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Lake Tahoe Elopement Locations

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

Eloping in Lake Tahoe is simpler than most couples expect.
You just need to know a few location specific details before you start planning.

This page walks you through permits, ceremony locations, and Lake Tahoe elopement planning basics so you can plan your day with confidence.

Eloping in Lake Tahoe is one of the most scenic ways to get married—and it’s more approachable than many couples expect.

Rather than booking a traditional venue, eloping in Tahoe is about choosing the right location, understanding a few land-use rules, and planning around permits, timing, and logistics. Once those pieces are in place, the day itself feels relaxed, intentional, and deeply meaningful.

Eloping in Lake Tahoe:
What You Need to Know


Yes — eloping in Lake Tahoe is completely legal.

An elopement holds the same legal weight as a traditional wedding. As long as you obtain a valid marriage license and follow the requirements for the specific location you choose, you’ll be legally married.

Because Lake Tahoe includes a mix of state parks, beaches, and public lands, some ceremony locations require permits—even for small, just-the-two-of-you ceremonies. The good news? The process is usually straightforward, and once approved, you’re free to say your vows surrounded by alpine lakes, mountains, and wide-open views.

Is Eloping Legal in Lake Tahoe?

Eloping in Lake Tahoe doesn’t mean skipping the important parts—
it simply means choosing a more intentional, intimate way to get married.

I’m a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner for couples who want a wedding day that feels intentional, relaxed, and genuinely fun.

I don’t just show up with a camera, I help you plan your elopement from the beginning. From talking through locations and logistics to building a timeline that flows, I’m there to guide you, cheer you on, fix your dress, and keep the day feeling calm and easy.

I care about what lights you two up and what makes your connection yours, and I help create an elopement day that feels like it was made just for you.

I specialize in elopements across Lake Tahoe and California, and help couples navigate the planning process without it feeling overwhelming.

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

Marriage License Requirements for Eloping in Lake Tahoe

California Side of Lake Tahoe

Because Lake Tahoe spans both California and Nevada, your marriage license must be issued by the state where your ceremony takes place.

If you’re eloping on the California side of Lake Tahoe, you’ll need a valid California marriage license, which can be issued by any county clerk in California.

Where to apply:
You can apply at any California county clerk’s office, regardless of where your ceremony takes place. Many counties offer online applications and appointment scheduling, which is especially helpful for couples traveling in.

License validity:
A California marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date it’s issued, so your ceremony must take place within that window.

Residency requirements:
No, you do not need to be a California resident to get married in Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe straddles California and Nevada, so be sure to know your ceremony location first.

Nevada Side of Lake Tahoe

If you’re eloping on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, you’ll need a Nevada marriage license issued by a Nevada county clerk.

Most Lake Tahoe ceremonies on the Nevada side fall within:

  • Washoe County (Incline Village, Crystal Bay
  • Douglas County (Stateline, Zephyr Cove)

Where to apply:
Marriage licenses must be obtained in person at a Nevada county clerk’s office, typically in Reno (Washoe County) or Minden (Douglas County).

License validity:
A Nevada marriage license is valid for one year, which makes it a flexible option for couples planning ahead or traveling from out of state.

Residency requirements:
No, you do not need to be a Nevada resident to elope on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe.

Many couples choose Lake Tahoe elopement locations that feel peaceful, scenic, and immersed in nature—focusing less on décor and more on being fully present together in a beautiful place.

Where Can You Elope in Lake Tahoe?

One of the biggest reasons couples choose Lake Tahoe for their elopement is the variety of landscapes.

Unlike national parks, Lake Tahoe is made up of state parks, beaches, forests, viewpoints, and public lands across both California and Nevada. Instead of traditional venues, elopements take place in outdoor locations that allow small ceremonies with the proper permits.

  • Scenic lakefront beaches
  • Forest and meadow locations
  • Mountain viewpoints and overlooks
  • State parks and recreation areas
  • Select trail or trail-adjacent locations
Permit requirements vary depending on the exact location and which agency manages the land. Some areas require permits, while others do not—but choosing the right spot (and timing) is key.

This is where planning ahead really matters, and it’s something I help couples navigate so they can focus on the experience instead of the logistics.

You Can Elope in Lake Tahoe At:

Lake Tahoe has a variety of landscapes all within a relatively small area.

Popular Lake Tahoe Elopement Locations

Lake Tahoe is home to several iconic elopement locations, each offering a different vibe. These are some of the most popular places couples choose to elope in Lake Tahoe.

Emerald Bay

One of the most iconic Lake Tahoe views, Emerald Bay is known for its sweeping overlook and turquoise water. It’s incredibly scenic but also one of the busiest areas, which makes timing and permits especially important.

Sand Harbor

Located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor offers crystal-clear water, granite boulders, and easy beach access. It’s a popular choice for sunset ceremonies and couples who want dramatic lake views without hiking.

Logan Shoals vista point

Logan Shoals is a quieter alternative to some of Tahoe’s busier beaches, with rocky shoreline views and stunning sunset light. It’s often a great option for couples looking for something scenic but less crowded.

Tahoe Meadows

Tahoe Meadows is known for wide-open alpine views, seasonal wildflowers, and a more remote feel. This area works especially well for couples who want mountain scenery and are open to a short walk or flexible conditions.

Lake Tahoe is made up of state parks, beaches, and public lands across both California and Nevada. 

Zephyr Cove

Located on the Nevada side, Zephyr Cove offers lakeside views with a mix of beach and forest scenery. It’s a versatile option that works well for small ceremonies and sunset portraits.
Because these locations are popular, permit requirements, accessibility, and crowd levels can vary depending on the time of year and time of day. Planning ahead and staying flexible makes a huge difference.

Secluded & Lesser-Known Lake Tahoe Elopement Locations

While Lake Tahoe has several iconic elopement spots, there are also quieter locations that offer just as much beauty.  These lesser-known areas are ideal for couples who value privacy, flexibility, and a more relaxed experience on their elopement day.

Secluded Lake Tahoe elopement locations often include forest clearings, tucked-away shoreline spots, peaceful meadow areas, and scenic viewpoints that aren’t directly off main roads or parking lots.

Some of these locations require a short walk, while others depend on timing, season, or daily conditions to truly feel private.

Because these locations aren’t “one-size-fits-all,” choosing the right spot usually comes down to a few key factors:

  • Time of year and snow levels
  • Time of day and lighting
  • Guest count and accessibility needs
  • Permit requirements and land management rules

Many couples end up choosing a quieter location specifically to avoid crowds and create a more intentional, intimate ceremony experience.

Planning with flexibility and being open to a few strong options often leads to the best outcome.

This is where local knowledge and advance planning make a huge difference. Knowing when certain areas are busiest, which locations work best for specific seasons, and how to adapt if conditions change helps keep the focus on the experience, not the logistics.

What Does an Elopement Day Look Like in Lake Tahoe?

  • Time at one or more outdoor locations rather than a single venue
  • A designated ceremony spot chosen for scenery and privacy
  • Natural transitions between locations based on distance and terrain
  • Built-in space to pause, explore, and take in the surroundings
Because Lake Tahoe offers a wide range of landscapes within a relatively small area, elopement days here tend to be flexible and location-driven rather than centered around a single venue.

Instead of staying in one spot, many couples choose to move through a few scenic locations — such as a quiet lakeshore, a forested area, or a mountain viewpoint — depending on accessibility, light, and overall experience.

A Lake Tahoe elopement day often includes:

Because locations play such a central role, timing and flow are usually shaped by the landscape itself. 

This approach allows couples to experience more of Lake Tahoe without the day feeling rushed or overly structured.

Elopements in Lake Tahoe are shaped by the landscape. The experience flows with the locations, not a fixed venue schedule.

Choosing the Right Lake Tahoe Elopement Location

With so many beautiful places to elope in Lake Tahoe, choosing the right location often comes down to a few practical considerations rather than finding a single “best” spot. The ideal location is one that fits your vision, your comfort level, and how you want your elopement day to feel.


When narrowing down Lake Tahoe elopement locations, couples consider:

  • Guest count: Some locations work well for just the two of you, while others can accommodate a small group.

  • Accessibility: Easy-access lakeshores, short walks, or areas that require a bit more mobility.

  • Time of year: Snow levels, road access, and seasonal conditions can shape which locations are available.

  • Crowds and privacy: Popular spots may require early mornings or off-peak timing, while quieter areas offer more flexibility.

  • Scenery preferences: Lake views, forest settings, open meadows, or mountain backdrops.

Because Lake Tahoe includes a mix of public lands managed by different agencies, permit requirements and rules can also vary by location.

Understanding how these factors work together helps create an experience that feels intentional and stress-free.

Many couples find that staying flexible and being open to a few strong location options leads to a smoother, more enjoyable elopement day.

The right location isn’t just about the view; it’s about how the space supports the experience you want to have.


Ready to Elope in Lake Tahoe?

If Lake Tahoe feels like the right place to get married and you’d like support from someone who truly understands the area, having local guidance can make the process feel much easier.

From helping you narrow down ceremony locations to understanding how permits, timing, and access work around Lake Tahoe, support allows you to focus on what actually matters, the two of you and the experience you’re creating together.

So You're Ready to Elope in Lake Tahoe,
Now Let’s Make It Easy

You understand what it takes to elope in Lake Tahoe. The next step is having someone in your corner who can help the process feel simple, calm, and stress-free.


This isn’t just photography.
this an experience built around the two of you!

The laughter, the quiet moments, the adventure
are captured beautifully and wrapped in a stress-free,
red-carpet process from start to finish.

Planning Support: Location scouting, permits, timelines, vendor recommendations — I handle all the behind-the-scenes details so you can focus on what matters most: each other.

Creative Touches: From faux florals and color palettes to the tiny details that make your day look and feel cohesive, I’ll help design your setup so it’s both beautiful and stress-free.

Faux Florals: Custom faux florals are included with every elopement. I’ll help you choose a bouquet and boutonnière that match your colors, location, and vibe — no wilting, no stress, and they photograph beautifully in every season.

Picnic, Cake, & Toast: Celebrate your “just married” moment with a cozy picnic setup, a mini cake, and a bubbly toast (non-alcoholic options available!). It’s the perfect way to slow down and take it all in together.

Two Photographers (Add-on): When you want full coverage, my husband Rick joins me — capturing your day from every angle so nothing goes unseen.

Day-Of Coordination: I’ll keep your day running smoothly from start to finish so you don’t have to think twice about what’s next.

Sneak Peeks & Final Gallery: A handful of teasers within 24 hours (because I know you’ll be dying to relive it), and your full gallery delivered within 45 days — filled with images that bring it all rushing back.

the experience

Take a peek at what I offer to make your elopement experience easy, intentional, and actually enjoyable.

"Kristin we cannot thank you enough! It was truly just the most perfect day, thank you for all your hard work making everything come together. You made it so EASY and the ability to feel relaxed and just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift. We are so happy, thank you so much!" - Jaime & Cody

"The ability to feel relaxed & just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift."

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Logan Shoals Vista Point

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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.

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Kristin Smith is an elopement photographer serving California.