You’ve decided that you want to elope alongside the Oregon Coast but you haven’t settled on the perfect beach just yet. On this blog we’re going to chat about the Southern Oregon Coast and how to elope at Secret Beach.
Secret Beach has dramatic cliffs, ocean overlooks, and forest trails scattered along the coastline, which means that your day doesn’t have to be spent in just one spot! We can build an adventure around the landscapes that you love and want to explore most!
Secret Beach is one of those locations that feels like you’ve found your own corner of the Oregon Coast. With rugged rock formations, crashing waves, and secluded coves, there is a beautiful mix of scenery for you to explore throughout your elopement day.
It’s also a part of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a stretch of coastline known for its dramatic sea stacks, coastal viewpoints, and scenic hiking trails.
Keep in mind that Secret Beach is a natural location and there aren’t restrooms or facilities. Getting down to the beach requires a slight hike on uneven terrain and is best suited for couples who are comfortable with a little adventure!
Where is Secret Beach?
Secret Beach is in the town of Brookings, Oregon, along the Southern Oregon Coast. It isn’t like a typical beach with a large parking lot and an obvious entrance right by the sand. Reaching it takes a little planning, but that’s part of the journey!
There are designated parking areas and trailheads nearby and the route you choose can affect how long your hike will be. The trail involves uneven ground and steep sections so I recommend wearing comfortable shoes for the walk down.
This beach is a popular spot and has a bit of foot traffic, especially during the summer. Planning for a quieter time of day, day of the week, and season can change your experience.
As your elopement photographer and planning guide, I can help you think through the location, timing, and logistics so you’re not left figuring everything out on your own.
Nearest Airports To Secret Beach
If you’re traveling from out of state, you’ll want to plan for a little extra travel time to reach this part of the Oregon Coast. Brookings is a smaller coastal town so flying into a regional airport and renting a car is often the most practical option.
- Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) | approx 30 – 40 minutes away
- Rogue Valley International Airport – Medford Airport (MFR) | approx 2.5 – 3 hours away
- Portland International Airport (PDX) | a much longer drive, approx 6 hours
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) | another longer road trip, approx 6 – 7 hours depending on traffic and route
Drive times are estimates so be sure to check your route before booking flights and accommodations. If you’re flying into Portland or San Francisco, I’d consider making a road trip out of your visit and exploring a few places along the way!
Where To Stay For Your Secret Beach Elopement
Brookings is a small coastal town and doesn’t have the hustle and bustle of a major city, but that’s part of its unique charm. You’ll find places to stay from hotels, cabins, and cozy Airbnbs.
I’d recommend staying in or around Brookings if you want to keep your drive to the beach short. This also gives you more flexibility if we want to plan for sunrise and sunset with a break between locations.
Best Time Of Year To Elope At Secret Beach
Each season on the Oregon Coast has its own personality. A lush green forest in the spring to moody skies in the fall, every season offers something different.
Spring (April – May)
Lush foliage, blooming wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls. There are fewer visitors during this time. Possible rain showers but such moody skies.
Summer (June – August)
Warm, dry, and sunny days with the longest daylight hours. This is the busiest season with a high number of visitors so weekday elopements are ideal.
Fall (September – November)
My favorite time because you have moody skies, cooler air, and those romantic sunsets. You know, that hoa hoa hoa feeling. Who doesn’t love that?!
Winter (December – February / March)
Stormy weather with rain and cloudy conditions. Trails can be slippery but it offers dramatic skies that photograph beautifully and fewer crowds.
Elope At Secret Beach And Visit The Redwoods
The Redwood Forests of Northern California are within driving distance of Brookings, approximately 45 minutes, making it possible to split your elopement day to include towering trees and stunning ocean views.
Best Redwood Locations Near Brookings:
- Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park
- Stout Grove
- Grove of Titans
- Boy Scout Trail
Do you need a permit to elope at Secret Beach?
Secret Beach is part of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, which is managed by Oregon State Parks. Permit requirements can depend on the size of your gathering, whether you plan to have any decorations, and if your plans fall under the state’s special use rules.
If you’re planning an elopement with just the two of you and a few guests with no decor, you’re able to exchange vows without a permit. I always recommend confirming the current requirements with Oregon State Parks before your elopement.
How To Obtain A Marriage License In Oregon
To get legally married in Oregon you have to obtain a marriage license from a county clerk’s office and you do not need to be an Oregon resident.
- Both applicants must appear in person together at the county clerk’s office
- You’ll both need a valid photo ID
- The application fee varies by county ranging from $50 – $60
- Some counties do allow you to start the application online before finalizing in person.
- There is a 3 day waiting period after signing the license before your ceremony can take place. (some counties allow you to pay an extra fee to waive the waiting period.)
- The license is valid anywhere within the State of Oregon and is valid for 60 days from the effective date.
For the ceremony you will need an officiant and at least two witnesses who are 18 or older (if I’m photographing your wedding, my husband and I can be your witnesses, we’ve done it countless times!)
The person who is officiating your wedding must sign the license and return the completed document to the county clerk’s office within 5 days.
Once filed, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate, which may be needed for name changes or legal documentation.
Want To Skip The Paperwork On Your Elopement Day?
Some couples choose to take care of the legal part of getting married in their home state before their adventure elopement. That way they can fully focus on the experience they want to create together and not worry about paperwork.
You could have a courthouse ceremony beforehand and then celebrate with your own personal vows during your adventure elopement.
There’s no right or wrong way to do this. If having everything legally taken care of beforehand makes your day feel more relaxed, that’s absolutely an option worth considering.
Trail Notes
- Check the tides: The tide can affect which parts of the beach are accessible
- Have a backup plan: Coastal weather can change quickly, choose an alternative location or timeline in case weather or trail conditions aren’t safe
- Wear practical footwear: The walk to the beach is steep and uneven. Bring shoes that provide good traction, even if you plan on bringing a change of shoes for your ceremony.
- Plan for parking and travel: Nearby parking can fill up and the beach itself doesn’t have the facilities of a traditional venue. Give yourselves extra time to get settled.
- Respect the coastline: Follow Leave No Trace principles so this beautiful place stays beautiful for others visiting.
This is where having an adventure elopement photographer, such as myself, who can help with the planning makes a difference. Instead of trying to piece together every detail on your own, you can have someone helping you think through locations, timing, and the little things to make your day feel effortless.
Ready To Elope At Secret Beach?
Secret Beach is such an epic location for your elopement and it helps craft a day filled with adventure. As your adventure elopement photographer I’ll help you every step of the way with location scouting, timeline and permit assistance, vendor recommendations, and even finding the cute places to stay! You focus on the excitement of getting married & I’ll help you bring the rest together!
If you’re ready to start planning your Oregon Coast elopement, reach out here to plan your dream elopement!
