The Elevated Classic San Diego Elopement: A Full-Day Timeline for an Unforgettable Experience
- talyaherring
- Mar 22
- 5 min read
San Diego is the kind of place where rushing an elopement just doesn't make sense (I guess there's no location that would benefit from a rushed wedding experience but you get what I mean!) With perfect weather, a mix of classic and adventurous locations, and endless ways to celebrate, you can create a wedding day that feels intentional, romantic, and uniquely yours.
If you love the idea of a full-day elopement that blends city charm, coastal adventure, and incredible food, this 8 - hour timeline is for you. It’s relaxed yet elevated, with space to soak in the experience, be present with your partner, and create memories that go beyond a quick ceremony and photos.
Why Plan a Full-Day Elopement?
Before we dive into the timeline, let’s talk about why a full-day elopement is worth considering. Your wedding day is still your wedding day, even if it’s just the two of you (or a small group of loved ones). Stretching out the experience allows you to savor every moment without feeling rushed. Instead of squeezing everything into an hour or two, you get time to connect, explore, and truly celebrate the beginning of your marriage. I always say taking photos is about creating future nostalgia - it's not only about this moment, but about looking back in 40 years at what this moment felt like.
With that in mind, here’s how to plan an elevated, classic San Diego elopement that unfolds naturally over 8 unforgettable hours.
The Full-Day Elopement Timeline
9 AM – Getting Ready & First Look
The morning starts slow and intentional. You wake up in a beautiful Airbnb, a boutique hotel, or even your own home. Maybe you sip coffee together, maybe you get ready separately and build up the anticipation. Either way, this is the time to soak in the fact that today is your wedding day. I love highlighting my couples' values and hobbies or in these more casual parts of the day or celebrating their love with some cozy photos.
If you have a hair and makeup artist, they arrive early to help you feel your best. You put on your elopement attire, add the finishing touches, and step into the morning light, ready for your first look.
Where to Have Your First Look:
A rooftop with a view of downtown San Diego
A quiet garden or courtyard at your hotel
Sunset Cliffs for a dramatic coastal backdrop
Somewhere meaningful to you—your favorite coffee shop, a quiet corner of Balboa Park, or even your own backyard
The first look is all about taking a deep breath, seeing each other, and feeling the excitement of what’s to come. This is one of those moments you’ll never forget. I am a big fan of first looks - even if you get dressed together. It's an opportunity to really take in the moment and mark the beginning of the meaningful day.
10 AM – Wedding Ceremony at the County Administration Building
If you want to keep your ceremony simple, getting married at the San Diego County Administration Building is the way to go. The architecture is stunning, the process is easy, and the waterfront location gives it a classic, timeless feel. It’s perfect for couples who love the idea of a courthouse wedding but want something with a little more elegance.
The ceremony itself can be short and sweet—just the two of you, your officiant, and maybe a few loved ones.
11 AM – Brunch in Little Italy
What’s a celebration without amazing food? After your ceremony, head over to Little Italy for a relaxed and delicious brunch. Whether you’re craving fresh pastries, Italian espresso, or a full sit-down meal with mimosas, there’s no shortage of incredible spots to toast to your new marriage.
Top Brunch Spots in Little Italy:
Morning Glory – If you want over-the-top brunch with pink velvet booths and insane soufflé pancakes
Civico 1845 – A cozy Italian spot with delicious espresso and light, flavorful dishes
The Crack Shack – For a casual but ridiculously good fried chicken brunch
1 PM – Exploring & Photos at Balboa Park
After brunch, it’s time to explore one of San Diego’s most iconic spots: Balboa Park. With Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens, and endless beautiful corners, it’s the perfect place to wander, take photos, and just enjoy the moment.
You don’t have to turn this into a formal photoshoot (unless you want to). This can simply be a time to walk, hold hands, and soak in the beauty of the day while your photographer captures it all.
Some of the best spots in Balboa Park include:
The Alcazar Garden for European vibes
The Botanical Building with its historic charm
The Desert Garden for something unique and textured
Any of the hidden pathways and shaded archways throughout the park
3PM – Sunset Sailing on the Bay
By late afternoon, it’s time to shift into adventure mode. Head down to the marina and hop on a private sailboat for a sunset cruise.
San Diego’s coastline is stunning from the water, and this is your chance to slow down, sip champagne, and watch the sky change colors as the sun dips behind the Pacific. It’s romantic, it’s peaceful, and it’s a moment to breathe in everything that’s happened so far.
Want to add something extra? Bring a playlist, write letters to each other to read while sailing, or just sit in silence together, letting the wind carry you into the evening.
5PM – Street Tacos & the Perfect Send-Off
After a full day of celebrating, you end it the best way possible: with San Diego street tacos.
Find a taco stand, park under string lights, and dig into some of the best food this city has to offer. Whether it’s adobada, fish tacos, or classic carne asada, nothing feels more San Diego than this.
Some favorite taco spots:
Tacos El Gordo – A cult favorite for a reason
The Taco Stand – Always a good choice
Mariscos German – If you’re craving Baja-style seafood tacos
As the night winds down, you hop into your getaway car and drive off into your honeymoon—whether that means heading to a cozy beachfront Airbnb, catching a late-night flight to your next adventure, or just heading home to soak it all in.
Creating an Elopement That Feels Like You
There’s no right or wrong way to elope, but there is a way that feels the most like you. This timeline is just one example of how you can craft a full-day experience that’s fun, relaxed, and filled with everything you love.
If you’re planning to elope in San Diego and want to create something intentional, elevated, and totally stress-free, let’s make it happen. I’ll help you find the best locations, navigate the logistics, and document the whole experience so you can relive it forever.
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