THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ELOPING IN THE SAMUEL H BOARDMAN SCENIC CORRIDOR
The Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor is located along the Oregon Coast between the small towns of Brookings and Gold Beach. If I’ve said it before I’ve said it a thousand times: the Southern Coast is my favorite part of Oregon and this 12 mile long stretch of coastline is no exception. The Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor features stunning views of the ocean and cliff faces, adventurous hiking trails, and small secluded sandy beaches. Its dramatic west-facing coastline, lush forests, and temperate weather offer ample opportunity for spectacular elopement photographs, and the fact that the location is far from the crowds you’ll find in Portland makes the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor the perfect spot for an intimate and romantic elopement.
If you’re looking for an Oregon elopement location that is both breath-taking and secluded, this is the ultimate guide to planning your Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor elopement.
Why this is one of my top picks for elopement destinations
You won’t run out of things to do in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor
This 12-mile long corridor is part of the entire magnificence that is the Oregon Coast, but it feels like its own little world. There are so many different things to do and see, from hiking, beachcombing, and ocean kayaking to ocean fishing, rafting on the Rogue River and adventuring through the Redwoods. You could easily spend your entire elopement weekend exploring the area and still not see everything. The rocky cliffs and magnificent sunsets make for dramatic photographs of once-in-a-lifetime moments shared between you and your partner.
There's a sense of wonder around every corner
Having personally explored almost every inch of this incredible elopement destination in search of the best locations for elopements, I can say with certainty that there is magical feeling of awe that abounds with each unique discovery that you make. Despite its wide appeal, the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor is sparsely populated and is not flooded with tourists so there is no shortage of unique and memorable spots to say “I do”.
Enjoy an immersive elopement experience
About 40 minutes away from The Redwood Forests, the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor allows you to spend part of your day in the Redwoods while still enjoying the best that the coast has to offer, which is why this elopement location is a popular choice for couples looking to add a bit of variety (and lots of adventure) to their elopement day.
The Most Popular Places to Elope in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor
Secret Beach
Accessible only by a short hike down a steep path, Secret Beach is one of the better known beaches in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor. The tide pools make for interesting exploring and the beach is beautiful in both the sun and fog. The beach is small, making it feel intimate, and is surrounded by high cliffs, giving you a sense of privacy. While this beach is not so secret anymore, the epic views and sunset landscapes make it a great choice for elopements.
Harris Beach State Park
This gorgeous state park is perfect for couples or guests with mobility considerations as it is one of the most accessible beach locations in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor. There is a day-use area and campgrounds close by so restrooms, picnic facilities and tables are all nearby. Again, this is quite a popular location for vacations, weddings, and elopements so Harris Beach State Park will definitely give your day the ‘wow’ factor but exclusivity is not guaranteed.
Natural Bridges
If you’re up for a steep hike and you’re not afraid of looking down into the swirling ocean, Natural Bridges offers jaw-dropping views that can only be described as surreal. These natural rock bridges were formed by years of erosion and offer a unique perspective of the coastline. The relatively short but strenuous hike is worth it for the view and amazing photo opportunities but, again, it is a popular place to exchange vows so you may want to consider a more ‘exclusive’ location if privacy and a one-of-a-kind elopement location is important to you.
UPDATE:: As of Summer 2022, trails down to Natural Bridges are closed due to safety concerns.
Hidden Places to Elope in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor
While the above locations are unquestionably mesmerizing, they are also well known and popular choices for eloping couples. If you’re looking for a truly unique elopement experience, there’s no one better than a local Oregon elopement photographer to help you find those hidden gems that will make your day even more special. I’ve spent days exploring each footpath and secret trail so that I can help my clients find the best elopement locations that you won’t find on Pinterest or in any elopement guidebook.
I’ve established a wide network of professionals in the area including the top local vendors and restaurants, and I’ve mastered all of the location-specific information you need including how to prepare for a Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor elopement, how to respect the local environment, ocean safety, how to plan for the best light so that your elopement photographs coincide with the best tides and your date is planned for the right season. I have all of the inside tips and tricks that only the locals know – like the fact that if you’re planning a trip to the Redwoods, you’ll need to pack bug spray!
The Redwoods: An Unforgettable Experience
The awe-inspiring Redwoods stretch across both California and Oregon with the larger forests mainly being in California. However, Oregon does tout it’s own Redwoods forests just a little farther from the Scenic Corridor. These massive trees can live to be over 2000 years old and grow to be taller than the Statue of Liberty! The Elk River flows through this part of the forest and the location offers a feeling of being in a fairy-tale. It’s truly magical.
The forests across the state line are managed by California State and National Parks, which means that you’ll be subject to their laws and policies if you choose to host your nuptials here. You’ll need to obtain a special use wedding permit in advance and, of course, to preserve the natural setting, there are some areas that are off-limits to weddings and elopement ceremonies but there are others where you’ll be able to take breath-taking portraits on the day. I help my clients navigate the permitting process and identify which areas are permitted to host your ‘I do’s’ so that you can focus on what’s important – each other!
Venues for Small Weddings
Capella By The Sea
Capella By The Sea is the perfect intimate wedding venue. It’s located in the heart of Brookings and surrounded by Azalea Park, this A frame venue just a few minutes from the Samuel H Boardman corridor and the best portrait locations! This small chapel can accommodate 49 people maximum, but is usually best with even fewer people. It’s an incredibly cost effective option, renting at $122 per hour with a two hour minimum and a refundable $244 security deposit.
Crook Point
Crook Point is a full service wedding and elopement venue, and also has gorgeous vacation home rentals. They have multiple ceremony sites and elopement specific packages. Their own site has a ton of info and gorgeous photos, so do check them out!
Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor Adventure Guide
As an adventure elopement photographer, I often get asked a lot of questions about what couples can do in the area surrounding their elopement day. While every couple is different and has unique interests, there are some exciting activities in the area that are definitely worth a mention. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best things to do in the areas surrounding Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor:
Ocean Kayaking and Marine Life Tours
One of the most incredible things about the area surrounding the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor is that it offers access to some of Oregon’s best marine wildlife viewing opportunities. If you’re looking to explore more of the coast, there are a variety of kayaking and boating tours as well as whitewater adventure opportunities that can take you on a journey through crystal clear waters and offer up-close encounters with whales, sea lions, seals, otters, and a variety of birds. It’s an unforgettable experience and one that I highly recommend for all couples looking to add a little adventure to their elopement day.
Ocean Fishing Opportunities
If you’re an avid fisherman, the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor also offers some of Oregon’s best fishing opportunities. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself with a deep-sea fishing adventure or just want to throw your line into the ocean from one of the local beaches, there are spots all around the coastline that are perfect for ocean fishing. From rockfish and lingcod to crab, salmon and tuna, you have myriad opportunities to enjoy the coastline from a fresh perspective. In terms of the best fishing spots, I’d recommend checking with a local fishing guide to see what spots they typically recommend based on the time of year and season that you’re visiting.
Redwoods Adventures
Of course, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of opportunities to hike through some of the most beautiful sections of the Redwoods while keeping your eyes out for incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. From sea lions to bald eagles and mink whales to dolphins, it’s a true adventure to explore the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor and see what you can discover on your own. Some of my favorite hikes through this area include exploring the Elk River, taking in views at Arch Rock, or hiking along a quiet river trail – but there are so many more hidden trails that I regularly recommend as well! Trees of Mystery’s Redwood Canopy Trail offers a chance to enjoy a scenic tour through the tree tops that you won’t want to miss, Redwood Rides offers whitewater rafting, biking and outdoor adventures in Redwood National Park, and Redwood SightSeeing Tours offers tours through the Redwoods on an open air van with a glass roof!
For Kids or the Young at Heart
The Prehistoric Gardens offers a unique opportunity for the young and young at heart to explore the world of dinosaurs. With life-sized replicas of some of our most favorite dinosaurs, it’s the perfect activity for a fun-filled day of exploration. The gardens are beautiful and provide a great opportunity to learn more about these incredible creatures that once roamed our planet. If you’re planning on having close family or guests join in on your day, this is definitely an activity that I recommend adding to your itinerary.
Rouge River Rafting
Another exciting activity that you can enjoy near the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor is river rafting on the Rouge River. There are a wide range of options when it comes to rafting, from gentle floats to challenging rapids and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for something relaxing or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s a perfect option for you. I highly recommend checking out one of the local rafting companies or this guide to see what they offer and to get more information on the different routes that are available. While Rouge River rafting is a little farther away from the area, it’s still in the southern part of the state and makes for a fantastic option if you’re considering an adventure trip with friends that ends in your elopement!
Whether you’re looking for excitement, adventure, or just a chance to relax and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the area, the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor offers something for everyone as a genuine outdoor adventure hub. So, if you’re thinking about eloping in this stunning part of the world, be sure to check out all of the amazing things that it has to offer and maximize your time in this beautiful elopement destination!
Lodging and Accommodation in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor
There are loads of lovely Airbnb options on the beachfront or with ocean views. I highly recommend using Airbnb’s filtered search to find stays with beachfronts, hot tubs, and outdoor fire pits. Taylor Creek Lodge is in the immediate area and is a great option, as is Endicott Gardens. If you’re looking for the perfect place for friends and family to stay with you, Rogue River Lodge is located on the tranquil Rogue River near Gold Beach – a small beach town with a big personality.
There you have it! The complete guide on the best places to elope in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor as well as all of the things you’ll need to know and consider when planning your day. I hope this guide has inspired you and given you some ideas for your own elopement vision. If you’re planning on having an adventure elopement in Oregon, or anywhere across the Pacific Northwest, I would love to hear from you!
