Allison + TJ
Allison + TJ had the vision of the gorgeous Oregon Coast serving as the backdrop for their adventure elopement in the Pacific Northwest.
Like many couples who travel from out of state to elope in Oregon, they wanted their elopement day to show off all of the beauty that Oregon has to offer. This meant taking to the beachside town of Cannon Beach, and setting their sights on eloping in Ecola State Park.
In typical Oregon fashion, Allison + TJ were greeting with green trees and grey skies in Cannon Beach. They chose to have their elopement at Ecola State Park, which is an extremely popular destination for both couples seeking to elope, and tourists in general! As someone who is familiar with the area, a part of my job as an Oregon elopement photographer is to make sure that the location where you have your elopement ceremony really resonates with you + your partner. Even though the parking areas at Ecola State Park can be some of the most crowded spots in Cannon Beach, I led these two to a more secluded area so that they were able to have a private and intimate elopement ceremony.
Allison + TJ’s wedding ceremony at Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast was thoughtfully officiated by Kate from Tapestry Event Co., who’s expertise and love of elopements truly shines through in every elopement ceremony she officiates [we also had the privilege of working with her for this Joshua Tree National Park elopement!]. After letting Allison + TJ enjoy their time with each other [and having fun with a smoke bomb that Kate happened to bring on a whim], we all hiked back up from the Oregon beach through the trees as the skies became darker.
Allison + TJ had a lovely dinner planned in nearby Seaside, Oregon, before retiring back at their quaint Airbnb. The following day, I met up with them at one of my favorite spots on the Oregon Coast. It’s always such an incredible experience to take different couples to this beautiful location that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Being able to see the awe and wonder in their expressions as they really take in the stunning majesty of the PNW is everything!
Allison + TJ had some loving moments together while I snapped away, as the waves lapped against the jagged cliff sides of Oregon.
Eloping in Ecola State Park, Oregon, offers a moody, coastal backdrop full of cliffs, foggy forests, and dramatic ocean views.
How to Plan an Elopement at Ecola State Park
1. Choose the Right Time of Year
- Best time to elope in Ecola State Park near Cannon Beach is late spring through early fall (May–October).
- Expect mist, fog, and possible rain—part of the moody Oregon Coast vibe!
- For more reliable weather and fewer crowds, elope at sunrise or on a weekday.
2. Pick a Scenic Ceremony Spot
- Top Ecola State Park elopement locations:
Crescent Beach Trail (secluded, forest-to-beach hike)
Indian Beach overlook (popular surf spot, epic views)
Clifftop viewpoints near the main parking lot (easy access)
- These spots have stunning Pacific Ocean views, mossy Sitka spruce forests, and Haystack Rock in the distance.
3. Dress for the Oregon Coast
- Wear layers: Cannon Beach weather can be windy, chilly, and damp—even in summer.
- Think flowy wedding dress + hiking boots, or wool suits with waterproof options nearby.
- Bring a clear umbrella (it can look beautiful in photos).
4. Plan an Adventure Elopement Experience
- Incorporate a hike to the ceremony, a picnic on the cliffs, or a campfire session at your rental afterward.
- Include vow reading at sunset, first look among the trees, or photos on the beach with driftwood and sea stacks.
5. Work with Local Vendors
- Hire an Oregon Coast elopement photographer familiar with the area’s lighting and weather.
- Consider a local officiant, florist using coastal blooms, and an elopement planner who knows state park logistics!
6. Respect the Environment
- Follow Leave No Trace guidelines:
No confetti or artificial flowers.
Stay on designated trails to protect fragile vegetation.
Pack out everything you bring in.
Ready to plan your Ecola State Park elopement? Send us a message: we are here for you every step of the way!
