How to Elope at Secret Beach | Oregon
If your dream wedding feels more like an adventure than an event…
Imagine standing barefoot in the sand as waves crash against towering sea stacks. The salty ocean breeze carries your vows while the cliffs around you glow in the last light of sunset. There are no crowds, no strict timeline, and no pressure to perform—just the two of you surrounded by one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the Pacific Northwest.
That’s what it feels like to elope at Secret Beach.
Tucked away just outside Brookings on Oregon’s southern coast, Secret Beach is one of those places that photographs beautifully—but somehow feels even more incredible in person. It’s rugged, intimate, and wildly romantic. If you’re dreaming of an adventurous wedding day filled with dramatic coastlines, hidden beaches, towering forests, and unforgettable sunsets, this might just be the perfect place to begin your marriage.
Why Elope at Secret Beach?
I’ve photographed all over Oregon—from Cannon Beach to Bend and more—and I honestly believe there’s something different about Brookings. It’s difficult to put into words until you’re standing there yourself. The cliffs feel taller. The sea stacks feel bigger. The beaches seem quieter. Even the light feels softer as it filters through the coastal fog. There’s an almost ethereal quality to this stretch of coastline that makes it feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
One of my favorite things about planning Secret Beach elopements is how many completely different landscapes exist within a short drive. Your wedding gallery doesn’t have to consist of one location—you can experience an entire region.
Within an hour you can explore:
- dramatic sea stacks
- hidden coves
- windswept cliff overlooks
- coastal forests
- fern-covered trails
- natural arches
- secluded beaches
- towering redwood forests
Few places in Oregon offer that much variety in such a small area.
Where is Secret Beach?
Secret Beach sits just north of Brookings in Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Finding Secret Beach, nestled within the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor along the Southern Oregon Coast, can be an adventure in itself. True to its name, this hidden gem isn’t marked with obvious signs, so you’ll need a bit of guidance to uncover its secluded beauty. Here’s how to find it: Start near mile marker 345, roughly 10 miles north of Brookings, Oregon. Look for a small, unmarked pullout where you can park. A faint trail leads from the parking area into the forest, descending about 0.3 miles to the beach. The hike is short but can be steep and uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by secluded sandy coves, tide pools, and stunning rock formations. Be sure to check the tide schedule beforehand, as rising tides can limit access to certain areas.
One of the best parts about eloping here is that you’re surrounded by adventure. Instead of spending hours driving between locations, nearly everything is only minutes away.
Some nearby favorites include:
- Natural Bridges
- Cape Ferrelo
- Arch Rock
- Whaleshead Beach
- Indian Sands
- Harris Beach State Park
- Lone Ranch Beach
- Pistol River
How to Get to Secret Beach
Most couples fly into one of these airports:
Rogue Valley International Airport (Medford)
Drive: Approximately 2.5 hours
This is usually my favorite recommendation because it’s the closest major airport with multiple daily flights and rental car options.
Eugene Airport
Drive: Around 4.5 hours
Great if you’re planning a larger Oregon road trip.
Portland International Airport
Drive: Around 6 hours
Perfect if you want to spend several days exploring the Oregon Coast before your elopement.
Crescent City Airport (California)
Only about 40 minutes away, but flight options are much more limited and typically the most expensive option.
Where to Stay Near Secret Beach
One thing I love about Brookings is that it still feels like a hidden coastal town rather than a tourist destination. You’ll find cozy oceanfront Airbnbs, cabins tucked into the forest, boutique inns, and vacation homes with incredible sunset views. The hotels and motels in the area aren’t the greatest or cutest, but when you’re spending most the day outside in nature sometimes accommodations don’t need to be crazy cool! I usually recommend staying for at least 3–4 nights so your wedding day doesn’t feel rushed.
Look for accommodations near:
- Brookings
- Harbor
- Harris Beach
- Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
- Gold Beach
The Best Time of Year to Elope at Secret Beach
Spring (April–May)
One of my favorite seasons. You’ll find vibrant greenery, blooming wildflowers, flowing waterfalls, and fewer visitors. Expect occasional rain—but also incredibly moody skies.
Summer (June–August)
Warm temperatures and long evenings make summer incredibly popular. Morning fog often burns off into beautiful sunsets. This is also the busiest season, so weekday elopements are ideal.
Fall (September–October)
My absolute favorite. September offers warm weather, fewer crowds after Labor Day, and some of the clearest sunsets of the year. Everything slows down, making the beaches feel even more secluded.
Winter
If you don’t mind rain and dramatic weather, winter creates some of the moodiest coastal scenery imaginable. The crashing waves and stormy skies create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Oregon Marriage License Requirements for Your Secret Beach Elopement
Getting married in Oregon is a straightforward process, making it an easy choice for couples traveling to the Southern Oregon Coast to elope.
To legally marry at Secret Beach, you’ll need to obtain an Oregon marriage license, which can be issued by any county clerk’s office in the state—you don’t have to get it in Curry County, and you don’t have to be an Oregon resident. The license is valid anywhere in Oregon for 60 days after it’s issued.
Oregon also requires an authorized officiant and two witnesses to legally perform your ceremony. If you’d rather keep your elopement completely private, many couples choose to take care of the legal paperwork in their home state beforehand and exchange personal vows at Secret Beach instead.
As your photographer, I’m happy to help walk you through the process and answer any questions while planning your elopement, so you can focus less on logistics and more on celebrating your marriage.
Learn more about making your Oregon elopement legal here: How to Legally Elope in Oregon
Do You Need a Special Use Permit to Elope at Secret Beach?
One of the best things about eloping at Secret Beach is that most intimate ceremonies don’t require a special use permit. If you’re planning a simple elopement with just the two of you (or a small handful of guests), no elaborate setup, and you’re sharing the space respectfully with other visitors, you’re generally able to exchange vows without a permit.
However, if you’re planning a larger gathering, bringing chairs or arches, blocking public access, or incorporating other event-style elements, a special use permit may be required. Permit requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the managing agency before your elopement.
When you book with me, I’ll help you navigate permit requirements and make sure your plans align with current regulations, so you can focus on enjoying your day while protecting the incredible landscapes that make Secret Beach so special.
Why Brookings is One of Oregon’s Best Elopement Destinations
Most couples think they’re choosing Secret Beach. In reality, they’re choosing an entire adventure. Within minutes you can photograph:
- dramatic cliffs
- secluded beaches
- panoramic ocean overlooks
- forest trails
- tide pools
- hidden coves
But one of the biggest advantages is something many couples don’t realize…
Add the Redwoods to Your Elopement Day
One of my favorite parts about planning Brookings elopements is that the world-famous California Redwoods are incredibly close. In about 45–60 minutes, you can be surrounded by some of the tallest trees on Earth. Imagine beginning your wedding day beneath ancient redwoods before ending it watching the sun disappear behind Oregon’s rugged coastline. It’s one of the most unique combinations you’ll find anywhere in the country.
Popular redwood locations include:
- Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
- Stout Grove
- Grove of Titans
- Redwood National and State Parks
Example 8-Hour Secret Beach Elopement Timeline
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 2:00 PM | Slow morning together at your Airbnb with coffee, breakfast, music, and soaking in the excitement of the day. |
| 3:00 PM | Drive to a scenic overlook to privately write your vows while taking in sweeping coastal views. |
| 4:00 PM | Return to your Airbnb and get ready together, helping each other with the final details before heading out. |
| 5:15 PM | Drive to Secret Beach. |
| 5:45 PM | Explore the beach, wander among the sea stacks, and enjoy portraits before sunset / incorporate something unique to you and your love for one another! |
| 7:00 PM | Exchange your vows during golden hour with the ocean as your backdrop. |
| 7:30 PM | Celebrate with sunset portraits around Secret Beach. |
| 8:15 PM | Visit a nearby beach or overlook for blue hour photos and one final adventure together. |
| 10:00 PM | End coverage beneath the stars. |
Activities to Include in Your Secret Beach Elopement Day
One of my favorite things about elopements is that your wedding doesn’t have to end after saying “I do.” Instead, celebrate your marriage with experiences you’ll actually remember.
Some ideas include:
- Pop champagne on the beach
- Write vows at a secondary location
- Read marriage love letters from loved ones
- Cook breakfast together at your Air BnB
- Share a charcuterie picnic overlooking the ocean
- Order pizza back at your Airbnb
- Watch the sunset wrapped in blankets
- Dance barefoot in the sand
- Roast s’mores around a fire pit
- Visit the Redwoods
- End the evening stargazing along the coast
Recommended Vendors for Your Secret Beach Elopement
One of the things to keep in mind when planning an elopement in Brookings is that it’s a smaller coastal town. While there are some incredible local vendors, they tend to book up quickly—especially during the summer and early fall. I always recommend reaching out to your dream vendors several months in advance. Here are a few of my favorite recommendations to get you started:
Hair & Makeup Artists
Having a professional hair and makeup artist who understands the Oregon Coast is well worth the investment. Coastal wind, humidity, and ocean mist can be unpredictable, so working with someone experienced in elopements will help you look and feel your best all day long. Some wonderful options include:
Florists
Whether you’re dreaming of a lush bouquet inspired by the rugged coastline or something simple and organic, these local florists create beautiful designs that complement the natural beauty of Southern Oregon. I recommend:
- Our Flower House by Avigail’s Events
- Carrie Crook Floral & Events
- Trader Joe’s handmade bouquet!
Cakes & Desserts
You don’t need a five-tier wedding cake to celebrate your marriage. Many of my couples choose a small cutting cake, gourmet cupcakes, or pastries to enjoy together after their ceremony. Some great options include:
One of my favorite parts of helping couples plan their elopement is connecting them with vendors who fit their vision. Whether you’re looking for a florist who embraces a wild, organic style or a baker who can create the perfect little cake to share on the beach, I’m always happy to share my favorite recommendations and help you build the perfect vendor team.
Why Work With Abby Ree Photography?
Your elopement deserves to be more than beautiful photos. It deserves to be an unforgettable experience. When you work with me, I’m not simply documenting your day—I’m helping you create it.
From finding hidden locations and building a personalized timeline to recommending vendors, navigating permits, planning meaningful activities, and capturing every moment with intentionality, I’m here to guide you from the first conversation until your final gallery is delivered.
My goal is simple: to create a wedding day that feels completely true to the two of you, allowing you to slow down, be present, and begin your marriage surrounded by the incredible beauty of God’s creation.
If Secret Beach has captured your heart, I’d love to help you create an intimate, adventurous wedding day you’ll never forget. If this is your vibe, I’d love to dream up your elopement together! Inquire at abbyreephotography.com !
Real Secret Beach elopement inspiration:
Hi there! I'm Abby, a storytelling elopement photographer serving playfully intimate spirits in Arkansas, Colorado, & the PNW. I'm here because I believe in the sanctity of marriage. Are you ready to stand hand-in-hand in a place so grand, it reminds you of the wonder & reverence of marriage? Stick around and explore more about my services!
