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Q. I would like to get married on one of the Coastside beaches. Any problem? A. Good for you! The beaches on the Coastside are spectacular. No problems, but certain requirements.  We must submit an application to the State Beaches District office to obtain a Small Wedding Permit (less than 50 guests / no reception on beach) costing, at present, $75. For beach weddings, we must contact Vera Sayfer (charming and most helpful) at 650.726-8819. You can download a copy of the Small Beach Application here  (pdf file) to print out, which we would then submit to the Half Moon Bay District office. For larger weddings (50 to 150), we must contact Craig Holden (a truly helpful event coordinator for the State Beaches and Parks).   As I am quite familiar with the process and am in regular contact with both Vera and Craig, I would be more than happy to assist you in the application process at no charge. Note: State Beach regulations and fees are subject to change without notice. As of October, 2005, the following are in effect (but do call for updates): Small Weddings: (less than 50): contact: Vera Sayfer, HMB State Beach Office: 650.726-8819 Large Weddings (50 on up): contact: Craig Holden, Santa Cruz District Office: 831.335.3455 Weddings are prohibited on all bluffs and dunes and on:

Francis State Beach Venice SB Pebble Beach (near Bean Hollow SB) However, weddings are permissible on: Montara SB (limited parking) Mc Nee Ranch (limited parking) Roosevelt/Naples SB Dunes SB San Gregorio SB Pomponio SB Bean Hollow SB

Snowy Plover Charadrius alexandrinus

Note: Due to the sighting and/or nesting of Snowy Plovers (an endangered shore bird) anywhere on these beaches, barriers may be erected at any time to protect their habitat, thus preventing weddings in that particular area. Always check with the State Beach staff, Vera or Craig, beforehand.

Fees and regulations: Small Weddings: Less than 50 people: $75. * No alcohol * Minimal venue impact: no set -up (only walk-on, walk-off) * No decorations, chairs, or structures * No balloons, rice, birdseed, confetti, or plants going to seed * One hour or less * Ceremony and pictures only - no reception * Day use fees charged for all vehicles entering the parks/beaches

Q. Any suggestions about beach weddings? A. While outdoor weddings are incredibly beautiful in such dramatic and natural surroundings, do take into account the following: Coastside weather can change quickly You may want to arrange an indoors backup site just in case, if the weather decides not to cooperate. Do consider the advantages of a back-up, inside (or protected) wedding site if the weather does change: no bees, no noise from planes, no traffic or sirens; no wind to blow out candles or tear off veils or hats or blow over flower stands; controllable temperature, good sound and lighting, etc. In short, know your comfort level, plan accordingly, and be flexible!  If your wedding is on the beach, we will check the local tide tables (which I have) and the times for sunrise and sunset for your best views and photos. If you have your heart set on one particular spot on one of the beaches for your wedding, remember: the low tide mark you see while planning may be under water on the day of the wedding. Set your spot well above the high water mark and we'll both stay dry.  You might not want to be too close to the waves, for another reason: the ocean can be loud and drown out the words or music of the ceremony.  The same can be said of the Pulgas Water Temple, if the ceremony is held too close to the Temple itself.