October 31, 2023 / Elopement Resources Washington
Washington Coast Elopement Guide
Washington Coast Elopement: A Complete Guide to Misty and Moody Beauty
It’s that time of year! Where Washington once again becomes a pop culture obsession, as people start their annual binge watch of the Twilight movies to honor the moody, spooky season! Regardless of where you stand on the Twilight front, there’s one undeniable fact about the films. They do some serious justice to the beauty of the coast. The ruggedness, misty air, and vivid greenery make it one of my absolute favorite places to be, let alone a backdrop for your photos. These calming, romantic, cleansing beaches hold such a special place in my heart, especially for elopements. Which is why I’ve taken the time to pull together all the knowledge I can muster of its distinct beauty in this guide for you as you plan your Washington coast elopement!
+ Landscape
+ Best Time of Year
+ Best Trails & Park Access
+ Places to Stay
+ Permits & Fees
+ Elopement Packing List
Washington Coast Landscape
Even though the beaches are the focal point in most photos and movies, there are so many options for landscapes if you’re considering an elopement here! If you’re wanting the moody beach look, you won’t be disappointed. The sea stacks are breathtaking, there are tide pools teeming with wildlife, and some of the most vivid sunsets I’ve ever seen are on this coast. There are also tons of surrounding rain forests, beautiful mountain ranges with dramatic peaks, and serene alpine lakes. And of course, amazing activities come with each landscape! You and your loved one could explore the tidepools, head out on a whale watching excursion, enjoy a picnic on the beach or in the mountains, walk barefoot on the beach, surf, or even embark on a backpacking adventure!
Best Time of Year for Eloping on the Washington Coast
I love pointing couples to elope on the Washington coast partly because its so accessible and enjoyable throughout the year. There really isn’t any month that’s off-limits for an adventure, but here are a few things to know about each season:
Winter: the weather in these months can be a bit more unpredictable. However, the temperature stays really temperate, and it’s a great time to visit if you’re wanting to avoid the summer crowds! You’re also more likely to see the elk herds out and about during this time, since they come down from the mountains to escape the cold and snow!
Spring: In the spring, there’s definitely a higher chance of rain — but still a dreamy time to visit for the classic moody look! The flora and fauna are stunning in the spring too, and you’re bound to see beautiful greenery and lots of wildlife.
Summer: The summer is the peak time of year to visit (for good reason) so you’ll get some crowds, but it may be worth it! Sunshine is consistent, temps are warm and lovely, and no activity is off-limits! This is a great time for an elopement if you’re wanting to backpacking and long days spent exploring every cove the stretches of beach have to offer.
Fall: Rain starts to pick up again in the fall and temps will drop. But, the crowds start to thin and the moody autumn vibes (and colors) are an amazing backdrop for photos!
Note: No matter where you go or what season you choose, be sure to check tide charts! You’ll want to plan for the low tides, so you can have full access to the beach caves and crevices, as well as see all the creatures in the tide pools!
Best Trails & Access for your Washington Coast Elopement
Ok, you’ve picked your dream elopement season. Now comes the really fun part…choosing a location for adventuring! Here are my favorites:
Olympic National Park is an obvious one, and you can’t go wrong by staying in this area. It’s easily my favorite section of the Washington coast and it’s famous for its iconic beaches. I’d really recommend checking out Shi Shi beach, Ozette Triangle. It’s a really great backpacking option if you’re going in a warmer season. There’s also La Push beaches (second beach is my personal favorite) and Ruby beach. Each of these spots has hiking options, places to camp, and stunning views any time of day.
And if you have a bit more time and want to go beyond the Olympics, I’d recommend the San Juan Islands (there are lots of ferry options out of towns on the Kitsap Peninsula) to see more Washington coastline and really charming little island towns, as well as Anacortes — a great port town with amazing lodging, dining, and coffee options.
Best Places to Stay when Eloping on the Washington Coast
The areas right around the coast are mostly forests, but there are a few towns a bit more inland that are great basecamps for your elopement adventure! The closer options are Forks, Quinault, Kalaloch, and Cape Flattery…or you could head over to Port Angeles, which is a bit further but worth it for the lodging options. You truly can’t go wrong — each of these spots offer the beautiful peace and stillness that comes with the coastal climate!
My personal favorites are Quinault (a quaint community off Lake Quinault and close to the southern beaches), Forks (a smaller beach town, perfect for the Twilight fans), and Port Angeles (largest town with a wide selection of restaurants and a really cute downtown).
If you’re looking for specific spots, check out my airbnb list here.
Permits & Fees
If you’re wanting to elope on national park land, there is a special use permit required! Just head to the website here for more info. The process is super simple — just scroll down to the “special use permit” section, download the application linked there, and email the completed documents to their office.
Elopement Packing List
+ Hiking boots
+ Rain jacket (many rainy days on the coast)
+ Clear umbrellas for guests (I bring 2 for you!)
+ Hats/gloves/warm socks (the wind can pick up on the coast, making it quite chilly)
+ Warm layers (even in summer temps can get low)
+ Marriage license
+ Special use permit
+ Any special national park details: elopement sign, park map, postcard, etc.
+ Elopement details: vow books, rings/ring box, flowers, etc.
+ Elopement Picnic (have a mini reception just the two of you with a packed picnic! I offer a curated basket with all utensils to all PNW elopement couples, just bring your fav picnic food!)
If you’re hoping for an elopement here, I’d love to walk alongside you. This is one of the most magical times in your life together and it would be an honor to be a part of it!
If you need more moody Washington Inspiration, check out more of my blogs!
Misty North Cascades Elopement
