Planning a beach elopement on the Oregon Coast? Let me introduce you to a hidden gem that perfectly captures the magic of the Pacific Northwest: Cape Kiwanda. This dreamy location is ideal for couples who crave adventure, intimacy, and breathtaking views—just like Negin + Jeff, who pulled off an incredible last-minute Cape Kiwanda beach elopement with their pups by their side.
Whether you’re just starting to plan your elopement or are looking for an offbeat, scenic alternative to a traditional wedding, this blog covers everything you need to know about getting married at Cape Kiwanda, including the real story of Negin and Jeff’s unforgettable day.
Negin + Jeff’s Cape Kiwanda Elopement A Love Story on the Oregon Coast
Some of the most beautiful love stories come together at the last minute—and that’s exactly how Negin + Jeff’s beach elopement unfolded. Just a few weeks before their planned date, they reached out via Instagram, hoping to book a photographer for a small ceremony at Cape Kiwanda. Even though I was already booked that day, fate had other plans.
After reaching out to my previously scheduled couple, they graciously moved their shoot—just so I could document Negin and Jeff’s love story. That’s the kind of community and connection that makes this job so special.
Eloping With Dogs: A Pawfect Adventure
One of the best parts of their elopement? Their adorable dogs came along for the ride. They played in the sand, explored the cliffs, and cuddled by the fire post-ceremony. Including pets in your elopement is such a sweet way to make the day feel even more personal and true to you.
A Day Filled With Trust, Laughter & PNW Beauty
Negin and Jeff gave me full creative freedom—trusting me to pick their first look and ceremony locations. From exploring the dunes to catching that golden hour light through the clouds, to cozying up in an outdoor shower and warming by a fire with their pups, their day was 100% them.
It’s moments like these that show why elopements are so magical: personalized, free-spirited, and deeply intimate.
Why You Should Consider a Cape Kiwanda Beach Elopement
Cape Kiwanda isn’t just beautiful—it’s iconic. Nestled in Pacific City, this stunning coastal spot is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Here’s why Cape Kiwanda is one of the best places for an Oregon Coast wedding:
Jaw-Dropping Scenery
Cape Kiwanda is famous for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, orange-red rock formations, and crashing ocean waves. Unlike tropical white-sand beaches, Cape Kiwanda offers a rugged coastal charm unique to the Pacific Northwest.
Whether you’re saying your vows against a backdrop of wind-swept cliffs or cuddling on the beach with fog rolling in behind you, every photo looks like a scene from a movie.
Real PNW Weather Real Magic
Planning an Oregon Coast elopement means embracing the unpredictability of nature. Fog, drizzle, sunshine, or wind—it all adds texture and emotion to your day. Even overcast skies photograph beautifully here. If you’re into moody, cinematic vibes, Cape Kiwanda delivers every time.
The Ultimate Elopement Getaway
Cape Kiwanda is located in the quaint coastal town of Pacific City. This means your elopement isn’t just a ceremony—it’s an experience. You can:
- Stay in a romantic Airbnb or boutique inn
- Grab coffee from a local café
- Explore tide pools or go hiking
- Have a picnic or dinner at a local brewery
- End the night by a campfire with your favorite people (or pups!)
The Oregon Coast allows you to turn your elopement into a multi-day mini honeymoon—all without leaving town.
What to Know Before Eloping at Cape Kiwanda
Before you pack your bags and hit the road, here are a few important things to know about getting married at Cape Kiwanda:
Permits
Depending on the size of your elopement and if you’re bringing a professional photographer, you may need a permit. Always check the most current rules from the Oregon Parks Department or contact the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.
Tides & Safety
Cape Kiwanda is absolutely stunning—but it’s also a wild, natural space. Always check the tide charts before your session. High tides can make certain parts of the beach inaccessible, and strong surf can be dangerous if you’re too close to the water.
Parking & Access
There’s a public parking lot right next to the beach and dunes. Bonus: there are bathrooms and rinse-off hoses—perfect if you’re bringing pets or planning a post-ceremony beach walk.
What to Wear
Bring layers! The Oregon Coast can shift from sunny to windy to drizzly in a matter of minutes. Dresses, boots, warm jackets, and cozy wraps are all great options. Flowy fabrics look AMAZING in the wind, so consider a dress that will dance with the breeze.
Cape Kiwanda Beach Elopement Photography Pricing
Location: Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City, Oregon
Vibes: Ocean cliffs, golden sand dunes, dramatic skies, romantic windblown shots
Best for: Couples looking for an adventurous, intimate elopement experience on the beach
📸 Elopement Photography Packages
| Package Name | Time | What’s Included | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunset Mini | 1.5 Hours | 40+ edited photos, ceremony + beach portraits, perfect golden hour timing | $600 |
| Half-Day Escape | 4 Hours | 100+ photos, ceremony, adventure session, multiple locations & outfits | $1200 |
| Full-Day Story | 8 Hours | Full story coverage, getting ready to sunset portraits, detailed gallery | $2200 |
🧭 What’s Always Included
- Personalized elopement timeline
- Location scouting at Cape Kiwanda & nearby gems
- Permit & weather guidance
- High-res edited images + print rights
- Sneak peeks within 48 hours
- Vendor & lodging recommendations
- No travel fees (for Cape Kiwanda)
🏕️ Optional Add-Ons
- Drone footage over cliffs & ocean: +$250
- Vow books & picnic setup styling: +$150
- Social media highlight video reel: +$100
- Officiant service recommendation: Free referral
- Rain backup plan coordination: Included
📆 Best Time to Elope at Cape Kiwanda
- Season: May–October
- Best time of day: Sunset for dreamy light and tide conditions
- Avoid: Midday in summer (bright sun, crowds)
Bringing Your Dogs to Your Elopement? YES PLEASE
One of the best things about eloping outdoors in Oregon is that many locations, including Cape Kiwanda, are dog-friendly. Here’s how to make it smooth:
- Bring water + snacks for your pup
- Assign a friend to help leash/hydrate
- Practice commands in nature if they’re off-leash
- Dress them up! (Think floral collars or matching bandanas)
Your pets are part of your love story. Including them in your vows, ceremony, or photos makes your day even more special.
Top 3 Oregon Coast Elopement Locations
Cape Kiwanda (Pacific City)
Cape Kiwanda tops the list for its:
- Signature red-orange cliffs
- Unique dune landscapes
- Pet-friendly beach access
- Nearby lodging, restaurants & breweries
- Accessible public parking + restrooms
If you want adventure, variety, and a true PNW vibe, this is the spot.
Hug Point (Near Cannon Beach)
Want waterfalls + caves? Hug Point brings lush greenery, unique rock formations, and even a seasonal waterfall. Nestled near Cannon Beach, this spot has:
- Cliffside walkways
- Forested trails
- Sea caves (check tides!)
- A romantic, intimate feel
Great for couples who love both forest and sea.
Cannon Beach (Home of Haystack Rock)
You’ve likely seen Haystack Rock on Instagram—it’s that iconic coastal sea stack that draws couples from all over. Cannon Beach offers:
- Easy beach access
- Charming town full of boutique hotels & shops
- Great restaurants + breweries
- Photogenic shoreline, day or night
A perfect mix of natural beauty and small-town charm.
Make It More Than Just a Day: Oregon Coast Elopement Itinerary
Your elopement deserves to be more than a quick ceremony. Here’s a sample Cape Kiwanda elopement itinerary to inspire your dream day:
Morning
- Wake up in your cozy Airbnb
- Grab coffee + pastries from Stimulus Coffee + Bakery
- Get ready separately (first look, anyone?)
Afternoon
- First look among the dunes or along the cliffs
- Ceremony on the beach or cliffside
- Take portraits at golden hour
Evening
- Enjoy a celebratory dinner at Pelican Brewing
- Toast marshmallows around a fire
- Walk the beach under the stars
Planning Your Elopement Photos at Cape Kiwanda
If you’re hiring a photographer for your Cape Kiwanda beach elopement (and I hope you do!), here are a few pro tips for getting the best photos possible:
1. Embrace the Wind & Weather
Don’t fight the PNW weather—it’s what gives your photos drama and mood. Let your hair fly, your dress dance, and your emotions show.
2. Choose Golden Hour or Blue Hour
Cape Kiwanda glows during sunset. That warm, diffused light + the cliff backdrops = dream photos. Stick around for blue hour for cool, romantic tones.
3. Go Off the Beaten Path
There are tons of lesser-known corners of Cape Kiwanda beyond the main beach. A good local photographer will help guide you to hidden gems and avoid crowds.
Couple Review: Kind Words from Negin + Jeff
It’s always the biggest honor when couples leave heartfelt reviews. Negin + Jeff shared:
“Dawn is so talented and incredible! We decided to elope since our wedding got pushed to next year, so we reached out last minute. Even though she was busy on our preferred day, she moved things around to make it happen. She made the process so easy and helped us every step of the way.”
It means the world to be trusted with such an important day.
Final Thoughts: Is Cape Kiwanda Right for Your Elopement?
If you’re dreaming of a beach elopement that feels adventurous, soulful, and undeniably Oregonian, Cape Kiwanda is calling. This little slice of heaven on the Oregon Coast gives you:
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One-of-a-kind scenery
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Endless opportunities for adventure
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All the moody, magical PNW energy
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The freedom to craft a day that’s authentically YOU
Whether you want to hike the dunes, bring your dog, or toast under the stars, Cape Kiwanda beach elopements are full of heart, wild beauty, and unforgettable memories.