The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Brookings

How to have the best Samuel H. Boardman elopement from a local elopement photographer.

At first glance Brookings is home to some of the most stunning beaches and coastlines in the country like Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor and if you’re here then that’s likely what caught your eye, but if you know where to look you’ll also find lush green forests, crystal clear rivers, and endless rolling mountains. Not to mention surprisingly mild weather for the Oregon Coast thanks to “The Chetco Effect” meaning you’ll have an incredible elopement during any time of the year.

Can you imagine exploring towering Redwood trees, kayaking crystal clear rivers, off roading through lush forests, picking juicy Blackberries off the vine, and watching the sun set over the ocean all in one day? Brookings truly has something for every adventurer.

I may be a bit biased but this little town has become so much more than a place with pretty beaches to me. I spend a good majority of my year in Brookings volunteering as a Camp Host at Harris Beach State Park giving back to the land and parks. This has allowed me to explore all the touristy and hidden gems here in Brookings and makes me uniquely qualified to help couples have the BEST Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor elopement!

Where to elope in Samuel H. Boardman

Deciding where you’re going to spend one of the biggest days of your life is a huge decision, thankfully there’s no shortage of stunning views and epic places to say “I Do.” When it comes to choosing your location there’s a few things you should take into consideration:

• How easy is the location to access? For the majority of hikes on the Brookings coast it’s a steep trail down to the beach and a steep trail to get out, in the rain these trails can become slick and dangerous. Be mindful of any mobility issues you or your guests have and the time of year you’re eloping!
• Can I access the location during high tides? With many beaches on the South Coast being cove beaches, many beaches are completely underwater and inaccessible at high tide. During some months (winter) high tide can be particularly dangerous. Be sure to take the tide into account when planning when and where you elope. Hiring a local who knows your beaches is the best thing you do but it’s important to know how to access the tide charts on your own!
• Is this a location that can get windy? It gets WINDY in Brookings. I highly recommend packing a wind breaker (or rain jacket) if you struggle with the cold! Having a backup location out of the wind will give you peace of mind and comfort on your day in the event the wind is too strong at your chosen location.
• How private is this location? In the past few years Brookings has become more popular, both for tourists and eloping couples. At some of the more well known spots it’s not uncommon for my couples to pass another eloping couple in full wedding attire! Local elopement photographers can help recommend locations that are both private and stunning giving you the best experience possible!

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The most popular place to elope in Brookings is the infamous Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. This scenic stretch of coastline is 12 miles long and is home to many unmarked and unsuspecting pull-offs, many leading to secluded beaches and the famous viewpoints that bring visitors from all over the world to appreciate the beauty of Brookings. This is the most rugged section of the Oregon Coast making it the most jaw dropping in my opinion! While the most popular places to see are Secret Beach and Natural Bridges, you can find equally unparalleled views with far fewer people if you explore more of the coastline!

*** NATURAL BRIDGES: as of 2022, you can no longer hike down to the stone bridges themselves due to hiker deaths and strain on local search and rescue crews. We have one person a year die attempting this dangerous hike – don’t let this be you! Myself (and many other responsible photographers) no longer bring couples here to respect local emergency services. You can still view the stunning bridges safely from the platform near the parking lot!***

Jedediah Redwoods State Park

One of the biggest bonus’ about Brookings? You’re only 30 minutes from rare old growth Redwood trees that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Many of my couples choose to explore this unique State Park either before or after their time on the Oregon Coast getting the best of all worlds on their day.

Be sure to check Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park’s park rules and regulations as Redwood trees are endangered. Leave No Trace ethics vary ecosystem to ecosystem, and this land beyond time is especially sensitive. Don’t expect signal or many amenities within the Park! Vault toilets only!

The Chetco River

Known most by avid fisherman and locals, the Chetco river is my favorite place to escape to the summer heat or find warmer weather in the cold months. Perfect for kayaking, tubing, swimming, wildlife watching, off roading, sunbathing, and foraging! This is a great place for summer and fall couples who are wanting an”off the beaten path” experience, but water levels can limit options where you can safely access during winter and spring after the rains.

Other Locations

Just in case you needed more options, tons of stunning beaches can be found near Gold Beach as well. All GRP couples receive a location list that is created exclusively for them ensuring that each place they visit on their day fits their desired activity level, views, vibes, and privacy!

Permits

One of the best things about eloping on the Oregon Coast? If you have less than 50 people in attendance with no decorations (no rental chairs, no arches, and not blocking public access) then there’s no need for a permit! If you decide to have your ceremony anywhere other than the beach be sure to check what land jurisdiction you’re on and permit rules and regulations. Planning to have more than 50 guests in attendance? Not a problem, you can apply for a permit in addition to reading the full list of permit rules and regulations here.

Permits can be one of the most confusing and tedious parts of the elopement planning process but they’re also one of the most important parts. Permits make sure that fragile parks like Redwood National Park aren’t overused and to make sure that our parks are properly funded ensuring that future guests can enjoy the parks just as we do!

Hiring a local elopement photographer is one of the most helpful things you can do for yourself during the planning process. Not only do local photographers have the best location recommendations but since they specialize in your chosen location, odds are that they’ve been through the permitting process on more than one occasion themselves, making them an invaluable tool to your planning!

Due to recent changes in permit requirements, if you’re looking to elope in Redwood National Park (or any of the state parks), you may need individual permits for: your ceremony, any location in the park that you plan to hike/explore in your wedding attire, and your photographer may need additional permits of their own if they want to share any photos from your day. You can find information about eloping in Redwood National Park here and information about eloping in Redwood State Parks here. It’s a lengthy and complicated process and I can’t explain how much stress hiring a local photographer will save you!

What to do here?

Brookings a hidden gem on the southern coast that blends rugged natural beauty with all the amenities of a small town. Known for its spectacular coastal beaches and abundance of outdoor activities, Brookings invites visitors to explore lush forests, dramatic ocean views, and secluded beaches. The town itself offers a relaxed atmosphere with local art galleries, fresh seafood, shopping, and cozy cafes, making Brookings a perfect elopement destination for anyone seeking both adventure and tranquility along the Oregon coast!

Hiking:

It’s no secret that Brookings has some of the most incredible hiking and scenery in the country. From ethereal, mossy forests to dreamy, remote beaches there’s no shortage of hiking in the area. Check out Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Harris Beach State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park.

A few of my personal favorite hikes/places to explore are:

• Natural Bridges Viewpoint Trail
  • Distance: 0.7 miles (loop)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • This short, easy loop offers stunning views of the famous Natural Bridges rock formations along the coast in Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. The trail provides multiple viewpoints and is a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.

• Secret Beach Trail
  • Distance: 1 mile (out and back)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Tucked away off U.S. 101, this trail leads to a secluded beach with incredible views, sea stacks, and tide pools. The short trail down is steep in spots, but the views and make it worth it.

• Indian Sands Trail
  • Distance: 1.1 miles (loop)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Also within Samuel H. Boardman, this unique trail features sandstone formations and breathtaking ocean vistas. It’s one of the more challenging short hikes, with steep paths, but the scenery is some of the best on the Oregon coast.

• Rockaway Beach Trail – Harris Beach State Park
  • Distance: 1 mile (out and back)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Located in Harris Beach State Park, this beach trail is ideal for a relaxed hike along the shoreline and down to the beach. You’ll find tide pools, sea stacks, and often spot seabirds. It’s accessible and great for families, with picnic areas nearby.

Tidepooling

What made me fall in love with Brookings wasn’t the wide sweeping ocean views but rather the tide pools. At low tide, you can explore rocks on the beach to find small puddles of water home to starfish, mussels, crabs, fish, octopus, and countless other critters. It feels like exploring an underwater world without having to get wet! Theres always something to see at low tide but the best tide pooling is whenever the tide is <1 ft and the negative tides are the absolute best! You can check the tides here – it’s always important to know where the tide is to ensure you don’t get trapped in a cove beach when the tide comes in.

• Harris Beach State Park
  • Location: Right off U.S. 101, just north of Brookings
  • Features: Harris Beach is known for its extensive tide pools filled with vibrant marine life like sea stars, anemones, crabs, mussels, and more. The beach’s rocky outcroppings and numerous tide pools provide easy access to explore at low tide, making it ideal for families and beginners.
  • Accessibility: It’s well-marked and easily accessible with parking and amenities nearby, including restrooms, picnic areas, and an ADA-accessible viewpoint.

• Lone Ranch Beach
  • Location: Right off U.S. 101, just North of Harris Beach by 8 minutes
  • Features: Another popular beach, Lone Ranch is known for it’s huge sea stacks and long beach. Lots of parking and tons of hiking trails in addition to areas to picnic and bathrooms that are (typically) in good condition.
  • Accessibility: It’s well marked and easily accessible with parking and amenities nearby including restrooms. The trail to get to the beach is ADA accessible until the very end depending on trail conditions.

Foraging for Berries and Mushrooms

Foraging in Brookings, Oregon, is an excellent way to experience the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Not only are wild berries abundant, but the area also offers diverse mushrooms, especially in the damp, forested coastal zones.

Berries in Brookings

Brookings is home to many wild berries, especially along trails, in forests, and in the underbrush of coastal parks. Please make sure you check the Foraging Safety section below, have a guide book, and are sure of your haul before you eat anything! Here’s what you might find:

• Blackberries (July – September): The Himalayan blackberry is common here, with thorny bushes and dark, juicy berries. Look for them along trails and roadsides.
• Salmonberries (May – July): Often found near streams and in damp forests, salmonberries are orange-red and resemble raspberries, with a mild, slightly tart flavor.
• Thimbleberries (June – August): These resemble raspberries but are softer and flatter. They’re delicate and often used in jams.
• Huckleberries (Late summer – Early fall): Native huckleberries are small, dark berries found on forested slopes. They’re tart and sweet, ideal for eating fresh or making preserves.
• Blueberries (July – August): Coastal blueberries, while less common, are found in certain shaded, acidic soil areas.

Mushrooms in Brookings

The coastal forests around Brookings provide a moist environment where wild mushrooms flourish, especially after autumn rains. Please make sure you check the Foraging Safety section below, have a guide book, and are sure of your haul before you eat anything! Some common and prized mushrooms include:

• Chanterelles (Fall): Known for their golden color and trumpet shape, chanterelles have a mild, peppery flavor. They’re typically found under conifers or in mossy areas.
• Morels (Spring): Morels are rare but can be found after spring rains. Look for these honeycomb-capped mushrooms in burned or disturbed areas.
• Oyster Mushrooms (Year-round, especially in fall and winter): These delicate, fan-shaped mushrooms grow on fallen logs and decaying wood.
• King Boletes (Porcini) (Fall): Porcini mushrooms are large, meaty mushrooms with a nutty flavor, often found in forests with conifer trees.
• Lobster Mushrooms (Fall): Lobster mushrooms are actually a type of fungus that colonizes other mushrooms, giving them a red, crustacean-like appearance and a firm texture.
• Turkey Tail (Year-round): This medicinal mushroom has a fan-shaped cap with bands of various colors. Turkey tail is often dried and used for teas and tinctures.

Foraging Tips and Safety

• Identification: Accurate identification is key. Bring a foraging guidebook or use a reliable app, and consult experienced foragers to avoid toxic look-alikes.
  • My favorite guidebooks:
    • Mushrooms – All That The Rain Promises And More
    • Berries – Pacific Northwest Foraging
• Timing: Foraging seasons vary. Late summer and early fall are best for berries, while fall is prime for mushrooms, especially after rainfall.
• Sustainable Foraging: Only take what you need, and avoid damaging surrounding plants or mushrooms. Leave some behind for wildlife and future growth, never pick it clean. On heavy haul days we cast back a handful or two before leaving to help the population for next year!
• Tools: For mushrooms, bring a small knife or scissors to easily harvest without damaging the mycelium. For berries, carry containers, gloves (for thorny bushes), and a backpack.
• Permits: Always check if a permit is required, especially for mushroom foraging, which can have stricter regulations.
• Edibility: Be cautious, especially with mushrooms. If you’re unsure, consult an expert, as some poisonous mushrooms closely resemble edible species.
• Wildlife: Bears and other wildlife (both prey and predator) forage for berries too, so stay alert, especially in remote areas. Never turn your back uphill (mountain lions prefer to pounce from above).

5. Legal and Ethical Foraging Practices

• Public Lands: Foraging is usually allowed on public lands like state parks, but check local regulations for limits and permits.
• Private Land: Do not forage on private property without permission. A painted purple stripe on a tree or post also legally means “private property, no trespassing” in lieu of a fence or sign in much of the Western US, including Oregon.

Fishing & Shell Fishing

Fishing and shellfishing in Brookings, Oregon, are popular year-round, thanks to the area’s abundant rivers and access to the Pacific Ocean. Catching and foraging your dinner is one of the most unique things to do in the area and something I do almost weekly in some capacity! Pair your catch/harvest with produce from our local farmers market for a delicious, intentional, and local meal!

Fishing in Brookings

• Ocean Fishing: Brookings Harbor provides easy access to ocean fishing for various species, including salmon, halibut, lingcod, and rockfish. Salmon fishing is particularly popular from May through September, with charters available to take anglers offshore for deeper water catches. Halibut and rockfish are also plentiful in spring and summer, with many guided options for beginners and experienced fishers alike.
• Chetco River Fishing: Known for its salmon and steelhead runs, the Chetco River is a prime fishing spot. The river’s fall salmon run (October-November) is one of the best on the Oregon coast, drawing anglers hoping to catch chinook salmon. Winter steelhead fishing is another highlight, with the season generally running from December through March.
• Rogue River Fishing: About 30 miles north of Brookings, the Rogue River offers great salmon and steelhead fishing. Salmon runs in the spring and fall are popular times to fish, with king salmon peaking in the fall.

Shellfishing in Brookings

• Crabbing: Brookings is a great spot for crabbing, with Dungeness crabs being the primary catch. The crabbing season is typically open year-round, but the peak season is winter (December through March), when crabs are larger and meatier. You can crab directly off the docks in Brookings Harbor or rent small boats to drop crab pots in the ocean.
• Clamming: Clamming is less common along Brookings’ rocky coastline but is still possible. Fall and winter generally offer the best conditions for clamming, as low tides are more accessible.
• Mussels: Mussel gathering is permitted most places in Brookings. Mussel harvesting is generally open year-round but may be closed periodically due to red tide (toxins) or environmental conditions, so be sure to check regulations before gathering here.

Tips, Regulations, and Who to Hire

• Licensing: Both fishing and shellfishing require an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) license. Shellfish licenses are separate from fishing licenses, so make sure you have the appropriate license(s) for your activity.
• Catch Limits and Rules: Always check ODFW regulations for current limits and seasonal closures. For example, Dungeness crab have size and gender restrictions, and salmon often have specific catch limits.
• Tide Considerations: Low tides are ideal for clamming and mussel gathering. Plan outings around tide charts for the best results and safety.
• Guides: If you’re coming from out of town and don’t have your own gear or know the best spot? Hire a guide, they’ll have both enough gear and knowledge to help you catch your limit! I frequently go on charters with Brookings Fishing Charters. They’re not only great people but we’ve caught our limit each time we’ve been out with them!

Weather

Brookings, Oregon, has a relatively mild coastal climate influenced by the Pacific Ocean, which keeps the temperatures moderate throughout the year. This town is known for its unique microclimate, often referred to as the “Brookings effect,” where warmer offshore winds bring unseasonably warm temperatures, especially in winter. Here’s a breakdown by seasons:

Winter (December – February)

• Temperature: Daytime highs range from 55°F to 60°F, and nighttime lows are typically between 40°F and 45°F.
• Rainfall: Winter is the wettest season, with frequent rainstorms. Monthly precipitation can reach 10-12 inches.
• Snow: Snow is rare along the coast but may occasionally dust higher elevations inland.
• Season Specific Activities: Whale watching, MASSIVE storm wave watching, enjoy cafe’s and restaurants.

Spring (March – May)

• Temperature: Temperatures start to warm up, with highs ranging from 55°F to 65°F and lows between 45°F and 50°F.
• Rainfall: Spring sees decreasing rainfall, especially in May. Rain is common in March and April but usually drops by late spring.
• Conditions: Spring brings more sunshine, particularly in May, with wildflowers and coastal greenery peaking.
• Season Specific Activities: Wildflower watching, hiking, tide pooling, whale watching, fishing, hit the local farmers market, visit Azalea Park.

Summer (June – August)

• Temperature: Summer is mild and pleasant, with highs generally between 65°F and 75°F. Cooler days might reach only about 60°F, and lows stay around 50°F.
• Rainfall: Very little rainfall, as Brookings gets most of its rain in the winter months. June through August are typically the driest months.
• Conditions: Foggy mornings are common due to the marine layer, but it usually clears by midday, leaving sunny afternoons.
• Season Specific Activities: Swimming, Kayaking, wildlife watching, berry picking, wildflower watching, local music and arts festivals, shellfishing, fishing, camping, and of course hiking.

Fall (September – November)

• Temperature: September can feel like an extension of summer, with highs often around 75°F. October and November cool down to highs of 55°F – 65°F.
• Rainfall: Rain begins to increase in October, with November seeing more frequent storms.
• Conditions: Fall is a transitional season; warm, sunny days are common in early fall, with wetter, cooler weather by November.
• Season Specific Activities: Sunset watching (seriously epic sunsets this time of year), fishing, crabbing, shell fishing, camping, hiking, foraging, leaf peeping.

How to get here

By Car

Brookings is located on U.S. Route 101, making it accessible from various points along the coast.

• From Portland: About a 5.5 to 6-hour (330 miles) drive south on Interstate 5 (I-5) to Grants Pass, then west on U.S. 199, which connects with U.S. 101.
• From Medford: About 2 hours and 20 minutes (120 miles). Take U.S. 199 west from Grants Pass, which leads to U.S. 101 South and into Brookings.
• From Northern California:
  • If you’re coming from Northern California (such as Eureka), take U.S. 101 North directly up the coast, which takes about 2 hours.

By Plane

While Brookings doesn’t have a commercial airport, nearby airports serve the area:

1. Crescent City, CA (CEC): The closest regional airport, about 30 minutes away from Brookings, offers flights to and from Oakland (OAK).
2. Medford, OR (MFR): About 2 hours away, the Medford Airport offers more options with flights to major west coast hubs like Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco.
3. Eureka, CA (Arcata-Eureka Airport, ACV). Another close option and great for people who will be visiting Redwood National Park and Prairie Creek Redwood State Park, ACV is about 2 hours away from Brookings. **Be aware that it’s not uncommon for planes to be unable to land due to thick fog at this airport. The chances of of a delay is much higher at this airport due to weather**
4. Portland International Airport (PDX): A major airport with many flight options, but it’s a longer drive (6+ hours) from Brookings.

After landing, you can either rent a car or take a shuttle from Medford or Crescent City for the final leg of the journey.

Oregon Marriage Laws

Here’s the essentials for legally getting married in Oregon:

1. Marriage License: Obtain a marriage license from any Oregon county clerk’s office. Both partners must appear in person with valid ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport). Oregon does not require residency, so non-residents can marry here too.
2. Cost & Waiting Period: The fee for a marriage license varies by county but is generally around $60-70. There’s a 3-day waiting period, though some counties may waive it for an additional fee.
3. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Minors aged 17 need written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
4. Officiant: The ceremony must be performed by an officiant authorized in Oregon, which includes religious leaders, judges, and registered officiants. Oregon also allows anyone to apply for a one-day officiant license.
5. Witnesses: You’ll need two witnesses present at your ceremony who are 18 years or older.
6. License Return: After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license and must return it to the county within five days. Then, you’ll receive your official marriage certificate by mail.

**If you plan to have your ceremony in The Redwoods, please refer to California Marriage laws.**

Where to stay, eat, and things to do

Where to stay:

• Whaleshead Beach Resort
  • Located just north of Brookings, this resort offers cozy cabins with private decks and ocean views. Some cabins include full kitchens, hot tubs, and fireplaces, making it a comfortable option for couples or families. It’s also close to Whaleshead Beach and Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.
• Chetco River Inn
  • Located along the Chetco River, about 20 minutes from Brookings, this secluded inn offers a rustic, peaceful setting ideal for nature lovers. The property has riverfront access, walking trails, and cozy rooms, as well as a shared kitchen and dining area. Extra bonus? The drive is beautiful.
• Harris Beach State Park Campground
  • For those seeking a more rustic experience, the Harris Beach State Park Campground offers tent sites, yurts (for glamping), and RV spaces with close proximity to the iconic Harris Beach. Fall asleep to the sounds of the waves and wake up just steps from the beach and trails.
    • This is my favorite campground! I can actually be found staying in the park as a Camp Host throughout the year – drop by and say hi if you’re ever in the area!

On top of these great options, Brookings has a ton of beautiful AirBNB’s and VRBO’s that offer incredible views as well. I have an extensive list of unique lodging recommendations that I share with all GRP couples!

Where to eat:

Despite being a small town, Brookings has no shortage of tasty bakeries and restaurants here’s a few of my favorites:

• Black Trumpet Bistro: This Italian bistro is a hidden gem and my favorite date night restaurant, serving pasta, seafood, and creative small plates in an intimate atmosphere. Their menu emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. If you enjoy a nice cocktail be sure to try the Blueberry Hill Martini!
• Kaya Sushi & Noodle House: Serving Ramen and Sushi, this is my favorite place to get sushi. Relaxed atmosphere and great food! Plus they have a fish tank in house which is always a bonus.
• Compass Rose Cafe: Looking for a great coffee, quick meal, and eclectic atmosphere? The Compass Rose Cafe located on Main St is my favorite place to have a coffee and get some work done.
• Khun Thai: Wile you may be in Oregon, this is some of the best Thai food I’ve had (especially the Pad Thai). You can’t go wrong eating here.
• Honeybee Bakery: The best place to snag donuts and breakfast pastries, Honeybee is a great place to pick up a quick breakfast for your elopement morning.
• Brookings – Harbor Farmer’s Market: On Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00AM – 3:00PM you can find and assortment of local vendors from fresh produce, bread, pastries, cheeses, pottery, clothing, artists, and so so much more. If you have the time this is the perfect place to pick up food to cook a meal and your Brookings souvenir.

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