Carmel/Big Sur area site - 010301cliffs
Carmel/Big Sur area site - 010301cliffs
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Located just north of Big Sur, this cliff overlook offers dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean. It's easy to access for most mobility levels and has three designated ceremony sites from which to choose. It also offers a quaint bridge hoovering over a pencil waterfall and in supper, the hillside is dotted with ice plant in pinks, yellows and purple.
Note: in 2022, the state of California roped off several of the prime spots at this site, thereby eliminating access to some of the more dramatic backdrops. Nonetheless, it's still a pretty venue and it's the easiest to access of all the cliffside sites we offer. If you choose this site for its access, we recommend pairing it with another nearby site for secondary photos. Good options are this one and this one.
What we love about this site:
Offers easy to access cliffside views.
Beautiful ice plant in pinks, purples and yellows abound in early to mid-summer.
Permits are offered that ensure there will be no other events going on at the date and time of your wedding.
On weekdays, this site is usually fairly private.
Potential drawbacks of this site
There is no beach access and the options for varied backdrops are limited.
Parking can be limited in summer. If you have more than 4 vehicles, we suggest getting a shuttle.
It does require a paid permit. See fees below.
Accessibility
Parking is on the side of the road: the overlook is a short walk from parking. Parking will be crowded on weekends, so we don't advise that weddings be held here on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays.
Access from parking: Accessible for most. Site requires walking over some uneven ground on a fairly flat path.
Additional Logistics
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on the overlook.
Bathrooms: none.
Suitable for children: not small children. There is no protective barrier on the edge of the cliffs.
Max vehicles accommodated: up to five (5) cars in addition to those of your ceremony vendors.
Max number of guests at this site: 8.
Dates of Availability: year-round.
Permits and Fees
Permits and Fees
This site is managed by the state of California and a permit for weddings of any size is required. We will add the permit cost to your package with Blue Sky Elopements and obtain the permit for you.
Up to 6 guests - $175
7-21 guests - $450
Holidays incur additional fees for permits. We strongly discourage use of this site for holiday events as it will inevitably be crowded and not offer you the private experience you're seeking.
Photos
Video
Location
Note: place marker is approximate; the actual location will be provided upon booking.
Carmel/Monterey Lodging Referrals
For more lodging options, visit TripAdvisor.com, AirBnB.com and VRBO.com.
Monterey County Calendar of Events
IMPORTANT: be sure to check the calendar of events for the dates you're considering before you submit your date to us. Local events can impact traffic and the accessibility of your site.
Carmel/Big Sur Average Temps and Precipitation
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