While the title says Mystic Beach elopement, Simone & Mark’s day took place in a variety of places including Jordan River and Bilston Creek Lavender Farm in Sooke. Just as so many other couples this year, the pandemic caused a swift change of plans for their day. But these two didn’t let that keep them from having an absolutely stunning day eloping in british columbia!

A couple walks down a beach hand in hand with cliffs in the background at mystic beach on Vancouver Island BC

Originally Simone and Mark’s plans were to elope in May somewhere in greater Victoria, with their two closest friends. But with a combination of COVID, and the discovery of new places on the island, it evolved into a beautiful July beach elopement in the Jordan River area. Their dinner plans even changed as the pizza place nearby wasn’t open on Wednesdays. Don’t worry though, they did not have to settle and ended up dining at the Bilston Creek Lavender Farm.

The day started in a beautiful wood cabin Airbnb big enough so they could get ready separately. They decided to have the ceremony in the woods behind the cabin, but what Simone didn’t know was that Mark and their friends were building a surprise arch for them to get married under. After getting dressed and ready to go, Simone discovered the beautiful arch on her way to see Mark at their first look. It was touching to see how she immediately got emotional, and you could tell the reality of the day was really setting in. After their first look on the little bridge above a dried creek bed, they set up the ceremony in the deep forest and said personal vows which left them both in a puddle of happy tears. Everyone celebrated with cookies & champagne, and after freshening up in back at the cabin, we headed off to Mystic Beach!

Their three friends were very gracious and hiked the whole way with us, taking photos along the way in the beautiful forest, and enjoying the sunshine and the sound of the waves at the beach. Since it was a weekday, there weren’t too many people around, but enough that they got a couple of exclamations of “congratulations” from tourists.

After enjoying the beauty, we meandered back to the car and drove to Bilston Creek Lavender Farm, where they had arranged for a private dinner outside among the field of flowers. Though this place is very visually beautiful, seeing pictures of it is not enough. The buzzing of the bees, the smell of the fresh lavender, and the feeling of the warm evening sun on your skin make this place probably one of the most sensually pleasing places I have ever been to. If you’re in the Sooke or Victoria area, this place is a must.

The group took some pictures around the property and settled into a catered dinner outside as the sun slowly set behind the barn. I couldn’t imagine a more perfect way to conclude the day!

Tips for eloping in the area:

Google Maps is Wrong (sort of): When you type in “mystic beach” it will simply take you to a section of road that is closest to the beach as the crow flies. We learned this the hard way when scouting the day before, and this is exactly why I check out locations beforehand. The correct way to get there is by starting at the China Beach parking lot or the Juan de Fuca Trailhead (Southeast). However, there is another way, which brings me to my next point!
Take the Shortcut: As I mentioned, initially I was very confused about how to get to the beach, but by talking to some people at the China Beach parking lot, I found there was a shorter way to get there, which is what I recommend starting. If you drive just past the entrance to China Beach parking lot, you will go over a small bridge that goes over a creek. Park on the west side of the road, and there should be a small trail that starts in the same area. A little way down the trail there will be a crossroads. By going straight, you’ll get to the beach, but if you go left, within a couple of minutes you’ll reach the suspension bridge which is worth the detour! Then retrace your steps and go left to go towards the beach. The walk-in is about 45 minutes, and goes down in elevation a decent amount, so be prepared to climb stairs on your way back!
Consider the Time of Year: While the beach is beautiful, the main reason you’re wanting to see this beach is probably because of the waterfall. While summer is great for weather, it’s not great for the water supply, so to get a more beautiful flow of water coming down the cliff, Spring is usually the best time. This elopement was at the end of July, and there was very little water coming down, to the point where the falls were almost non-existent.
Beware of the Area’s Logistics: Jordan River is very beautiful, but be aware that there is no service in the area, as well as no gas stations or grocery stores. This can make for a beautiful secluded getaway but be prepared by stocking up beforehand and booking accommodations with good wifi. Another idea is to stay in Sooke and travel in to celebrate in the beautiful setting.

How to Elope on Mystic Beach:

Pick a Date: I always recommend weekdays as you’ll have the best shot at a private area.
Research the Area: Since Jordan River is a little remote, it’s always great to look into the area to get your bearings so there are no surprises later.
Book your Lodging: Find a cute place in the forest or along the water to get ready and maybe have your first look!
Book your Officiant: When inquiring with officiants, see if they are willing to make the trek down to the beach. If not, consider making it officiant or signing the papers beforehand, and saying your vows on the beach instead.
Plan some Awesome Activities for the Day: Need some inspiration? Check out my post HERE for ideas!
Have the best day!