San Francisco Elopement Guide for 2025/2026

So, you’ve decided to ditch the big, traditional wedding for something intimate, fun, and all about you two. First of all—love that for you! With its mix of iconic landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and quirky city vibes, SF is one of the best places to do it!

I’m Gina, your San Francisco elopement photographer, planner, and all-around hype woman! Whether you’re dreaming of saying your vows with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background or planning a chill picnic in Golden Gate Park, I’m here to help you craft a day that’s as unique and memorable as your favorite New Girl episode. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your day absolutely perfect!

Why Elope in San Francisco?

San Francisco is the perfect combo of gorgeous scenery, adventure vibes, and some of the best food you’ll find in the Bay Area. From the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge views at Battery Spencer to the towering redwoods of Muir Woods, the city offers iconic landmarks and hidden gems that feel straight out of a movie. And the mild weather means you can plan your day any time of year, even winter!

Beyond the gorgeous settings, SF is packed with ways to make your elopement feel like an adventure. You can rent rowboats in Golden Gate Park, grab cocktails at a historic bar, or even sail under the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset. Best of all, this city’s inclusive and welcoming energy celebrates every kind of love, so no matter who you are or what your day looks like, San Francisco will make you feel right at home while you start your forever together.

Best San Francisco Elopement Locations

When to Elope in San Francisco

San Francisco weather is rather mild year-round, so you’ll never need snowshoes or worry about melting in the heat. However, certain seasons offer unique vibes and scenery depending on what you envision for your elopement day.

Think about how you want your day to feel. Do you dream of golden hills and the cool breeze of autumn? Or perhaps the lush, green landscapes and wildflower backdrops? If you want to avoid Karl the Fog (yes, it has a name in SF, lol), do not plan for a summertime elopement. The fog is the worst June - August; however, fog happens year-round so don't be too surprised if you encounter it anyway.

The warmest months are September and October. And if you want green hillsides, then late winter (February - March) to spring (April - May) is the best time for that (otherwise, the hillsides and cliffs are typically dead and brown). Spring/summer (April - June) is the best time for wildflowers! If you want pampas grass, then late summer or early fall is when they bloom, and there are certain flowers that bloom in late summer as well. These are some things to consider when choosing a season for your elopement in San Francisco or the Bay Area in general (especially along the coast)!

Marriage License & Permits

Getting your marriage license in San Francisco is straightforward, but it’s important to plan ahead! In California, a marriage license is valid for 90 days, which means you’ll need to have your ceremony performed and your marriage registered within that time frame.

In San Francisco, marriage licenses are issued by the County Clerk’s Office, and the fee is $113. You’ll need to schedule an appointment in advance (walk-ins aren’t accepted here), so make sure to book ahead of time to secure your preferred date. The good news? You don’t have to get married in the same county where you obtained your license. For example, you can get your license in San Francisco and exchange your vows anywhere in California or vice versa!

You also need a legal photo I.D. Here's some info from the San Francisco County clerk's office: "Both parties must present a valid, unexpired authentic legal photo identification card containing a photograph, full legal name, date of birth, date of issue, and date of expiration (Examples: passport, driver's license, naturalization certificate, resident alien card, military I.D.) If the legal picture I.D. card does not contain your full legal name, you must also present a certified copy of a birth certificate or social security card showing your full legal name."



If you choose a public marriage license, you’ll need at least one witness at your ceremony (and I’d be honored to step in as your witness!). After the ceremony, the person who officiated your wedding has up to 10 days to return the signed marriage license to the County Clerk’s Office for registration.

For couples planning a confidential marriage license instead, witnesses aren’t required, but both you and your partner must still meet the same ID requirements. Whichever type you choose, I’m here to help make the process as stress-free as possible!

San Francisco Elopement Permits

Depending on the location you choose for your elopement, you may need to get a permit, and that’s something I always recommend you double-check as you plan your day. If paperwork stresses you out, don’t worry—I’ll help guide you through it all like your very own Monica Geller, binder, and all.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Inn Above Tide: Located in Sausalito, this luxurious waterfront hotel offers unparalleled views of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy a private balcony that’s perfect for sipping champagne and soaking in the romance.
• Seal Rock Inn: If you love retro vibes and a cozy atmosphere, this spot near Ocean Beach is perfect. It’s close to Sutro Baths and Golden Gate Park, so you can go exploring some of the most iconic locations in the area!
• Pacifica Beach Hotel: Just outside the city, this charming oceanfront hotel is a dreamy escape for beach lovers. It has beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to the beach.
• LUMA Hotel: This is a sleek and modern hotel close to some of San Francisco’s best spots. It’s perfect if you’re all for chic city vibes!
• Kimpton Alton Fisherman’s Wharf: A trendy boutique hotel with a playful and fun atmosphere, this spot is right in the heart of the action. You’ll be steps away from Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Ghirardelli Square.



And if you’re also looking for some places where to eat and celebrate your San Francisco elopement, check out my blog here!

Getting Around San Francisco

If you’re flying in, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the closest hub, but Oakland (OAK) and San Jose (SJC) are also solid options if you don’t mind a little extra travel time.

Once you’re here, public transportation is your best friend. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) is a quick way to get around the city and beyond, and MUNI buses and streetcars are perfect for hopping between neighborhoods. Pro tip: the iconic cable cars are more about the experience than efficiency, so plan accordingly if you want to ride one.

If you’re feeling adventurous, mopeds or scooters are a fun and quirky way to explore the city.

There are also rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft, which are super convenient and save you from stressing about parking in busy areas.

San Francisco Elopement Activities

There are many fun things to do in San Francisco to make your day feel extra special and unique!

• Go for a rowboat ride on Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park.
• Charter a boat to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge as the sun sets.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy a cozy moment in Dolores Park or Crissy Field.
• Go bar hopping.
• Hop on one of SF’s iconic cable cars and take a ride through the city.
• Visit a rooftop bar.
• Go to the beach. Baker Beach offers incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge, while Ocean Beach is perfect for a quieter seaside vibe.
• Ice Cream at the iconic Ghirardelli Square.

Final Tips for Eloping in San Francisco

• Traffic here is no joke. If you’re driving, give yourself plenty of extra time to get from one spot to another, especially during rush hour. And if you’re headed to popular spots like Battery Spencer or Golden Gate Park, parking can be a bit of a scavenger hunt. You may want to opt for rideshare to avoid the hassle of parking.
• San Francisco isn’t the cheapest city, so plan ahead for things like permits, dining, and transportation. If you’re thinking of hiring a private sailboat or grabbing a fancy cocktail at one of the city’s iconic bars, it’s totally worth it, but budgeting a little extra for those unique experiences will make your day feel stress-free.
• When it comes to exploring the city, wear comfortable shoes—you’ll thank me later. San Francisco’s hills are no joke, and even a short stroll can feel like a mini workout. Think cute but practical!
• Keep in mind that you won’t be the only one falling in love with the views. Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends or during peak tourist seasons. Sunrise or early morning ceremonies and weekday elopements can help you beat the rush and give you a little more privacy.