5 Beautiful Places to Elope Outdoors in Vancouver, BC
Thinking about eloping in or around Vancouver? Looking for the perfect outdoor alternative to a traditional wedding venue? You are in the right place, my friend.
As a Vancouver elopement photographer, I've seen my fair share of venues and elopement spots. And, with mountain elopements still being a super popular option for couples, I figured it was time to spill the tea!
Whether you're planning a just-us experience, bringing along a few of your favourite people, or simply want somewhere beautiful to exchange your vows, there are plenty of options around Vancouver.
Keep reading for my top 5 favourite places to elope outdoors in the Vancouver area!
My Top 5 Favourite Elopement Locations in Vancouver
In no particular order, here are the five spots I think you would LOVE for an outdoor elopement.
Lynn Headwaters Park
Just over a bridge in North Vancouver, Lynn Headwaters Park is a little getaway amongst the tall forest trees.
With 40 km of hiking trails, you can keep it as low-key or intense as you want! Hang out by the water, swim in the 30-foot pool, explore the trails, or cross the suspension bridge before finding a quiet spot to exchange vows.
If you're looking for a scenic forest elopement that feels like you've escaped the city without actually going very far, this is a great option.
Deep Cove
Nestled on the easternmost part of North Vancouver, the Deep Cove neighbourhood gives you a little bit of everything: mountain views, water, forest, food, and all the amenities you need for a fun day.
Add the short 45-minute Quarry Rock hike as part of your day, or keep things low-key and choose a quiet corner of the rocky beach to exchange vows, depending on the tide schedule.
And because everything is relatively close together, it's easy to turn your elopement into a full-day experience. Grab a coffee + a donut, exchange vows by the water, go for a paddle, and finish the day with ice cream.
Stanley Park
With 400 hectares of natural West Coast rainforest just minutes from downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park is a great option if you want a little bit of everything.
There are scenic forest trails, water views, mountain views, beaches, and plenty of spots to explore throughout the park.
And if you're a sucker for a good sunset, we can finish your day at Third Beach with some pretty spectacular evening light.
Jericho Beach
If you live for sunsets, this one's for you.
Located at the north end of the West Point Grey neighbourhood, Jericho Beach offers beautiful views of the North Shore mountains, downtown Vancouver, and the water.
It's also a great option if you want a beach elopement without having to leave the city.
Bring a picnic, pop some bubbly, kick off your shoes, and stick around for sunset. Honestly, I can't think of a much better way to end an elopement day.
Sun Yat-Sen Gardens
Found close to Vancouver's downtown east side, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden feels like a little escape from the city.
Enter this Ming Dynasty-style garden, and you'll be transported into a serene world filled with winding paths, rocks, plants, water features, and beautiful architectural details.
The garden offers a completely different experience from the forest, mountain, and beach locations on this list, which makes it a great option if you want something a little less expected.
It's also perfect for couples considering an elopement with guests or even a small wedding.
Bonus: Queen Elizabeth Park
Okay, technically this makes six. But I couldn't leave it off the list.
You'll find this 52-hectare park on the highest point in Vancouver, offering beautiful views of the city, park, and North Shore mountains.
Home to a tropical garden (the Bloedel Conservatory), Queen Elizabeth Park has a variety of gardens, exotic and native trees, and plenty of places to wander around and explore together.
And if you want to end your elopement with a celebratory meal, Seasons in the Park makes it easy to go from vows to dinner without having to get in the car.
Related: Queen Elizabeth Elopement
A Few Considerations When Choosing Your Vancouver Elopement Location
While elopements offer you a lot of options, a bit of checking will make for a much smoother Vancouver elopement experience.
Permits
Be sure to check the Vancouver city website in case you need to apply for a permit. Even with a just-us elopement, depending on your location, paying the permit fee may be worth it to reserve a spot/add some privacy to your day.
Parking/Accessibility
Certain locations, like Deep Cove, for example, have very limited parking and/or paid parking. Be sure to check the park’s website and/or do a quick in-person scout of the location.
Crowds
If you’d prefer fewer crowds, be mindful that certain locatoins/parks are busier at certain times of year. Consider a shoulder seasion/month for fewer crowds. We often have a really nice couple of weeks in September, and after the first week of school, the crowds lessen.
That being said, be sure to check the weather forecast and weather and be ready with some rainy backup plans.
So, Which Vancouver Elopement Location Is Right For You?
Honestly, there's no one "right" place to elope in Vancouver. It’s all about what’s “right” for you.
Want trees, trails, and a little adventure? Lynn Headwaters or Stanley Park.
Want mountains + water? Deep Cove.
Want a beach and an epic sunset? Jericho Beach
Want something a little different? Sun Yat Sen Gardens.
And if you're looking for beautiful views without giving up easy access to the city, Queen Elizabeth Park is a solid choice.
Find somewhere that feels like you, bring the people you actually want there, and plan a day around doing things you love together.
And if you're looking for a photographer to help you plan the photos, locations, and little in-between moments, I'd love to help. Check out my elopement photography options and let's start planning your day.