Why the Washington Coast is an Epic Elopement Location

The Washington Coast isn’t just a place—it’s a whole damn mood. This is where jagged cliffs meet misty beaches, where the rainforest kisses the sea, and where every step feels like a scene straight out of a movie. If you’re dreaming of an elopement that feels like an intimate adventure, this is it.

This is the kind of place where you can:

• Exchange vows on a remote, fog-drenched beach
• Dance barefoot in the sand under the stars
• Walk hand-in-hand through a mossy, enchanted rainforest
• Celebrate around a bonfire, sipping whiskey with your person

And unlike more played-out elopement spots (looking at you, Yosemite), you can still find total seclusion here—just you, your partner, and the epic landscape around you.

There’s no one-size-fits-all for Washington Coast elopements. You’ve got options. Do you want sea stacks and crashing waves? Towering cliffs with endless ocean views? A magical rainforest straight out of a fairytale?

No matter your vibe, I’ve got you covered. Here’s the ultimate guide to the best places to elope on the Washington Coast, plus everything you need to know to make it happen.

Table of Contents

1. Why the Washington Coast is an Epic Elopement Location
2. Best Places to Elope on the Washington Coast
   • Ruby Beach – Dramatic Sea Stacks & Sunset Magic
   • Kalaloch & The Tree of Life – A Natural Wonder
   • Lake Crescent – Turquoise Waters & Mountain Views
   • Cape Flattery – Cliffside Ocean Views
   • Rialto Beach & La Push Beaches – Cinematic Vibes
   • Second Beach – The Most Breathtaking Hike-In Beach
   • Quinault Rainforest – The Ultimate Fairytale Forest
   • Pacific Beach – Old-School Coastal Charm
3. Permits & Legal Considerations for Eloping on the Washington Coast
4. Which Locations Require a Permit?
   • Olympic National Park Locations
   • Makah Tribal Land
   • Washington State Parks
5. Leave No Trace: Keeping the Coast Wild & Untamed
6. Best Time to Elope on the Washington Coast
   • Spring
   • Summer
   • Fall
   • Winter
   • Whale Watching on the Washington Coast
7. Where to Stay for Your Washington Coast Elopement
   • Where to Eat
8. How to Make Your Olympic Coast Elopement an Experience
9. Let’s Plan Your Washington Coast Elopement

Best Places to Elope on the Washington Coast

Ruby Beach – Dramatic Sea Stacks & Sunset Magic

Why You’ll Love It:

• Towering sea stacks, tide pools, and massive driftwood for cinematic, moody photos.
• Soft golden light at sunset makes everything feel like a dream sequence.
• One of the most photographed beaches in Washington—for good reason.

How to Get There: A short, easy walk from the parking lot.
Best Time for Photos: Sunset or sunrise for that soft, glowy magic.
Permit Required? Yes, since it’s part of Olympic National Park.

Kalaloch & The Tree of Life – A Natural Wonder

Why You’ll Love It:

• The gravity-defying Tree of Life is an unreal backdrop for vows.
• Moody cliffs, rugged shoreline, and gorgeous ocean views.
• A short walk makes it easy to get to, even in wedding attire.

How to Get There: Easy walk from the parking area.
Best Time for Photos: Overcast days make the tree even more dramatic.
Permit Required? Yes, since it’s in Olympic National Park.

Lake Crescent – Turquoise Waters & Mountain Views

Why You’ll Love It:

• Crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by misty mountain peaks.
• A mix of beach, forest, and lakeside views—perfect if you can’t decide on one.
• Feels like a hidden alpine paradise without a difficult hike.

How to Get There: Multiple access points, but the Lake Crescent Lodge area is a great starting place.
Best Time for Photos: Early morning for glassy water reflections or golden hour for dreamy light.
Permit Required? Yes, since it’s part of Olympic National Park.

Cape Flattery – Cliffside Ocean Views

Why You’ll Love It:

• The northwesternmost point of the Continental U.S.—as far as you can go without swimming.
• Dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and deep blue waters for an untamed, wild feel.
• A short but scenic hike that adds to the adventure without requiring too much effort.

How to Get There: A short but scenic 1.5-mile hike through lush forest.
Best Time for Photos: Sunset for golden light on the cliffs.
Permit Required? Yes, you’ll need a Makah Recreation Pass since this is tribal land.

Rialto Beach & La Push Beaches – Cinematic Vibes

Why You’ll Love It:

• Huge driftwood logs, crashing waves, and epic sea stacks make this one of the most cinematic beaches.
• Perfect for adventurous couples who want a moody, PNW feel.
• The misty, overcast mornings add an eerie, romantic atmosphere.

How to Get There: Short walks from the parking areas.
Best Time for Photos: Sunset for moody, golden-hour glow.
Permit Required? Yes, if you’re having a ceremony with guests.

Second Beach – The Most Breathtaking Hike-In Beach

Why You’ll Love It:

• A 0.7-mile hike through a mossy rainforest opens up to one of the most stunning coastal views in WA.
• Towering sea stacks, dramatic tides, and untouched beach vibes.
• Feels secluded, remote, and absolutely magical.

How to Get There: Short but steep hike from the trailhead near La Push.
Best Time for Photos: Sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
Permit Required? Yes, for wedding ceremonies.

Quinault Rainforest – The Ultimate Fairytale Forest

Why You’ll Love It:

• Feels like stepping into a mystical, storybook world.
• Towering ferns, massive moss-covered trees, and magical golden light filtering through the canopy.
• Just a short drive from Lake Quinault, so you can get rainforest AND lakeside photos in one elopement.

How to Get There: Trailheads are accessible via South Shore Road near Lake Quinault.
Best Time for Photos: Late morning to early afternoon when the sun filters through the trees.
Permit Required? Yes, since it’s in Olympic National Park.

Pacific Beach – Old-School Coastal Charm

Why You’ll Love It:

• Unlike newer, planned beach communities, Pacific Beach still has that rugged, old-school coastal town charm.
• Wide-open sandy beach, driftwood, and small-town vibes.
• Feels like a nostalgic, laid-back escape for couples who want something relaxed.

How to Get There: Park right along the beach—no hiking required.
Best Time for Photos: Sunset for soft golden light on the sand.
Permit Required? No, but check for restrictions during peak tourist seasons.

Permits & Legal Considerations for Eloping on the Washington Coast

Before you run off to the coast to say your vows, let’s talk permits. Since many of these locations fall under Olympic National Park, tribal lands, or state-managed areas, you probably need special permission to have your ceremony there.

Which Locations Require a Permit?

Olympic National Park Locations (Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, Second Beach, Kalaloch, Lake Crescent, Hoh Rainforest, Lake Quinault, Quinault Rainforest)

• Requires a Special Use Permit for weddings and elopements.
• Apply through the Olympic National Park permit office.
• Fees range from $50-$300, depending on the location and group size.
• Processing time can take weeks to months, so plan ahead.

Makah Tribal Land (Cape Flattery, Shi-Shi Beach, Hobuck Beach)

• You need a Makah Recreation Pass ($20), which you can grab in Neah Bay.
• Always respect tribal land rules—this land is sacred, and you’re a guest.

Washington State Parks (Some areas of Kalaloch, Westport Light State Park, Deception Pass, Manchester State Park, St. Edward State Park, Grayland Beach State Park, Bottle Beach State Park, Cape Disappointment, Camano Island, Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area, Pacific Beach, Griffiths-Priday State Park, Haynisisoos Park, etc.)

• Washington State Parks require a permit if you have a professional photographer or a group gathering.
• Always check the park’s website or call ahead.
• Some parks have designated areas where wedding ceremonies are to be held, so check each park’s website for more information.

Pro Tip: I help all my couples navigate the permit process so you don’t have to stress. I’ll tell you exactly what you need and how to get it. And that insurance that Washington State Parks require? I have it — I’m covered.

Leave No Trace: Keeping the Coast Wild & Untamed

Look, I don’t need to tell you that nature is kind of a big deal out here. If you’re eloping on the Washington Coast, you’re stepping into some of the most rugged, beautiful, and delicate ecosystems in the country.

That means we respect the land, keep it wild, and leave it better than we found it.

A Few Key Leave No Trace Rules:

• Stay on designated trails – Foot traffic damages delicate vegetation.
• Don’t leave anything behind – Pack out what you bring in, including flowers.
• Skip the confetti and rice – If you want a fun exit, use bubbles, leaves, or biodegradable flower petals.
• No fires outside designated areas – Always check for fire bans.
• Respect wildlife – Keep a safe distance and don’t feed animals.

Washington’s wild places are magic, and part of that magic is keeping them exactly as they are for future generations.

Best Time to Elope on the Washington Coast

Washington’s coast is wild, unpredictable, and moody as hell—and that’s exactly why it’s so damn beautiful. But when’s the best time to elope here?

Spring (March – May)

Expect: Cool temps (40s-50s), lots of rain, blooming wildflowers.
Crowds: Low to moderate.
Best For: Misty, moody elopements with vibrant green landscapes.

Summer (June – August)

Expect: Warmer temps (60s-70s), less rain, clearer skies.
Crowds: HIGH—especially in Olympic National Park.
Best For: Golden light, easier hiking access, stunning sunsets.

Fall (September – November)

Expect: Cooler temps, moody skies, unpredictable rain.
Crowds: Lower than summer, but still some tourism.
Best For: Dramatic overcast skies, empty beaches, and rich fall colors.

Winter (December – February)

Expect: Cold temps (30s-50s), lots of rain, occasional storms.
Crowds: LOWEST of the year.
Best For: Total solitude, foggy mornings, and cozy elopement vibes.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a beach elopement, check tide charts—some beaches disappear at high tide!

Not sure what to pack? Check out my Olympic National Park Packing List and arrive prepared.

Whale-Watching on the Washington Coast

If you’re eloping between March and May or October and November, keep your eyes on the horizon—these are peak months for whale migration! Gray whales pass through the Washington coast during their migration between Mexico and Alaska, and you can often spot them from high vantage points like Cape Flattery, Rialto Beach, and La Push. Humpback whales are more commonly seen from May through June, while orcas are more frequently spotted in fall and winter. Whale sightings are never guaranteed, but the rugged beauty of the coastline makes the experience worthwhile either way.

Where to Stay for Your Washington Coast Elopement

A great elopement isn’t just about the ceremony—it’s about the whole damn experience. And that includes where you stay. Whether you’re into beachfront cabins, rustic lodges, or cozy Airbnbs, here are some killer options:

Near Ruby Beach & Kalaloch

• Kalaloch Lodge – Rustic, cozy, and steps from the beach.
• Ocean Crest Resort – Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific.
• The Cabins at Kalaloch – Private beach cabins with incredible views.

Lake Crescent & Olympic National Park

• Lake Crescent Lodge – Historic charm with a private lakefront.
• Storm King Cabins – Romantic A-frame cabins nestled in the woods.
• Colette’s Bed & Breakfast – Luxurious stay near Port Angeles.

Near Pacific Beach & Moclips

• Pacific Beach State Park Cabins – Steps from the sand, perfect for a laid-back vibe.
• The Low Tide Motel – Vintage vibes with an old-school coastal feel.
• Pacific Dunes Resort – Tiny houses, big glamping tents, and glorious views.

Pro Tip: Many coastal stays book up months in advance, particularly in summer. If you see something you love, lock it in ASAP.

Where to Eat

 If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite:

• On the coast, check out Moclips Country Store & Deli and Copalis Beach Grocery for snacks and hot eats.
• If you find yourself in Forks (yes, that Forks) hit up Sully’s Drive-In (closes early) for a burger and a caramel shake, or in case Sully’s is closed, Pacific Pizza has decent pizza and pretty large menu, as well as plenty of space inside for seating.
• If you’re in Port Angeles, don’t miss Kokopelli Grill for dinner – it’s absolutely fantastic; First Street Haven (my fave) and New Day Eatery are great breakfast options; Grayson’s Port Angeles is local favorite for lunch. Stop into Swain’s for any outdoor gear you forgot to pack, or just to browse (their clearance sections are on point). 
• Ocean Shores has some great spots too—perfect for winding down after an epic elopement.

The Olympic Peninsula is ultimately quite rural; you’ll find that many businesses do not have websites and close super early. There’s a reason I find myself in Pacific Pizza often: I spend every second of daylight exploring and it’s the only place still open without having to drive all the way to Port Angeles.

How to Make Your Olympic Coast Elopement an Experience

Eloping isn’t just about saying “I do” and calling it a day—it’s about crafting an unforgettable adventure that’s 100% you.

Here are a few ways to make your Washington Coast elopement feel even more special:

• Have a Beach Bonfire – Snuggle up by the fire with s’mores and a bottle of whiskey.
• Hire a Private Chef – Turn your elopement dinner into a full-on experience.
• Plan a Picnic – Pack a basket with your favorite snacks & have a post-ceremony feast.
• Bring a Portable Speaker – Dance in the sand to your favorite song.
• Book a Multi-Day Elopement – Make a whole weekend out of it with hikes, kayaking, and exploring.

Flying into Seattle? Stop by Pike Place Market and grab pastries & cookies from Three Girls Bakery, dried flower bouquets & boutonnieres from one of the vendor stalls in the Farmers Market, then pop over to Beecher’s Handmade Cheeses to pick up a few gourmet, locally made artisinal cheeses and crackers. Order a gorgeous vintage cake from Phat Pastelitos and pick it up on your way out of town. If you’re on short notice, try one of the signature designs from Butter Half Cakes or The SweetSide.

Pro Tip: I help my couples plan an elopement timeline that’s built for them—one that allows time for adventure, relaxation, enjoying your favorite eats, and all the unplanned magic in between.

Let’s Plan Your Washington Coast Elopement

So, are you ready to ditch the traditional wedding stress and do something that actually feels like you? If an intimate, adventure-filled elopement on the Washington Coast is calling your name, I’d love to help you bring it to life.

Thinking about eloping on the Washington Coast or in Olympic National Park? Let’s make it happen. Contact me here and let’s start planning.