Lake Tahoe Elopement Guide — Updated for 2025 & 2026!

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, on the border of California and Nevada, is Lake Tahoe – a crystal clear blue oasis surrounded by mountain peaks and dense forests. With hiking trails, overlooks, and scenic views that could be explored forever, Lake Tahoe makes for the perfect adventure elopement location! 

As a California elopement photographer, I have explored nearly every square inch of Lake Tahoe. It is one of my absolute favorites, for great reasons! For any couple who wants a wedding experience that’s unique and that actually feels like them, a Lake Tahoe elopement might be just the thing. 

Keep reading to learn all about Lake Tahoe and how to elope there!

1. Set Your Lake Tahoe Elopement Date
   • Lake Tahoe Weather 
   • Avoiding Crowds
   • Best Time to Elope
2. Choosing Where to Elope in Lake Tahoe
   • Map of Lake Tahoe Elopement Spots
   • Top Locations Around the Lake
3. Lake Tahoe Elopement Timeline Example
   • Sunrise Elopement Timeline
   • Sunset Elopement Timeline
   • Full-Day Adventure Timeline
4. Legal Parts of Your Lake Tahoe Elopement
   • Marriage License (CA vs. NV)
   • Officiant & Witness Requirements
   • Permit Rules & Fees
5. Lake Tahoe Elopement Vendors
6. Elopement Logistics
   •  Flights & Getting to Tahoe
   • Lodging (Airbnbs, Resorts, Cabins)
7. Lake Tahoe Elopement Cost
8. Bringing Guests to Your Lake Tahoe Elopement
9. Things to Do in Lake Tahoe
10. Lake Tahoe Elopement FAQs
    • Legal, Costs, Seasons, Guests, Pets
11. Lake Tahoe Elopement Next Steps
    • How We Help Couples Plan Their Day
    • Contact Us

Set an Elopement Date

When you decide on a Lake Tahoe elopement, one of the first things you’ll need to do is set a date! This will depend on a few factors.

Weather is one of the biggest considerations when it comes to choosing an elopement date. You can plan a Lake Tahoe elopement any time of year, but your experience will be very different!

Winter Lake Tahoe Elopement

In the winter, Tahoe is a popular skiing destination. The lake turns into a winter wonderland, and the surrounding mountains are perfect for hitting the slopes. If you want to elope in the snow, this is a beautiful time of year. Check out my guide to planning a winter Tahoe elopement if you’re leaning toward this season!

Spring Lake Tahoe Elopement

In the spring, snow begins to melt and winter crowds fade away. Many higher elevation areas do remain blanketed in snow into summer, but most of Lake Tahoe will be easily accessible by May. The weather begins to warm up, though there are occasional chilly days and snow flurries.

Summer Lake Tahoe Elopement

Summer is the most popular time to visit Lake Tahoe, as the weather is warm and the lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and even diving. This is the best time to elope if you plan to hike, or to enjoy the water!

Fall Lake Tahoe Elopement

Fall can be a great time to elope as well, especially in the beginning, when crowds begin to thin out but temperatures are still warm. You’ll get to experience Lake Tahoe as the forest erupts into shades of orange and yellow, and you might even catch the first snowfall of the year.

Avoiding Crowds

Summer is the most popular time to visit Lake Tahoe, followed closely by winter. You’ll probably want a little more privacy for your elopement, so I recommend tying the knot in the off-season. If you elope in the spring or fall, you’re more likely to be able to find a secluded spot! Weather can be a little more unpredictable, so be prepared, but you will enjoy crowd-free trails!

I always recommend eloping on a weekday – Lake Tahoe is busiest on the weekends, so by eloping during the week, you’ll get a little more privacy as well. A sunrise ceremony is another great way to ensure you get the place (mostly) to yourself, and when you get to watch the sun come up as you say your vows, I promise you’ll forget all about the early wake-up call!

Choose an Elopement Location

There are tons of beautiful places around Lake Tahoe where you can elope – for a more complete list, you can check out my post on the 11 best places to elope in Lake Tahoe. For now, here are a few ideas to get you inspired!

Logan Shoals Vista

Logan Shoals Vista is a short, quarter-mile trail located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. It’s an easily accessible trail that ends in a stunning vista of the lake, with pine trees surrounding you and mountains in the distance. When you reach the end, you can descend a little on the rock scramble to get to the water, and walk lakeside!

Baldwin Beach

Baldwin Beach is a large, spacious lakeside area with amazing views of Mount Tallac. The water here warms up quickly, so it’s a great swimming beach, and you can even rent a kayak and paddle to Emerald Bay!

Sand Harbor

Sand Harbor is a wonderful location for a Lake Tahoe elopement! With its sandy beach and clear lake water, it’s a remarkable spot to say your vows. It’s ideal for couples looking for a serene celebration. Don’t miss Tori and Ean’s Sand Harbor elopement on the blog for some inspiration!

Monkey Rock

Located near Incline Village, Money Rock Trail is a 2.6-mile trail. The views here really can’t be beaten, and the carved granite rock in the shape of a monkey is sure to bring a smile to your face! It shares a trailhead with East Shore Trail, but Monkey Rock is the more challenging of the two with nearly 500 feet of elevation gain. 

Another neat thing about Monkey Rock? Dogs are welcome here as long as they’re on a leash. We can’t say no to an elopement pup!

Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay is one of our favorite Lake Tahoe elopement locations! It is home to numerous picturesque overlooks and hikes. From waterfalls to forests to mountains to the lake, you’re sure to have a variety of photos from your Lake Tahoe elopement. 

Check out our full Emerald Bay Elopement Planning Guide for more details if you’re considering an Emerald Bay elopement! We’ve shared everything you need to know.

Zephyr Cove

Last, but certainly not least, is  Zephyr Cove. It’s a gorgeous lakeside setting for an elopement in Lake Tahoe. With marvelous beaches, an impressive mountain backdrop, and clear blue water, you’ll love everything that Zephyr Cove has to offer. I think it’s especially lovely in the winter when the snow covers the ground!

Lake Tahoe Elopement Timeline Examples

One of the best parts about eloping in Lake Tahoe is how flexible your day can be. There’s no rulebook here! You get to decide if you want a slow, relaxed morning together or a full-day adventure exploring the mountains and the lake. To give you an idea of what this could look like, here are a few sample timelines that couples often love:

Half-Day Sunrise Elopement

• 5:30 AM – Meet at trailhead for a short hike to an overlook
• 6:15 AM – Private vow exchange as the sun rises over the lake
• 7:00 AM – Portraits around the cliffs and shoreline
• 8:30 AM – Coffee + breakfast picnic by the water
• 10:00 AM – Wrap up photos and head back for a celebratory brunch

This kind of timeline is perfect if you want a quiet, intimate morning with the lake mostly to yourselves.

Afternoon + Sunset Elopement

• 2:00 PM – Getting ready photos at your Airbnb or cabin
• 3:30 PM – First look in the forest or at the lake’s edge
• 4:00 PM – Short hike or drive to your ceremony location
• 4:30 PM – Vow exchange with views of the water and mountains
• 5:00 PM – Couples portraits + exploring together
• 6:30 PM – Sunset photos at the lake
• 7:30 PM – Celebrate with a private dinner or champagne toast

This is a great option if you love golden light and want a slower start to your day.

Full-Day Adventure Elopement

• 8:00 AM – Getting ready photos at your Airbnb
• 9:30 AM – Morning activity (kayaking, paddleboarding, or a casual hike)
• 12:00 PM – Picnic lunch and downtime together
• 2:00 PM – Head to trailhead or drive to your ceremony spot
• 3:00 PM – Vows + portraits in the mountains or at the lake
• 5:00 PM – Sunset portraits at a second location
• 7:00 PM – Campfire, stargazing, or a cozy dinner to end the night

This works well if you want your elopement to feel like an entire adventure, with time to explore different spots and soak it all in.

Every elopement looks different, so these are just ideas to help you picture what’s possible. We’ll work together to build a timeline that matches your priorities and makes the day feel like you.

Legal Parts of Your Lake Tahoe Elopement

Because Lake Tahoe is on the border of California and Nevada, marriage laws will differ slightly – so once you know where you’re eloping, make sure you’re researching the right state!

Lake Tahoe Marriage License

Your marriage license needs to be obtained in the state where your ceremony will take place. Whether it’s Nevada or California, you will need to visit any county recorder’s office in the state.

California Marriage License:

In California, the closest office to Lake Tahoe is El Dorado County. On their website, you can apply online ahead of time, but you will need to make an appointment to appear in person to pick up your marriage license. Most other counties will have a similar process. You’ll need to bring a photo ID, along with cash for the license fee, to your appointment. The fee varies by county, but in El Dorado, it is $85. Once you get your marriage license, there is no waiting period – which means you can get married on the same day! But, it does expire after 90 days.

Nevada Marriage License:

If your Lake Tahoe elopement takes place in Nevada, the closest office is in Douglas County. They issue marriage licenses by mail, so you don’t need to go in person! You can find the application here, with instructions for mailing it in. With your application, you’ll need to mail copies of both your photo IDs and a check for $34. Nevada has no waiting period, and marriage licenses are good for one year.

Lake Tahoe Elopement Officiant & Witness

California Officiant & Witness Regulations:

California requires an officiant to sign your marriage license. You have a few options for this! You can have a friend or family member perform your ceremony. Getting ordained is quick and easy on ULC.org, and can add a personal touch to your ceremony!

California requires one witness – but the only requirement is that they be over 18, which means I can double as a witness on your elopement day! You can ask any of your vendors to sign, or even find someone at your elopement location.

Nevada Officiant & Witness Regulations:

Similar to California, Nevada requires that an officiant signs your marriage license. Nevada also requires one witness for your elopement. 

As a photographer who specializes in elopements, I offer all-inclusive elopement packages, with my husband as the officiant! So you don’t have to worry about finding someone who’s up for whatever adventure you have planned – we’ve got your back!

Lake Tahoe Elopement Permits

There are many different parks, trails, and recreation sites around Lake Tahoe, and permit requirements vary. For example, the Sand Harbor elopement permit is $400 and can be reserved for the year starting on the first of the year. If you’re considering Emerald Bay for your Lake Tahoe elopement, the permit is $450 and also requires you to have insurance for the event.

After you have your elopement location picked out, make sure to do some research and get the right permits! You definitely don’t want to be kicked out by a park ranger on your elopement day.

Helpful Legal Links

Here is a list of helpful links as you work through the legal elements of your Lake Tahoe elopement! 

• California Marriage License
• Nevada Marriage License
• Getting Ordained Online by Universal Life Church
• Sand Harbor Elopement Permit & Reservation
• Lake Tahoe Elopement Permit Details

Hire Your Lake Tahoe Elopement Vendors

Hiring a team of elopement vendors will take so much pressure off of you – because planning even a small ceremony can be stressful! Luckily, I know someone who can help… hint, hint, it’s us! As a husband and wife photo and video team, we also help with the planning process, from location recommendations to building a timeline – because we know how stressful the whole wedding thing can be, and we want your elopement to be absolutely perfect! My husband can help out as your videographer, officiant, and musician, and all-inclusive elopement packages make this as easy as possible for you!

Lake Tahoe Elopement Logistics

Especially in the summer and winter, lodging in Lake Tahoe books up fast. Booking flights and accommodations early ensures you get to stay close to your elopement location, and that you get the best deals!

Flights

There are some small airports close to Lake Tahoe, but your best option for flying will be the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. This major airport has frequent flights from all over, so you’ll have no problem finding a flight! Once you land at either, it’s an hour to two hours (depending on where you’re headed) to get to Lake Tahoe.

Another option is to fly into Sacramento International Airport, which is located west of Lake Tahoe. Because of this, this airport is best for couples eloping on the western side of Lake Tahoe or in South Lake Tahoe.

Lodging

Whether you want to rough it and camp, level up with some glamping, or stay in a luxury resort, there are plenty of amazing places near Lake Tahoe. Finding somewhere to come back to after a day of adventuring is so important, so pick a place that will feel cozy! 

Have a peek at just a few of your options for lodging in Lake Tahoe!

Airbnbs in Lake Tahoe

• Modern Retro Tiny Home in Kings Beach, CA
• South Lake Tahoe Home
• Modern A-Frame Cabin in South Lake Tahoe, CA
• Chalet in Zephyr Cove
• Townhouse in Incline Village, NV

Resorts in Lake Tahoe

• The Landing Resort and Spa in South Lake Tahoe
• Zephyr Cove Resort
• Marriott Grand Residence Club in South Lake Tahoe
• Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort in Incline Village
• Black Bear Lodge in South Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe Elopement Cost

One of the biggest reasons couples choose to elope is flexibility, both in how your day looks and how much you spend. Compared to a traditional wedding, your Lake Tahoe elopement budget can be as simple or as detailed as you’d like. Here are the main costs to consider:

Marriage License

• California: around $85
• Nevada: around $34

You’ll need to pick up your license in the state where you’re getting married.

Ceremony Permits

• Sand Harbor: about $400
• Emerald Bay: about $450 + event insurance

Other locations vary, so check ahead once you’ve picked your spot.

Wedding Attire
Whether you’re wearing a gown, suit, or something more low-key, you’ll need to budget depending on your style. Remember to factor in tailoring and accessories (like shoes and a veil).

Rings & Accessories
Rings are one of the most personal costs and vary a ton, depending on style and metals. Don’t forget extras like vow books, jewelry, or even a cozy blanket for those mountaintop ceremonies.

Travel & Lodging
You’ll need to consider your flights to the Lake Tahoe area and your lodging. You can choose something more cost-effective, like an Airbnb cabin, or there are even luxury resorts.

Adventure Gear
If you’re hiking, kayaking, or skiing as part of your elopement, you may want to rent or bring gear. This cost can vary widely depending on the activity (snowshoes, kayaks, paddleboards, etc.).

Vendors

Don’t forget to consider your vendors! Here’s what will factor into your costs:

• Photography – Our Lake Tahoe elopement photography packages begin at $2,800
• Videography – Our video-only packages begin at $1,800
• Hair & Makeup 
• Florals 
• Other vendors (like planners, private chefs, or musicians)

Bringing Guests to Your Lake Tahoe Elopement

One of the biggest myths about elopements is that they can only be just the two of you. The truth is, your Lake Tahoe elopement can absolutely include your closest people… you just have to be mindful of where you choose to say your vows.

Guest Limits at Popular Spots

Many of Tahoe’s most scenic ceremony locations (like Emerald Bay, Sand Harbor, and Hidden Beach) are on public land. These areas often have restrictions to protect the environment and keep the space enjoyable for everyone. As a general rule, expect a limit of 10–20 guests maximum at most public sites. Some spots are even better suited for just the couple plus an officiant and photographer.

If you’re dreaming of a bigger group, that doesn’t mean Tahoe is off the table. It just means a venue or private rental might be a better fit.

Accessibility Considerations

Lake Tahoe is known for its rugged beauty, which often means steep trails, uneven ground, or limited parking. If you’re bringing older guests, small children, or anyone with mobility concerns, you’ll want to choose a location that’s easier to access.

For example:

• Sand Harbor offers parking and paved pathways right by the beach.
• Logan Shoals Vista Point has a short walk from the parking area with stunning lake views.
• Emerald Bay is beautiful, but the hike down to the beach may not be doable for everyone.

Thinking through accessibility ahead of time will help ensure your guests can actually enjoy the ceremony instead of worrying about how to get there.

Venue Options for Small Weddings

If you want the intimacy of an elopement but don’t want to cut your guest list down to just a handful, consider one of Tahoe’s small wedding venues. We’ve put together a list of 12 stunning Lake Tahoe small wedding venues. These spaces give you the freedom to include more people while still keeping that laid-back, outdoorsy vibe. Choosing a venue can also take the stress out of logistics like parking, bathrooms, and seating, which can be trickier at public land locations.

Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Aside from your actual elopement, there are plenty of other activities in Lake Tahoe for you and any elopement guests you bring along. Here are some of my favorite activities for each season!

Spring & Summer Activities

Hiking: With hundreds of trails to choose from, your Lake Tahoe hiking options are nearly endless! Check out the trail options here.

Water Sports & Beaches: Summer in Lake Tahoe brings all the fun water sports and gorgeous beaches to explore! Whether you want to jet ski, parasail, or simply relax with your toes in the sand, Lake Tahoe has something for everyone. 

Biking: Lake Tahoe has biking options for riders of all skill levels. From rugged mountain biking to smooth paved trails, Lake Tahoe is a designated Bike Friendly Community with miles of trails to explore. Here’s a full list of options!

Fall & Winter Activities

Snowmobiling Excursions: Snowmobiling excursions are fun for everyone! Take in the breathtaking trails and enjoy the exhilaration as you go.

Ice Skating: Lake Tahoe is home to many outdoor rinks and resorts with rinks. Here’s a list of where you can find ice skating in Lake Tahoe! 

Skiing and Snowboarding: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started on the slopes, there are locations in Lake Tahoe that cater to all skiing and snowboarding skill levels. Here’s a list of all the options.

Lake Tahoe Elopement FAQs

Can you legally get married at Lake Tahoe?

Yes! Lake Tahoe straddles the California–Nevada border, so you can legally marry in either state. The main thing to remember is that you need to get your marriage license in the same state where your ceremony takes place.

Where is the best place to elope in Lake Tahoe?

That depends on the kind of experience you want. Emerald Bay is a favorite for dramatic views, Sand Harbor is perfect if you love a sandy beach vibe, and Logan Shoals Vista is ideal for easy access with stunning overlooks. If you’re up for a hike, Monkey Rock is a fun and adventurous option. I help couples narrow this down based on whether they want privacy, accessibility for guests, or a full-on adventure.

Do you need a permit to elope in Lake Tahoe?

In most cases, yes. Many parks and recreation areas require a permit for ceremonies and professional photography. For example, Sand Harbor permits are about $400, and Emerald Bay permits are around $450. Requirements vary by location, so it’s important to confirm once you’ve chosen your spot.

How much does it cost to elope in Lake Tahoe? 

The total spend on a Lake Tahoe elopement can vary widely depending on your preferences. The total cost includes your marriage license, permits, attire, vendors, lodging, travel, and any activities you want to include. (Our photo packages start at $2,800 and video packages start at $1,800.)

Can you elope in Lake Tahoe in winter?     

Absolutely! Winter turns Tahoe into a snowy wonderland. It’s a dream setting if you want to ski, snowshoe, or exchange vows surrounded by snowy pines. Just keep in mind that road closures are common, so flexibility is key. Have a look at Angela and Daniel’s snowy Lake Tahoe elopement on the blog for inspiration!

How many guests can we bring to our Lake Tahoe elopement?
Every location has its own rules. Some spots (like Sand Harbor) allow small gatherings, while others (like certain trails and overlooks) are better suited for just the two of you. In general, if you’re planning to bring more than 10–15 guests, it’s best to look at venues or parks that are set up for small weddings rather than strict elopement spots.

When is the best time of year to elope in Lake Tahoe?
Each season has something special to offer. Summer is warm and full of activities, fall brings colorful foliage, winter is perfect for snowy adventures, and spring offers quieter trails as the snow melts. If you want fewer crowds, weekdays in spring or fall are usually best.

How do we get to Lake Tahoe?
The closest major airport is Reno-Tahoe International, about an hour’s drive. Sacramento International is another good option if you’re coming from California. From there, it’s easy to rent a car and drive to Tahoe.

Can our dog come to our Lake Tahoe elopement?
In many locations, yes! Monkey Rock, for example, allows dogs on leash. Rules vary depending on the park or beach, so be sure to double-check the details if you’re planning to bring your pup.

Do we need an officiant?
Both California and Nevada require an officiant. The good news? My husband is ordained and can officiate your ceremony as part of our packages, which makes things super simple.

Ready to Elope in Lake Tahoe?

If you’re ready to start planning your Lake Tahoe elopement, you’re going to need an adventure buddy and a planning assistant! That’s where we come in! 

Here at Mindful Media Photography, we’ve captured hundreds of Lake Tahoe elopements, and we love guiding our couples through the entire process to ensure your day is perfect and unique to you. With us as your elopement photographers, all that all you have to worry about is getting married to the love of your life. If you’re ready to begin planning your Lake Tahoe elopement, get in touch today or fill out the quick form below!

Get in touch today!

This post was originally published on June 24, 2021 and was on March 22, 2024 and on September 16, 2025.