Love the idea of a beach wedding, but not so keen on actually being on the beach? Think: surprise high tides, large crowds, and SAND! I hear ya. Crescent Bay Point Park in Laguna Beach is the perfect spot for couples who want those breathtaking ocean views without the sandy shoes and curious beachgoers watching from their towels. Wedding season is just getting started, and I can’t think of a better way to kick off busy season than by going to Crescent Bay Point Park in Laguna Beach to document an intimate and beautiful wedding celebration! Here’s everything you need to know about planning a wedding at the lovely Crescent Bay Point Park!

Finalize a Date and Time

Between Labor Day (September) and Memorial Day Weekend (May), weddings are permitted at most of the city’s parks and beaches. Weddings at Crescent Bay Point Park are not permitted on Sundays or holidays. Make sure to plan accordingly!

Adriana and Joseph’s wedding, which is featured in the photos from this post, took place in late April. The morning started a bit chilly, but as the day went on, the sun broke through, warming up a lot. I got a pretty gnarly farmer’s tan! During the spring, crowd levels are lower and parking is a bit easier to find, though it does start to get crowded around sunset time. If you’re considering a spring ceremony, it’s one of the sweet spots before summer fully kicks in.

Permits in Laguna Beach: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re planning a full wedding or just a quick couples session, a permit is required anywhere in Laguna Beach if you plan on having a professional photographer take photos. Even if it’s just your aunt with a nice camera snapping a few shots, if the state park ranger sees professional gear in use, they may stop you and ask to see a valid permit. Be sure to secure the $100 professional still photo permit ahead of time.

On top of obtaining a photo permit, you will need a beach wedding permit if you plan to host a wedding ceremony anywhere in Laguna Beach. The fee for Crescent Bay Point Park is $543, while the other beaches and parks are $437 for 2 consecutive hours. Keep in mind that only up to 50 attendees are allowed at most of the locations!

While some photographers have shared that they’ve managed to get through sessions in Laguna Beach without a permit, it’s not something I’d recommend. Sure, you might get lucky. You also might not. Imagine being in the middle of your vows only to have a ranger interrupt… or worse, ask you to pack up and leave. Even worse? Getting slapped with a fine. That would be a real mood killer.

Wedding permits, especially at Crescent Bay Point Park, can be snatched up relatively quickly, so it’s best to apply for a permit as soon as possible. If you need help navigating the permit process or reaching out to the City of Laguna Beach about availability, I’m more than happy to assist with that!

A Couple Quick Notes

• Keep it simple! The city’s website states: “You may not set up tables, chairs, archways, or structures for the wedding.”
• Hydrate with water, but celebrate with some champagne after your ceremony. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted at a city park or beach.
• Consider lighter fabrics for your wedding attire. Linen, chiffon, or other breathable materials will help keep you cool and comfortable, especially as the day warms up.
• Bring a Bluetooth speaker to play your special walk down the aisle song.
• Have fun with it! There are numerous ways to get creative with the aesthetics of your ceremony at Crescent Bay Park. SO many possibilities.

If you decide to celebrate your special day at Crescent Bay Point Park in Laguna Beach, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. After reading this blog post, you should feel ready to start planning (and applying for your wedding permit) at this dreamy Laguna Beach venue.

Have any questions, need help with the permit process, or are looking for a photographer who knows the ins and outs of this location? I’d love to chat!