Considering going off to elope in Los Angeles? With the upbeat atmosphere, subtropical climate, and coastal views, it’s no wonder Los Angeles is a top choice for elopements.
Choose from the white sandy beaches, or set your sights on some epic mountain views as you and your partner say your vows.
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Best Places To Elope In Los Angeles
This famous city is filled with an array of eye-catching scenery and romantic destinations. One of the many perks of eloping in Los Angeles is the sensational weather almost all year round.
However, amazing weather brings loads of crowds and higher prices. To avoid this, you may want to elope during the shoulder season.
Both fall and spring are excellent seasons for a Los Angeles elopement. The weather will be slightly crisper and you’ll be able to capture great photos as nature begins to slowly transform before your eyes.
From mountain peaks to grand architecture, you’ll have plenty of unique backdrops to choose from for your picture-perfect ceremony.
If you are not sure what you’re looking for, try asking yourself the below questions.
- Would you rather have a quiet and intimate location or a lively and public one?
- Would you prefer an indoor or outdoor venue?
- How accessible does this area need to be in order to meet the needs of your guests? (if you choose to have any)
Some of the below locations will require a bit of walking to reach, be sure to keep that in mind when making your decision.
Now that you have a better idea of what you are looking for in a location let’s jump into the best places to elope in Los Angeles.
1. Griffith Park
- Permit: Required
- More information
Set your sights on one of the largest urban parks in North America. Griffith Park spans 4,310 acres and is filled with Branson caves, diverse wildlife, and of course, the iconic Holly Wood sign.
With loads of trails and ah-inspiring views of the city, this is a great location for a couple looking to indulge in nature without being too far away from the action.
After the ceremony concludes, roam the park for some one-of-a-kind wedding photos. Make sure to make a pit stop at the Griffith Observatory.
2. Vasquez Rocks
- Permit: Not required
This is a perfect combination of mountain peaks and desert floors. Filled with a wide range of staggering rock formations, you and your partner can easily sneak off and find an intimate location to say your vows.
As this is a popular destination, you will likely encounter some crowds. To avoid this, opt for a sunrise ceremony.
Not only will this make for some magnificent wedding photos, but it will also provide you with a little more privacy. As long as you intend to keep this ceremony small (40 people or less), you will not need to obtain a special use permit.
3. Angeles Crest Forest
- Permit: Situation dependent
- More information
Looking for a grand backdrop with majestic mountain peaks and an array of tree species, Angeles Crest Forest makes for some epic photos and magnificent scenery.
The drive there is an experience in itself. The Angeles Crest Highway is an iconic drive that will provide many twists, turns, and jaw-dropping scenery.
You don’t need to wait until you enter the Angeles Crest Forest for your photoshoot to begin. Make the most of your experience with some pit stops along the way for some truly amazing views and breathtaking photos.
4. Pasadena City Hall
- Permit: Not required
- More information
Technically, this is outside of Los Angeles but just a short train or car ride from the city.
The Pasadena City Hall is a sight to see, especially at night. This early 20th-century building stands tall with admired stucco architecture and elaborate stone ornaments.
Filled with intricate archways, medieval decor, and an exquisite courtyard, every inch of the hall is a masterpiece.
You can use the public space here free of charge but won’t be able to guarantee that your ceremony is entirely private. If you intend to have guests and would like to ensure a private area, you can rent a room at an hourly rate.
This starts at around $350.00 per hour for residents and is approximately $715 for non-residents.
5. Malibu Beaches
- Permit: Situation dependent
- More information
Just a short ride from Los Angeles, Malibu is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. If white sand and crystal blue waters are your thing, this is the place to start your new life journey as a married couple.
The beaches here tend to be a bit less crowded than some of Los Angeles’s other surrounding areas and are known to have more lenient permit requirements.
Dip your toes in the sand of some of Malibu’s best beaches, such as:
- El Matador Beach
- Malibu Lagoon State Beach
- Point Mugu State Park
- Pirate’s Cove Beach
- Point Dume State Beach
6. Marvimon
- Permit: Not required
- More information
If you’re looking for a quirky venue that you can add your own creative flair to, this is the destination for you.
Marivimon is a collective of venues filled with abstract art pieces, vibrant colors, and tropical atmospheres. Each location has a unique background story and distinctive vibe.
This is the perfect destination if you are planning a small reception to follow your elopement ceremony.
While there are no permit restrictions, you will have to pay a rental fee as this is a private location.
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How To Elope In Los Angeles
After checking the venue off of your list, you’re ready for the logistics. As Los Angeles is a city in California, you will have to follow state laws to elope in California legally.
Getting married is easily accessible for most couples as same-sex marriage is legal, and you do not have to be a state resident or US citizen.
To tie the knot here you will need:
- A marriage license
- A wedding officiant
- One witness that is 18 years of age or older
How To Get A Marriage License
Obtaining a marriage license here is relatively easy. The first step is to contact a county clerk’s office and make an appointment.
You will then be required to appear in person with your fiance.
Make sure to bring the following documentation:
- Photo I.D. (driver’s license or passport)
- Social Security Number (for US citizens)
- Certified copies of your birth certificate with necessary translation (for foreigners)
- Passport with certified English translation if necessary (for foreigners)
- Proper evidence of the termination of any previous marriage
If you are a foreigner, make sure to check with your home embassy to ensure you are following all of the necessary requirements.
The fee will be dependent on the county you receive the marriage license in. Typically the price will range from $80 – $120.
Once you have received your marriage license, you will have 90 days to put it to use; after these 90 days, the license will expire.
Los Angeles Wedding Officiant
Whether you are thinking of having a religious wedding or a casual ceremony, anyone that has been legally ordained will have the power to officiate your wedding. This includes a priest, minister, rabbi, or any authorized person of any religious denomination.
Have a friend or family member conduct your ceremony to make this moment even more special. They can become quickly ordained online in just a few steps.
Los Angeles Location Permits
If you decide to have your ceremony in a public space such as a park or natural area, you may be required to obtain a special use permit for your ceremony. Some areas will allow you to elope without a permit if your wedding party is under a specific size.
This is location-dependent, and you will have to speak to the area’s management team for exact rules and regulations.
Elopement Packages In Los Angeles
Keep this elopement simple and leave the logistics to the professionals. In Los Angeles, you’ll have your pick of wedding planners and elopement agencies that can meet all of your needs from start to finish.
Opt for a simple ceremony or go grand with an inclusive package. If you are leaning towards the side of luxury, one of the larger packages would include things such as:
- A wedding officiant
- A dedicated wedding planner
- Ceremony destination
- Accommodations
- Dinner
- Hair and makeup
- A bouquet
- A Boutonniere
- A photographer
- A videographer
A package like this would typically start around $4,000.
Final Thoughts On Eloping in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has something to offer everyone, from lively and luxurious to the simple outdoors. With Jaw-dropping mountain views and an upbeat atmosphere, it’s a great place to elope.
Plan your elopement on your own or seek some professional help; either way, just make sure you have all the proper documentation and paperwork to tie the knot in California legally.
Not sure if Los Angeles is the right destination to elope? Read one of the following guides:
