Calling all adventurous souls and wild-hearted lovers! If you’re dreaming of an intimate, wildly romantic adventure, you’ve come to the right place. Canada’s west coast offers a blend of rugged wilderness and laidback charm, the perfect setting for an epic elopement. As a Vancouver-based photographer who loves to capture authentic love stories, and an adventurer who lives to experience nature’s breathtaking beauty, I am an expert in where to elope in my own backyard. Grab your partner’s hand, take a deep breath, and let me whisk you away on a journey through some of the most enchanting elopement spots in the area.
Lighthouse Park
Nestled on the rugged coastline of West Vancouver, Lighthouse Park is a captivating haven for couples seeking an intimate and picturesque setting to elope. This enchanting destination has it all: ancient forests, towering cliffs, ocean and city views, plus the iconic Point Atkinson Lighthouse, creating a dreamlike scene for elopements. Couples can bask in the serenity of nature while exchanging vows as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the sea.
Deep Cove
Surrounded by lush evergreen forests and framed by the majestic peaks of the coastal mountains, this waterfront village exudes a tranquil charm that is both serene and captivating. The idyllic Deep Cove Marina serves as a stunning backdrop, offering couples the opportunity to exchange vows against the backdrop of shimmering waters and bobbing sailboats. With its quaint shops, waterfront parks, and the iconic Quarry Rock Lookout Point nearby, Deep Cove provides an ideal setting for a romantic escape.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park
Strolling through this ancient forest, surrounded by towering, centuries-old trees, will transport you to another world. Let the sunlight filter through the canopy as you exchange vows in the dreamiest atmosphere. In the quiet of the forest, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled far into the wilderness, when in reality you’ll be just minutes away from some of Vancouver’s most beautiful beaches – the perfect place to catch the sunset.
Stanley Park
On the edge of downtown Vancouver lies Stanley Park, a serene haven for couples seeking a backdrop of natural beauty for their special day. As one of the largest urban parks in North America, its vast expanse ensures privacy and intimacy, allowing couples to create unforgettable memories in one of Vancouver’s most beloved treasures. You can wander on paths weaving through giant cedars, amidst vibrant floral displays in the Rose Garden, or along the seawall and beaches as the sun dips below the horizon. Every corner of Stanley Park exudes romance and serenity.
Whytecliff Park
If you’re seeking a scene with rocky cliffs, pebbled beaches and panoramic ocean views, look no further than Whytecliff Park, located in West Vancouver. Steal a quiet moment together as the waves crash against the rocks, and let me capture the raw beauty of your love against this awe-inspiring backdrop. Whether you’re perched atop the cliffs or walking along the shore at sunset, the photographs will embody the untamed spirit of your love story.
Gastown
You don’t have to escape the city to seek adventure. Why not have an urban elopement? When you step into the charming historic neighbourhood of Gastown, it’s like visiting another era with its cobble-stoned streets, vintage lampposts, red brick buildings and twinkling lights. There is a timeless romance in the air. Steal a kiss under the famous Gastown Steam Clock, then embrace the ambiance as you wander into the many rustic pubs and trendy cafes.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
If you’re after a unique and adrenaline-pumping elopement experience, head to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in North Vancouver. Feel your heart pound as you walk across the swaying suspension bridge high above the emerald waters of Capilano River, explore the canopies of the Treetop Adventure and defy gravity on the Cliffwalk. Find a cozy spot amidst the ancient Douglas firs for an intimate ceremony that combines the thrill of adventure with the quiet beauty of the forest.
Nanaimo
A short ferry-ride from Vancouver on the island’s eastern shore lays Nanaimo, an outdoor addicts dream! With stunning landscapes and seaside charm, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. You will have plenty of options for where to say “I do”, whether you prefer secluded beaches, waterfalls, parks, lakes or mountaintops, it’s all right here. In fact, many of the idyllic spots in this coastal haven are close together and require only a short hike, so you won’t have to choose just one!
Tofino
If you venture to the western shores of Vancouver Island, an ocean-lover’s paradise awaits you. Known for its rugged coastline and world-class surf, Tofino is an absolutely dream. Picture yourselves exchanging vows on a beach or cliff to the sound of crashing waves as the sky over the Pacific Ocean is lit up in breathtaking colours. Chances are you’ll even spot some marine wildlife. From sunrise to sunset, Tofino is a treasure trove of natural beauty just waiting to be captured.
Juan de Fuca Provincial Park
Nestled on the south side of Vancouver island, along the West Coast Trail where the land meets the sea, is the untamed slice of heaven known as Juan de Fuca Provincial Park. You’ll find pristine beaches, majestic waterfalls (even waterfalls right on the beaches), ancient forests and rocky cliffs. Whether you embark on a coastal hike together or find solace in a hidden cove, every moment here promises to be an unforgettable adventure, surrounded by the serenity and raw power of nature.
An adventure awaits you around every corner in the gorgeous coastal region surrounding Vancouver. Whether you’re seeking lush forests, mountain peaks, ocean breezes or city vibes, it’s all right here. These awe-inspiring elopement spots offer stunning backdrops for your unforgettable memories.
If you are ready to take the next step towards the elopement of your dreams, check out my FREE step-by-step guide to planning an elopement on Canada’s West Coast:
I’d love to hear more about what you are dreaming of for your special day. If you’d like to get more in-depth about locations, timelines and more, book a FREE consult call with me. Let’s chat about your unique vision: