Where to Elope in British Columbia
This Wedding Planner’s TOP FIVE Favourite Elopement Locations in BC
Are you looking to elope somewhere breathtaking and adventurous in British Columbia? This is the blog for you! As a seasoned wedding planner, I've been fortunate to work in some of the most beautiful places BC has to offer, and I'm here to share my top five elopement spots with you. So, if you love the idea of saying “I do” somewhere unique and surrounded by nature, take notes! These locations might just be perfect for you. Keep reading for a countdown of my absolute favourite elopement locations in BC!
5. Golden Ears Park
Let’s get started with Golden Ears Park. This provincial park is a classic West Coast elopement destination …and for a good reason! It boasts everything most people picture when they think of Canada; lush forests, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes. It’s also super accessible, making it a great option for couples with guests flying into Vancouver.
The park offers so many possibilities, from lakeside ceremonies at Alouette Lake to more secluded spots deeper in the backcountry. If you want a wedding location that screams “British Columbia, Canada” Golden Ears Park is it!
4. Ucluelet
Okay, I’ll say it—Ucluelet is a better wedding location than Tofino! I know that’s a hot take, but I stand by it!! Ukee, as the locals call it, has everything Tofino famously offers but with fewer crowds. This makes it perfect for an intimate elopement. The rugged coastline, temperate rainforest, and secluded beaches are straight-up dream material. Plus, it’s especially stunning in late autumn when those moody skies roll in!
Ucluelet has a rich history and a vibe that’s all its own. It’s a year-round destination full of character and natural beauty. Imagine exchanging vows with the waves crashing behind you, surrounded by the raw, untouched landscapes of Vancouver Island's West Coast. Ucluelet is the perfect place to elope and create memories that will last a lifetime.
3. Any of the Gulf Islands
The Gulf Islands are like little pockets of paradise, offering seclusion and tranquillity. With so many islands to choose from—Mayne, Salt Spring, Galiano, Hornby, Quadra, Gabriola, and more—you can find the perfect backdrop for your intimate elopement. Each island has its own unique charm, with lush forests, rocky shorelines, and a peaceful vibe that’s hard to beat.
These islands are great if you’re looking for something that feels a little off-the-beaten-path while still being easily accessible. You can even make a mini island-hopping honeymoon out of it!
Pro Tip: If you're planning to hop around BC's islands, sign up for the BC Ferries card. You’ll get a discount on every trip, and it makes island-hopping even more affordable.
2. Mystic Beach in Victoria
If you're up for some adventure, Mystic Beach should definitely be a contender for your elopement location. This spot has it all—jaw-dropping coastal views, a waterfall that flows right onto the beach, and a vibe that’ll make you feel like you've landed in Iceland. It's at the start of the Juan de Fuca Trail, so you could even turn your elopement into a hiking honeymoon!
The drive to Mystic Beach is scenic in itself, taking you along Highway 14 through some of the most beautiful parts of Vancouver Island. Once you reach the beach, you’ll be rewarded with stunning ocean views, towering cliffs, and the magical sound of that waterfall in the background. It’s a place that’ll make your ceremony feel like something straight out of a fairy tale.
1. Powell River on the Sunshine Coast
And finally, my top favourite place… Powell River. This spot is a hidden gem! Seriously, Powell River and the surrounding areas are absolutely stunning—and way less crowded than the usual hotspots.
Most people stop at Gibson's or Pender Harbour, but if you keep going to Earls Cove and hop on another ferry, you’ll find yourself in Powell River. From there, it’s just a short drive to Lund, the very start of Highway 1. It's the farthest west you can go, and it feels like you're discovering a secret every step of the way!
The beauty of Powell River lies in its long coastline, countless beaches, and the fact that you might just have it all to yourself. Imagine a private beach elopement or a backcountry ceremony surrounded by lakes and forests. If you're up for an epic adventure, there are even helicopter options! I once did a helicopter elopement at the frozen Skwim Lake in April, and it was like stepping into a winter wonderland. But it’s not just the landscape that’s magical; the vibe here is so relaxed and laid-back, perfect for a stress-free wedding day.
Despite feeling very much like a remote hideaway separate from the rest of the world, the Sunshine Coast is pretty easy to access. Powell River is just a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Comox if you live on Vancouver Island. There are also flights directly into Powell River from downtown Vancouver Harbour and YVR South, which are decently affordable.
Ready for an Epic Elopement in BC?
At Sea to Sky Elopements, we specialize in creating unforgettable, stress-free elopement experiences in the most beautiful locations in British Columbia and across Canada! From photography to florals, hair, makeup, and even helicopter rides, we take care of everything so you can focus on the most important part—your love story.
Ready to make your elopement in BC a reality? Let’s create a wedding experience as epic and beautifully unique as your love story!