If you’re dreaming of a coastline wedding filled with rugged cliffs, golden light, and that iconic Big Sur magic, Garrapata Beach is one of the most stunning places you can choose. As a Big Sur wedding photographer, I get to capture days in some of the most breathtaking places on the California coast, and A&B's wedding was the perfect example of why couples travel from all over the world to get married here.
Before I get into their wedding, I want to say that if you are looking to get married or Elope in Big Sur in 2026 and are wondering how it all works, I've written a guide on how to elope in Big Sur and you can check it out here.
First Look
For this wedding, the bride and groom chose our 8-hour package. With the way we planned the timeline, there wasn’t enough time to capture getting-ready photos, so we began the day with a first look. Maddie and I picked up the bride from their beautiful Airbnb just five minutes north of the first look location. I had the groom drive down ahead of us, and then brought his bride to meet him. They shared an emotional moment overlooking the sunny Big Sur coastline, complete with tears, smiles, and plenty of laughter. After the first look we planned a bit of time to do some more cliffside portraits near the first look location.
One important thing to note about any Big Sur elopement or wedding is that there is no cell service. It is crucial to have your locations planned in advance and communicated clearly with your photographer.
Groomsmen and Bridesmaids Portraits
After the first look, Maddie and I split up. She headed to Acorn Ranch, a gorgeous Airbnb tucked away in the redwoods, to photograph the bridal party. Meanwhile, I met up with the groom and his groomsmen for portraits at Garrapata State Park, one of my favorite portrait locations as a Big Sur elopement photographer.
If you're looking for a beautiful spot to stay for your Big Sur Wedding or Elopement, I'd recommend checking out Acorn Ranch! The property is beautiful and located so close to all the natural beauty surrounding this area.
Check it out here - https://pointlobosrentals.com/acorn-ranch-home-guest-cottage/
Garrapata Beach Ceremony
Once I wrapped up groomsmen photos, I brought the guys down to Garrapata Beach, where the ceremony would take place. I checked in with Relic Designs, the coordinator for the day, to make sure everything was on track and the setup was flowing smoothly.
Guests arrived shortly after, and we moved into a short, heartfelt 25-minute ceremony overlooking the crashing waves. Garrapata is such a stunning spot for a wedding. If you’re going wondering what a Garrapata Beach wedding, this is the exact view that makes people fall in love with the idea.
After the ceremony, guests took a shuttle to Carmel for the reception. Before Maddie and I left the beach, we photographed family portraits in the soft afternoon light.
Mission Ranch Reception
The reception was held at Mission Ranch, one of the most charming and iconic venues in Carmel. Once everyone arrived, cocktail hour was in full swing. Guests enjoyed signature his-and-hers cocktails before heading into dinner, and the night ended with dancing under the twinkle lights.
Mission Ranch truly is one of the best reception venues for couples planning a Big Sur wedding. It's a perfect spot to end your day, watch the sun dip below the pacific, eat dinner and dance the night away!
Planning a Big Sur or Garrapata Beach Wedding?
If you’re dreaming of an intimate coastal ceremony, cliffside portraits, or an adventurous day exploring the coastline, Big Sur is one of the best places you can choose. As Big Sur elopement photographers, we help couples navigate the permits, timelines, hidden gems, and logistics that go into creating a seamless and unforgettable day.
If you’re planning a Garrapata Beach wedding or looking for a Big Sur wedding photographer, we'd love to help you bring your vision to life.
Reach out here and let’s start planning your Big Sur adventure.
