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How to Elope on the Oregon Coast

  • jerrilynnlatta1
  • Jul 10, 2024
  • 7 min read

Updated: Sep 5


couple in wedding attire stand on cannon beach in front of haystack rock on the oregon coast while having their elopement ceremony. it is golden hour so the features and lighting are golden and bright.
Couple Eloping at Haystack Rock at Golden Hour

Dreaming of an intimate ceremony with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop? The Oregon Coast offers a blend of rugged cliffs, serene beaches, and lush forests—making it a premier destination for elopements. Here's your step-by-step guide to planning a memorable Oregon Coast elopement.


Table of Contents:


Legal Process to Elope in Oregon

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To legally elope in Oregon, follow these steps:

  • Marriage License Application: Both parties must appear together in person at any county clerk's office in Oregon. You'll need to present valid identification such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID. The license is issued immediately but has a "3 day waiting period". You're supposed to wait to marry at least 3 days after the license has been issued.

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old. If either party is 17 years old, they must have parental consent. If under 17, they need both parental consent and a court order.

  • Fee: The cost of a marriage license varies by county but generally ranges from $50 to $60. Some counties may offer reduced fees for completing a premarital education course.

  • Waiting Period: There is no waiting period in Oregon, meaning you can apply for and receive your marriage license on the same day.

  • Expiration: Your marriage license is valid immediately upon issuance and remains valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If not used within this period, you'll need to reapply.


For more detailed information and specific requirements, visit my blog post on Where to get your Oregon Coast Marriage License




📝Legal Process to Obtain Permits for Outdoor Ceremonies

Navigating Wedding Permits on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is public land—stretching over 360 miles—so you’ll be working with Oregon State Parks on any permit needs. Most elopements or micro-weddings happen without requiring one, especially if you’re keeping things intimate. Here’s what you should know:


When You Don’t Need a Permit

  • If you’re hosting fewer than 50 guests, you typically won’t need a permit.

  • Simple setups—like a few chairs, a bouquet, or a small picnic—aren’t usually considered disruptive if they align with normal beach use.

  • If your ceremony involves just a small group and minimal items, you’re likely in the clear.


When a Permit Is Required

You’ll need a permit if your plans include:

  • 50 or more attendees, or

  • Structures or decorations (arches, altars, rental chairs, sound systems) or anything that could limit public access to the beach.


What the Permit Covers & What It Costs

  • Permit Fee: Usually around $150 for up to 50 people.

  • Extra Guests: Often $1 per additional person.

  • Insurance: Liability insurance naming Oregon State Parks as “additionally insured” is commonly required.

  • Exclusive Use: Only one permitted event per site per day is allowed.


Timeframes & Application Details

  • Apply no more than nine months before your event and at least 30 days in advance.

  • Approval is location-specific—beaches can book up quickly for events, so start early.

  • Applications are short (about two pages) and can be submitted by email or mail.


Quick Action Steps

  1. Check your location on the Oregon State Parks map.

  2. Reach out to the permit administrator to confirm requirements for your beach.

  3. Decide if your vision is simple enough to skip a permit or needs one.

  4. Gather insurance (if applicable), submit your permit application, and enjoy a stress-free coastal “I do.”





📍How to Choose Your Oregon Coast Elopement Location

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Choosing the right location is crucial for a memorable elopement on the Oregon Coast. Consider your preferences for scenery, accessibility, and privacy. Here are detailed lists of locations categorized for your convenience:


Explore a variety of stunning Oregon locations and their features in my comprehensive Elopement Locations Guide.



Weather on the Oregon Coast

lesbian couple elopes on oregon coast at heceta head in pouring down rain

The weather on the Oregon Coast is influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, resulting in a mild maritime climate. Summers are generally cool and dry, making it an ideal time for outdoor ceremonies and exploring the coastline. However, it’s wise to prepare for the possibility of coastal fog and breezes. Winters bring more rain and stormy conditions, which can create dramatic backdrops but may require more planning for outdoor activities. Another topic to consider when visiting the Oregon Coast is the Tide Levels. You need negative tide levels to achieve the best tide pooling experience or to visit beaches like Secret Beach and Hug Point. Just google, "Tide chart for Cannon Beach August 2024", and insert the appropriate day and area you are in.


For detailed insights into Oregon Coast weather patterns and seasonal considerations, visit Oregon Coast Visitor Association.



oregon elopement photographer captures couple in wedding attire on elk flats trail on the oregon coast.

🌊 The Importance of Tide Levels for Your Oregon Coast Elopement

The Oregon Coast is full of magic — towering sea stacks, driftwood-strewn beaches, hidden caves, and crashing waves. But if you're eloping here, there's one detail you absolutely can’t overlook: the tides.

Tide levels can quite literally make or break your elopement plans, especially if you're dreaming of a beach ceremony, exploring sea caves, or shooting at iconic coastal locations like Hug Point or Thor’s Well.


📈 Why Tide Charts Matter

The Oregon Coast experiences two high tides and two low tides every 24 hours, and the difference between them can be extreme — in some places, over 8 feet!

Planning around the tides is essential because:

  • 🌊 Certain beaches and caves become completely inaccessible at high tide. You don’t want to be cut off mid-ceremony by a rushing wave.

  • 📸 Some of the most beautiful locations (like tide pools, caves, or wide sandy stretches) are only visible at low tide.

  • 🧍‍♀️ Safety is key. Rogue waves and rising water levels can be dangerous if you're not paying attention.


🕐 Best Time of Day for Coastal Elopements

Generally, low tide near sunrise or sunset is the best time to elope on the Oregon Coast. Why?

  • 🌅 Better light for photos

  • 👣 Fewer people around

  • 🏞️ More beach to explore and more unique features visible

You can check accurate tide predictions using websites like tide-forecast.com or NOAA Tides & Currents — just search by location and date.


📍 Oregon Coast Spots Where Tide Timing Really Matters

  • Hug Point: Only accessible at low tide. High tide cuts off the trail around the bluff and can make this spot dangerous.

  • Thor’s Well & Spouting Horn: Best viewed near high tide for dramatic water displays, but caution is needed — waves can be unpredictable.

  • Short Sands Beach (Oswald West): Great at low or mid-tide for more space and visible rock formations.

  • Cape Kiwanda: Tide impacts how far out you can walk on the sand vs. being limited to the dune area.


✅ Tide Tips for Eloping Couples

  • Check tide charts for your elopement day and location.

  • Build extra time into your timeline in case you need to wait for tides to recede.

  • Bring waterproof boots or sandals if you’ll be walking through tide pools or wet sand.

  • Have a backup spot in case your first choice is tide-dependent and inaccessible.

  • Work with a photographer who knows the coast (hi, that’s me!) — I’ll make sure we time things right and stay safe.

Tides are one of those wild and powerful forces that remind us nature is in charge — but when planned for properly, they also create the most stunning and cinematic moments. Whether you’re barefoot in a sea cave or running across wide-open sand flats at sunset, knowing the tides means making the most of your Oregon Coast elopement day.



🌊Easy link to Tide Charts by Coast Region

The Oregon Coast is divided into 3 sections: North, Central and South. Here are the direct links to the Oregon Coast Tide charts for 2025



🥾Fun Elopement Activities

Make your Oregon Coast elopement an adventure by incorporating activities that celebrate the natural beauty and local culture. Consider a sunrise hike along the  Cape Perpetua for panoramic views, followed by a romantic beach picnic at Hug Point State Recreation Site. Explore charming coastal towns like Newport or  Cannon Beach for unique shopping experiences and indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants like Local Ocean Seafoods or Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge.

Discover more adventurous elopement ideas and activities in my curated Elopement Activities For Oregon Coastal Locations guide.



Why Choose Me as Your Oregon Coast Elopement Photographer?

lesbian couple elopes on the oregon coast at heceta head lighthouse trail. it is night time, couple sits on a tree root while holding lanters up and look at eachother

As an experienced Oregon Coast elopement photographer, I am dedicated to capturing the essence and beauty of your special day against the breathtaking backdrop of the Oregon Coast. At Latta Photography, I specialize in documenting intimate ceremonies with a blend of artistic vision and technical expertise. Let me help you preserve memories of your Oregon Coast elopement. Explore my portfolio and learn more about my services on Latta Photography or reach out to inquire about your special day!

 
 
 

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