Eloping on the Oregon Coast is no doubt one of the most popular elopement destinations. But how do you pick where? What area of beach, forests, cliffsides and stunning landscapes do you choose?? One amazing option is Cape Kiwanda near Tillamook in Pacific City, Oregon. Cape Kiwanda has much to offer including simplicity, privacy, comfort and of course, phenomenal views. Rachel + Devin’s Cape Kiwanda Elopement was a scenic, private elopement surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Oregon Coast.
The Ins + Outs of a Cape Kiwanda Elopement
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area is a beautiful place located in Pacific City, Oregon off Cape Kiwanda Drive (easy enough right?!). Once parked, you head over trough the beach towards the big cliffside. Start at the bottom and enjoy the solid rock structures near the ocean as the waves crash against the rocks providing the best Little Mermaid moments. When you’re ready you can get your booty burning and hike the uphill sand dune to the most beautiful landscape where you can watch the sunset dip below the horizon in between the twisting rock structures!
If you’re looking for a “beach elopement” with a little more oomph but nothing too crazy – this is the place for you!
Best Time of Year to Elope at Cape Kiwanda
Fall + Winter
Fall + Winter seem to be the best time to elope at Cape Kiwanda!
Fall is perfect for the Summer vibes without the people! These photos were taken early September and there was nobody else around us – perfectly secluded and private for their elopement.
Winter can be gloomier and more overcast with a high chance of rain, however, the Oregon coast is a great place to whale watch! Just be prepared to elope in the rain or reschedule and work with the weather in the winter!
Summer
I know what you’re thinking… why not summer – it’s a beach!! Well EVERYBODY loves to go to the beach in the Summer and Cape Kiwanda is no exception. Summers tend to be overly crowded with locals, tourists, surfers, and vacationers! The restaurants around the area will also be crowded and hard to grab a table at as well.
Spring
Spring is a fabulous time of year to elope as well. Not warm enough to get in the water so the summer crowds haven’t hit yet, but the spring colors are lively and bright!
What time of Day to Elope at Cape Kiwanda?
Sunset
Sunset allllll the way!! Being on the Northwest Coast, Cape Kiwanda has the most stunning sunset views allowing the sun to set behind you as you exchange vows, explore the cape and watch as the sun dips below the horizon. You truly cannot beat the sunset views at Cape Kiwanda!
Do you need a permit to elope at Cape Kiwanda?
No! This is one of the great things about choosing Cape Kiwanda as your elopement destination! Cape Kiwanda is a State Natural Area and public beach so you are free to roam as you wish.
You will need a marriage license from Tillamook County which you can get more information from here! Marriage Licenses are $50 and can be filled out online or in person. You have to receive your license minimum 3 days before your elopement so make sure if you are grabbing it in person you get there early enough for the license to be valid. However, you can apply for your license up to 60 days out giving plenty of wiggle room!!
The only other payment you will have is a $10 day use parking pass. The lot is located right near the boat launch and the closest and best place to park.
Things you can do at Cape Kiwanda to personalize your Elopement
There are many things to do around the small town of Pacific City and many ways to personalize your Elopement Day! You can always start out at the airbnb getting ready together, cooking breakfast, reading and chilling. Then you can head out to the beach for your elopement! Think about adding these activities to your elopement day!
- Campfire with smores, cozy blankets and hot dogs for dinner
- Run around the beach with your pups leash-free
- Have dinner at Pelican Brewing (they have the best burger + gluten free bun!)
- Get your glutes burning as you hike up the sand dune to explore the cliffside
- Grab your picnic blanket and basket and have yourself a beach picnic
My favorite restaurants in the area
Pelican Brewing Company
This little pub is located right on the beach next to the parking lots. I’ve eaten here multiple times and never had a bad meal! They have outdoor + indoor seating and allow minors and pups to hang out as well! They have great allergen options and some of the yummiest foods! My favorite was the Bacon Brie Flatbread – made gluten free. *drools*
Grateful Bread Bakery
We went here for breakfast and it was delicious! A little mom + pop bakery that offers breakfast and lunch. They offer many home baked goods and are always popping so you know it’s a great place to stop!
Stimulus Coffee + Bakery
I went here everyday for a little pick me up! (also for my gluten free birthday cupcake!) They have delicious coffee and are located across the street from the Cape Kiwanda parking lot!
Places to stay around Cape Kiwanda
Airbnb
There are many stunning airbnbs in the area and even on the beach! Look for airbnbs off Sandlake Rd. for the beachfront properties. Make sure to check that it’s dog friendly as well if you want to bring along your little furry friends.
Cape Kiwanda RV Resort
Taking your RV there? The Cape Kiwanda RV Resort is across the street from Cape Kiwanda! It has mini golf and a pool/hot tub as well! Rumor has it that it is not well maintained so I would check it out first before you make reservations!
Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa
This is one of the very few hotels in the area. This hotel is beachfront and looks out towards Cape Kiwanda! Can’t get much closer than this!
Cape Kiwanda elopement photographer
Ready to elope in Cape Kiwanda?! Let’s do this dang thing! I would be honored to capture your intimate elopement or wedding on the Oregon Coast. I’m Whitney! A destination wedding photographer who loves to travel to the Oregon Coast to capture authentic, storytelling elopements and moments for my beautiful couples!
My Cape Kiwanda Elopement Packages:
- From 3 hours to multi–day elopement packages
- Wedding planning/timeline help
- Online gallery delivered within 8 weeks
- High resolution images
- Sneak peeks within 24 hours
- All travel included, booked by me for your convenience
Investment: Starting at $3,700
Reach out to me and we can get started planning your perfect Cape Kiwanda Elopement.
Check out other elopements + galleries on the blog:
- Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park: Top Tips + Tricks
- Villa Parker Wedding in Colorado | Claire + Patrick
- Sunset Wedding Photos at Key’s View in Joshua Tree National Park
