Top 22 California Destination Wedding Venues
- Author: Natali Grace Levine
- Reading time: 14 min 28 sec
- Publication date: 08/17/2024
- Coastal Venues
- Hotel del Coronado
- The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
- Glen Oaks Big Sur
- Post Ranch Inn
- Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
- The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
- Scripps Seaside Forum La Jolla
- Wine Country Venues
- V. Sattui Winery
- Chateau St. Jean Winery
- Joullian Vineyards
- Merryvale Vineyards
- Sunstone Winery
- Rustic and Countryside Venues
- Rancho Las Lomas
- Willow Heights Mansion
- Temecula Creek Inn
- Carmel Valley Ranch
- Flying Caballos Ranch
- The Ranch at Laguna Beach
- Nestldown Los Gatos
- Maravilla Gardens
- Urban Venues
- Los Angeles Athletic Club
- Bel-Air Bay Club
California is a dream destination for couples seeking the perfect wedding venue. From sun-kissed beaches to rolling vineyards and majestic mountains, the state offers an incredible array of settings to celebrate your special day. Whether you envision a coastal ceremony with ocean views, a rustic countryside gathering, or an elegant affair in a chic urban location, California has a venue to match your unique style and vision. The diverse landscapes and year-round favorable climate make it an ideal choice for a destination wedding that you and your guests will cherish forever.
Coastal Venues
California's coastline is a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding, offering stunning ocean views, golden beaches, and a refreshing sea breeze. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic ceremony on the sand or an elegant celebration overlooking the waves, coastal venues in California provide a serene and picturesque setting for your special day. The combination of natural beauty and the laid-back atmosphere of the coast creates the perfect ambiance for a destination wedding that captures the essence of California's charm and tranquility.
Hotel del Coronado
Hotel del Coronado is an iconic wedding venue that combines historical charm with stunning beachfront views. Located on Coronado Island near San Diego, this venue offers a picturesque setting with its Victorian architecture and pristine white sands. Couples can choose from several ceremony locations, including the garden courtyard or directly on the beach. The hotel’s elegant ballrooms are perfect for a grand reception, complete with top-notch catering and service. Known for its luxurious amenities, the hotel provides a seamless experience for both the couple and their guests. The breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean make for unforgettable wedding photos. Hosting your wedding at Hotel del Coronado ensures a blend of history, beauty, and sophistication. It’s a destination that will leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay offers an enchanting coastal setting for a destination wedding, with the dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views providing a stunning backdrop. Located just outside San Francisco, this luxurious venue combines elegance with the natural beauty of the California coastline. Couples can exchange vows on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, followed by a reception in one of the resort’s elegant ballrooms.
The Ritz-Carlton is renowned for its impeccable service and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of your wedding is flawlessly executed. The venue also offers world-class accommodations and amenities, making it an ideal choice for both the ceremony and a relaxing getaway. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking views make this a truly unforgettable location for your special day. A wedding here promises to be both memorable and magical, with the ocean as your witness.
Glen Oaks Big Sur
Glen Oaks Big Sur is a perfect venue for couples seeking a serene and intimate wedding experience amidst nature. Nestled in the towering redwoods of Big Sur, this venue offers a rustic yet elegant atmosphere that is both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The surrounding natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor ceremonies, whether by the river or in a secluded grove. Glen Oaks offers charming accommodations in cabins and cottages, allowing the couple and their guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil environment. The venue’s simplicity and natural charm create a relaxed and romantic setting for your special day. Ideal for smaller, more intimate weddings, Glen Oaks emphasizes the beauty of nature in its purest form. A wedding at Glen Oaks Big Sur is a celebration of love surrounded by the raw beauty of California’s wilderness.
Post Ranch Inn
Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur is a luxurious venue that offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged California coastline. Perched high on the cliffs, this exclusive venue provides an intimate and private setting for your wedding day. The modern architecture of the inn blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a serene and sophisticated ambiance. Couples can exchange vows on a terrace overlooking the ocean, with the sound of the waves below. The inn’s award-winning cuisine and personalized service ensure a memorable dining experience for you and your guests. With a focus on sustainability and luxury, Post Ranch Inn offers a unique blend of comfort and eco-consciousness. The breathtaking scenery and intimate atmosphere make this a perfect venue for a romantic and unforgettable destination wedding. At Post Ranch Inn, your wedding day will be nothing short of extraordinary, set against one of the most beautiful landscapes in California.
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point offers a stunning coastal venue for couples dreaming of a seaside wedding. With its clifftop location, the resort provides panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, creating a breathtaking backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. The venue features beautifully manicured gardens and elegant ballrooms, giving couples a variety of options for their celebration. Known for its warm hospitality and excellent service, Laguna Cliffs ensures that every detail of your wedding is perfectly executed. The resort’s luxurious accommodations and spa services provide the perfect retreat for the couple and their guests. Whether you choose an outdoor ceremony or an indoor reception with ocean views, the venue offers a picturesque setting that’s hard to match. A wedding at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa is an experience that blends elegance with coastal charm, making it a truly unforgettable event.
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara is a premier wedding venue that offers a blend of Mediterranean charm and California coastal beauty. Located on 78 acres of oceanfront property, the resort provides a luxurious setting for your destination wedding. The venue offers several stunning locations for your ceremony, including oceanview terraces and lush gardens. With its Spanish-style architecture and elegant interiors, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara exudes sophistication and romance.
The resort’s exceptional service and attention to detail ensure that your wedding day is nothing short of perfect. Guests will enjoy the resort’s world-class amenities, including gourmet dining and a luxurious spa. The combination of natural beauty and refined luxury makes this venue a top choice for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience. At The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, your wedding will be a celebration of love set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Scripps Seaside Forum La Jolla
Scripps Seaside Forum in La Jolla is a modern and versatile venue that offers a stunning oceanfront location for your wedding. With its contemporary design and floor-to-ceiling windows, the venue provides unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean, creating a breathtaking setting for your ceremony and reception. The venue’s proximity to the beach allows for a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, giving couples the flexibility to create their ideal wedding day. Known for its sleek architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, Scripps Seaside Forum is perfect for couples looking for a stylish and modern venue. The venue’s open design and natural light create a bright and airy atmosphere, perfect for a coastal wedding. Guests will enjoy the venue’s proximity to La Jolla’s charming shops and restaurants, adding to the overall experience. A wedding at Scripps Seaside Forum is a celebration of love with the Pacific Ocean as your stunning backdrop, offering both elegance and coastal charm.
Wine Country Venues
California's wine country is an enchanting destination for couples seeking a romantic and elegant wedding venue. Surrounded by rolling vineyards, lush landscapes, and stunning mountain views, these venues offer a serene and picturesque setting for your special day. The region's renowned wineries and estates provide not only beautiful backdrops but also the finest wines and gourmet cuisine to enhance your celebration. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand affair, wine country venues in California offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm, creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
V. Sattui Winery
Sattui Winery in Napa Valley offers a quintessential wine-country experience for your wedding day. The venue's lush grounds and picturesque architecture create an idyllic setting for both ceremonies and receptions. Couples can choose to exchange vows among the vineyard rows or in a charming garden area. The winery’s elegant event spaces can accommodate intimate gatherings or larger celebrations with ease. The award-winning wines and gourmet catering options ensure a memorable dining experience for all your guests. The combination of historic charm and natural beauty makes V. Sattui Winery a standout choice for a wine-country wedding. With its exceptional service and stunning surroundings, your special day will be filled with elegance and grace. The enchanting atmosphere of this venue adds a unique and personal touch to your celebration.
Chateau St. Jean Winery
Chateau St. Jean Winery in Sonoma County provides a magical setting for a vineyard wedding, blending timeless elegance with natural beauty. The venue’s grand chateau and beautiful gardens offer a romantic backdrop for your ceremony and reception. Couples can choose to celebrate in the picturesque courtyard or amidst the surrounding vineyards. The winery’s exquisite wines and exceptional cuisine add a touch of sophistication to your event. With its luxurious atmosphere and scenic views, Chateau St. Jean creates a memorable experience for both you and your guests. The venue’s combination of classic architecture and lush landscapes ensures a stunning setting for your special day. From the intimate ceremony to the elegant reception, every detail is designed to make your wedding unforgettable. The serene environment and refined ambiance make Chateau St. Jean a top choice for a wine-country wedding.
Joullian Vineyards
Joullian Vineyards, located in Carmel Valley, offers a serene and scenic venue for your destination wedding. The vineyard’s stunning views and rustic charm create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your celebration. Couples can exchange vows with the rolling hills and vineyard rows as their backdrop, providing a picturesque setting. The venue’s elegant tasting room and outdoor spaces are perfect for hosting both intimate and larger gatherings. Joullian Vineyards is known for its high-quality wines and exceptional service, ensuring a delightful experience for your guests. The relaxed ambiance and natural beauty of the location make it an ideal choice for a memorable wedding. Whether you prefer a charming garden ceremony or a sophisticated indoor reception, Joullian Vineyards provides a versatile and enchanting setting. Your wedding at Joullian Vineyards will be a beautiful blend of elegance and rustic charm.
Merryvale Vineyards
Merryvale Vineyards in Napa Valley is a distinguished venue that offers a luxurious and picturesque setting for your wedding. The venue’s stunning estate and lush vineyards create a romantic backdrop for your ceremony and reception. Couples can exchange vows under a grand oak tree or on the manicured lawn, surrounded by the vineyard’s natural beauty. Merryvale’s elegant tasting room and spacious event areas provide the perfect setting for a sophisticated celebration. The winery’s renowned wines and gourmet catering options ensure an exceptional dining experience for all your guests. With its combination of classic charm and modern luxury, Merryvale Vineyards offers a memorable and unique wedding experience. The breathtaking views and impeccable service make this venue a top choice for couples seeking an elegant wine-country wedding. A wedding at Merryvale Vineyards promises to be a celebration filled with beauty and grace.
Sunstone Winery
Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez Valley provides a picturesque and romantic setting for your destination wedding. The venue’s Mediterranean-inspired architecture and lush gardens offer an elegant backdrop for your ceremony and reception. Couples can exchange vows among the vineyard rows or on the scenic terrace overlooking the vineyards. The winery’s charming event spaces and exceptional wines create a memorable experience for you and your guests. With its warm ambiance and stunning surroundings, Sunstone Winery offers a blend of sophistication and natural beauty. The venue’s dedicated staff ensures that every detail of your wedding is perfectly executed. Whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Sunstone Winery provides the perfect setting. Your wedding at Sunstone Winery will be a unique and unforgettable celebration of love and elegance.
Rustic and Countryside Venues
California’s rustic and countryside venues offer a charming escape into nature for your wedding day. With sprawling landscapes, picturesque farms, and serene settings, these venues provide a cozy and intimate atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with traditional urban locations. Whether nestled in rolling hills or surrounded by lush forests, these locations embrace a warm, relaxed vibe perfect for celebrating love. Choosing a rustic or countryside venue allows you to enjoy a timeless and romantic backdrop that enhances the natural beauty of your special day.
Rancho Las Lomas
Rancho Las Lomas offers a stunning countryside setting with a blend of elegance and rustic charm for your wedding. Nestled in the hills of Silverado, this venue features lush gardens, picturesque landscapes, and beautifully designed event spaces. The enchanting atmosphere is perfect for both intimate and grand celebrations, with options for ceremonies in the garden or under a grand oak tree. The venue’s unique architecture and ornate decor add a touch of sophistication to your special day. With its dedicated staff and exceptional service, Rancho Las Lomas ensures a seamless and memorable wedding experience. The combination of natural beauty and refined elegance creates a truly magical backdrop for your celebration. Whether you envision a romantic garden ceremony or a lavish reception, this venue offers an ideal setting. Your wedding at Rancho Las Lomas will be a celebration of love surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Willow Heights Mansion
Willow Heights Mansion provides a grand and elegant venue for your destination wedding, set amidst the rolling hills of Morgan Hill. This historic mansion boasts beautiful architecture, with expansive lawns and manicured gardens perfect for outdoor ceremonies. The venue’s opulent interiors offer a sophisticated setting for your reception, with luxurious details and ample space for dining and dancing. The mansion’s classic charm and picturesque surroundings create a romantic atmosphere that enhances your special day. With its attentive service and customizable event spaces, Willow Heights Mansion is ideal for both intimate gatherings and large celebrations. The venue’s scenic views and elegant design ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests. Every detail is meticulously attended to, making your wedding day truly exceptional. Celebrate your love in a setting that combines grandeur with timeless beauty.
Temecula Creek Inn
Temecula Creek Inn offers a charming and relaxed setting for a countryside wedding, nestled in the heart of wine country. The venue features beautiful outdoor spaces, including lush gardens and a scenic golf course, providing a picturesque backdrop for your ceremony and reception. Couples can exchange vows surrounded by natural beauty, with rolling hills and mature trees enhancing the ambiance. The inn’s rustic elegance and comfortable accommodations create a welcoming environment for both you and your guests. With its dedicated staff and excellent service, Temecula Creek Inn ensures that every aspect of your wedding is perfectly executed. The venue’s serene setting and beautiful views make it a top choice for couples seeking a laid-back and intimate celebration. From the ceremony to the reception, your wedding at Temecula Creek Inn will be a delightful and memorable event. Enjoy a special day filled with natural charm and elegance.
Carmel Valley Ranch
Carmel Valley Ranch provides a stunning countryside backdrop for your destination wedding, with sweeping views and rustic charm. Located in the heart of Carmel Valley, the venue features expansive outdoor spaces, including vineyards and gardens, perfect for a romantic ceremony. The ranch’s elegant event spaces and picturesque setting create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere for your celebration. Couples can enjoy a seamless blend of natural beauty and luxury, with top-notch service and gourmet catering options.
The venue’s rustic elegance and breathtaking surroundings ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests. Whether you prefer an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Carmel Valley Ranch offers versatile spaces to suit your needs. The combination of scenic views and refined ambiance makes this venue a perfect choice for a picturesque wedding. Your special day will be a beautiful reflection of both elegance and natural charm.
Flying Caballos Ranch
Flying Caballos Ranch in San Luis Obispo offers a charming and rustic venue for your wedding day, surrounded by scenic countryside. The venue’s beautiful outdoor spaces, including a picturesque barn and lush lawns, create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for your celebration. Couples can exchange vows in a serene garden or under the shade of mature trees, with the rolling hills providing a stunning backdrop. The ranch’s rustic decor and warm ambiance enhance the natural beauty of the setting. With its friendly staff and flexible event spaces, Flying Caballos Ranch caters to both intimate and larger gatherings. The venue’s combination of country charm and modern amenities ensures a memorable experience for all. Whether you’re envisioning a casual celebration or a more formal affair, Flying Caballos Ranch provides a unique and picturesque setting. Celebrate your love in a venue that blends rustic elegance with natural beauty.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
The Ranch at Laguna Beach offers a serene and picturesque setting for a destination wedding, nestled in the scenic Laguna Canyon. The venue’s rustic charm and natural beauty create a tranquil backdrop for your ceremony and reception. Couples can exchange vows in a lush garden or on a hillside overlooking the golf course, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The ranch’s elegant yet relaxed atmosphere provides a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. With its attentive service and customizable event spaces, The Ranch at Laguna Beach caters to both intimate and larger weddings. The venue’s unique charm and scenic beauty ensure a memorable and romantic celebration. Whether you envision a garden wedding or a cozy reception, The Ranch provides a versatile and enchanting setting. Your special day will be enhanced by the natural beauty and warm ambiance of this exceptional venue.
Nestldown Los Gatos
Nestldown in Los Gatos is a captivating venue that combines natural beauty with rustic elegance for your destination wedding. Surrounded by towering redwoods and lush gardens, the venue provides a picturesque and intimate setting for your ceremony. Couples can choose to exchange vows in the enchanting forest or amidst the beautiful floral displays. The venue’s charming architecture and serene surroundings create a romantic atmosphere for both the ceremony and reception. With its emphasis on natural beauty and personalized service, Nestldown ensures a memorable experience for you and your guests. The venue’s secluded and tranquil environment makes it a perfect choice for a peaceful and elegant celebration. From the outdoor ceremony to the elegant reception, every detail is designed to enhance the beauty of your special day. A wedding at Nestldown will be a unique and unforgettable celebration in a stunning natural setting.
Maravilla Gardens
Maravilla Gardens offers a picturesque and romantic setting for your destination wedding, with its lush gardens and charming event spaces. Located in Camarillo, the venue features beautifully manicured lawns and a serene atmosphere perfect for a garden ceremony. Couples can exchange vows amidst blooming flowers and elegant water features, creating a magical backdrop for their special day. The venue’s versatile spaces accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, with options for outdoor receptions under the stars. Maravilla Gardens is known for its attention to detail and exceptional service, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. The combination of natural beauty and refined elegance makes this venue a top choice for a romantic wedding. From the ceremony to the reception, Maravilla Gardens provides a stunning and enchanting setting for your celebration. Your wedding here will be a beautiful blend of charm and sophistication.
Urban Venues
California’s urban venues offer a dynamic and sophisticated backdrop for your wedding day, blending modern elegance with vibrant city energy. These venues provide a chic setting, perfect for couples looking to celebrate their special day amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. With stunning views of city skylines, contemporary architecture, and top-tier amenities, urban venues create a cosmopolitan ambiance that’s both glamorous and exciting. Whether you’re envisioning a sleek rooftop ceremony or an elegant ballroom reception, California’s urban venues deliver a memorable and upscale experience for your destination wedding.
Los Angeles Athletic Club
The Los Angeles Athletic Club offers a unique and sophisticated venue for your destination wedding in the heart of downtown LA. With its rich history and elegant architecture, the club provides a classic and upscale setting for your special day. Couples can choose from various event spaces, including the grand ballroom and the charming rooftop terrace, both offering stunning city views. The club’s luxurious amenities and impeccable service ensure that every detail of your wedding is executed flawlessly. Whether you prefer a formal affair or a more intimate gathering, the Los Angeles Athletic Club can accommodate your needs with style. The venue’s central location adds convenience for guests traveling to the city. From the ceremony to the reception, the club’s opulent ambiance enhances the overall experience. A wedding at the Los Angeles Athletic Club promises a blend of tradition and modern elegance.
Bel-Air Bay Club
Bel-Air Bay Club provides a stunning coastal venue that combines natural beauty with classic sophistication for your wedding day. Situated along the Malibu coastline, the club offers breathtaking ocean views and an elegant setting for your ceremony and reception. The venue features beautifully landscaped gardens and a stylish ballroom, perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Couples can exchange vows on the terrace overlooking the Pacific, followed by a luxurious reception in the club’s refined spaces. The Bel-Air Bay Club’s exceptional service and gourmet catering enhance the overall experience, ensuring a memorable event. The combination of seaside charm and elegant design makes this venue a top choice for a glamorous coastal wedding. With its serene atmosphere and picturesque views, the club offers a perfect backdrop for a romantic celebration. Your wedding at Bel-Air Bay Club will be a beautiful blend of elegance and natural beauty.