Why Ruby Beach is the Perfect Elopement Destination
Ruby Beach, tucked inside Olympic National Park, is pure Pacific Northwest magic—rugged sea stacks, weathered driftwood, and that moody, misty vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a dream. It is one of the best spots for an elopement, offering easy access, stunning scenery, and more reliable weather than other coastal locations. In addition to these benefits, it provides a unique, tranquil setting that feels far removed from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape or a breathtaking backdrop for your vows, this beach offers everything you need. Ultimately, if you’re craving an intimate, nature-filled wedding experience, Ruby Beach truly delivers the perfect setting for your special day.
Table of Content
- Best Time to Elope
- Legal Requirements for your Ruby Beach Elopement
- Tips for a Successful Ruby Beach Elopement
- Permits, Passes, & Guidelines for Ruby Beach
- Your Ruby Beach Elopement Story
- Ruby Beach Elopement Photographer
Best Time to Elope
Peak Season (July-September)
- Warmest and driest months
- Longest daylight hours
- Busiest with tourists
- Average temperatures: 60-75°F
Shoulder Season (May-June, October)
- Fewer crowds
- Variable weather
- Beautiful misty mornings
- Average temperatures: 50-65°F
Off-Season (November-April)
- Most dramatic weather
- Fewest crowds
- Best storm watching
- Risk of rain and wind
- Average temperatures: 40-55°F
Legal Requirements for your Ruby Beach Elopement
- Marriage license from any Washington county
- 3-day waiting period after obtaining the license
- License valid for 60 days
- Two witnesses required
- Officiant licensed in Washington state
Pro tip: Clallam County Courthouse in Port Angeles is the closest location to Ruby Beach for obtaining your license.
Photos Captured by BreeAnna Lasher
Tips for a Successful Ruby Beach Elopement
Planning an elopement in the Ruby Beach takes some extra thought, but the rewards are unmatched. From managing your timeline to respecting the beach, a little preparation ensures your day is as seamless as it is magical. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Parking and Access
- Large parking lot available
- Short 0.25-mile walk to the beach
- Stairs and path to access beach
- $30 Olympic National Park entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass
Planning Timeline
- Book permits: 9-12 months in advance
- Secure vendors: 6-8 months ahead
- Finalize travel & accommodations: 6-8 months before
- Order attire: 3-4 months before
- Practice vows & ceremony details: 1-2 months ahead
- Pack for the day: 1 week before
Leave No Trace Considerations
- Choose durable surfaces for ceremony
- Pack out all decorations
- Minimize impact on vegetation
- Follow local regulations
I’ve also written a blog, ‘What Is Eloping and Why It Might Be Perfect for You,’ to help you make decisions about your dream wedding vision!
Permits, Passes, & Guidelines for Ruby Beach
Before we dive into the details of what permits you’ll need for your Ruby Beach elopement, I want to remind you—please do your research well in advance! While I’ll be here to help guide you as your elopement photographer, it’s always better to plan ahead and not leave things to the last minute. You’ll need time to get the proper permits to make sure your wedding is legally recognized in Olympic National Park (ONP), where Ruby Beach is located!
How much does it cost to get into Olympic National Park?
Since Ruby Beach is part of ONP, the entrance fee is the same: $30 per vehicle, which is valid for 7 consecutive days! So, if you’re planning to explore more of the park, you won’t need to pay the entrance fee multiple times.
You can purchase (and print) your entrance pass in advance here!
Do you need a permit to get married at Ruby Beach?
Yes, you do! Ruby Beach is located within Olympic National Park, so you’ll need a Special Use Permit to hold a ceremony. The park recommends applying for this permit at least 4 weeks in advance to allow enough time for processing.
To get started, download the permit form here, fill it out, and email it here to the park. There’s a non-refundable application processing fee of $50, and you’ll hear back once they’ve reviewed everything.
If you have any questions about the permit or your ceremony, you can always reach out to the park’s visitor center at (360) 565-3130.
Your Ruby Beach Elopement Story
Imagine beginning your marriage journey on the rugged, windswept shores of Ruby Beach, where the natural beauty is as raw and untamed as your love. Your elopement here can be just as unique, with moments that reflect both the dramatic landscape and the quiet intimacy of your celebration. Here are a few different visions to help you imagine your elopement day!
Golden Hour Ceremony
Exchange your vows as the sun begins to dip behind the sea stacks, casting a warm, golden light over the ocean. The sound of crashing waves, the sea breeze, and the endless horizon create a moment that feels like it was made just for you.
Adventurous Exploration
Whether you’re barefoot and wandering along the driftwood-strewn shore or exploring tide pools together, your elopement can be as adventurous as you want it to be. From a cozy, secluded beach to a windswept cliffside, you’ll share private moments, take breathtaking photos, and celebrate with a champagne toast by the water’s edge.
Photography That Tells Your Story
From your quiet first moments together on the beach to the joy in your eyes as you run through the rain or catch a glimpse of a distant sea stack, every shot will capture the authenticity of your day. These won’t be just wedding photos—they’ll be an artistic storytelling of your elopement, with Ruby Beach as your stunning, wild backdrop.
Make It Yours
Add your own personal touch to this unforgettable day with these one-of-a-kind moments:
- Walk barefoot through the tide as you say your vows in the mist
- Share a quiet, intimate picnic among the driftwood
- Celebrate with a bonfire, s’mores, and starry skies
- Capture your love on the beach as the waves crash around you
- Take a peaceful moment alone, listening to the soothing sound of the ocean
Ruby Beach sets the stage for a breathtaking elopement experience where nature and love intertwine to create memories that will last forever.
Ruby Beach Elopement Photographer
Dreaming of an intimate, windswept elopement on the rugged shores of Ruby Beach? As an elopement photographer who thrives in wild, untamed landscapes, I’m here to help you craft a day that feels true to you. With its dramatic sea stacks, driftwood-lined shore, and moody PNW vibes, Ruby Beach is the perfect backdrop for a quiet, heartfelt celebration. Whether you’re hiking barefoot, embracing the misty air, or sharing vows with the sound of crashing waves, I’ll be there to capture every raw, beautiful moment.
If this feels like your kind of adventure, let’s connect and start planning your dream elopement!
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