Best Fall Wedding Locations in California for your Elopement
This Post May Contain Affiliate LinksFall in California is absolutely my favorite season!
As a California elopement photographer (and 5th generation Californian!), I’ve spent countless autumns scouting and photographing the most beautiful spots this state has to offer. Here’s my guide to the best fall wedding locations in California for your elopement, broken down by month so you can find the perfect time and place.
September Fall Wedding Locations
September is one of the most beautiful months to elope in California. Thanks to California’s mild climate year round (especially near the coast), the days are still warm, but the summer crowds thin out after Labor Day. Which makes the beaches, mountains, and vineyards more inviting for couples wanting to share in an intimate elopement experience.
Malibu
September is one of the most beautiful times to elope in Malibu’s wine country. The vines are heavy with grapes, the hills glow golden after summer, and the ocean breeze keeps the afternoons comfortable. Malibu’s vineyard estates blend wine country romance with coastal mountain views, creating an unforgettable backdrop for intimate elopements.
Intimate Venues
1. Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards
One of Malibu’s most exclusive estates, perched atop a mountain ridge.
Features a private helipad ceremony site with panoramic 360° views of vineyards, canyons, and the Pacific Ocean.
Ideal for couples seeking a luxurious, cinematic elopement experience.
2. Cielo Farms
Vineyard estate with panoramic mountain views and olive groves.
Feels Tuscan-inspired, ideal for couples wanting vineyard elegance in Malibu.
Perched high above the coastline, this private estate has sweeping ocean and mountain views.
Perfect for couples who want dramatic scenery paired with vineyard romance.
Learn about Malibu Elopements!
Elope in Malibu
Get ideas and inspiration about eloping in Malibu from me, Megan W Photography, a born and raised Malibu local and Elopement Photographer!
Santa Barbara
Just North of Malibu, Santa Barbara is often called the “American Riviera” for it’s Spanish architecture, mild Mediterranean climate, and ocean views. September is one of the best times to elope here. Imagine saying your vows at the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse, walking hand-in-hand through red-tiled corridors, then slipping down to the beach for sunset portraits.
Adventure Locations
1. Butterfly Beach (Montecito)
Wide sandy shoreline with gorgeous sunsets.
A favorite for couples who want barefoot vows followed by champagne on the beach.
Located just minutes from luxury resorts like the Four Seasons Biltmore.
A palm-lined shoreline just 20 minutes north of downtown Santa Barbara.
Known for its rustic beauty and romantic sunsets, with far fewer crowds than city beaches.
Ideal for couples who want an intimate coastal ceremony that feels tucked away and natural.
Just up the coast from Refugio, El Capitán features rocky tidepools, dramatic bluffs, and golden sycamore trees.
A little more rugged than Refugio, perfect for adventurous couples who want a mix of sandy ceremony spots and cliffside portraits.
Incredible at sunset when the light hits the cliffs and tidepools.
Intimate Venues
A world-famous elopement location, known for its Spanish Colonial architecture, red-tiled roofs, and lush gardens.
Perfect for intimate ceremonies with stunning backdrops at every corner.
A short walk away, downtown Santa Barbara streets add charm to your portrait session.
A luxury hillside resort overlooking the ocean.
Offers lush gardens, romantic terraces, and a classic Santa Barbara feel.
3. Private Estates in Montecito & Hope Ranch
Spanish-style villas, cliffside homes, and luxury estates often available as elopement rentals.
Perfect for couples wanting both privacy and incredible backdrops.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Santa Barbara
Best Season: September offers some of the clearest skies of the year, making it ideal for both beach and mountain views.
Permits: Public beaches and parks may require permits for ceremonies — always check ahead with the city or county.
Timing: Sunset ceremonies are magical here, with warm light reflecting off the ocean and terracotta rooftops.
Style Note: Neutral or Mediterranean-inspired outfits pair beautifully with the Spanish architecture and golden beaches.
Pairing Locations: Many couples love combining a courthouse ceremony with beach portraits at Butterfly Beach, or blending a vineyard ceremony in Santa Ynez with a romantic dinner downtown.
Central Coast (San Luis Obispo & Pismo Beach)
Further North, the Central Coast continues to shine in September. Pismo Beach offers wide sand stretches for barefoot ceremonies, while Montana de Oro State Park has dramatic cliffs and tide pools, perfect for adventurous couples. In San Luis Obispo, you’ll find rolling hills and coastal ranch settings, giving you both ocean and countryside backdrops. September is warm but not hot, making it ideal for intimate elopements.
💡Note: California State Parks require a special event permit for ceremonies. As your Elopement Photographer, I help guide couples through this process so there are no surprises.
Napa Valley
September is harvest season in Napa Valley, and the region comes alive with bustling vineyards, golden hills, and the rich scent of ripening grapes. The weather is ideal, warm, sunny days with cool evenings, making it one of the best times to elope here. Whether you’re envisioning vows tucked between vineyard rows, portraits among rolling hills, or a chic celebration at a luxury estate, Napa offers endless ways to create a romantic and unforgettable elopement experience.
Intimate Venues
A luxury resort with terraced ceremony spaces overlooking the valley.
Ideal for couples who want both vineyard views and world-class dining.
Rolling vineyard views paired with chic cottages.
Perfect for couples wanting a mix of wine country charm and upscale amenities.
A Tuscan-style castle in Calistoga that feels like stepping into Italy.
Romantic, dramatic, and perfect for couples craving a fairytale elopement.
Explore Napa Valley’s Elopement Venues
Micro Weddings and Elopements in Napa Valley
Written by Visit Napa Valley, this blog post goes into detail about venues that offer intimate ceremony spaces. Perfect for Micro-Weddings and Elopements.
October Elopement Locations in California
October is my FAVORITE time of the year for eloping in California. Second only to spring. The weather is absolutely perfect. Warm days, cool nights, minimal fog along the coast, the ocean is still warm in SoCal beaches. And the best part? The mountains reach peak color early to mid October!
This is going to be a long list so grab a coffee, sit back, and relax.
Big Sur
Big Sur is one of the most iconic places to elope in California, and October is arguably the best month to do it. With clear skies and gentle breezes, you’ll have dramatic cliffs, towering redwoods, and secluded coves almost to yourself!
Venues:
Luxury adults-only resort
Offers cliffside ceremony sites, redwood groves, and curated elopement packages.
Best for couples who want a stress-free, all-inclusive elopement experience.
Cozy cabins + redwood groves.
Perfect for small elopements surrounded by towering trees.
Combines lodging and ceremony all in one.
Ultra luxury resort perched on the cliffs.
Offers ceremony spots with sweeping ocean views.
Best for couples who want five-star accomodations tied into their elopement.
Adventure Locations:
Iconic coastal cliffs with trails that lead to secluded overlooks
Best at sunset when the Pacific ocean glows orange
Dramatic backdrops for couples who want a windswept adventure.
2. McWay Falls
Famous waterfall cascading directly into the ocean.
Small overlook area (ceremonies aren’t permitted directly at the falls, but you can do portraits here).
Perfect for dreamy portraits after you vows elsewhere.
Iconic California Highway 1 view.
Best for quick portraits rather than a ceremony, but adds a quintessential Big Sur feel to your elopement gallery.
⚡Pro Tips for Big Sur Elopements
Permits: State Parks require a Special Event Permit. I guide couples through this paperwork so you’re covered!
Timing: Crowds are lighter on weekdays. Sunrise and sunset give the most privacy and golden light.
Pairing Locations: Many couples choose two spots (e.g. vows in the redwoods at Glen Oaks → portraits at Pfeiffer Beach)
Backup plan: Fog is common in Big Sur. If the coast is socked in, head into the redwoods where the light is beautiful year-round.
Yosemite National Park
Adventure Locations
These are iconic overlooks, meadows, and trails where couples can exchange vows surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery.
Famous for its panoramic views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra.
Best at sunrise or sunset for golden light.
Easily accessible in summer and early fall; road typically closes in November due to snow.
2. Taft Point
A short hike (1.1 miles each way) leads to dramatic cliff edges with vast valley views.
Iconic for adventurous couples who want epic, windswept portraits.
Best in the evening for glowing sunsets.
3. Tunnel View
Perhaps Yosemite’s most iconic vista, with El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall all in one frame.
Works well for short vow exchanges, then portraits at other spots in the park.
Ideal for couples who want a recognizable, classic Yosemite shot.
Intimate Wedding Venues
For couples who want a small guest list or private celebration with comfort and amenities during their ceremony (and then take adventure portraits after!).
1. Yosemite Valley Chapel (Inside Yosemite Valley)
Built in 1879, this charming wood-framed chapel sits in the heart of Yosemite Valley with towering granite cliffs as the backdrop.
It seats around 125 people, but it’s just as perfect for an intimate elopement with only a handful of guests.
Couples can exchange vows inside the chapel, then step outside for portraits with Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, or El Capitan nearby.
A timeless choice for couples who want the history and romance of Yosemite in one location.
2. The Ahwahnee Hotel (Inside Yosemite Valley)
Historic luxury hotel within the park.
Intimate ceremony spaces with granite walls and valley views.
Perfect for couples wanting the convenience of lodging + a ceremony site in one.
⚡Pro Tips for Yosemite Elopements
Permits: You’ll need a Special Use Permit for any wedding or elopement inside Yosemite. Apply at least 60 days in advance.
Seasonal Access: Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road close in late October/early November due to snow. Plan accordingly if you want Taft Point or high-country locations.
Crowds: Yosemite Valley is busy year-round. Opt for sunrise ceremonies for privacy, or choose shoulder-season weekdays in October/November.
Adventure Pairing: Many couples do vows at a ceremony spot (like Glacier Point or Sentinel Meadow) and then hike to Taft Point or Yosemite Falls for portraits.
Weather: Fall weather is crisp and cool. Pack layers, especially if you’ll be out at sunrise or sunset.
The Eastern Sierra’s (Peak Aspen Colors!)
The Eastern Sierra stretches along Highway 395, from Bishop all the way up past Mammoth Lakes to Mono County. It’s a dream for couples who want an adventurous elopement with mountains, alpine lakes, hot springs, and glowing aspens. Fall is peak season here, with vibrant colors usually late September through mid-October.
Adventure Locations
Famous for fiery aspens surrounding alpine lakes.
Lakes like June Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake make stunning ceremony spots.
Easy roadside access for elopements with a few guests, or short hikes for privacy.
2. Convict Lake (Most Popular)
Iconic turquoise lake framed by jagged peaks.
In October, golden aspens line the shoreline, reflecting in the still water.
A short loop trail lets you explore multiple photo backdrops in one spot.
Known as one of the best fall foliage destinations in California.
South Lake, North Lake, and Sabrina Lake each offer stunning views.
North Lake in particular is legendary for its reflection of glowing aspens against granite peaks.
4. Hot Springs (near Mammoth & Bishop)
Natural hot springs like Wild Willy’s or Hilltop Hot Springs provide dramatic mountain views with cozy, intimate vibes.
Great for adventurous couples who want barefoot, sunrise vows followed by a soak.
Intimate Venues
Lakeside cabins and a restaurant just steps from the water.
Perfect for intimate weddings or elopements with a handful of guests.
2. Tamarack Lodge & Resort (Mammoth Lakes)
Historic cabins dating back to the 1920s.
Lakeside settings with mountain views for an intimate ceremony.
Romantic, rustic, and perfect in fall.
3. Private Cabins & Airbnbs (Bishop, Mammoth, June Lake)
Countless cabins tucked into aspen groves or with mountain views.
Many hosts allow small ceremonies, giving you both lodging and a ceremony spot in one.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eastern Sierra Elopements
Timing: Peak fall color usually hits between late September and mid-October, but timing varies each year. Always check foliage reports.
Weather: Nights get cold fast (often below freezing), so pack layers even if the days are warm.
Permits: Some locations (especially in Inyo National Forest wilderness areas) require permits for ceremonies. Plan at least 30–60 days out.
Accessibility: Many locations are right off Highway 395, but dirt roads can get rough. Have an AWD/4WD vehicle if possible.
Pair Locations: Many couples do vows at a lake (Convict, June Lake, North Lake), then head to Mono Lake or hot springs for epic portraits.
Santa Ynez Valley & Solvang
Just a short drive from Santa Barbara, the Santa Ynez Valley is a sun-soaked wine country full of rolling hills, vineyards, and oak groves. In the fall, the vines turn shades of gold and red, the weather cools to perfect ceremony temps, and the region feels both cozy and romantic. The nearby town of Solvang adds fairytale vibes, with its Danish-style architecture, windmills, and pastry shops. Together, they create the perfect setting for couples who want both elegance and whimsy.
Intimate Venues
A Tuscan-inspired estate surrounded by vineyards and olive trees.
One of the most sought-after venues in California wine country for elopements and micro-weddings.
Offers a European feel without leaving California.
2. Alisal Ranch
A luxury dude ranch offering horseback rides, oak groves, and rolling countryside.
Combines rustic adventure with elevated service for a truly unique elopement day.
Many estates in Santa Ynez offer exclusive use for elopements—picture golden hills, oak trees, and horses in the background.
Great for couples wanting privacy and flexibility.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Santa Ynez Valley & Solvang
Best Season: September–November for golden vines, warm afternoons, and crisp evenings.
Permits: Most vineyards and estates require private booking, while public lands (like nearby Los Padres Forest) may require permits.
Pairing Locations: Many couples do vows in a vineyard or oak grove, then head into Solvang for whimsical portraits and pastries.
Weather: Days are sunny and warm, but nights can be cool—bring a shawl or jacket for evening portraits.
Style Note: Rustic, vineyard-inspired, or European-influenced outfits photograph beautifully here (think flowing dresses, earthy tones, or even a touch of old-world elegance).
Big Bear Lake
Just two hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake offers a mountain escape that feels worlds away. In the fall, the crisp air, golden aspens, and fiery maples transform the area into one of California’s best-kept secrets for elopements. Whether you want to say your vows lakeside, in a quiet forest clearing, or at a cozy lodge, Big Bear is full of options for couples craving adventure with a touch of rustic charm.
Adventure Locations
A scenic spot right along the lakeshore with boulders, calm water, and panoramic views.
Beautiful year-round but especially romantic in fall when trees around the lake turn golden.
Great for an intimate ceremony followed by a lakeside picnic.
One of the best places to see Big Bear’s fall foliage.
The grove of aspens glows yellow in October, creating a dreamy backdrop for vows.
A favorite for couples who want that quintessential fall look in California.
3. Alpine Pedal Path & Stanfield Marsh
Gentle trails with boardwalks and lake views, surrounded by birdlife and mountain scenery.
Easy access makes it ideal for couples who want adventure without a strenuous hike.
Intimate Venues
1. The Lodge at Big Bear Lake (Holiday Inn Resort)
Centrally located with rustic-modern mountain charm.
Offers intimate spaces for small ceremonies and receptions.
A whimsical woodland chapel surrounded by forest.
Perfect for couples who want a fairytale vibe in the pines.
3. Cozy Airbnbs & A-Frame Cabins
From rustic log cabins to trendy A-frames, many properties allow small ceremonies.
Ideal for couples who want total privacy and a weekend getaway vibe.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Big Bear
Best Season: Mid-to-late October for peak fall foliage. September still has warm lake days; November can bring early snow.
Weather: Days are sunny and crisp, but nights can drop near freezing. Bring layers, blankets, and warm drinks for cozy portraits.
Permits: Public areas like Boulder Bay Park and Castle Rock Trail may require a Special Event Permit. Always check with the San Bernardino National Forest for requirements.
Crowds: Weekdays are much quieter than weekends.
Adventure Pairings: Many couples love combining a fall foliage hike with lakeside portraits, then ending the day at a cabin with a campfire or stargazing session.
November Elopement Locations in California
Joshua Tree
November is the perfect month to elope in Joshua Tree National Park. The high desert cools down to comfortable 70° days, the skies are clear, and the sunsets paint the landscape in pinks and golds. With its twisted Joshua trees, massive boulder formations, and wide-open skies, the park feels like stepping into another world. Whether you’re dreaming of a barefoot desert ceremony or a cozy, boho-chic celebration, Joshua Tree offers endless possibilities for elopements.
Adventure Locations
1. Cap Rock
One of the most popular elopement spots thanks to its unique rock formations and accessibility.
Flat, open space perfect for a small group ceremony.
Gorgeous at both sunrise and sunset.
Iconic desert valley surrounded by towering rock walls.
Offers seclusion and a variety of backdrops for both vows and portraits.
Great choice for couples who want that “classic Joshua Tree” look.
3. Arch Rock
A short hike leads to this natural stone arch, one of the park’s most recognizable features.
Best for adventurous couples who want unique portraits after a simple ceremony elsewhere.
Intimate Venues
1. Sacred Sands
Luxury desert retreat just outside the park entrance.
Offers both lodging and ceremony sites overlooking the desert.
Perfect for couples wanting a seamless elopement + reception space.
A unique open-air venue built around the remnants of an old desert homestead.
Rustic, artistic, and bohemian—perfect for couples who love offbeat style.
3. 29 Palms Inn
Historic desert inn with adobe bungalows, gardens, and a relaxed, boho feel.
Offers small ceremony spaces and plenty of charm.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Joshua Tree
Permits: A Special Use Permit is required for all ceremonies in Joshua Tree. Apply 30–60 days in advance.
Timing: Sunrise and sunset are magical, midday light is harsh in the desert. November sunsets are around 4:45–5 PM.
Weather: Comfortable during the day (70s), but nights can be chilly (40s). Bring layers, blankets, and maybe even a portable heater if you’re celebrating outside.
Guest Limits: Most designated ceremony sites inside the park have guest caps (often 25–50 people max). Always confirm with the permit office.
Adventure Pairing: Many couples do vows inside the park (Cap Rock or Hidden Valley), then head to an Airbnb or Sacred Sands for a private catered dinner under the stars.
Stargazing: Joshua Tree is a Dark Sky destination. Plan for night portraits with the Milky Way, it’s one of the most magical ways to end your elopement day.
Palm Springs
If Joshua Tree is wild and rugged, Palm Springs is chic, colorful, and glamorous. In November, the weather is perfect: sunny days in the 70s, crisp evenings, and plenty of places to combine adventure with style. Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows poolside at a mid-century modern hotel, saying “I do” in a cactus garden, or sneaking off to the desert for golden-hour portraits, Palm Springs offers endless elopement possibilities.
Adventure Locations
Iconic white wind turbines set against desert mountains.
Great for adventurous, editorial-style portraits.
Best at sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and dramatic.
2. Coachella Valley Preserve (Thousand Palms Oasis)
Boardwalk trails through fan palm groves with mountain views in the distance.
A hidden gem for couples who want a natural, off-the-beaten-path location.
3. San Jacinto Mountains (via Palm Springs Aerial Tramway)
Ride the tram up 8,500 ft into alpine forest and sweeping mountain views.
Perfect for couples who want both desert and mountain backdrops in one day.
Intimate Venues
Moroccan and Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel.
Private courtyards, whitewashed walls, and bohemian-chic vibes.
Ideal for couples who want a dreamy, romantic escape.
Iconic luxury hotel with bold, mid-century interiors and lush gardens.
Perfect for couples who want high-style elopements and editorial portraits.
Famous for its rainbow-colored hotel exterior.
Perfect for couples who want fun, bold, colorful portraits.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Palm Springs
Best Season: November is prime season. Sunny, warm days (70s) without the intense summer heat.
Permits: Public lands (like Indian Canyons or the Coachella Valley Preserve) may require permits for ceremonies. Always confirm before planning.
Weekdays: Resorts and gardens are quieter on weekdays, offering more privacy for elopements.
Pairing Locations: Many couples do vows in a canyon or garden, then head to a stylish hotel or Airbnb for a celebratory dinner.
Style Note: Palm Springs loves bold fashion. Retro-inspired gowns, colorful suits, statement sunglasses, or even vintage convertibles photograph beautifully here.
Bonus: Plan for golden-hour desert portraits, then head downtown for neon signs and palm-lined streets at night.
Paso Robles Vineyards
In November, Paso Robles wine country glows with golden vines, oak-dotted hills, and warm sunsets. Harvest season wraps up in October, which means the region is calmer and more peaceful in November, with brilliant fall colors lingering in the vineyards. Whether you’re envisioning vows in a vineyard, portraits among ancient oak trees, or a cozy private dinner at a rustic winery, Paso Robles is one of California’s most romantic elopement spots.
Intimate Venues
Mediterranean-inspired resort surrounded by vineyards and olive trees.
Offers both ceremony spaces and romantic, European-style architecture.
Perfect for couples wanting luxury without leaving wine country.
A boutique winery with a white farmhouse and a picturesque barn.
Rustic, elegant, and ideal for intimate ceremonies among vines.
3. Cass Winery
Offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with vineyard views.
Known for hosting small weddings and elopements with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Paso Robles
Best Season: November offers crisp, sunny days (60–70°) and cool evenings. The vines are still golden, but the harvest crowds are gone.
Permits: Most ceremonies take place on private wineries or estates; always coordinate directly with the venue.
Style Note: Neutral, earth-toned outfits photograph beautifully against Paso’s golden vineyards and oak trees.
Wine Pairing: Plan a post-vow wine tasting or private dinner at your chosen winery for the ultimate intimate celebration.
Adventure Pairing: Start with vows in a vineyard, take portraits under the oak groves, then end the night with a soak in the hot springs or a stargazing session—Paso skies are incredible in the fall.
Malibu
My hometown. November in Malibu is cozy, golden, and romantic. The afternoons are still mild, the winds create dramatic skies, and the beaches are far less crowded than summer. In the mountains, sycamores and oaks turn shades of yellow, adding a hint of autumn color to canyon trails and open meadows. Whether you’re picturing barefoot vows on the sand, golden-hour portraits among the cliffs, or a rustic ranch elopement in the canyons, Malibu offers endless possibilities for an intimate fall celebration.
Adventure Locations
Iconic cliffs, sea caves, and dramatic rock formations.
November sunsets here are some of the most colorful of the year.
Best for couples wanting dramatic coastal portraits with fewer crowds.
2. Point Dume
Cliffside ceremony spot with panoramic ocean views.
Short trails lead to hidden coves for intimate portraits.
A stunning choice for sunrise or sunset elopements.
Golden meadows, oak groves, and mountain backdrops.
In November, sycamore trees turn shades of yellow, adding subtle fall color.
Perfect for couples who want a mix of rustic canyon and coastal portraits.
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Malibu
Best Season: November is perfect, fewer tourists, dreamy sunsets, and comfortable temps.
Permits: Malibu’s State Parks and Beaches require special event permits for ceremonies. Locations like Point Dume and El Matador do not issue special event permits so do your research!
Crowds: Sunset is stunning, but plan for weekday ceremonies to avoid weekend visitors.
Santa Ana Winds: November often brings these winds, which can create dramatic skies but also strong gusts. Plan hairstyles and florals accordingly.
Adventure Pairing: Many couples love combining a canyon ceremony (like Malibu Creek SP) with sunset portraits at the beach for the best of both worlds.
Style Note: Flowing fabrics, neutrals, and coastal-inspired tones photograph beautifully against Malibu’s golden cliffs and ocean blues.
Interested in a California Elopement?
View Related Blog Posts
View California Elopements
About Megan W Photography
Megan is a Fine Art Maternity, Couples, and Family photographer who was born, raised, and is still living in Malibu, CA. She is here to capture you and your loved ones in images that you will want to cherish, and pass down to future generations.
Not only is she a photographer, but she is a mother, wife, daughter, and sister.
Maternity, family, and couples hold a special place in her heart because she knows how quickly time flies by. Megan W Photography wants to help you preserve those sweet little smiles, those tender, affectionate moments, and the love you share with each other.
Browse by Category:
Latest Blog Posts:
Hi! I’m Megan
I’m a boutique, Malibu, CA based photographer who specializes in Elopements, Engagements, and Maternity. I serve Los Angeles and Ventura County, as well as all of California. I value tangible, heirloom art pieces versus digital and I focus on quality over quantity.
Disclosure Statement
Meganwphotography.org participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate programs. As an affiliate, I earn commissions on qualifying purchases made through links on this site, at no additional cost to you.
