Stunning spots under $300 for heartfelt ceremonies and elopements
You don’t need a massive venue or a huge guest list to have an incredible wedding. Some of the most meaningful celebrations I’ve documented happened in small, quiet places with just a handful of people — and every single one felt unforgettable.
If you’re trying to plan a wedding in Vancouver on a tighter budget, there are actually some amazing locations around the city that you can book for under $300. These aren’t just “affordable” spots — they’re beautiful in their own right. Beaches. Forests. City views. If you care more about meaning than flash, this guide is for you.
I’ve photographed at a bunch of these places and can tell you what works, what to expect, and how to make each one feel just as special as a big venue.
Spanish Banks West Extension
Cost: ~$207 (1-hour permit for up to 10 people) + $61 application fee
Why I’d Recommend It:
If you want waves in the background, mountains in the distance, and sand under your feet — this is it. It’s quiet, open, and full of natural beauty. It’s great for couples who love the outdoors and want something that feels laid-back and personal.
Good to Know:
- No bathrooms or power nearby
- Small setup only — think 10 chairs max
Best For: Small elopements with a relaxed, breezy feel
Tommy’s Tip: Aim for golden hour. The light here at sunset? Unreal.
Jericho Beach Park – Centennial or Lookout Sit
Cost: ~$207 + $61 application fee
Why I’d Recommend It:
This is a great middle ground between beach and city. You get skyline views, sailboats in the background, and some grassy options if you want to avoid the sand.
Good to Know:
- Acoustic music only
- Some foot traffic but manageable
Best For: Couples who want a chill vibe, but don’t want to go too far from downtown
Tommy’s Tip: The lookout area is flatter and easier for older guests to get to.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Cost: ~$238 + $61 application fee
Why I’d Recommend It:
This is your spot if you want something that feels fancy but doesn’t break the bank. The gardens here are beautiful year-round, and the views of the city skyline are stunning.
Good to Know:
- No tents allowed
- Very popular in the summer
Best For: Romantic garden ceremonies on a budget
Tommy’s Tip: Book early. Or pick a weekday morning for fewer crowds and soft light.
Ferguson Point (Stanley Park)
Cost: ~$238 + $61 application fee
Why I’d Recommend It:
This spot has that “hidden gem” feeling. You’ve got the ocean, forest, and mountains all in one place — plus it’s right beside the Teahouse if you want to grab a meal after.
Good to Know:
- No amplified sound allowed
- Limited washrooms nearby
Best For: Intimate weddings with a timeless, West Coast vibe
Tommy’s Tip: Catch the sunset over English Bay. It’s next-level.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park (UBC)
Cost: ~$98 for 4-hour permit (via Metro Vancouver Parks)
Why I’d Recommend It:
This one’s for couples who just want to be alone in the forest, saying their vows with nothing but trees around them. It’s private, quiet, and full of that Pacific Northwest magic.
Good to Know:
- No facilities at all
- Not wheelchair accessible
Best For: True elopements where it’s just the two of you and nature
Tommy’s Tip: Let the forest be your décor. Keep things simple and meaningful.
Cleveland Dam Field (Capilano River Regional Park)
Cost: ~$100 for full-day permit (via Metro Vancouver Parks)
Why I’d Recommend It:
A wide open field with mountains, forest, and the dam all in one view — it’s quiet, beautiful, and perfect if you want a nature backdrop without the hike. Plus, you can invite more guests without spending more.
Good to Know:
Power and washrooms on-site
Chairs and tents allowed (you bring your own)
Book by phone/email — no online form
Best For: Micro-weddings with up to 125 guests in a West Coast setting
Tommy’s Tip: The Lions peaks behind the dam are epic for portraits — don’t skip a post-ceremony walk through the forest trails.
Quick Comparison Table
| Location | Best For | Cost | Vibe | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Banks | Beach lovers, casual elopements | ~$268 | Scenic + relaxed | Partial |
| Jericho Beach | Urban‑beach combo with views | ~$268 | Breezy + photo‑friendly | Moderate |
| Queen E. Park | Romantic gardens + city skyline | ~$299 | Lush + romantic | Good |
| Ferguson Point | Coastal micro‑weddings with elegance | ~$299 | Classic + private | Good |
| Pacific Spirit Forest | True elopements and quiet ceremonies | ~$98 | Peaceful + natural | Low |
| Cleveland Dam Field | Forest‑water‑mountain weddings, bigger groups | ~$100 | Stunning + versatile | Good |
Tips for Planning
- Apply early — Permits for spring/summer usually open in January and fill fast
- Have a rain plan — These are all outdoors and rain-or-shine
- Keep setup minimal — Most allow 10 chairs max. Bring your own arch or table if you want one
- No loud sound — Use a small Bluetooth speaker or keep it acoustic
- Leave no trace — Biodegradable items only, and always clean up fully
From One Romantic to Another
You don’t have to spend a lot to create something beautiful. The best weddings I’ve seen weren’t about money. They were about connection. About care.
These places? They’re perfect if you’re planning something intimate. They give you space to slow down, hold hands, and really take in the moment. You can still have incredible photos, meaningful memories, and a wedding day that feels true to who you are.
And if you’re not sure which one is right for you — just reach out. I’m happy to help you think through your options and guide you toward what fits best with your story.
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