I’m Kristin, a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

Lake Tahoe & Yosemite elopement photography with personalized planning support.

emerald Bay elopements & intimate weddings

If you’re dreaming about an Emerald Bay elopement or wedding, here’s exactly what you need to know before you start planning.

based in northern california serving lake tahoe

Hey! I’m Kristin, an elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

If you’re dreaming about an Emerald Bay elopement or wedding, here’s exactly what you need to know before you start planning.

based in northern california serving lake tahoe

Emerald Bay elopements & intimate weddings

Hey! I’m Kristin, an elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

Emerald Bay is one of the most iconic places to elope in Lake Tahoe and for good reason. The turquoise water, granite cliffs, and sweeping overlook views make it one of the most photographed locations in all of California.

If you’re dreaming about an Emerald Bay elopement, here’s exactly what you need to know before you start planning.

Eloping at Emerald Bay is absolutely possible, but because it’s part of California State Parks, there are specific rules you’ll need to follow.

You can’t just show up and set up a ceremony.

Couples need a wedding permit, must follow guest limitations, and must use designated ceremony areas. Once you understand the guidelines though, planning your Emerald Bay elopement is much simpler than it sounds.

As a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer, I walk my couples through the entire process so nothing feels overwhelming.

How to Elope at Emerald Bay

To hold a ceremony at Emerald Bay, you’ll need a Special Event Permit through California State Parks.

Here are the basics:

A wedding permit is required for any organized ceremony
Guest counts are limited
No arches, large setups, amplified sound, or chairs in most locations
Certain areas have stricter regulations than others
Permits should be applied for well in advance, especially during peak season

Because Emerald Bay is one of the most popular elopement spots in Lake Tahoe, dates can fill quickly — especially in summer and fall.

I help my couples navigate the permit process and choose the best ceremony location based on their vision and guest count.

Emerald Bay Wedding Permit Requirements

To hold a ceremony at Emerald Bay, you’ll need a Special Event Permit through California State Parks.

Here are the basics:

A wedding permit is required for any organized ceremony
Guest counts are limited
No arches, large setups, amplified sound, or chairs in most locations
Certain areas have stricter regulations than others
Permits should be applied for well in advance, especially during peak season

Because Emerald Bay is one of the most popular elopement spots in Lake Tahoe, dates can fill quickly — especially in summer and fall.

I help my couples navigate the permit process and choose the best ceremony location based on their vision and guest count.

Planning your entire Lake Tahoe elopement?
Read my complete guide here.

Best Ceremony Locations at Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay Overlook

Emerald Bay has a few different ceremony options, each with a different feel.

The classic panoramic view of the bay and Fannette Island. This is the most iconic and most requested location.

Eagle Point

A more intimate option with lake views and fewer crowds during certain times of day.

Beach-Level Access (limited + seasonal)

Some areas near the shoreline may be available depending on water levels and park regulations.

Choosing the right ceremony spot depends on your guest count, mobility needs, and time of day.

Many couples stay in nearby Airbnbs before their Emerald Bay ceremony. Here are some of my favorite Lake Tahoe Airbnbs for Elopements.

Best Time of Day for an Emerald Bay Elopement

Timing is everything at Emerald Bay.

Midday brings harsh light and heavy tourist traffic, especially in summer.

Sunrise and sunset are ideal for:

Softer light

Fewer crowds

More privacy

More relaxed atmosphere

Sunset elopements here are especially beautiful, with golden light hitting the water and cliffs.

Because parking is limited, timing also affects how smooth your experience feels.

Guest Limits & Restrictions

Emerald Bay is stunning, but it’s not designed for large gatherings.

Most ceremonies here are best suited for:

The couple only

Up to a small handful of guests

Minimal setup

Large wedding parties, arches, chairs, and decor are not allowed.

That’s why Emerald Bay works best for couples who truly want an intimate, nature-focused elopement.

If you’re wanting a bigger guest list, I can recommend alternative Lake Tahoe ceremony locations that allow more flexibility.

Why Hire an Emerald Bay Elopement Photographer

Emerald Bay isn’t just beautiful, it’s unpredictable.

Weather shifts quickly.
Crowds fluctuate.
Lighting changes fast near the cliffs.

Hiring a photographer who knows the location means:

Knowing exactly where to stand for the best light

Avoiding peak crowd times

Having backup options if weather shifts

Navigating permit rules confidently

I don’t just show up and take photos.
I help you build a stress-free plan around one of the most iconic elopement locations in California.

Emerald Bay Elopement Packages

More than photography, I help you plan an experience. Every package includes location recommendations, permit guidance, timeline planning, vendor referrals, and support throughout the process.

To make your day feel even more special, I also include custom faux florals and can help coordinate a cozy cake cutting and toast.

Starting at $6,000

No added travel costs. No hidden fees of any kind.

Full-day and multi-day packages available.

view packages and pricing

Planning an Emerald Bay Elopement?

If Emerald Bay feels like your place, I’d love to help you plan a day that feels relaxed, intentional, and completely you.

Reach out and tell me what you’re envisioning and we’ll start building your Emerald Bay elopement together.

If you're considering something more adventurous than a beach ceremony, explore these hiking elopement locations.

emerald bay elopement
packages & pricing

From the moment we connected, her energy and vibe were absolutely amazing—warm, professional, and genuinely invested in making our elopement special. She paid attention to every detail, helped us feel relaxed and confident, and even had some incredible vendor recommendations that made the entire experience seamless. Most importantly, our photos turned out breathtakingly beautiful. I couldn’t be happier with how she captured the emotion, scenery, and intimacy of our day."

- shane & ashley eloped in lake tahoe

"Kristin is dependable, talented, and just an all-around wonderful person to have by your side on such an important day.

"If you’re eloping in Lake Tahoe, Kristin is the one."

- ashley & shane

Hey, I'm Kristin!

"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin

Your wedding day should feel intentional, relaxed, and genuinely fun.

As a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner, your experience goes far beyond just showing up for photos. From choosing the perfect location to creating a timeline that flows naturally, every part of the day is designed to feel calm, easy, and meaningful.

Elopements across Lake Tahoe and California are thoughtfully planned so you can focus on what matters most, being present with each other and enjoying every moment.

Create Your Emerald Bay Elopement

Kristin Smith Photography

Kristin is a Northern California elopement photographer who helps couples plan and photograph intentional, stress-free elopements in places like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite and epic California locations.

From location guidance and timelines to documenting the day itself, I’m here to make the entire experience feel relaxed, meaningful, and easy.

ARE YOU READY?