The Lake Tahoe area is home to the largest alpine lake in North America, known for its near 100% pure waters. With crystal-clear waves framed by the Sierra Nevada peaks, Lake Tahoe is a place of serious beauty that will make you feel like you’re eloping somewhere one-of-a-kind.
I’ve been an elopement photographer for over a decade and Lake Tahoe has never failed to impress me. It’s naturally stunning and perfect for couples who want an elopement that feels epic and immersed in nature. So, here’s a general breakdown of what you’ll need to know in order to have one of your own!
Frequently asked questions about eloping in Lake Tahoe:
What makes Lake Tahoe a great place to elope?
Straddling the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is one of those places that effortlessly combines the tranquility of an alpine setting with the excitement of an adventure hub.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment on the lake’s shores, floating in its waters, or exploring the wilderness around it, this place offers a variety of options when it comes to recreation—and each one is accompanied by stunning views of the lake itself as well as the Sierra Nevada Mountains towering over it.
This is hands down one of my favorite places to recommend for couples who want to elope in California but are looking for something that feels like a natural escape from the busy world.
How do you get to Lake Tahoe?
While Lake Tahoe is technically a lake—located at 39°06’32.4″N 120°02’09.1″W, just south of US-80—the name also refers to the surrounding area. If you’re coming from out of state, the easiest airport to fly into would be the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive north-east of the lake. The drive itself is gorgeous and will give you a glimpse of the beautiful views that await you at the lake itself!
When’s the best time to visit Lake Tahoe?
The best time to visit Lake Tahoe is during the spring or fall, with either one taking the edge over the other depending on what activities you prefer. Both seasons offer you the best weather and a higher likelihood of avoiding the heavy foot-traffic that comes with summer and winter, which also means you’ll find lower prices all around.
Fall is great because the summer crowds are gone, but the weather is still warm enough to let you enjoy the lake and the many activities it offers. Plus, the surrounding forests start to shift colors, creating a super seasonal backdrop for your elopement. Spring, on the other hand, offers the same temperature benefit and vibrant foliage of the fall (in the form of blooming wildflowers), but it also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the slopes and catch some late-season skiing while the snow is still out if you time it right!
Lake Tahoe Summer Elopement

With its deep blue water and clear skies, Lake Tahoe during the summertime is an alpine paradise in its own right. Surrounded by mountains and forests, this place is perfect for couples who want to elope somewhere where nearly any activity is possible and it’s all happening waterside in a beautiful place. Plus, the summer months offer later sunsets which means you can have an evening elopement and take advantage of that gorgeous golden hour lighting for your portraits.
Best places to elope in Lake Tahoe:
As the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe has plenty of beautiful sites when it comes to deciding where you want to exchange your vows. Whether it’s along the shoreline or at an overlook, you are guaranteed stunning views of the vast lake and the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains surrounding it.
Here are a few of my favorite elopement spots in the Lake Tahoe area:
Note: These breakdowns include California marriage license fees, but you can change those if you’re signing the paperwork in a different state. Marriage licenses cost $102 on the Nevada side.
- Emerald Bay State Park Overlook
- Cost: $507
- California Marriage License: $57
- Special Event Permit: $450
- Permit: As part of a California state park, a Special Event Permit will be required. You can apply for one by emailing LSSEC@parks.ca.gov.
- Cost: $507
- Eagle Rock
- Cost: $57
- California Marriage License: $57
- Permit: No permit required as long as you keep the guest count below 75 people—just be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles!
- Cost: $57
- Kings Beach
- Cost: $317–$367 (cost varies depending on the permit)
- California Marriage License: $57
- Special Event Permit: $250–$300 (depends on location)
- Parking Fee: $10
- Permit: As part of the Kings Beach State Recreation Area, Kings Beach falls under California State Parks jurisdiction, which means you’ll need a Special Event Permit to elope there. You can apply for one through the California State Park’s official website (I’ve linked the application here for your convenience!).
- Cost: $317–$367 (cost varies depending on the permit)
Best wedding venues in Lake Tahoe:
Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting or something more elaborate, Lake Tahoe has countless options when it comes to wedding venues! A venue is particularly helpful if you’re expecting more than 15 guests and want an organizing force behind your reception.
These are just some of the amazing venues in the Lake Tahoe area:
- Zephyr Lodge at Northstar
- Cost: Starting at $25,000 (you can submit a request for a proposal and exact quote on the venue’s official website here!)
- Food & Beverage Minimum: Starting at $15,000
- Venue Package: Starting at $10,000 (includes ceremony site, decor, tables, dancefloor, gondola transportation, and more)
- Guest Count: 250 max
- Cost: Starting at $25,000 (you can submit a request for a proposal and exact quote on the venue’s official website here!)
- Rainbow Lodge
- Cost: Starting at $15,500 (cost varies depending on your date & guest count—you can submit an inquiry for an exact quote on the venue’s official website here!)
- Guest Count: 120 max
- Heavenly Lake Tahoe
- Cost: Starting at $13,000 (cost varies depending on your date & guest count—you can submit an inquiry for an exact quote on the venue’s official website here!)
- Guest Count: 170 max (dining room) & 80 max (cabin room)
- Palisades Tahoe
- Cost: Starting at $13,000 (cost varies depending on your date & guest count—you can submit an inquiry for an exact quote on the venue’s official website here or reach out to weddings@palisadestahoe.com for more wedding information!)
- High Camp
- April–May:
- $18,000 – $24,500
- June–September:
- $20,500 – $30,000
- October–December:
- $18,000 – $22,500
- April–May:
- OV Event Center
- January–May:
- $18,500 – $25,000
- June–September:
- $21,000 – $30,500
- October–December:
- $13,000 – $20,000
- January–May:
- Alpine Lodge
- July–October:
- $18,000 – $23,000
- July–October:
- Apex Lounge
- July–November 15th:
- $12,500 – $15,500
- July–November 15th:
- High Camp
- Guest Count: 250 max (varies depending on venue)
- High Camp: 175 max
- OV Event Center: 225 max
- Alpine Lodge: 250 max
- Apex Lounge: 60 max
- Cost: Starting at $13,000 (cost varies depending on your date & guest count—you can submit an inquiry for an exact quote on the venue’s official website here or reach out to weddings@palisadestahoe.com for more wedding information!)
The above information is accurate as of the writing of this guide in 2026, but I suggest double checking all the details with your chosen venue before you book anything. If you’re still not sure about what it is you’re looking for or just can’t decide on a place, I’m happy to share more recommendations and work with you to find a venue that feels 100% you.
How much does it cost to elope in Lake Tahoe?
With plenty of gorgeous spots that are completely free, the cost of eloping in Lake Tahoe can be as low as $57, which is just the cost of the marriage license in California (licenses on the Nevada side cost $102). What’s great about this area though, is that it ranges from totally free locations to show-stopping venues. There’s something for every budget and taste.
Beyond your chosen venue or elopement site, the total cost of your wedding will vary depending on your guest count, vendors, travel, etc. Most of the couples who hire me prioritize having an adventurous experience in a stunning location, which is why they typically invest a lot of their budget in photography to ensure every moment of it is captured and they can stay in the moment.
If you want to see a more detailed cost breakdown, you can check out my full cost of eloping guide here!
Activities to do during Lake Tahoe elopements:
Lake Tahoe is open year-round and features the best that both lake and mountain destinations have to offer, which means there is no shortage of activities to enjoy during your visit!
Here are some of my favorites in the Lake Tahoe area:
- Hiking the Rubicon Trail
- Exploring Sand Harbor State Park
- Hang gliding over Lake Tahoe
- Visiting Bonsai Rock
- Paddleboarding at Baldwin Beach
- Visiting Emerald Bay State Park
- Taking a cruise on the MS Dixie
- Skiing in Palisades
Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is the perfect place to explore California’s wilderness and soak in its natural beauty at the same time, making it a great option for couples who want their big day to feel like a fairytale come to life.
Lake Tahoe Elopement/Wedding Photos
Erin & Steven’s Lake Tahoe Summer Elopement
Erin & Steven wanted three things out of their elopement day:
- Beautiful views of the mountains & the lake,
- A day of being in their own bubble, and
- A first-look on a basketball court.
Immediately yes.
They had a full day together in Lake Tahoe and spent it perfectly split between exploring and spent every second of it determined to explore as much as possible. In a place like this, there’s no limit, so timeline curation in a thoughtful but exciting way was the name of the game.
After Erin got ready, they did their first look at the basketball court near their rental cabin. They met talking about basketball and their experience as both players and lovers of the sport. Steven is also a basketball coach, so their love of this sport is baked into their relationship and had to be represented on their wedding day!
They drove a little to a trailhead and then hiked up a short way to their first destination. Some people just hike to get somewhere, but Erin & Steven were practically playing. They raced each other down paths, swayed together near overlooks, and spent time looking at all the flora & fauna around.
Their destination was where they had their ceremony, complete with those views they wanted of both the Sierra Nevadas and the bright blue lake. They exchanged rings & personalized vows, popped champagne, and let the emotions really flow.
To celebrate, Erin & Steven headed to the beach, where they shared some snacks and time by the water (and where Steven got to show off his socks with his and Erin’s faces on them). They inflated a couple of paddleboards and explored the little bay they were in together for quite some time, just floating and enjoying the view.
Erin & Steven wrapped up their day by watching the sunset over the lake and mountains, first from a protected little rocky cove and then from the beach. Totally peaceful and perfectly clear. The best way to tend the day.












































































Hey I’m Maddie Mae
Lake Tahoe Elopement Photographer
If you’re looking for someone with years of experience photographing adventure elopements around the world, then look no further! I’ve been designing, planning, & photographing elopements for over a decade across 7 continents and more than 40 countries, so I can help you navigate the logistics of planning one for yourself and make sure it’s the most stress-free experience possible.

Lake Tahoe Elopement Packages
Contact me here to check my availability and for a free planning consultation—I promise to help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!
Always included:
8+ Hours of guided, fun photography coverage by Maddie Mae with relaxed sightseeing & exploring
The Adventure Instead Elopement Experience™
My travel costs are covered and included to anywhere in the U.S.A (including Alaska & Hawaii)
$9,800 for all of the above including 8-hours of photography
Full-day, multi-day, and custom packages available.
No added travel costs. No hidden fees of any kind.



























