A Love Story Beneath the Giants

If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” beneath ancient trees or walking barefoot along the rugged Northern California coast, the Redwoods are calling your name. Towering trees, misty ocean air, and cinematic light create one of the most breathtaking backdrops on earth — the kind of place where love feels sacred and time stands still.

As a California Redwoods elopement photographer, I help couples craft intentional, stress-free wedding days surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate forest ceremony or sunset vows on the coastline, here’s everything you need to know to plan your dream Redwoods elopement or wedding.

🌿 Why the California Redwoods Are the Perfect Elopement Destination

Few places on earth feel as magical and peaceful as the Redwoods. These ancient forests are quiet, mystical, and filled with a sense of awe. Here’s why couples from all over the world travel here to elope:

Timeless beauty: Massive 300-foot trees and filtered golden light make every moment feel ethereal.

Seclusion: Hidden trails and groves offer total privacy for your vows.

Variety: Forest, ferns, cliffs, and beaches — all within minutes of each other.

Adventure-friendly: Whether you hike, picnic, or dip your toes in the ocean, every part of your day becomes a story worth remembering.

🌲 Top Places to Elope in the Redwoods

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

This is one of the most magical groves for elopements — sunlight pours through the canopy, ferns blanket the forest floor, and every photo looks like a fairytale.

Prairie Creek Redwoods & Fern Canyon

Home to lush ferns and otherworldly canyon walls. Perfect for adventurous couples who don’t mind a short hike and want a cinematic vibe (yes — Jurassic Park was filmed here!).

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park

Ideal for couples who want forest and ocean views. The trails lead to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific — a perfect spot for post-ceremony portraits.

Stout Grove (Crescent City)

Easy to access and one of the most photographed groves. It’s absolutely stunning at golden hour, with light beams filtering through the ancient trees.

🌊 Eloping Along the Northern California Coastline

Just minutes from the forest, you’ll find some of the most romantic coastal backdrops for your ceremony or portraits:

Enderts Beach: Serene and dramatic with tide pools and rocky cliffs.

Point St. George: Sweeping ocean views and wild coastal wind.

Pebble Beach (Crescent City): Great for sunset elopements and small ceremonies.

Brookings, Oregon: Only 30 minutes north — softer light, rugged sea stacks, and hidden coves for that PNW coastal magic.

☀️ Best Time of Year to Elope in the Redwoods

📜 Permit Information

You’ll need a Special Use Permit for most Redwoods locations.

Apply through the California State Parks system 4–6 weeks in advance.

Typical cost: $150–$400 depending on group size and site.

I guide all my couples through this step so it’s easy and stress-free.

🏡 Where to Stay

You’ll find everything from cozy cabins to luxury ocean-view inns:

Lost Whale Inn (Trinidad): Oceanfront and romantic.

Jedediah Smith Campground Cabins: Simple, private, and close to the groves.

Tiny cabins & A-frames near Crescent City or Brookings: Perfect for elopement weekends.

Triple Nickel Pines Retreat (Southern Oregon): A peaceful forest escape with alpacas, hot tubs, and add-on charcuterie experiences — just a short drive from the coast!

🕊️ A Sample Elopement Timeline

Morning: Coffee + slow start in your cabin
Late morning: Ceremony among the Redwoods
Afternoon: Explore trails or share a picnic
Evening: Sunset vows or portraits by the ocean
Night: Champagne, charcuterie, and stargazing

📸 Redwoods Elopement Photography Tips

Wear neutral or earthy tones that complement the forest.

Bring comfortable shoes (some trails can be muddy).

Weekdays = fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.

Don’t stress about weather — fog and mist only make the photos moodier and more romantic.

💍 Let’s Plan Your California Redwoods Elopement Together

The Redwoods are more than a backdrop — they’re an experience. Your love story deserves to be captured in a place as wild and timeless as your connection.

If you’re dreaming of eloping in the California Redwoods or along the Northern California coast, I’d love to help you plan every detail — from permits and locations to your timeline and photos.

👉 Inquire here to start planning your elopement adventure with Dezerae Jobe Photography.