Hug Point is one of my favorite spots on the Oregon Coast for an elopement. There are endless caves, cliffs, and cool rock formations to discover. When the tide goes out and the sun starts to set the sand turns to a bright pink mirror. It’s a wedding photographers dream, really.

Eleanor and Alex made the trip up the Oregon Coast from Los Angeles. After a zoom call and a few emails we decided on Hug Point for their intimate sunset elopement. The weather was perfect and we had a lot of fun drinking champagne and walking around the beach at sunset.

How to Plan an Elopement at Hug Point

If you’re planning an elopement at Hug Point there are a few things you can do to elevate your experience and your photos!

1. Check the Tides! Hug Point is best explored at low tide. When the tide is in there is only a small section of the beach that is accessible. At low tide you can explore all of the secluded beaches and caves. Always check the tide charts!
2. Elope at Sunset. To get that dreamy light and those gorgeous pink hues, eloping at sunset is a must. Most couples will have their ceremony about an hour before the actual sunset and we will shoot portraits on the beach until dusk. Make sure you know the sunset time at Hug Point and plan accordingly.
3. Get Married on a Weekday. If possible plan your wedding for mid-week. Hug Point can get crowded on weekends but during the week it’s typically very peaceful.

Directions to Hug Point

Hug Point is about a 90 minute drive from Portland. Take Hwy 26 out of the city and drive until you get to the junction for Cannon Beach and Seaside. Turn towards Cannon Beach and drive south on Hwy 101. About 15 minutes later you will arrive at Hug Point! Here is the address so you can load it into Google Maps:

Hug Point Recreation Site
Beach Access Rd, Arch Cape, OR 97102

If you’re planning an elopement in Oregon be sure to check out my Oregon Elopement Guide! You’ll find all of the inspiration and information you need for eloping in Oregon.