Rialto Beach Elopement Guide: Locations, Lodging, Permits, & More!
Tali March 25th, 2025
How to Plan a Rialto Beach Elopement: Your Ultimate Guide
Rialto Beach, nestled within the rugged beauty of Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers a mesmerizing backdrop for couples seeking a unique and intimate elopement experience. With its dramatic sea stacks, driftwood-strewn shores, and the nearby forests of towering pines, it’s no wonder that “Rialto Beach elopement” has become a sought-after phrase among adventurous couples. If you’re considering tying the knot in this gorgeous ocean front location, stick around to get all the details on how to plan the perfect Rialto Beach wedding.
Or…. If you want to really fast track your planning, just click the button below to get in touch, and we’ll do all the heavy lifting for you. Our wealth of Rialto Beach elopement wedding experiences is all at your disposal. Woot woot!
Why Choose Rialto Beach for Your Elopement?
Honestly, it would probably be a shorter answer to tell someone why they wouldn’t want to get married at Rialto Beach because I can think of a million reasons you should!
Rialto Beach is one of the most stunning locations in Olympic National Park, offering a dramatic, untamed coastline with massive driftwood logs, crashing waves, and towering rock formations. The ancient forest meet the expansive ocean in a view that feels straight out of a fairytale. Whether you’re envisioning a simple ceremony with just the two of you or a small gathering with close family and friends, Rialto Beach offers the versatility to accommodate your dream wedding. Here’s a few of the reasons why Rialto beach is a great elopement location:
- Secluded & Intimate: While Rialto Beach is popular, it’s vast enough that you can always find a quiet spot for your vows.
- Year-Round Beauty: The moody, misty atmosphere creates a cinematic backdrop in every season.
- Gorgeous Sunsets: Sunsets over the ocean at Rialto Beach are honestly next level.
- Nearby Adventures: Combine your elopement with a honeymoon exploring Olympic National Park’s rainforests, lakes, and mountains.
Where is Rialto Beach?
Rialto Beach is located in Olympic National Park in Washington State. Rialto Beach is accessible by Mora Road, off of La Push Road. It is about 75 miles from Port Angeles (one of the closest larger cities) and 36 miles southwest of Lake Crescent. The closest major airport is the Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is about a four hour drive from Rialto Beach.
The closest town to Rialto Beach is Forks, WA.
The Best Rialto Beach Elopement Locations
Honestly, my best advice for Rialto beach elopement locations is to plan plenty of time to explore and walk the beach. The whole area is so beautiful! From the parking lot, walk north along the beach for all the best views. A couple of favorites to check out:
Hole-in-the-Wall
- If you are willing to hike about 1.5 miles north from Rialto Beach, you’ll find yourself at a sea carved arch known as Hole-in-the-Wall. A unique formation that is a must-see in the area!
The Classic Rialto Beach Seastacks
- Just before you reach Hole-in-the-Wall, you’ll find yourself in a rocky area of the beach with the classic seastacks that Rialto Beach is known for.
Among the Driftwood
- The large driftwood logs scattered along the beach offer a rustic and unique setting for intimate ceremonies. Plus, if you have guests, they might offer a unique seating option!
Best Time to Elope at Rialto Beach
Weather on the Olympic Coast
Rialto Beach showcases many unique styles of beauty throughout the year:
- Spring (April-June): Wildflowers begin blooming, and fewer tourists visit during this time.
- Summer (July-August): The warmest months with the best chance of clear skies—but also the busiest.
- Fall (September-October): Little displays of fall colors and mild weather make fall an ideal time and a favorite among our couples.
- Winter (November-March): Encounter a more secluded and moody atmosphere, with potential for stormy seas and skies adding dramatic flair to your experience.
With something to offer all year round, picking the right time to elope at Rialto Beach is really about picking the experience you want!
Navigating the Tides: How to Check Tides for Rialto Beach
An important part of the when to elope question when you are planning an ocean elopement involves planning around the tides. Certain areas, like the path to Hole-in-the-Wall, are accessible only during low tide. Plan your time accordingly to ensure safety and accessibility. Resources like the NOAA Tide Chart are a great place to get this information.
Legal Requirements and Permits
Washington State Marriage License
Washington State requires a marriage license, which has a 3-day waiting period and is valid for 60 days. Both parties must apply in person. You can use your Washington State marriage license anywhere in the state, even if you didn’t get married in the county where you got your license. Your marriage license will need to be signed by an ordained officiant and two witnesses.
Olympic National Park Wedding Permit
While most photography activities in Olympic National Park with eight or fewer people involved don’t require a permit, weddings and ceremonies will require a special use permit. To secure your permit:
- Fill out the permit application on the Olympic National Park Special Use Permit page.
- Plan to submit your special use permit a minimum of 3-4 weeks in advance. (But not more than one year in advance.)
- At the time of writing this blog, permit applications require a $50 non-refundable application fee.
- Per the park, “Your permit may require the payment of cost recovery charges and proof of liability insurance naming the United States of America an additional insured.”
Permits sounds a bit stressful? No worries! We help all of our couples through the permit process so it’s easy peasy!
Unique Places to Stay for Your Rialto Beach Elopement
Whether you want to camp under the stars, cozy up in a rustic cabin, or enjoy the comforts of a nearby hotel, there are plenty of lodging options near Rialto Beach to fit every style.
Camping Near Rialto Beach
Mora Campground (2 miles from Rialto Beach)
- Reservations can be made on the recreation.gov website.
- Facilities: Fire pits, picnic tables, restrooms (with flush toilets and sinks), potable water
- Notes: Close to Rialto Beach (honestly SO convenient), but plan to book early as it fills up fast!
Wilderness Camping
- With a Wilderness Camping Permit you can camp in certain areas of Rialto Beach.
- Be sure to research the rules, regulations, and safety information for camping to see if it’s a good fit for what you have planned.
There are also a handful of privately owned campground and Hipcamps in the area.
Cabins, Lodges, and Hotels Near Rialto Beach
Quileute Oceanside Resort (15 min from Rialto Beach)
Website: https://quileuteoceanside.com
Features: Cozy beachfront cabins with ocean views. Pet-friendly options available. The Quileute Tribe has strict rules around photos and videos special permission is required for any photography or filming.
Hoh Valley Cabins (45 min drive)
Website: https://www.hohvalleycabins.com
Features: Private cabins in a quiet rainforest setting. Each cabin has a fully equipped kitchenette. No pets.
Pacific Inn Motel (Forks, WA)
Website: https://pacificinnmotel.com
Features: Comfortable rooms with easy access to Olympic National Park. High-speed Wi-Fi. No pets.
We recommend checking out the nearby town of Forks, Washington if you are looking for other lodging options for your Rialto Beach elopement wedding. There are a number of great Airbnb and VRBO options in the area.
Have questions about other places to stay in the area? We’ve stayed at a lot of different spots, so feel free to hit us up for more suggestions!
Pro Tips for a Stress-Free Rialto Beach Elopement Wedding
Rialto Beach Elopement Dress & Attire
- I say this about almost every outdoor wedding ever, but it is no less true here: plan layers! Even in summer, coastal breezes can be chilly.
- Speaking of coastal breezes, flowy fabrics are a dream and add a romantic touch as they move in the wind.
- For footwear, we recommend either sturdy hiking sandals or waterproof boots. A lot of the shore is fairly rocky, so going barefoot is not a great option.
Plan for PNW Weather
Weather in the PNW and especially near the ocean can be unpredictable and change quickly. When preparing for your Olympic coast wedding, we recommend prepping for all weather conditions and packing essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrellas, and raincoats so you are ready to have fun no matter what the weather does!
Not sure where to start?
We get it. There is SO much that goes into planning an elopement. We’ve been there (we eloped too!). If you’re thinking, “Man, this is a lot… I need help.” you’re in the right place. Hit that button and let’s start doing this together.
Rialto Beach Wedding and Elopement FAQs
Can I get married at Rialto Beach?
Yes! Rialto Beach is a beautiful and accessible location for an elopement.
Do I need a pass to visit Rialto Beach?
Yes, Rialto Beach is within Olympic National Park and requires a National Park pass to access. The US National Park System has options for purchasing day passes, week passes, and yearly passes.
Are dogs allowed at Rialto Beach elopements?
We don’t recommend Rialto Beach for an elopement with your dog. There is an area of the beach where leashed dogs are allowed during daylight hours (0.8 mile north to Ellen Creek), but in our opinion, there are better beaches in the Olympic area for elopements with your dog. (We’ve got Lily Pad approved recommendations to share if you’re planning a pet-friendly elopement!)
Do I need a permit to elope at Rialto Beach?
Yes, a special use permit will likely be required for your wedding at Rialto Beach. You can learn more on the Special Use Permit page of the Olympic National Park website.
Can we have a sunset or sunrise elopement at Rialto Beach?
Absolutely, in fact we often recommend it! Sunset at Rialto Beach are our favorite.
Can we bring guests to our Rialto Beach elopement?
Yes! Rialto Beach is perfect for intimate elopements. In fact, due to the easy walk along the beach to get to incredible views, it is one of the most family friendly elopement locations in the state. While small gatherings are permitted, it’s essential to minimize impact on the environment. For larger celebrations, consider nearby venues or accommodations.
Are there any restrictions on group size for ceremonies?
Group size limitations may apply. It’s essential to consult with the park administration when applying for your permit to ensure compliance.
Rialto Beach Elopement Photos
Elopement Photography
Booking an elopement photographer can be a lot different than booking a traditional wedding photographer… you’re essentially picking an adventure buddy for one of the biggest days of your life. One of the few people you’ll be hanging out with on your wedding day.
You’re also picking one of your main elopement planning resources, essentially your go to person for all things elopements! We’ve helped plan countless elopements and are there for you every step of the way. Plus, we’re pretty fun to hang with and come with some other neat perks like free officiating (Dom’s ordained!).
If you’re looking for an epic Washington elopement photographer team to capture your Rialto Beach elopement photos, we’d like to think you just found them!
Elopement Packages
Looking for a Rialto Beach Elopement Package? Check out our packages page to learn more about our offerings.
A Rialto Beach elopement is an adventure of a lifetime, combining rugged beauty with intimate romance. By planning ahead and using this guide, you can create an unforgettable wedding experience that reflects your love story. Whether you choose a foggy morning ceremony or a golden sunset celebration, Rialto Beach promises a breathtaking backdrop for your vows.
Ready to start planning? Let’s chat—reach out and let’s craft the perfect Rialto Beach wedding experience together!
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