Golden cliffs, Vietnamese traditions, and a casual cup of boba — this romantic beach elopement was the kind of story I live for as a Malibu elopement photographer. If you’re planning an elopement in Southern California with breathtaking views and laid-back vibes, this one’s for you.

Why Janice & Vu Eloped in Malibu

Janice and Vu are based in Nevada and knew they wanted something intimate and meaningful. A traditional wedding didn’t feel like them, so they decided to ditch the stress and plan a slow-paced day focused on connection, nature, and their shared culture. Malibu offered the perfect mix of golden hills, rugged coastline, and beautiful light — all within reach of a quick trip to California.

Malibu Elopement Timeline: Boba, Vows, and Sunset Views

We kicked things off at Malibu Boba, a local favorite that fit their personalities and cravings. I love starting with casual moments — it gets my couples relaxed and makes the photos feel more candid and true to life.

Afterward, we drove 10 minutes to Malibu Creek State Park, where Janice and Vu changed into their traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai using my portable privacy tent. We hiked to a quiet spot I had pre-scouted, with rolling hills and golden fields that framed their intimate vow exchange perfectly.

💡 Elopement Permits & Parking Info for Malibu Locations

If you’re planning a Malibu elopement, it’s important to know the permit and parking rules — especially at popular nature spots like state parks and beaches. Here’s what you need to know:

📍 How to Get Malibu Creek State Park Photo Permit

• Permit required for all professional photography — including elopements and engagements
• Apply through the California Film Commission with the Angeles District Film Office
• Submit at least 4 business days in advance
• Available Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to sunset (no weekends or holidays)
• 14 people max; no aquatics; stay on trails/roads; handheld gear only
• Fees: “Simple” events require a $100 non-refundable park review fee per date/location (due upon reservation)
• Parking: $15–$18 per space

📍 How to Get El Matador State Beach Photo Permit

• Managed by L.A. County Beaches & Harbors; permit required for any commercial or paid session
• Apply via CFC (same fees as above)
• Available Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to sunset (same permit rules as above)
• Parking: $3/hour or $10/day (lot fills quickly — arrive early or try free street parking along PCH)

👉 View CFC full permit guidelines

As your Malibu elopement photographer, I’ll walk you through the permit process and take care of the logistics — so you can just focus on enjoying your day!

Important: Dates and locations are first-come, first-served. Confirm availability with the Film Permit Coordinator Melony before submitting your application. For this and other permit-specific questions, contact her below:

Melony Light

Film Permit Coordinator – California State Parks, Angeles District

📞 (818) 880-0358 (Office) | (310) 699-1722 (Mobile)

📧 Melony.Light@parks.ca.gov

From Mountains to Coast: El Matador Beach Elopement Photos

Next, we headed to El Matador Beach — about 30 minutes away — where we timed their second portrait session for golden hour.

They explored the cliffs together, danced by the waves, and took a quiet moment to reflect before watching the sun dip below the horizon. I gave them a simple prompt: “Tell each other what you’re most looking forward to in married life.” It sparked raw emotions I was able to capture from a distance.

It was the perfect setting for a romantic beach elopement — quiet, golden, and full of heart.

As one of the most popular and scenic coastal spots in Southern California, El Matador Beach delivered everything you’d want in a Malibu elopement — epic cliffs, tidepools, and golden light that wrapped the whole day in warmth.

Sunset Lighting + Off-Camera Flash = Magic

As the sun dipped below the horizon, I pulled out my off-camera flash and lanterns. Most photographers pack it up at this point — but this is where I thrive. That warm glow mixed with editorial lighting gave us some of their favorite shots of the day.

This type of dramatic lighting is part of what makes working with a professional Malibu elopement photographer so valuable — especially when you want photos that look cinematic and feel like you.

How to Plan a Malibu Elopement Like This One

Here are a few things that made Janice & Vu’s elopement experience extra special — and tips you can use for planning your own:

• Split your day into two locations: Mountains + coast = the best of both worlds
• Plan your timing carefully: Sunset light in Malibu is magical, but traffic is not — allow buffer time!
• Include personal elements: Janice & Vu’s Ao Dai and their boba date made it feel more them
• Work with a Malibu elopement photographer: Someone who knows how to scout, guide, and capture those in-between moments (👋 What’s up! It’s me, Peter 3!)

Whether you’re planning a Malibu elopement or an intimate wedding in Malibu with just a handful of loved ones, this place offers endless dreamy possibilities.

Start Planning Your Malibu Elopement

If you’re dreaming of a romantic beach elopement on the California coast — with golden light, epic scenery, and zero stress — Malibu might be the perfect spot. I’m here to help you plan it all and document every meaningful moment.

Want to see what an all-day desert elopement with golden hour vows looks like? Check out Maria & Irvin’s intimate Joshua Tree elopement — complete with a lantern-lit picnic and unreal views.