How to Elope in Palos Verdes
Your guide to the most beautiful spots to elope in LA's Southern Peninsula
Palos Verdes; the underrated best elopement destination in Los Angeles
Eloping in Palos Verdes, California, that beautiful green mass of hills jutting regally through the fog into the wild Pacific Ocean, offers couples a unique blend of coastal beauty, historic charm, and serene natural landscapes. From dramatic cliffs to lush reserves, this Southern California elopement gem provides a variety of picturesque settings for an intimate ceremony.
Here's your comprehensive guide to planning an unforgettable elopement in Palos Verdes.
🌤️ Best Time of Year to Elope
Spring (March–May) is definitely my favorite time of year to elope in Palos Verdes, although each season has its charms! Remember, we are in Southern California, home of eternal good weather! But, spring brings those gorgeous California wildflowers that really make your photos pop. Plus, the days are getting longer and the hills are lush and green.
Summer time (June-August) can be foggy along the coast, or it can be one of those perfect, beautiful California days awash in sunshine and crystal clear water. You just don’t know what you’re going to get!
Fall (September–November) is also ideal for eloping in Palos Verdes. During these months, the weather is at its sunniest, skies are clear, and the natural scenery is vibrant—perfect for outdoor ceremonies and photography.
Winter (December-February) brings shorter days and cooler temperatures, though it may offer lower costs at some of the resorts. Certainly there will be less people out and about, and you might score Malaga Cove (or Lunada Bay if you’re brave enough to paddle out there) with some epic waves.
📍 Top Elopement Locations in Palos Verdes From North to South
1. Haggerty’s Beach
Located near the Palos Verdes Beach and Athletic Club, Haggerty’s Beach is a secluded spot known for its rocky shoreline and panoramic ocean views. It's a favorite among surfers and offers a serene backdrop for a beachside ceremony.
2. The Neighborhood Church
Perched atop the cliffs of Palos Verdes, the Neighborhood Church is housed in the historic Haggarty Estate, a 1920s mansion. The church features intricate ceiling murals and sweeping ocean views. You might feel more like you’re in Europe than California!
3. Malaga Cove
This charming area features Mediterranean-style architecture, the iconic Neptune Fountain, and lush gardens. Malaga Cove offers a romantic setting with its historic ambiance and amazing ocean vistas. The beach is beautiful and secluded and you might get lucky with some sick waves.
4. Lunada Bay
Known for its rugged cliffs and tide pools, Lunada Bay’s reputation precedes it. Despite its dramatic coastal setting and natural beauty, this is only a place to elope if you are local or brave!
5. Point Vicente Lighthouse
A historic landmark built in 1926, the Point Vicente Lighthouse stands on a cliff offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding grounds are ideal for a scenic ceremony.
6. Terranea Resort
This luxurious oceanfront resort offers multiple ceremony locations, including bluff-top sites with panoramic sea views. Terranea is a convenient choice for couples seeking an all-in-one venue with some lovely grandeur and stunning views. Think massages, delicious food and relaxing by the ocean front pool.
7. Abalone Cove
A 64-acre ecological reserve featuring tide pools, sea caves, and hiking trails, Abalone Cove offers a more secluded and natural setting for an intimate ceremony. Note that some areas may be closed due to landslides and unstable cliffs. I will personally scout it and let you know of the current conditions.
8. Wayfarers Chapel
Designed by Lloyd Wright, this "Glass Church" is renowned for its unique architecture and stunning ocean views. However, as of May 2024, the chapel has been closed due to land movement concerns, and plans are underway to dismantle and relocate the structure, though this information is also subject to change.
9. Portuguese Bend Reserve
The largest reserve within the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, Portuguese Bend offers rolling hills, canyons, and ocean views. It's a beautiful location for nature-loving couples to go on long hikes with amongst the California wild flowers.
10. My Secret Hidden Coves along the Coast
Lastly, there are lots of small hidden coves tucked amongst the cliffs of Palos Verdes, plus an incredible hidden gazebo overlooking the Pacific. Send me a message and I’ll tell you all my secrets!
📝 Permits and Regulations
Beach and Park Ceremonies: For ceremonies at public beaches or parks, such as Abalone Cove or Portuguese Bend Reserve, you may need a special event permit from the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Luckily, when you book with me, I always take care of permit research and your permit fee (up to $200) is included in your elopement package.
Private Venues: Locations like the Neighborhood Church and Terranea Resort have their own booking procedures and requirements. But again, I will guide you through this process!
💍 How to Plan Your Elopement
Step 1: Imagine your wedding day. What makes you smile? What makes you feel good? What wild dream can you imagine for your special day? What do you like to do most with your partner? Whatever it is, I can help you make that dream become a reality.
Step 2: Let’s pick a location. Maybe Palos Verdes is that incredible elopement destination for you, maybe it’s not. Either way, I have spent a large part of my life traveling California and the world, so I have personal experience and recommendations for you. Did I mention I’m a certified travel planner?
Step 3: Once we decide the destination, let’s pick a date. Together we will weigh the pros and cons of our location over the seasons, and we will pick a date that most aligns with your romantic vision.
Step 4: We will lock in any additional vendors that you need (all with my bespoke recommendations!) and then begin the booking and planning process. My all inclusive elopement packages include my assistance!
Step 5: Sit back and relax! That’s why you’re eloping! You will actually spend your wedding day relaxed and fully engaged in what matters most to you. No hectic running around confirming with last minute vendors or your too drunk uncle, or the missing bartender. Instead, look your partner in the eyes, breath in the beauty of the California coast, take a moment to be truly present. This is your wedding day, and it should be the best day of your life.
With sweeping ocean views around every curve, eloping in Palos Verdes offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. And, it’s all located within the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles. If this sounds like a dream come true, then send me a message and let’s start crafting your bespoke intimate wedding day.
