Few places in the world feel as effortlessly romantic as Carmel River Beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. With soft golden sand, dramatic coastal cliffs, and that iconic misty glow that California is known for, it’s one of the most magical places to plan an intimate wedding or elopement.
As a photographer who serves couples all over the world, Carmel will always have a special place in my heart—its gentle light, peaceful ocean waves, and timeless charm create the perfect backdrop for a deeply personal “just us” celebration.
In this Carmel River Beach elopement, you’ll see why this coastal gem is beloved for adventurous, romantic, and wildly meaningful weddings.
A Romantic, Wind-Kissed Ceremony by the Sea
Carmel River Beach offers a quiet escape compared to the more crowded parts of Carmel. The day of this elopement, the ocean breeze was soft, the fog rolled in like a cinematic blanket, and the only sounds were the waves and their excited laughter.
As the couple exchanged vows with the Pacific behind them, the scene felt straight out of a California love story—raw, natural, and undeniably beautiful.
Golden Hour Portraits on the Sand & Rocks
After their ceremony, we wandered along the shoreline, letting the mood stay relaxed and unposed. This is the magic of elopements: no timeline pressure, no stress, just two people savoring the moment.
The glowing sunset broke through the fog just in time, creating dreamy golden light that highlighted the textures of the rocks, the movement of the tide, and the couple’s pure joy. Carmel River Beach is a photographer’s dream because every angle offers something unique—dramatic cliffs, serene dunes, and expansive ocean views.
Why Choose Carmel River Beach for Your Elopement
If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding on the California coast, Carmel River Beach is truly unbeatable. Here’s why couples from across the world choose this spot:
1. Privacy & Seclusion
A lesser-known location compared to nearby beaches means quieter ceremonies and fewer onlookers.
2. Soft, Romantic Light
Carmel’s signature fog creates flattering, dreamy lighting all day long—perfect for photos.
3. Variety of Photo Locations
Rock formations, dunes, tide pools, and scenic overlooks give you a gallery full of depth and beauty.
4. Proximity to Big Sur
Many couples pair a Carmel elopement with Big Sur portraits for the ultimate California adventure.
5. Easy Travel Destination
Carmel is convenient for couples traveling from out of state or internationally—ideal for destination elopements.
Tips for Planning a Carmel, California Elopement
If you’re planning your own Carmel Beach elopement, here are a few helpful tips:
- Best time of year: Late spring through early fall for mild temperatures and stunning sunsets.
- Permits: Some ceremonies require a simple beach permit—check with Monterey County Parks.
- Footwear: Plan for barefoot moments or comfortable sandals for the sandy areas.
- Weather: Fog is common and absolutely gorgeous—embrace it!
- Timeline: Consider a weekday elopement for extra privacy and softer crowds.
Looking for a Carmel Elopement Photographer?
Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration in Carmel, Big Sur, California’s coast, Hawaiʻi, or anywhere in the world, I would be honored to help you create an intentional, meaningful elopement experience.
I photograph couples worldwide and specialize in natural, true-to-color imagery that lets your story shine.
Now Serving Oahu, Hawaii as of August 2025
Now booking family portraits, weddings, elopements, engagements, seniors, maternity, and more!
