How to Elope
in
Orange County
Orange County might be one of the easiest places in California to plan a simple coastal elopement. Between the cliffs of Dana Point, the beaches of San Clemente, and the historic charm of San Juan Capistrano, couples have dozens of beautiful places to say their vows without planning a large traditional wedding.
Most elopements here are small, relaxed ceremonies with just a few guests, the ocean nearby, and a focus on the experience rather than the production. If you’re thinking about eloping in Orange County, here’s how the process usually works.
Step 1: Get Your California Marriage License
Before your ceremony, you’ll need to obtain a California marriage license. These are issued by the Orange County Clerk-Recorder and can usually be picked up a few days before your ceremony.
Couples can apply online and schedule a quick appointment to pick up the license. Once issued, the license is valid immediately and must be used within 90 days.
Most couples simply bring the license to the ceremony where it is signed and filed afterward.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
Orange County offers a wide variety of beautiful places to elope.
Some couples choose the more well-known beaches like Laguna Beach or Newport Beach, while others prefer the quieter coastal towns further south.
Many of the most relaxed ceremonies happen in:
San Clemente
Dana Point
San Juan Capistrano
These areas offer coastal views, historic architecture, and a slower pace that works perfectly for small elopements
Step 3: Keep the Ceremony Simple
One of the biggest advantages of eloping is simplicity.
Most couples keep things minimal:
the couple
a small number of guests
an officiant
photography
sometimes flowers or a small arch
Beach ceremonies are often kept intentionally simple so the focus stays on the experience rather than decorations.
Step 4: Choose the Best Time of Day
For coastal ceremonies, timing makes a big difference.
Sunset is typically the most popular time for an Orange County elopement because the light becomes soft and warm as the sun drops toward the Pacific. Beaches are also usually less crowded later in the evening.
Morning ceremonies can also be beautiful, especially for couples who prefer quiet beaches and softer coastal light.
Step 5: Plan a Simple Celebration After
Many couples celebrate their elopement afterward with dinner or drinks at one of the coastal restaurants nearby.
South Orange County offers plenty of great options within minutes of the beach, from oceanfront restaurants in Dana Point to the boutique cafés and wine bars throughout downtown San Clemente.
Why Couples Choose South Orange County
While Laguna Beach and Newport Beach are popular wedding destinations, many couples find the southern part of the county offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
San Clemente and Dana Point combine beautiful coastline with smaller crowds, walkable downtown areas, and a laid-back coastal feel that fits perfectly with intimate ceremonies.
Some couples choose to keep things extremely simple with a courthouse elopement in Orange County, often followed by portraits along the coast.
If you’re planning a small coastal ceremony, we help couples create relaxed elopement experiences throughout South Orange County.
👉 View our
San Clemente Elopement Packages
or explore
Dana Point Elopement Locations