How to Elope in BC

You’ve decided to elope in BC but not sure how to start? Whether you’re coming to British Columbia to elope from another country, or you get to call BC home, this guide will walk you through all of the steps to make your elopement easy.

I’ve been fortunate to have grown up in Alberta and been able to travel and explore BC a lot due to it’s close proximity. I can’t wait to share some tips and tricks not typically thought of when travelling to BC.

Ready to start planning your elopement right now?

Table of Contents:

1. How to make your wedding legal in BC
2. The best time of year to elope in BC
3. The most stunning places in BC for your elopement
4. What permits you may need to elope in BC
5. What to do in BC
6. British Columbia elopement packages

Can we Legally Elope in BC?

Yes! You do not need to be a resident of Canada or BC to legally get married in BC. There are a few requirements you’ll need to complete though if you are wanting to get married in BC:

1. Apply for a marriage license at a Marriage License Issuer within 3 months of your wedding date

Only one of you needs to be present, but you will need to show primary identification for both you and your partner (birth certificate, passport, etc.)

Costs $100 and is non-refundable

If either party has been divorced you may need a document that shows the divorce has been finalized

2. Hire a Marriage Commissioner

You can find the cost of hiring a marriage commissioner here, and also a list for you to search from

If you’re non-religious I’d recommend asking the marriage commissioner you’re interested in hiring if they offer a non-religious ceremony

3. Choose 2 adult witnesses

Not planning on bringing anyone else to your elopement? As a photographer I can be a witness, and for an additional cost I can also provide another witness too!

3. Register your Marriage

The marriage commissioner should submit your registration within 48 hours of your wedding to Vital Statistics. Once you’re marriage is on record you’ll then be mailed a copy of your marriage certificate.

Traveling from abroad and want to simplify your elopement process? Consider legally getting married in your home country, then hosting a symbolic ceremony in BC. This allows you to focus on the celebration without worrying about paperwork. For tips on planning a destination wedding that apply to eloping too, check out my guide! If you’re a BC resident, though, you’ll need to complete the legal steps locally—there’s no skipping them!

When is the Best Time to Elope in BC?

Summer

Summer in BC can vary depending on where in BC you will be eloping. Golden for example will have different seasonal length than Tofino or Vancouver. A good rule of thumb though is that summer is from June – August.

Osoyoos (Canada’s only official desert) for example is extremely hot in the summertime and has a very mild winter. The past few years BC has unfortunately been hit by several small and large wildfires, and so this is a potential risk when eloping in the summer (the smoke can make those views much harder to see).

Fall

The fall in BC seems to last a lot longer than it does in Alberta! BC can experience fall between September – early November (again location dependent). It is a great time to elope since peak season is over and it’s still warm, but not unbearably hot.

The colours of the trees being reflected in the mountainous lakes and oceans is a beautiful sight as well!

Winter

BC winters are great if you don’t mind rain or snow, and is typically from November – March! If you don’t mind rain stick to the west side of the province, and if you’d prefer snow then go to the east or north of BC. Rain can be incredible for helping set the mood of your day, when movies need to have more emotional impact you’ll notice it is probably also raining. Running around in the rain on your wedding day will for sure be something you will remember for the rest of your lives!

Snow on the other hand coats the trees, the lakes, and everything you see and creates a beautiful backdrop! While it is cold, you can get dressed up for different activities and still enjoy the beautiful scenery. Imagine hopping on a dog sled tour going through the mountains to a remote spot where you two can say your vows to each other!

Spring

While BC still has rain and melting snow during this season (typically April and May), the budding flowers and greenery springing back-up makes it stunning! If you’ve never seen cherry blossoms, nows the time! Fun fact, Japan gifted Vancouver hundreds of cherry blossoms to be placed in Stanley Park in honour of Japanese Canadians who served in World War I.

The 10 Best Places to Elope in BC

Tofino

If you’re dreaming of a west coast elopement, Tofino is the perfect spot to elope in BC! It’s a small town located on Vancouver Island and is known for its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and ancient rainforests. Tofino is ideal for anyone who loves the sound of waves crashing and don’t mind a little mist or rain—it’s part of the charm! Some popular spots for a Tofino elopement include Chesterman Beach, Cox Bay, and the boardwalk trails of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. For an extra special touch, consider booking a cozy cabin overlooking the ocean for your celebration.

Whistler

Known worldwide as a ski resort, Whistler is also a magical place to elope in BC, whether it’s summer or winter! With breathtaking mountain views, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and luxurious accommodations, Whistler has something for everyone. In the summer, Lost Lake and Rainbow Park offer incredible outdoor settings, while in the winter, you can exchange vows surrounded by snow-covered trees. If you’re wanting a bit of adventure then a helicopter ride to a secluded mountain peak for your ceremony is an unforgettable experience.

Pemberton

Just a short drive north of Whistler, Pemberton is a hidden gem if you’re wanting to elope somewhere more unique and less visited in BC. This small, peaceful town is surrounded by towering mountains, sprawling farmland, and serene lakes. The natural beauty here feels untouched and secluded, making it a perfect spot for an intimate ceremony. You could elope by the shores of One Mile Lake, amidst the wildflowers in the Pemberton Meadows, or even at the base of Nairn Falls.

Sea to Sky Gondola

Looking for an epic view for your elopement? The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish offers jaw-dropping vistas that make it one of the best places to elope in BC. After a short ride up the gondola, you’ll find yourself surrounded by panoramic views of Howe Sound, jagged mountain peaks, and lush forests. Whether you want to elope on the suspension bridge, at the summit lodge, or on one of the nearby trails, the scenery here is hard to beat!

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Golden Ears Provincial Park is one of BC’s most stunning natural areas and a fantastic choice for couples looking to elope in BC. The park is known for its towering cedar and fir trees, dramatic mountain landscapes, and serene lakes. Alouette Lake is a popular spot with its glassy waters and mountain backdrop, while the Gold Creek Falls trail offers a magical forest setting. This park is perfect if you’re wanting to feel completely immersed in nature!

Squamish

Dubbed the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” Squamish offers incredible opportunities to elope in BC. This town is a haven for adventure-loving couples, with options like eloping at the base of the iconic Stawamus Chief, beside the serene waters of Alice Lake, or overlooking Shannon Falls. Squamish also boasts some unique venues, like rustic lodges or industrial-style spaces with a mountain view.

Strathcona Provincial Park

As BC’s oldest provincial park, Strathcona is a breathtaking spot to elope in BC anyone who loves rugged wilderness. Located on Vancouver Island, this park is filled with dramatic mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and waterfalls. Some popular locations include Buttle Lake, which is easily accessible, or Della Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada (if you’re up for an adventurous hike!). It’s a place where your elopement will feel like a true escape into nature.

Osoyoos

If you’re dreaming of a warm and sunny elopement, Osoyoos in BC’s wine country might be the perfect destination. Known for its desert landscape, sandy beaches, and vineyards, it offers a unique backdrop for your ceremony. Consider exchanging vows by Osoyoos Lake, in a lush vineyard, or even on a mountaintop overlooking the valley. Afterward, you can celebrate with a wine tasting at one of the area’s many wineries.

Emerald Lake Lodge

Tucked away in Yoho National Park just west of Alberta/BC border, Emerald Lake Lodge is a dream location to elope in BC. This secluded lodge sits on the edge of a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. Whether you choose to have your ceremony on the dock, in the cozy lodge, or on one of the trails around the lake, the natural beauty here is unforgettable. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness.

Bella Coola

If you’re looking for something less known and even more off-the-beaten-path place to elope in BC, Bella Coola offers a sense of wild, untouched beauty. This remote valley is surrounded by towering mountains, lush rainforests, and pristine rivers. It’s an incredible spot if you love adventure—think remote lodges, glacier views, or ceremonies by the fjords. Bella Coola is also home to rich Indigenous culture, adding a meaningful element to your elopement experience.

Do we need permits to elope in BC?

Every provincial park and area has different rules regarding permits needed to elope in BC, so you will need to contact the park to ask what is required. All of BC’s parks are listed here, and from there you can find the contact information for whichever park you decide on.

Emerald Lake Lodge requires a national park pass to visit, which can be purchased online in advance or at a parks office. If you’re travelling with anyone you’ll need the “family pass” as an adult pass will only cover one person in the vehicle. Day pass tickets can be purchased here, and a year park pass can be purchased here (recommended if you’re visiting any/multiple parks for more than 6 days in 1 year). The park pass will cover your entry into any and all of the national parks.

What can we all do during our BC elopement?

There are so many incredible things you can do if you choose to elope in BC! Here’s some ideas to get you started:

Go on a 4×4 tour up a mountain not easily accessible to the public

Hike up a mountain

Grab some surf boards and go surfing at one of the beautiful beaches in Tofino

Hop on a gondola to get views without the trek

Go rock climbing in Squamish

Go camping and try your luck at fishing while you’re there

Snowboard or ski at the world famous Whistler Blackcomb mountain resort

Hop on a helicopter and enjoy the views with a bottle of champagne

Hire a private chef to prepare a few amazing meals for you two

Are you ready to start planning your dream elopement in BC?

I’m Brittany, an intimate wedding and elopement photographer who specializes in weddings worldwide. Take a peek to see what I offer in every elopement package.