There’s something about the Oregon Coast that just never loses its magic — especially when it’s quiet, foggy, and still. Dalton and Dani’s mid-September elopement started slow and soft that morning, tucked away on the cliffs of Elk Flats, and ended with sandy feet and shared Diet Cokes on the beach.

It was one of those days that reminded me exactly why I love elopements — no rush, no production, no crowd. Just two people, completely present, surrounded by breathtaking creation.

A Foggy Morning at the Elk Flats

We started the morning at Elk Flats, one of my favorite places on the coast (and honestly, one of the few that’s made me tremble in awe before — the views are that grand). The trail is about 3 miles out and back with a 580-foot elevation gain, but if you take the left fork near the beginning, you’ll find insane views without needing to hike the whole thing.

That morning, fog rolled across the cliffs like a living thing. We had the place completely to ourselves — just the sound of waves crashing hundreds of feet below and the stillness of the pines around us. Dalton and Dani exchanged vows on the edge of the bluff, slipped on their rings, and shared a first dance right there as the mist wrapped around them.

It felt intimate. Sacred. Exactly the way an elopement should.

Exploring Hug Point

After we packed up from Elk Flats, we drove down the road to Hug Point, just a short 7-minute stretch from Cannon Beach. The fog began to lift, and sunlight slowly poured in — a perfect shift from the moody cliffs to the bright coastal glow.

We wandered through the caves, climbed over rocks, and ran along the shoreline while taking more photos. Hug Point is one of those places that’s always changing — it looks different every time depending on the tide and light. If you ever plan to elope there, make sure to go during low tide so you can explore the waterfalls, sea caves, and all those hidden nooks tucked along the cliffs. You can check the tide schedule before you go here.

Why Flexibility Matters on Your Elopement Day

Originally, we planned their ceremony for the evening. But when the forecast showed rain, we decided to pivot to late morning to catch the soft light and avoid the downpour. And honestly? It couldn’t have turned out better.

That’s the beauty of elopements — your day moves around you. You’re not locked into a strict schedule or trying to coordinate dozens of moving parts. Your vendors are there to make it yours, not the other way around. And when we decided to adjust the plan, it gave Dalton and Dani the most peaceful, weather-blessed day possible.

A Celebratory Dip (and Diet Cokes, of course!)

After exploring, we headed back to their resort near Cannon Beach where they popped open their personalized Diet Coke bottles — their favorite drink — and even brought one for me (the sweetest gesture ever). Then, they ran straight into the freezing Pacific for one last adventure together before wrapping up their day.

It was spontaneous, joyful, and so them.

The Perfect Oregon Coast Elopement Combo

If you’re dreaming of an Oregon Coast elopement, you honestly can’t go wrong with these two spots. Elk Flats gives you those dramatic, wild cliff views that feel like the edge of the world. Hug Point balances it with sandy textures, sea caves, and sunlight reflecting off the waves.

Both locations are within about 15 minutes of Cannon Beach, making it super easy to plan an elopement that feels full and rich in variety. You get the best of both worlds — foggy coastal cliffs and playful beach scenes — all in one simple, beautiful day.

Let’s Plan Your Oregon Coast Elopement!

Eloping here feels like breathing in creation itself. It’s quiet but powerful. Wild but intentional. The kind of place where you can slow down, look at the person you love, and just be.

If that sounds like the kind of day you’re dreaming of, I’d love to help you plan your Oregon Coast elopement — whether that’s at Elk Flats, Hug Point, or somewhere equally full of wonder. You can inquire at this link: abbyreephotography.com !

Check out these blogs for more Oregon elopement inspiration!

The Best Locations for Your Cannon Beach Elopement

Cannon Beach Elopement Guide 2025

Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Brookings, Oregon

11 Best Places to Elope in Oregon

How to Elope in Oregon

Best Time of Year to Elope in Oregon

Best Places to Stay for Your Cannon Beach Elopement