How to Elope at Cape Flattery | Full Elopement Guide

As a photographer who mainly shoots along the Olympic Peninsula, I definitely have a collection of favorite venues to shoot at with my couples—Agate Beach Lodge, Misty Clover Farm, Fern Acres. . . the list goes on. One of my all-time favorite spots for a more adventurous elopement, though, has got to be Cape Flattery; with its dramatic scenery, towering sea stacks, and glorious sunsets, it’s by far one of the most breathtaking spots on the coast of Washington. I’ll be surprised if you haven’t fallen in love with it yourself by the end of this Cape Flattery elopement guide!

Where is Cape Flattery?

Cape Flattery is located in the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, situated in Clallam County, Washington. It is part of the Olympic National Park and is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and stunning ocean views. Cape Flattery is the point where the Strait of Juan de Fuca meets the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, cliffs, and sea stacks.

How to Get to Cape Flattery

From Neah Bay:

To reach Cape Flattery, you typically start from the town of Neah Bay, which is about 30 miles west of the cape. From Neah Bay, a scenic drive and a short hike lead to the Cape Flattery Trail, which provides access to several viewing platforms with panoramic views of the coastline and ocean. The trail offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area, including dense forests and the chance to spot wildlife such as seabirds and marine animals—I’ll dive a little deeper into key trail information later in this guide.

From Seattle:

To get to Cape Flattery from Seattle, start by heading west on I-90 and then merge onto I-5 North. From I-5, take the exit onto US-101 West, which will lead you toward the Olympic Peninsula. Continue on US-101, passing through towns such as Port Angeles as you make your way to the western part of the peninsula.

(P.S. Port Angeles itself is also an incredible place to tie the knot—check out Tiffany and Brett’s wedding here to see what I mean).

Once on US-101, turn onto WA-112 West, which will guide you to Neah Bay. This scenic route offers beautiful views of the forested landscape and coastline. When you arrive in Neah Bay, follow the local signs to reach the Cape Flattery Trailhead.

From the trailhead, you’ll embark on a hike along the Cape Flattery Trail. This relatively short hike, about 1.5 miles round-trip, takes you through coastal forest areas and leads to viewing platforms at Cape Flattery. The journey from Seattle to Cape Flattery covers approximately 130 miles and typically takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The hike provides stunning views of the rugged coastline and is a rewarding part of the trip.

Why Elope at Cape Flattery?

Eloping at Cape Flattery offers a unique and breathtaking experience, combining natural beauty with an intimate and personal setting. Here are several compelling reasons to consider Cape Flattery for your elopement:

Breathtaking natural beauty

Cape Flattery is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery, boasting rugged cliffs, huge sea stacks, and expansive ocean views. The striking landscape provides a breathtaking backdrop for your elopement, creating unforgettable and picturesque memories.

Seclusion & intimacy

Cape Flattery’s remote location and natural environment offer a sense of privacy and seclusion, allowing for a more intimate and personal ceremony away from the hustle and bustle of traditional wedding venues. The peaceful surroundings ensure a tranquil and meaningful experience from start to finish; you won’t have to worry about being surrounded by crowds during your ceremony. Especially if you are able to elope on a weekday, in the shoulder seasons, or in the early morning before too many other visitors show up!

Unique & dramatic backdrops

The unique geography of Cape Flattery, where the Strait of Juan de Fuca meets the Pacific Ocean, provides several dramatic backdrops for your elopement photos. The combination of vast ocean views, rugged cliffs, and lush forests creates a variety of stunning scenes to capture your special moments. You’ll truly never run out of spots to take photos on your elopement day and to create unique, unforgettable memories together, and the diverse landscapes will make for a gorgeous gallery telling the story of your day!

Connection to nature

For couples who feel a deep connection to nature, Cape Flattery offers an opportunity to celebrate your union in a pristine and unspoiled setting. The natural beauty of the area complements a love for the outdoors and creates a harmonious and serene atmosphere for your ceremony. What better place to exchange your vows than amidst some of the most phenomenal landscapes in Washington, surrounded by lush trees and jaw-dropping coastal views?

The perfect place for adventure & exploration

Eloping at Cape Flattery automatically allows you to incorporate adventure into your celebration, since the viewpoint requires a short hike! The trail to the viewpoint, surrounded by coastal forest and diverse wildlife, adds an element of exploration and excitement to your elopement. It’s an amazing opportunity to combine your wedding with a memorable outdoor experience, no matter the season.

Romance in the air

The stunning sunsets and the vast, open ocean create such a romantic and awe-inspiring atmosphere, it’ll be impossible for you not to feel the love everywhere you go. Cape Flattery’s beauty provides a perfect setting for a romantic and heartfelt elopement, making your special day even more memorable!

An easy place to create unforgettable experiences

Choosing Cape Flattery for your elopement ensures a unique and unforgettable experience. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, intimate settings, and natural beauty makes it a standout location that will remain a cherished part of your love story.

Overall, Cape Flattery offers a truly unparalleled setting for elopements, blending natural splendor with a personal and intimate atmosphere, ensuring a memorable and meaningful celebration of your love. The Washington Coast, as a whole, is without a doubt one of the most spectacular parts of the Pacific Northwest, offering a wide range of picturesque landscapes that make for the perfect backdrop for any adventure elopement. Be sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Planning a Washington Coast Elopement for more on this incredible elopement destination!

Cape Flattery Elopement FAQ’s

Is Cape Flattery located on a reservation?

Yes, Cape Flattery is located within the Makah Indian Reservation. The reservation is home to the Makah Tribe, who have lived in this area for thousands of years. Cape Flattery is a significant cultural and historical site for the Makah people and is part of their traditional lands.

Visitors to Cape Flattery are asked to respect the cultural and natural resources of the area. Access to the trailhead and the viewpoint typically requires a small fee, which helps support the preservation and maintenance of the site. The Makah Tribe manages the area, and their efforts ensure that Cape Flattery remains a beautiful and meaningful location for both visitors and the local community.

Do you need a permit to visit Cape Flattery?

Yes, you will need to get a Makah Recreation Permit for $20 per vehicle in order to park at and visit the Makah Indian Nation. The Cape Flattery Trail, leading to the viewpoint, is well-maintained, and the permit helps contribute to the upkeep of the trail and surrounding environment. It’s a good idea to check with the Makah Tribe or the Makah Visitor Center for the most current information on permits, fees, and any additional regulations before your visit.

You can purchase this permit at the Makah Visitor Center in Neah Bay, which is the gateway to Cape Flattery. The visitor center provides information about the area and ensures that visitors are aware of the guidelines and regulations for enjoying the site respectfully. Once you have your permit, it will be valid for a year—so if you plan to visit again within that same year, you won’t need to buy another one!

How long does it take to hike Cape Flattery?

The hike to Cape Flattery is approximately 1.5 miles round-trip. The trail is relatively short and takes most hikers about 30 to 45 minutes to complete, depending on pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views along the way.

The hike is considered easy to moderate in difficulty, with a well-maintained path that leads through coastal forest to several viewing platforms overlooking the dramatic cliffs and ocean. You’ll only gain around 200 feet of elevation throughout the trail, making it a hike that’s great for hikers of all levels, including kids and dogs (on leash). The trail provides stunning views of the rugged coastline and is a rewarding experience with breathtaking scenery at the end.

Where are the best spots for wedding photos at Cape Flattery?

Cape Flattery provides a variety of stunning locations for photography, each offering unique views of the dramatic coastline and the Pacific Ocean! The viewing platforms along the Cape Flattery Trail are excellent for panoramic shots of the rugged cliffs and sea stacks, showcasing the meeting point of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Pacific Ocean. These platforms offer expansive and breathtaking views that are perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the area, and are fairly easy to access for the majority of people.

The headlands themselves present a striking backdrop with their sheer cliffs and vast ocean views for days. The rugged terrain and dramatic natural features make for dynamic and eye-catching images. Nearby sea stacks and rock formations also serve as compelling focal points in photos, with their unique shapes contrasting against the open ocean.

The coastal forest along the trail adds a beautiful contrast to the open ocean vistas. This lush greenery can provide depth and texture to your photos, capturing the richness of the natural environment. For those interested in capturing the magical colors of the sky and ocean, visiting during the golden hour or sunset can enhance your images with warm, romantic light.

Additionally, Cape Flattery is home to diverse wildlife, including seabirds and marine animals. Including these creatures in your photos can add a layer of interest and highlight the area’s vibrant ecosystem. Each of these locations at Cape Flattery offers a variety of stunning and memorable photographic opportunities.

Best Time of Year to Elope at Cape Flattery

What is the weather like at Cape Flattery?

The weather at Cape Flattery can be quite variable and is heavily influenced by its coastal location. Here’s an overview of what to expect for your Cape Flattery elopement:

Temperature

Cape Flattery experiences relatively mild temperatures year-round. Summers are generally cool to mild, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 13-18°C). Winters are cooler, with temperatures often ranging from the upper 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 3-8°C).

Precipitation

Cape Flattery is known for its high levels of precipitation, especially in the fall and winter months. Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months generally being from October to March. I recommend preparing for rain and potentially muddy conditions if you’re hiking or exploring during these times, and making sure to pack appropriately! You’ll also want to have backup plans in place, just in case the weather is bad enough that you can’t spend a ton of time exploring the area.

Fog and Mist

Fog and mist are also common at Cape Flattery, particularly in the spring and summer. These conditions can create a mystical atmosphere and can affect visibility, so it’s good to be prepared for potentially foggy weather that may impact your views and photos. I personally love a little bit of fog along the Washington Coast; it creates such a moody, magical atmosphere for romantic elopement portraits!

Wind

Being on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Cape Flattery can experience strong winds, especially during stormy weather or in the winter. Windy conditions can make the temperature feel colder, so bringing layers and wind-resistant clothing is recommended no matter what time of year you elope—you can never know what to expect in the PNW.

Seasonal Variations

In general, summer offers the best chance for clearer weather and more stable conditions, while fall and winter can be more unpredictable with rain, fog, and occasional storms. Spring can be variable as well, with a mix of clear and rainy days. Overall, it’s important to check the weather forecast before heading to Cape Flattery and to be prepared for changing conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience!

What is the best season to elope at Cape Flattery?

Even though the trail is open daily, year-round, the best season to get married at Cape Flattery largely depends on your preferences for weather and scenery. Each season offers its own distinct advantages and disadvantages:

Summer

Summer is often considered the best time for a wedding at Cape Flattery. During this season, the weather is generally milder and more stable, with less rain and warmer temperatures. This makes for a comfortable outdoor ceremony and provides clearer views of the dramatic coastline. Summer also offers longer daylight hours, which can be beneficial for both the ceremony and photography—plus it gives you extra time to explore the area, whether you’re eloping at sunrise or sunset, or having an all-day celebration!

Spring

Spring can also be a lovely time for a wedding at Cape Flattery, as the coastal environment begins to bloom and greenery is vibrant! However, be prepared for occasional rain and fog. Spring offers a fresh and picturesque setting, with fewer crowds compared to summer, so you’ll likely have more privacy for your ceremony and portraits.

Fall

Fall provides beautiful scenery with the changing colors of the landscape, though it can be quite rainy and windy. If you enjoy a more dramatic and moody atmosphere, fall might be appealing. Just be prepared for less predictable weather and the possibility of more precipitation.

Winter

Winter at Cape Flattery is cooler and wetter, with a much higher chance of storms and fog than any other season. While it can offer a unique and serene atmosphere, the weather conditions can be challenging. If you’re looking for a quieter and more intimate experience with fewer tourists, winter could be an option, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially harsh weather!

To recap, summer is generally the most favorable time for a wedding at Cape Flattery due to its more predictable weather and clearer views. However, each season offers its own charm, so consider what aspects of the environment and weather are most important to you for your special day, and think about what kind of experience you’re envisioning!

Where to Stay Near Cape Flattery

Neah Bay has plenty of cozy lodging and accommodations available for your stay in the area, whether you’d prefer a beachside resort or a charming, private Airbnb in the woods. Below is a list of a few great accommodations near Cape Flattery that I think would be perfect for your elopement:

8 Fun Ideas for Your Cape Flattery Elopement

Looking for ways to fill your time when you’re in Neah Bay for your elopement? Here are a few fun things to do near Cape Flattery that would be great to add into your elopement timeline!

1. Go whale watching

2. Visit Shi Shi Beach

3. Go camping at the Cape Resort

4. Explore Neah Bay

5. Go surfing, or paddle boarding at Hobuck Beach

6. Visit the Makah Cultural and Research Center

7. Go bird watching along the cliffs

8. Kayak along Lake Ozette

Cape Flattery Elopement Vendors

Finding the right vendors is essential to having a stress-free, unforgettable elopement experience. Below is a list of the vendors you’ll want to be sure to hire for your Cape Flattery elopement, along with a few recommendations of my own:

Officiant
- - Linda G. Perry: Offers non-denominational services and custom ceremonies.
  - All Seasons Weddings: Provides flexible officiant services for elopements and small weddings.

Florals
- - A&E Floral
  - Farm & Flower
  - Fullness of Joy

Hair & makeup
- - It’s Likely Makeup by Min
  - Liz Kellerman HMUA
  - Kayla Scheffer Hair

Apparel

Food

Cape Flattery Elopement Photographer

Can you tell yet why I always recommend Cape Flattery as an elopement location to my couple who want to elope on the Olympic Peninsula? I’ll truly never get over the natural beauty of the area and the incredible array of unique experiences and opportunities it has to offer for adventure elopements. Reach out to me about your Cape Flattery elopement now and tell me your vision—I can’t wait to hear all about it!

Here are a few additional resources I think you’ll find helpful in planning your western Washington elopement: