Why Cathedral Beach Is Perfect for Intimate Yosemite Weddings
If you're dreaming of a wedding day that feels peaceful, wildly beautiful, and rooted in nature, Cathedral Beach in Yosemite National Park might be exactly what you're looking for. Tucked along the Merced River with breathtaking views of El Capitan rising high above, this quiet spot is one of the most stunning and romantic places in the park.
As a Yosemite elopement photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to witness couples exchange vows here in every season — and every time, it feels like something out of a dream. Here’s why Cathedral Beach is one of my favorite locations for intimate weddings and elopements in Yosemite.
Unmatched Scenery Without the Crowds
Yosemite is known for its dramatic granite cliffs and towering waterfalls, but many of the park's most famous spots can be packed with people, especially during peak months. Cathedral Beach offers that same iconic Yosemite beauty without the overwhelming crowds.
Here, the views of El Capitan are front and center. You get open space, towering trees, and reflections dancing across the river — all while feeling like you have the place to yourselves.
A Perfect Setting for Ceremonies
Whether you're planning a two-person elopement or a small gathering with your closest people, Cathedral Beach provides a peaceful and natural setting for a wedding ceremony. The open riverside space makes it easy to set up a little spot for vows, and the surrounding trees offer a sense of privacy and calm.
The scale of Cathedral Beach is perfect for weddings of ten to twenty people. The riverbank is wide enough for a small seating arrangement yet feels cozy and connected to the landscape. Towering pine trees create a natural ceremony arch, and dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, casting a warm glow on your celebration.
Easy to Access Yet Feels Remote
One of the best things about Cathedral Beach is that it’s easy to get to without feeling overly exposed or touristy. There’s a parking area nearby, and the beach itself is just a short walk from the road, which is ideal for couples who want the look of a remote adventure wedding without needing to hike for miles in formalwear.
This makes it especially convenient for couples who may be bringing a few guests along or want to include older family members in their day.
While Cathedral Beach feels tucked away, it is only a ten minute drive from Yosemite Valley. There is ample parking nearby and a short walk to the riverbank. This makes it easy to coordinate your ceremony and portraits with minimal travel time. Your small group can gather at a vacation rental or lodge in nearby El Portal or Wawona and arrive together for your riverside vows.
A Photographer’s Dream
Cathedral Beach offers so much variety in one location — you have forested paths, river views, wide open sandy areas, and that incredible rock wall backdrop. It also photographs beautifully in every season, from wildflower-filled spring to crisp golden fall.
As your photographer, I’ll guide you to the best lighting, angles, and spots so we make the most of the area without ever feeling rushed or crowded.
Tips for Planning Your Cathedral Beach Wedding
• Reserve Early
Permits for Yosemite weddings are limited. Apply several months in advance and specify your preference for Cathedral Beach as your ceremony site.
• Book Time Wisely
Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds and capture the best light for photos.
• Keep It Small
Cathedral Beach is ideal for intimate gatherings of up to twenty people. For larger groups, consider additional space away from the riverbank for a reception.
• Dress for the Outdoors
The terrain is sandy and uneven. Choose footwear that is comfortable for walking on river sand and nearby trails.
The area is open seasonally, usually late spring through fall, depending on snow and road closures
Real Talk: Your Day, Your Way
One of the reasons I love Cathedral Beach so much is that it allows couples to create a day that is fully their own. You can keep it as simple as reading vows by the water, or bring a picnic, take a canoe ride, or follow it up with a champagne toast in the forest.
Yosemite has a way of slowing everything down. When you're standing next to your person with the sound of the river behind you and granite walls towering above, everything else fades away.
Let’s Plan Something Incredible
If Cathedral Beach feels like your kind of wedding vibe, I would love to help you bring it all to life. From helping you choose the right time of day to securing your permit and planning your timeline, I’ve got you covered.
Reach out here to start planning your Yosemite wedding or elopement: Contact Me
You deserve a wedding day that feels peaceful, personal, and full of beauty — and Cathedral Beach might be the perfect place to make it happen.
Want more resources to plan your perfect Yosemite elopement?
Check out these other blogs I’ve written that can help give you even more ideas and inspiration:
-How Connie and Max Had an Intimate Yosemite Elopement and a Big Wedding—And You Can Too
-Romantic Yosemite Cabins with Perfect Light for Getting Ready Photos
-How to Include Stargazing in Your Yosemite Elopement (And Why You Should)
