Winter Elopements Locations in California
This Post May Contain Affiliate LinksCalifornia is known for it’s unique, diverse landscape, and that still rings true in the winter!
Imagine a snowy winter wonderland in the mountains, snow dusted, majestic, towering redwood trees, and cool deserts where nothing but the stars illuminate the skies.
As a born and raised California elopement photographer, I’ve spent years exploring the best places to elope during the colder months. Below is your complete guide to the Best Winter Elopements Locations in California, organized by location type so you can easily find the landscape that matches your vision.
Winter Elopements: Mountain Locations
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite in winter is peaceful, moody, and so so so breathtaking. Snow covers the cliffs, the meadows fall quiet, and fog drifts through pine forests. Winter gives you privacy you won’t find during peak seasons. It truly feels like you have the park to yourself.
Adventure Locations
Tunnel View - The most iconic Yosemite vista, especially beautiful in winter with snow on Half Dome and El Capitan. Couples love doing quick vow exchanges here before heading into the meadows for portraits.
El Cap Meadow - A wide-open meadow surrounded by towering granite cliffs. In winter, the grass becomes golden and the cliffs gather soft snow at the top. It's perfect for intimate ceremonies with a backdrop that is larger than life.
Sentinel Bridge & Cook’s Meadow - Dreamy winter light, frozen river reflections, and golden valley colors make these spots ideal for portraits throughout the day.
Intimate Venues
Yosemite Valley Chapel
Built in 1879, this historic chapel looks especially charming surrounded by snow. It’s perfect for couples wanting a cozy indoor ceremony followed by snowy portraits outside.Address: 9000 Southside Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Website: www.yosemitevalleychapel.org
The Ahwahnee Hotel
The grand, historic lodge offers stone fireplaces, warm interiors, and stunning views. Many couples choose to get ready here and walk into the valley afterward for portraits.Address: Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Website: www.yosemite.com
What Makes Yosemite Perfect in Winter
Fewer crowds
Soft, diffused winter light
Snow-dusted cliffs and forests
Moody, dramatic photo opportunities
Peaceful atmosphere
⚡ Pro Tips
Glacier Point & Taft Point are closed winters. Stick to valley locations
Apply early for your Special Use Permit
Prepare for snow and icy walkways
Sunrise is incredibly foggy, soft, and romantic
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe becomes a snowy, sparkling winter wonderland. Crystal-blue water contrasts beautifully with white mountains, and the sunrise colors are unreal this time of year.
Adventure Locations
Emerald Bay - Located on the southwestern side of the lake, Emerald Bay is one of California’s most iconic views, especially in winter. Snow settles on the surrounding cliffs, the bay turns a deep teal color, and winter mornings bring soft pastel skies.
D.L. Bliss State Park - Just north of Emerald Bay, D.L. Bliss offers gorgeous rocky shorelines, turquoise water, and tall pines that look magical with a light dusting of snow. Rubicon Point is especially stunning, with long-range lake views and dramatic cliffs.
Sugar Pine Point State Park - One of the most underrated winter spots on the California side. This lakeside forest turns into a peaceful, snowy wonderland with tall pines, wooden cabins, and quiet shores along the lake. The historic Ehrman Mansion adds a beautiful architectural touch, especially lovely for getting-ready photos or portraits.
Intimate Venues
Granlibakken Tahoe
A historic lodge surrounded by forest on Tahoe’s west shore. In winter, the entire property transforms into a peaceful retreat with snowy trails, rustic architecture, and a warm, intimate atmosphere. Ideal for couples who want lodging + ceremony space in one location.Address: 725 Granlibakken Rd, Tahoe City, CA 96145
Website: www.granlibakken.com
Why Tahoe is Wonderful in Winter
Beautiful snow + lake scenery
Snow-covered pines create dreamy backdrops
Sunsets reflect pink light across the water
High elevation = consistent snow
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Tahoe (California Side)
Road Conditions: Winter storms are common. Plan for chains or AWD.
Warmth: It’s colder near the shoreline due to wind, bring layers, warm wraps, and hand warmers.
Accessibility: Emerald Bay and Sugar Pine Point offer easy-access winter viewpoints that don’t require long hikes.
Sunrise: The California side faces east toward the Nevada mountains , sunrise lights up the peaks beautifully.
Privacy: Weekdays are incredibly quiet in winter and give you entire beaches/trails to yourself.
Mammoth Mountain & Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth is one of California’s most iconic winter destinations, and it’s absolutely breathtaking for elopements. With dramatic alpine peaks, snowy forests, frozen lakes, and the softest winter light, Mammoth is truly like a winter wonderland. Whether you want an adventurous mountaintop experience or a quiet snowy lakeside ceremony, Mammoth offers endless possibilities for winter elopements.
Adventure Locations
Mammoth Lakes Basin - This entire basin (Twin Lakes, Horseshoe Lake) turns into a snowy, peaceful landscape in winter. The lakes often partially freeze, creating soft reflective surfaces and incredible photo opportunities. Tall pines and mountain views make this perfect for intimate vows.
Minaret Vista - One of the most striking viewpoints in the Eastern Sierra. In winter, the Minarets rise above layers of snowy peaks and soft pink alpenglow. Accessible via snowcat or by snowshoeing in winter, it’s an unforgettable spot for adventurous couples.
Convict Lake - Just south of Mammoth, this famous lake is framed by dramatic cliffs that gather snow in winter. The lake’s shoreline becomes a mix of ice, snow, and crystal-clear water. Winter sunsets here are unbelievable.
Hot Creek Geological Site - Steam rises from bright blue geothermal pools against snowy mountains. It’s dramatic, surreal, and incredibly photogenic, especially in the colder months when the steam is more visible.
Intimate Venues & Cozy Stays
Convict Lake Resort
A beautiful and convenient option for winter elopements. The cabins sit just steps from the shoreline, allowing couples to get ready in a cozy, private space and then walk outside for a lakeside ceremony. The snowy mountains surrounding the lake make the perfect winter backdrop.Address: 2000 Convict Lake Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Website: www.convictlake.com
Mammoth Mountain
There are lots of ceremony locations listed on the Mammoth Mountain website! Check them out here:Website: www.mammothmountain.com
Why Mammoth is Perfect in Winter
Consistent snow from December through March
Endless winter backdrops: frozen lakes, alpine meadows, snowy forests
Sunrise alpenglow on the Sierra Nevada is unmatched
Perfect for couples who want adventure built into their elopement
Quiet weekdays offer complete privacy in nature
Can combine snowy mountain portraits with cozy lodge celebrations
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Mammoth
Travel Prepared: Snowstorms can close roads or cause chain controls, plan extra time.
Sunset is Early: Winter light fades quickly in the mountains, so plan your ceremony earlier in the afternoon.
Dress Warmly: Winter temps can drop into the teens, especially at sunrise or high elevations.
Best Lighting: Alpenglow (the pink light on the peaks at sunrise/sunset) is one of Mammoth’s signature features, build your timeline around it.
Hot Springs Photos: If you want portraits in snow next to natural hot springs, you’ll need to stick to designated safe areas, no getting in the water.
Adventure Option: You can snowshoe or take a snowcat to remote locations for more privacy and stunning views.
Big Bear Lake
Just a few hours from LA, Big Bear is an approachable winter retreat with cozy cabins and charming mountain scenery.
Adventure Locations
Boulder Bay Park - A beautiful lakeside spot surrounded by boulders, pine trees, and calm winter water. Snow often blankets the shoreline in December–February, giving you a peaceful, intimate setting for vows and a gorgeous winter backdrop.
Aspen Glen Trail - One of the prettiest forest areas in Big Bear, featuring towering pines and occasional patches of snow depending on the month. It’s perfect for couples who want an easy-access trail with plenty of private ceremony nooks.
Intimate Venues
Shay Meadow Ranch & Resort
A stunning, rustic-luxury ranch property tucked into Big Bear’s gorgeous meadow landscapes. The wide-open fields, tall pines, and cozy lodge-style accommodations make this one of the most beautiful intimate winter venues in the area.Address: 1325 Midway Blvd, Big Bear, CA 92314
Website: shaymeadowsranchandresort.com
Why Big Bear is a Great Winter Option
Close to SoCal couples
Consistent winter snow
Great for cozy, cabin-style elopements
Perfect for small groups or two-person ceremonies
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Big Bear
Snow Arrives Early: Big Bear often sees snowfall by late November and consistently through January–February.
Weekdays Are Best: Weekends can be busy, weekdays give you quiet trails and privacy.
Dress Warmly: Even if days are sunny, evenings drop into the 20s–30s.
Permits: Some public areas may require permits; always check with the San Bernardino National Forest.
Plan for Sunset: Winter sunsets over the lake are especially beautiful, soft purples, pinks, and golds.
Winter Elopements: Coastal Locations
While most people think of California’s coast as a summer destination, winter is the best time for moody skies, dramatic waves, and quiet beaches.
Big Sur
Winter in Big Sur means dramatic waves, misty cliffs, and quiet trails. The coastal scenery becomes even more cinematic with fog drifting across the coastline.
Adventure Locations
Garrapata State Beach - Cliffside trails, rock formations, and long sandy stretches — gorgeous for sunset vows.
Pfeiffer Beach - Famous for its archway rock and purple sand. Winter waves feel dramatic and moody.
Bixby Bridge - An iconic California landmark perfect for portraits before or after your ceremony.
Intimate Venues
Alila Ventana Big Sur
Adults-only luxury with redwood groves and ocean-view ceremony sites. Ideal for all-inclusive elopements.Address: 48123 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Website: www.hyatt.com
Glen Oaks Big Sur
Cozy redwood cabins and lush forest settings for intimate forest vows.Address: 47080 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Website: glenoaksbigsur.com
What Makes Big Sur Perfect in Winter
Moody fog that photographs beautifully
Deeper blue tones in the ocean
Quiet beaches and trails
Incredible winter sunsets
⚡ Pro Tips
Expect rain or fog (bring clear umbrellas!)
Forests provide great backup if cliffs are foggy
Visit Keyhole Arch Pfeiffer Beach during this amazing phenomenon!
Malibu
As a born-and-raised Malibu local, I can say confidently: winter is one of the most beautiful seasons to elope here. The beaches are so quiet, the sunsets are fiery and dramatic, and the tides get extremely low at sunset. Winter also brings clear skies after seasonal rains, giving you crisp visibility, glowing cliffs, and some of the most stunning golden-hour light in Southern California.
Whether you want a barefoot ceremony on the sand, a cliffside moment overlooking the Pacific, or a canyon elopement tucked between golden hills, Malibu in winter offers endless variety
Adventure Locations
El Matador State Beach - El Matador is one of Malibu’s most iconic elopement locations, and it becomes even more breathtaking in winter. The sea stacks, arches, and golden cliffs glow under soft seasonal light, and winter tides create shimmering reflective pools that add depth and drama to your photos.
Point Dume - Point Dume is the perfect choice for couples who want sweeping ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and a touch of adventure. The bluff-top trails overlook the entire stretch of Zuma Beach, and in winter the visibility is incredible. On clear days you can see all the way to Catalina Island. The cliffs catch golden light beautifully, and hidden coves below offer quiet, tucked-away spots for intimate vows.
Intimate Venues
While most Malibu winter elopements happen on the beach or in the mountains, these intimate spaces make beautiful getting-ready locations or private places to celebrate afterward:
Malibu Solstice Vineyards
Perched high above the coastline with sweeping Pacific views. It’s perfect for couples wanting privacy, luxury, and a dreamy place to get ready or take portraits before heading to the beach.Address: 2700 Mar Vista Ridge Dr, Malibu, CA 90265
Website: www.malibusolsticevineyards.com
Calamigos Ranch
Rustic, romantic, and tucked into Malibu’s oak-filled canyons — ideal for couples wanting a cozy, woodsy ceremony space followed by portraits on the property’s bridges and garden areas.Address: 327 Latigo Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265
Website: www.calamigosevents.com
Why Malibu is Perfect for Winter
Quiet beaches
Warm winter days compared to the rest of California
Deep, dramatic sunsets
Great variety (cliffs, sand, mountains)
⚡ Pro Tips
Aim for weekday ceremonies. Mondays–Thursdays give you the quietest beaches and open trails.
Expect stunning weather after winter storms. The day after rain is often the clearest, brightest, and most photogenic.
Sunset is early. Plan your ceremony around 2:30–3:00 PM for the best golden light.
Permits vary by location. Some Malibu beaches, like El Matador, do not issue special event permits for ceremonies. Always double-check before planning.
Bring layers. Beach temperatures can drop quickly after sunset — a neutral or textured shawl photographs beautifully.
Learn More About Eloping in Malibu
Malibu Elopement Photographer
Experience Malibu elopements with breathtaking views, elegant venues, and unforgettable coastal adventures designed for your perfect intimate celebration.
Santa Cruz Coast
Santa Cruz is one of Northern California’s most underrated winter elopement destinations, dramatic cliffs, powerful waves, moody skies, and quiet coastal trails create a beautifully intimate setting for couples wanting something raw, natural, and cinematic. Winter brings deeper ocean tones, glowing sunset colors, and far fewer visitors, giving you peaceful access to beaches and bluffs that are often crowded in summer. The combination of rugged coastline, natural bridges, pine-lined trails, and misty sea air makes Santa Cruz an unforgettable winter coastal option.
Best Spots
Natural Bridges State Beach - Home to Santa Cruz’s famous sandstone arch, Natural Bridges is stunning year-round, but in winter it becomes especially stunning. Seasonal king tides bring dramatic surf, the arch glows at golden hour, and tidepools add texture and interest to your gallery.
Wilder Ranch - Wilder Ranch offers miles of coastal bluffs, grassy fields, wild succulents, and dramatic cliff edges overlooking the Pacific. Winter rains bring a burst of green across the rolling hills, while fog drifts in off the water, creating dreamy, atmospheric scenes. The cliffs provide endless ceremony spots, from wide-open bluff tops to tucked-away overlooks perfect for two-person vow exchanges.
Davenport Beach - Just north of Santa Cruz, Davenport offers some of the most striking and moody coastal views in the region. Rugged cliffs drop into crashing waves, and the area’s secluded coves make it a perfect blend of adventure and privacy. Winter sunsets here are bold and fiery, and on foggy days the entire coastline feels ethereal, soft, and romantic.
Intimate Venues
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
A boutique beachfront hotel with sweeping views of the Santa Cruz coast. Perfect for couples wanting oceanfront getting-ready photos and a stylish place to retreat after their ceremony.Address: 175 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Website: www.dreaminnsantacruz.com
Cowell Ranch Historic Hay Barn
One of Santa Cruz’s most charming and unique elopement venues. The Cowell Ranch Hay Barn has a beautiful rustic feel, exposed wooden beams, soaring ceilings, and clean, airy lines that photograph beautifully. The surrounding meadows and rolling foothills offer gorgeous winter backdrops, especially after seasonal rains bring fresh greenery.Address: Ranch View Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Website: cowellhaybarn.ucsc.edu
Hollins House Weddings
Timeless, elegant, and set high above the coastline, Hollins House offers sweeping views of Monterey Bay, rolling hills, and the lush greens of the Pasatiempo Golf Course. In winter, the air is crisp and clear, giving you panoramic ocean vistas that stretch for miles. Inside, the historic estate features classic architecture, soft light, and warm interiors, perfect for getting-ready photos or intimate celebrations. This venue is ideal for couples wanting a sophisticated, upscale winter elopement with both indoor and outdoor options, plus easy access to nearby beaches and redwood trails for portraits.Address: 20 Clubhouse Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Website: www.thehollinshouse.com
Why It’s Perfect in Winter
Fewer tourists
Moody skies and dramatic waves
Quiet coastal trails with stunning views
San Francisco / Bay Area
San Francisco in winter is elegant, moody, and full of coastal charm. Soft fog rolls across the Golden Gate, the ocean takes on deep slate-blue tones, and the city’s iconic architecture becomes the perfect backdrop for timeless elopement photos. Winter is also one of the quietest and most photogenic seasons in the Bay Area — fewer tourists, crisp air, glowing pastel sunsets, and dramatically atmospheric coastal cliffs.
Whether you want a chic city elopement at San Francisco City Hall or a rugged coastal adventure in the Marin Headlands, winter brings a calm, romantic energy to the entire region.
Adventure Locations
San Francisco City Hall - San Francisco City Hall is one of the most elegant and breathtaking indoor ceremony locations in California. The architecture alone makes it feel like stepping into a European palace — grand staircases, marble floors, towering columns, gilded details, and soft natural light pouring through the domed ceiling.
Baker Beach - Baker Beach is one of San Francisco’s most iconic locations — and in winter, it becomes even more magical. The Golden Gate Bridge rises dramatically from the mist, the waves crash with more intensity, and the beach has a calm, peaceful feel, especially on weekday afternoons.
Point Bonita Lighthouse - Just across the bridge in the Marin Headlands, Point Bonita Lighthouse offers rugged coastal cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and sweeping views of the Pacific. In winter, the fog and clouds create a moody, atmospheric feel that photographers dream about.
Intimate Venues
Log Cabin at the Presidio
Nestled in the historic Presidio forest, the Log Cabin is one of San Francisco’s most charming and rustic venues. With large windows overlooking rolling greens and pine trees, a stone fireplace, and exposed wooden beams, the space feels cozy and intimate — especially in winter.
Address: 1299 Storey Ave, San Francisco, CA 94129
Website: www.wedgewoodweddings.com
Why It’s Perfect
Winter fog is moody and cinematic
Mild weather compared to other regions
Beautiful city-meets-nature vibes
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in San Francisco in Winter
Plan for fog. Fog creates some of the most romantic light.
Bring layers. The wind can be chilly even on sunny days.
Schedule a weekday ceremony for better privacy.
Sunset is early, so plan Golden Gate portraits accordingly.
Have a backup location (Palace of Fine Arts, Lover’s Lane, Legion of Honor) in case the beach is windy.
Parking fills quickly near Baker Beach and the Headlands, build in buffer time.
Winter Elopements: Desert Locations
Warm days, golden sunsets, and dramatic desert landscapes make winter the best time to elope in California’s deserts.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is one of the most iconic winter elopement locations in California, warm golden light, twisted Joshua Trees, giant boulder fields, dramatic desert skies, and cool, comfortable temperatures make it absolutely stunning from December through February. Winter brings crisp mornings, pastel sunsets, and clear starry nights that feel incredibly romantic. Unlike summer, winter weather is mild and perfect for exploring, which means your entire elopement day can be spent wandering through desert trails, climbing boulders, and watching the sky change colors across the horizon.
Adventure Locations
Cap Rock
Cap Rock is one of the most popular elopement spots in Joshua Tree, and for good reason. The area features unique rock formations, towering boulders, and open desert views with countless Joshua Trees scattered throughout the landscape. Because it’s spacious and relatively flat, it’s perfect for both intimate ceremonies and small groups.Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley feels like a protected desert sanctuary. Tucked inside a ring of tall granite formations, this area offers sheltered ceremony spaces, less wind, and warm light bouncing off the surrounding rocks. The valley opens into multiple little side paths and alcoves that give couples privacy and an intimate feel.Arch Rock
Arch Rock is one of the park’s most recognizable landmarks, a sweeping, curved rock formation that frames the sky beautifully. It requires a short, easy hike to reach, which makes it perfect for adventurous portraits after your ceremony.
Intimate Venues
Sacred Sands
Sacred Sands is one of the most luxurious and visually stunning boutique desert properties just outside Joshua Tree National Park. With clean, modern architecture, warm desert tones, and panoramic views of the park, it’s a dream for couples wanting a high-end, private elopement experience.Address: 63155 Quail Springs Rd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252
Website: www.sacredsands.com
Rimrock Ranch
Located in nearby Pioneertown, Rimrock Ranch is a rustic, stylish, and deeply atmospheric property with an Old West-meets-modern-desert aesthetic. It’s a favorite among couples who love vintage textures, cozy cabins, and expansive open desert views.
Address: 50857 Burns Canyon Rd, Pioneertown, CA 92268
Website: www.therimrockranch.com
The Morada
The Morada is a stunning, modern desert escape designed with soft minimalism and warm earth tones. With its clean architectural lines, natural textures, and serene atmosphere, it’s perfect for couples who want a fine-art, design-forward elopement experience.
Website: www.moradajoshuatree.com
Why Joshua Tree is Perfect in Winter
Comfortable 60–70° days
Golden pink sunsets
Endless photo variety
Fewer crowds than spring
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Joshua Tree in Winter
Permits: A Special Use Permit is required for all ceremonies inside the park, apply 30–60 days out.
Timing: Sunset comes early (4:30–5 PM), so plan your ceremony around 2:00–3:00 PM.
Temps: Days are warm but nights drop to 40s, bring layers for evening photos.
Wind: Winter can be breezy; Hidden Valley is a perfect wind-protected choice.
Weekdays: Far more private and peaceful.
Footwear: Bring walking shoes for boulders + switch to dress shoes for portraits.
Combine locations: Many couples exchange vows at Cap Rock → take portraits at Arch Rock → end with sunset at Hidden Valley.
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley is one of the most surreal, otherworldly winter elopement locations in California — a place where vast salt flats stretch to the horizon, sand dunes glow gold at sunrise, and layered canyons catch the light in the most dramatic ways. While summer temperatures soar well over 110°, winter brings comfortable 60–75° days, making it the ideal season to explore this extraordinary desert landscape.
Winter’s low sun casts long shadows across the mountains, creates soft pastel skies, and makes every texture, from cracked salt formations to rolling dunes, glow beautifully on camera. If you and your partner dream of a quiet, cinematic, completely unique elopement backdrop, Death Valley is an unforgettable choice.
Adventure Locations
Badwater Basin Salt Flats - One of the most iconic and visually striking locations in the park, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America — a vast expanse of white salt polygon formations stretching endlessly toward the mountains.
Zabriskie Point - A favorite among photographers, Zabriskie Point features layered, golden badlands that glow dramatically when lit by the winter sun.
Mesquite Sand Dunes - The Mesquite Dunes offer a dreamy, soft, romantic desert backdrop, rolling dunes, gentle ridgelines, and patterns in the sand that catch golden light beautifully.
Artist’s Palette - A vibrant hillside made of naturally colorful minerals — pinks, blues, greens, purples, and golds. Winter light enhances the colors dramatically.
Why Death Valley Is Perfect in Winter
Mild, comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring
Unique landscapes unlike anywhere else in California
Winter’s low-angle sunlight creates cinematic shadows and colors
Quiet park atmosphere adds intimacy and peacefulness
Perfect for couples who want a bold, adventurous, editorial look
Some of the best stargazing in the world for night portraits
⚡ Pro Tips for Death Valley Winter Elopements
Stay hydrated: Even in winter, the desert is extremely dry.
Bring layers: Mornings and evenings can be chilly.
Allow travel time: The park is massive, and locations can be far apart.
Plan your route: Signal is limited, download offline maps.
Avoid midday: Winter midday light is better than summer, but sunrise/sunset are still ideal.
Wind: Dunes can be windy; choose a hairstyle that moves beautifully.
Footwear: Bring walking shoes for exploring, then switch to dress shoes for photos.
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is one of California’s most stylish, colorful, and sun-drenched winter elopement destinations. With warm 70° days, retro architecture, dramatic mountain backdrops, and palm-lined streets, it’s the perfect place for couples who want a chic, design-forward elopement with the option to explore the desert or sneak off to a stylish resort afterward.
Winter is truly the best season to elope in Palm Springs, the weather is beautiful, the light is soft and golden, and the desert landscape comes alive in warm, earthy tones that photograph beautifully. Whether you're dreaming of a retro-inspired poolside ceremony, a minimalist desert adventure, or a cozy boutique-hotel elopement, Palm Springs offers an unforgettable blend of elegance and fun.
Adventure Locations
Thousand Palms Oasis - Located within the Coachella Valley Preserve, Thousand Palms Oasis feels like stepping into a hidden desert paradise. Towering palms rise above a natural spring, creating a lush, dramatic contrast against the surrounding desert dunes. Winter brings cooler temperatures and beautiful warm light filtering through the palm fronds, casting soft shadows and golden textures throughout the oasis.
Palm Springs Windmills - The Palm Springs windmills are one of the area’s most iconic sights — towering white turbines set against dramatic mountain ranges. The landscape is bold, minimalistic, and striking, making it perfect for editorial-style or fashion-inspired elopement photos.
Intimate Venues
Korakia Pensione
Korakia Pensione is a dreamy, Moroccan-and-Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel that feels like an artistic sanctuary. With its whitewashed walls, arched doorways, flowing fabrics, quiet courtyards, and candlelit pathways, it’s one of the most romantic properties in Palm Springs.
Address: 257 S Patencio Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Website: www.korakia.com
The Parker
The Parker is an iconic luxury hotel known for its bold, mid-century interiors, lush gardens, vibrant color palettes, and unforgettable design. Everything here is stylish, playful, and modern, perfect for couples wanting a high-fashion or editorial elopement vibe.
Address: 4200 E Palm Canyon Dr #5230, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Website: www.parkerpalmsprings.com
The Saguaro
For couples who love bold color and a fun, playful atmosphere, The Saguaro is a perfect match. Known for its rainbow-colored hotel exterior, vibrant pool area, and bright, joyful style, the property brings a modern, pop-art aesthetic to your wedding photos.
Address: 1800 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Website: thesaguaro.com
Why Palm Springs is Perfect for Winter Elopements
Warm, sunny 70° days while the rest of California cools down
Mid-century modern architecture + dramatic mountain views
Endless boutique hotels perfect for both ceremonies and getting-ready photos
Winter sunsets with warm golden hues and soft desert shadows
Accessible adventure locations (windmills, canyons, oases)
Ideal for couples who love clean lines, design, and editorial desert vibes
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Palm Springs in Winter
Weekdays are quieter and give you more privacy at major photo spots.
Golden hour is gorgeous, especially at the windmills, plan portraits 60 minutes before sunset.
Desert mornings can be chilly, so bring layers for sunrise elopements.
Many boutique hotels require buyouts or reservations for photo access. Always confirm beforehand.
The oasis areas can be sensitive environments, so stay on designated boardwalks.
Alabama Hills
Alabama Hills is one of California’s most dramatic and underrated winter elopement destinations. Located at the base of the Eastern Sierra in Lone Pine, this otherworldly landscape blends golden desert boulders with snow-capped mountain peaks, creating one of the most striking backdrops you can find anywhere in the state. Winter is absolutely breathtaking here. The crisp air, the snow-dusted Sierra Nevada, and the warm golden tones of the rock formations come together to create a cinematic, high-desert atmosphere that feels like stepping onto a movie set.
This is the perfect elopement location for couples who want dramatic scenery, moody winter skies, and a sense of wild adventure without long hikes or complex logistics.
Adventure Locations
Mobius Arch Loop Trail - Mobius Arch is the crown jewel of Alabama Hills. It is a naturally sculpted stone arch that frames the frozen, snow-covered peaks of Mount Whitney beautifully in winter. The short loop trail is easy and accessible, making it perfect for sunrise or sunset portraits.
The Movie Road Corridor - Named for its long history of Western movies filmed in the area, Movie Road offers long, winding desert roads flanked by jumbled granite formations and dramatic mountain vistas. In winter, the contrast between golden desert and snowy peaks is incredible.
The Western Hills & Lone Pine Peak Views - Large boulder fields framed by the jagged rise of Lone Pine Peak create some of the most dramatic winter backdrops in the region. Snow on the mountains creates a stark, beautiful contrast with the warm tones of the rocks.
Why Alabama Hills Is Perfect for Winter Elopements
Snowy Sierra Nevada views without needing to climb into the mountains
Comfortable winter temperatures (40s–60s during the day)
Quiet, peaceful landscape with few winter visitors
Golden winter light that softens the desert textures beautifully
Short, easy walks to reach unbelievable backdrops
Wide-open desert views ideal for intimate ceremonies
Stargazing opportunities for night-portrait magic (clear winter skies!)
⚡ Pro Tips for Eloping in Alabama Hills in Winter
Bring warm layers: Mornings can drop below freezing even if afternoons are mild.
Roads are dirt: Most are accessible, but after snow or rain, AWD is helpful.
Weekdays offer full privacy: You can have entire boulder fields to yourselves.
Plan for wind: Winter breezes can be strong, choose hairstyles that move beautifully.
Cell service is limited: Download offline maps and plan meeting points.
Stay in Lone Pine: Cozy lodges and mountain cabins offer easy access to sunrise and sunset sessions.
Leave no trace: Rock formations are fragile, stick to established paths and durable surfaces.
Winter Elopements: Forest Locations
If you’re dreaming of misty air, towering trees, and cozy, quiet trails, California’s forests are breathtaking in winter. Rain, fog, and soft light turn these landscapes into intimate, storybook settings that are perfect for elopements.
Big Sur Redwoods
Just inland from the dramatic Big Sur coastline, the redwood groves feel calm, sheltered, and deeply romantic in winter. When the coast is windy or foggy, the forest becomes a peaceful, protected world with soft light filtering through towering trees and ferns at your feet.
Intimate Venues
Glen Oaks Big Sur
Cabins and cottages nestled under the redwoods give you both a ceremony space and lodging in one spot. Many couples say their vows just a few steps from their front door, then enjoy a fireside dinner afterward.Address: 47080 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Website: glenoaksbigsur.com
Ventana Big Sur
In addition to its cliffside spots, Ventana has redwood groves and forest walks that feel incredibly peaceful in winter. This is perfect if you want both forest vows and coastal portraits in one location.Address: 48123 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Website: www.hyatt.com
Why Big Sur Redwoods Are Perfect in Winter
Forest canopy provides shelter from light rain and wind
Redwoods look richer and deeper in color after winter rain
Fewer visitors compared to summer and fall
Beautiful option to pair with coastal cliffs on the same day
⚡ Pro Tips for Big Sur Redwoods
Winter storms can cause road closures along Highway 1, always check conditions.
Trails can be muddy; choose footwear you can walk and hike in.
Forest areas stay darker, so plan earlier ceremonies for the best light.
Pair redwoods for vows + Big Sur beach or overlook for sunset portraits if weather allows.
Sequoia National Park
If you want a true “giant trees + snow” winter experience, Sequoia National Park is absolutely spectacular. Massive sequoias with rust-colored trunks rise out of snow-covered forest floors, and the contrast is breathtaking.
Adventure Locations
Giant Forest - Home to General Sherman and countless other massive sequoias, the Giant Forest feels both grand and intimate at the same time. In winter, trails wind between snowy trunks and quiet groves, creating romantic nooks for private vows.
Meadow Overlooks and Snowy Clearings - Throughout the park, you’ll find meadows and small open areas that turn into peaceful snowfields. These work beautifully for two-person ceremonies with towering trees all around.
Intimate Venues
Ol’ Buckaroo
Located in the gateway town of Three Rivers, Ol’ Buckaroo is a charming, rustic-chic venue perfect for couples wanting a warm, intimate celebration just outside the national park. With its cozy indoor spaces, vintage-inspired décor, and beautiful outdoor areas, it’s ideal for hosting a small ceremony, reception, or post-elopement dinner.
Address: 41695 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, CA 93271
Website: olbuckaroo.com
Redwood Ranch
Redwood Ranch is a private, forested estate nestled along the river in Three Rivers, perfect for couples who want a secluded, nature-immersed venue with warm, rustic vibes. With its sprawling property, historic barn, redwood forest pockets, and riverside trails, it offers endless opportunities for portraits and intimate celebrations.
Address: 48008 S Fork Dr, Three Rivers, CA 93271
Website: www.paradiseatredwood.com
Why Sequoia is Perfect in Winter
Giant sequoias dusted with snow are incredibly striking
Winter quiet makes the groves feel peaceful and intimate
You get both dramatic scale and soft, romantic details in your photos
It feels like a true winter escape without leaving California
⚡ Pro Tips for Sequoia Winter Elopements
Chains are often required to drive into the park in winter — check road conditions before you go.
Bundle up: temperatures can be very cold at elevation, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Trails can be snowy or icy; sturdy boots and microspikes are helpful.
Check National Park wedding permit requirements well in advance. Even small ceremonies typically need approval.
Plan extra travel time; winter weather can slow everything down in the best way.
Whether you’re dreaming of snowy mountains, quiet beaches, warm deserts, or misty forests — winter offers romantic, peaceful, and unforgettable elopement backdrops across California.
Winter gives you space to slow down, savor the moment, and create an intimate, meaningful celebration.
Interested in me Photographing your Elopement?
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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.
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Hi! I’m Megan
I’m a boutique, Malibu, CA based photographer who specializes in Maternity, Couples, and families. 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.
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