This Catalina Island beach is a great option if you are looking for a unique beach location for your elopement. I enjoy photographing couples here because of the sweeping ocean views and the incredible cliffs. The bison roam freely around the island which is a huge draw for many people. There are many things to do and see when on the island. I would love to help you plan your dream wedding here.

Reasons to Elope on Catalina Island

The beaches on Catalina Island are the perfect destination for couples who are interested in many different activities: hiking, swimming, sunbathing, boating, or picnicking. The weather is temperate year-round so you can plan your elopement any day of the year.

Additionally, I suggest if you are looking to have an elopement on Catalina Island that you choose a weekday. This helps couples to avoid crowds.

Many people who choose to elope on Catalina Island spend a majority of their time in either Avalon or Two Harbors. Two Harbors is a small rustic village that has a rugged and remote feel to it. While Avalon is somewhat larger and has a variety of restaurants and places to stay – imagine Italian Amalfi Coast vibes. 

A Look at Jena + Rob’s Catalina Island Beach Elopement

Jena and Rob’s Catalina Island beach elopement was held at Shark Harbor. Shark Harbor is located on the backside of Catalina Island. There is a large rock that splits Shark Harbor and Little Harbor down the middle known as Whale Tale. 

We walked up to Whale Tale to get a look at the ocean and cliffs from above. This created a sweeping panoramic view of the island. Whale Tale has a lovely dramatic backdrop that makes for the perfect elopement location.

Later Jena and Rob walked down to Little Harbor and I stayed up at Whale Tale. I photographed them from above to capture the full scene. Creating images like this really allow you to see the entire scope and vastness of the island. Jena and Rob were walking along the shoreline hand in hand, which made for some really romantic wide landscape photographs of the two of them.

To wrap up the day, Jena and Rob enjoyed a romantic picnic for two. The tablescape for the picnic included gorgeous florals and décor provided by Averi K Designs.

Overall, Jena and Rob were a blast to work with. The vendor team that came together to create this magical day was an integral part in making Jena and Rob’s photos so special. 

How to have a Luxury Beach Elopement Experience

There are several ways to have a luxury Catalina Island beach elopement experience. I suggest creating a day that is personalized to your relationship.

Focusing on the details is an important part in creating this type of experience. Like Jena and Rob, having an intimate picnic can be a great way to include personalized touches. You can customize the meals and enjoy your favorite foods, snacks and a glass of your favorite wine or champagne. 

Another way to create a luxury elopement experience is to change up the scenery and locations. You can do this by traveling to different parts of the island or spending time together doing one of the many activities the island has to offer. 

A great example of this is taking a sailboat out into the harbor which is an incredibly romantic and lavish event.

Does a Catalina Island Beach Elopement sound like the Perfect Destination for you? 

I would love to help you create a personalized Catalina Island beach elopement for you and your partner. If a beach elopement sounds like something you would be interested in, reach out here and we can chat through all of your options. 

Looking for more inspiration? Check out Jena + Rob’s full Catalina Island beach elopement gallery here!

Vendors

Florals: @Averi.k.designs

Styled Shoot Company: @katherynheckmullerphotography

The Tannery: @thetannery

Jena and Rob: @the.modernmama @the.modernfather