By Joel Reyes, Big Sur Elopement Photographer
Last updated: March 2026
Glen Oaks Big Sur is one of the most beloved elopement venues in all of California. Nestled among ancient redwood trees along the Big Sur River, it offers the rare combination of a stunning natural ceremony site and comfortable on-site lodging. You can say your vows under towering redwoods and walk back to your cabin for the night.
I’ve photographed multiple elopements at Glen Oaks. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Glen Oaks for Your Elopement
Glen Oaks sits in the heart of Big Sur along Highway 1. The property includes mid-century modern cabins, cottages, and lodge rooms spread across a redwood grove and along the Big Sur River.
What makes it special for elopements:
Ceremony and lodging in one location. No driving between your ceremony site and your hotel. Say your vows, take photos, and walk back to your room.
Redwood canopy ceremonies. The redwood grove on the property creates a natural cathedral. Dappled light filters through the trees and the forest floor is soft, quiet, and intimate.
Riverside setting. The Big Sur River runs through the property. In spring and early summer, the river is flowing and creates a beautiful backdrop. By late summer it’s calmer but still scenic.
Central location. Glen Oaks is roughly 25 minutes south of Carmel and 10 minutes north of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. You can easily combine a Glen Oaks ceremony with coastal portraits at Garrapata or Pfeiffer Beach.
No state park permit required. Because Glen Oaks is a private venue, you don’t need a California State Parks permit. The venue handles everything directly.
Ceremony Sites at Glen Oaks
The Redwood Grove
The most popular ceremony spot. Ancient redwood trees create a towering canopy overhead, with soft light filtering through. The ground is covered in redwood duff (a carpet of fallen needles). It feels sacred without being formal.
Best for: Intimate ceremonies of 2 to 30 people. The grove can accommodate a small group with chairs, an arch, and florals.
The Riverbank
Along the Big Sur River, with smooth rocks, ferns, and dappled sunlight. More open than the grove, with a different feel. Beautiful in the morning light.
Best for: Couples who want a waterside ceremony. Best in spring when the river is full.
The Meadow
An open grassy area surrounded by trees. More sunlight than the grove, with the redwoods as a backdrop rather than a canopy.
Best for: Slightly larger gatherings or couples who want a less enclosed feel.
Glen Oaks Elopement Logistics
Booking
Contact Glen Oaks directly for wedding and elopement inquiries. They have a dedicated events coordinator. Book as far in advance as possible, especially for peak season (September through November).
Website: glenoaksbigsur.com
Phone: (831) 667-2105
Lodging Options
Glen Oaks offers several room types:
Cabins: Standalone units with kitchenettes, fireplaces, and private patios. The most private option.
Cottages: Slightly smaller but still charming. Some are riverside.
Lodge Rooms: More traditional hotel-style rooms. Affordable but less private.
All rooms have a rustic-modern aesthetic with clean lines, warm wood, and thoughtful design.
Guest Accommodations
If you’re bringing a small group, Glen Oaks can accommodate guests across multiple rooms and cabins. The property is walkable, so everyone stays close without being on top of each other.
Catering and Dining
Glen Oaks does not have an on-site restaurant (as of 2026). However, several excellent Big Sur restaurants are within a short drive:
Big Sur Bakery (5 minutes): Intimate, candlelit, incredible food. Perfect for a post-ceremony dinner.
Nepenthe (10 minutes south): Ocean-view terrace dining. Iconic Big Sur experience.
Big Sur River Inn (adjacent): Casual, riverside dining. Good for a relaxed celebration.
Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn (15 minutes south): Fine dining with cliff-edge ocean views. Reservations required well in advance.
Sample Glen Oaks Elopement Timeline
2:00 PM Check into your cabin. Settle in among the redwoods.
3:00 PM Get dressed. Hair and makeup in your cabin (natural light by the window).
3:45 PM First look along the river path. Just the two of you.
4:15 PM Ceremony in the redwood grove. Vows, rings, and your first moment as married.
4:45 PM Portraits around the property: grove, river, cabins, meadow.
5:15 PM Drive to Garrapata State Park (25 minutes north) for coastal portraits.
5:45 PM Golden hour on the Garrapata bluffs. Ocean, cliffs, and sunset light.
6:30 PM Sunset portraits. The last frames of the day.
7:30 PM Dinner at Big Sur Bakery. Candlelight and local wine.
What Glen Oaks Elopements Cost
Glen Oaks is mid-range for Big Sur. Expect:
Cabin rental: $350 to $700+ per night depending on season and cabin type
Ceremony site fee: Contact venue directly for current rates
Photography: $3,490 to $8,500+ (my packages include photo, video, drone, and full planning)
Officiant: $300 to $800
Florals: $200 to $600
Total estimate: $5,000 to $12,000+ for a complete Glen Oaks elopement.
Ready to Elope at Glen Oaks?
I know this venue well and have relationships with the local vendors who make Big Sur elopements run smoothly. If you’re considering Glen Oaks for your elopement, I’d love to help you plan it.
[Start Planning Your Elopement →]
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