A Dreamy Glen Oaks Elopement in Big Sur: From Redwood Vows to Ocean Cliffs
If you’ve ever dreamed of an intimate, wildly romantic day surrounded by redwoods and crashing ocean waves, this Glen Oaks elopement in Big Sur will steal your heart. Glen Oaks is one of the most magical elopement venues on the California coast — offering the perfect blend of rustic charm, cozy modern cabins, and private access to the serenity of Big Sur’s redwood groves.
This couple’s day began tucked away in one of Glen Oaks’ iconic cabins, unfolded beneath ancient trees, and ended at the edge of the Pacific Ocean — a love story perfectly written by nature.
Getting Ready at Glen Oaks Big Sur
The morning was peaceful — soft light filtered through the redwoods outside their cabin window as they got ready side by side. One of the reasons couples love a Glen Oaks elopement is that everything feels secluded and serene. The cabins are surrounded by forest, so even as you’re getting ready, you can hear the rustle of the river and the wind through the trees.
The bride slipped into a flowy lace gown while her partner buttoned up a linen suit. They shared quiet laughter, exchanged handwritten letters, and enjoyed coffee on their private patio before heading into the woods for their first look.
Saying Their Vows Among the Redwoods
They chose the Fairy Circle at Glen Oaks — an intimate grove surrounded by towering redwoods — as the spot to exchange their vows. With just their officiant and photographer present, it was simple, emotional, and breathtakingly beautiful.
The air felt still, and the light danced through the branches above as they promised forever to each other. That’s the magic of a Glen Oaks elopement — no décor needed, just you, your partner, and nature’s cathedral of redwoods.
After sealing their vows with a kiss, they celebrated with a champagne toast and a walk along the Big Sur River, taking in the quiet beauty that surrounded them.
Adventure to the Big Sur Cliffs
After their ceremony, the couple packed a small picnic and drove down Highway 1 — one of the most scenic roads in the world. The cliffs overlooking the Pacific were glowing in the golden afternoon light, a perfect setting for post-elopement portraits.
They explored rocky overlooks and windswept trails, letting the ocean mist catch their hair and the waves crash below them. From the forest to the sea, their day captured everything Big Sur represents: freedom, beauty, and connection.
This combination — starting at Glen Oaks and then adventuring to the cliffs — makes for some of the most stunning Glen Oaks elopement photos imaginable. It’s the ultimate way to experience all of Big Sur’s landscapes in one day.
Sunset on the Beach
As the sun dipped low, they made their way to a nearby beach for one final moment together. The cliffs framed the horizon, the sky turned pink and gold, and they danced barefoot in the sand.
With their photographer capturing every candid moment, it was the perfect ending to an unforgettable day — just the two of them, surrounded by nature, love, and the timeless beauty of Big Sur.
Why Couples Love Glen Oaks Elopements
A Glen Oaks elopement is ideal for couples who want to:
Elope privately without the crowds of a traditional venue.
Have both forest and coastal backdrops on the same day.
Stay in cozy, design-forward cabins right on the property.
Keep their day simple, natural, and deeply personal.
The property’s intimate settings, like the Redwood Grove or Fairy Circle, allow couples to exchange vows in total privacy, while still being just minutes from Big Sur’s cliffs and beaches for adventure portraits.
Tips for Planning Your Glen Oaks Elopement
Book early: Glen Oaks fills up quickly, especially in spring and fall.
Work with a local photographer: Big Sur lighting and terrain are unique — hire someone experienced in shooting among redwoods and along the coast.
Plan your timeline: Schedule your ceremony a few hours before sunset so you can adventure to the cliffs or beach while the light is golden.
Keep it simple: The redwoods are your décor — focus on the experience, not the extras.
Stay the night: End your elopement with a cozy fire-pit and a glass of wine back at your cabin.
Final Thoughts
This Glen Oaks elopement in Big Sur perfectly captured what makes this place so special — the quiet intimacy of the forest, the wild beauty of the coastline, and the feeling that you’re the only two people in the world.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement that’s both adventurous and deeply personal, Glen Oaks offers the best of both worlds. From redwood vows to ocean views, your love story deserves a day as unforgettable as this one.
