivering jaw-dropping views. If some more popular areas speak to you, weekdays and shoulder seasons are especially great for avoiding crowds.
4. Pack a picnic.
Just because it’s an elopement doesn’t mean you skip the celebration. A simple charcuterie spread, favorite drinks, or even a local bakery treat makes for a perfect way to pause and savor.
5. Plan for a full-day experience.
Some of the best elopement memories come not from the “big moments” but from the quiet ones — laughing on a cliffside, spotting wildlife, or warming up together at sunset. Don’t rush your day; design it to flow with the landscapes.
6. Consider permits and logistics.
Some areas in the redwoods and Oregon coast may require permits for ceremonies or photography. Do your research early, or work with a photographer who can guide you through the process. I personally help each and every one of my couples with permits and logistics to make the process as smooth as possible.
Vendors
Photography | Sally G Photography
Dress | LilyMarksBrand
Veil | Etsy
Suit | H&M
Ring | Envero Jewelry
Ring | Rustic & Main
READY TO START PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT? REACH OUT NOW!
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
