Deception Pass State Park Elopement Guide
About Deception Pass Elopements
Deception Pass State Park is one of the most beautiful elopement locations in Washington State. Located just an hour and a half north of Seattle, this location is perfect for all elopements or intimate weddings. You can find everything in this park—from coves, to cliffsides, to private beaches, to secluded forests—this place has it all. This park has many options to have your most intimate and secluded wedding, with shy of 4,000 acres, there is a perfect spot for everyone here! This park is divided by a beautiful bridge crossing the sound, connecting Whidbey Island to Fidalgo and Anacortes. The Deception Pass beaches including West Beach, are absolutely breathtaking!
Why You Should Elope in Deception Pass
I love Deception Pass for elopements so much so that my wife and I eloped in Deception Pass in April of 2022. Yes, I may be biased, but this state park is one of the best places to elope in Washington.
3 Reasons Why Deception Pass is a Perfect Place for Your Washington Elopement:
It’s close to major cities. Unlike National Parks, you don’t have to worry about driving for several hours or finding lodging for your guests. There are many places for you and your guests (if you choose to have them) to stay without you having to worry.
It’s very accessible. My wife and I chose Deception Pass for our elopement since we wanted my 97 year-old grandmother to be able to be at our ceremony. We parked in Rosario beach, walked a quarter mile to the side of a cliff and said “I do” while our guests brought their camping chairs to witness. It was perfect! Don’t worry, there are MANY hills and private areas for those who want a “just us” experience or whose guests are able to hike a bit further.
It’s close to other adventures. Want to have a sunrise hot air balloon ride overlooking the Skagit Valley before heading over to Deception Pass? Or what about going on a whale tour in Anacortes or taking the ferry boat ride to Friday Harbor? Deception Pass is nestled between many locations where you could turn your elopement into a full-day adventure! The options are endless!
When to Elope in Deception Pass
Deception Pass is open and accessible year-round, making this location a perfect elopement destination in Washington during all seasons! Because this park is located in Washington, there is a higher chance of rain during the months of November-April. However, I eloped in April and found it to be absolutely magical! Do keep in mind that Bowman Bay Campground is closed during the off-season for camping (November-March), however the rest of the campgrounds in the state park are open for camping during the rest of the year. But because this park is close to the sound, the Deception Pass weather forecast is usually similar to the major surrounding cities.
Deception Pass Wedding Permits
As your (hopefully!) elopement photographer, I will make sure to obtain your Special Activities Permit for your wedding as well as the photography permit to make sure there are no obstacles between you and the epic landscape! If you want to learn more information and apply for a Special Activity Permit, click the link here. A $45 application fee will be required. Your photographer will have to apply for a $100 photography permit as well.
Lastly, you’ll need a Discover Pass to access any Washington State Park. You can purchase this $11.50 day pass or $30 annual pass at the entrance to the park. You may also purchase this pass in advance online by clicking the link here.
Where to Stay for Your Deception Pass Elopement
Because this park is so close to most major cities in Washington (e.g. Seattle, Everett, Bellingham), finding lodging near Deception Pass should not be stressful! Whidbey Island, located on the south side of the bridge, has beautiful local cabins, hotels, and hidden gems such as a treehouse where you can stay! Don’t forget that this state park has 4 locations to camp in as well!
If you need any recommendations on the best locations to stay for your elopement, I am always happy to provide lodging recommendations for you!
Our Deception Pass Elopement! Photo taken by Sierra Jessup
Deception Pass Elopement Packages
If you’re thinking of having your elopement at Deception Pass State Park (I highly recommend), then the next steps are to find your photographer to help you make that happen. Click the link below to learn more about elopement photography packages. Hint: it’s more than just amazing photos.
Deception Pass Elopement Photographer
Ready to elope in Deception Pass? As I’ve said, this location is one of the best places to elope in Washington and around the Seattle area. As your Washington elopement photographer, you can rest assured that I will help you plan and capture your Deception Pass elopement of your dreams. Feel free to email me at info@seatosummitphotos.com or fill out the contact form below and let’s create your dream wedding day!
