On the Californian Coast, couples are spoilt for choice with an array of stunning wedding venues. From dramatic ocean cliffs and lush vineyards to rustic ranches and elegant estates, this region provides a breathtaking backdrop for every celebration. We’ve gathered 12 of the most spectacular wedding venues along the Californian coastline that embrace the region's natural beauty and bring a touch of luxury, ensuring you an extra special day to remember.
Alila Venta Big Sur
Alila Ventana Big Sur stands as a premier wedding venue amid California’s stunning landscapes. This exclusive location, perched above the Pacific, blends luxury with the raw beauty of Big Sur. Couples have more than five exceptional spots to celebrate on the property, including the Sur Vista Terrace, where the altar provides breathtaking ocean views, and the spacious 7,000-square-foot Ocean Meadow Lawn for larger gatherings. For intimate dinners, the Sky Terrace offers outdoor seating with picturesque vistas of the coast and surrounding redwoods, making it a romantic choice for your special day.
Duet Botantical, Sasithon Photography
Beaulieu Garden
Garden weddings hold a timeless charm, and Beaulieu Garden in Napa Valley brings that magic to life. This lush, family-owned estate invites guests to stroll along pathways lined with century-old trees, relax on lawns with vineyard views, and gather beneath ivy-draped archways. From its inviting courtyards to sweeping open spaces, Beaulieu Gardens offers an elegant, unforgettable setting for a grand celebration.
Rachel Havel, Christina McNeill
Post Ranch Inn
Post Ranch Inn is arguably one of the most stunning venues on our list, set 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean. This notable Big Sur venue showcases expansive ocean views framed by rugged coastline and sherbert skies. With architecture that seamlessly integrates into the natural landscape, the inn offers a variety of outdoor spaces perfect for intimate ceremonies or rehearsal dinners, allowing couples to fully embrace Big Sur’s breathtaking beauty.
Sea Ranch Lodge
Tranquil coastline and captivating architecture make Sea Ranch Lodge a truly unique wedding destination. Set on 53 acres of Northern California’s dramatic Sonoma coastline, this recently renovated lodge combines modern elegance with serene coastal seascapes. Accommodating everything from intimate dinners to full wedding celebrations, Sea Ranch Lodge’s thoughtfully designed spaces offer an atmosphere of understated sophistication.
Stanly Ranch
Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection, is a stunning new addition to Napa Valley's wine country. This farmhouse-inspired retreat embraces the essence of its surroundings, offering a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Weddings at Stanly Ranch are seamlessly integrated into nature, with spaces like the Cutting Garden and Lavender Lawn providing an idyllic backdrop. Whether hosting a small-scale rehersal dinner or a larger celebration with up to 450 guests, the venue’s panoramic views across rolling vineyards make each event unforgettable.
Malibu Rocky Oaks Vineyard
Overlooking private vineyards with 360-degree views, Malibu Rocky Oaks Vineyard epitomizes West Coast wine country with a Tuscan twist. Terraced grapevines and an expansive outdoor veranda set a dramatic scene for vows, with the Pacific and rolling hills as your backdrop, offering a quintessentially Californian experience infused with European elegance.
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa
With its small-town charm and serene landscapes, Ojai Valley Inn feels like a hidden gem nestled within 220 tree-lined acres. This Spanish revival-inspired retreat offers an elegant backdrop for weddings, from the Hacienda Courtyard to the Artist Cottage Lawn, each with breathtaking mountain views. Beyond ceremony and reception spaces, guests can enjoy the resort’s world-class spa and golf course, adding a relaxed yet luxurious feel to the wedding festivities.
Rosewood Miramar Beach
Rosewood Miramar in Montecito brings the dream of a coastal estate wedding to life, where oceanfront lawns meet California's endless sunshine. The 8,000-square-foot Great Lawn welcomes grand celebrations, while lush gardens create cozy, elegant corners that invite relaxation. Let’s face it—the unbeatable waterfront views and breezy Montecito vibe make it feel like an endless summer wedding dream.
San Ysidro Ranch
Celebrate your big day surrounded by the lush gardens and blooming landscapes of San Ysidro Ranch, where each space is thoughtfully designed to inspire with natural beauty. Picture exchanging vows in a garden setting that offers endless floral inspiration, and invite your guests to stay on-site, immersing themselves in the charm of this boutique retreat. The Fireside Room, perfect for a cozy rehearsal dinner, provides an intimate space that draws on the warmth of the surrounding gardens.
Liron Erel & Co, Olivia Marshall
The Surfrider Malibu
This 20-room hotel brings all the retro vibes with its mid-century modern design and unmistakable Malibu spirit. The Surfrider offers a unique blend of California cool and vintage surf culture, perfect for couples who want an intimate, stylish celebration by the ocean. Enjoy reception cocktails on a breezy rooftop deck, where quintessential Pacific views create a dreamy setting for toasts and mingling. With its laid-back atmosphere, iconic coastal views, and antique charm, the Surfrider is an ideal spot to celebrate love in true Californian style.
@trevortondro, @thesurfridermalibu
Sunstone Winery
Just a short drive from Santa Barbara, Sunstone Winery invites couples to experience the allure of a French provincial estate right in the heart of Santa Ynez wine country. Every detail, from the intricate stone masonry to the vine-clad terraces, enhances the romantic atmosphere, creating a captivating setting for your celebration. The venue features a grand lawn ideal for larger celebrations and cozy dining options in the charming wine cellars, providing an elegant yet relaxed ambiance for your special day.
The Resort at Pelican Hill
The Resort at Pelican Hill brings Italian-inspired luxury to Newport Beach’s stunning coastline. Exchange vows beneath the iconic Rotunda with the Pacific as your backdrop, or celebrate in spaces that range from outdoor terraces to refined ballrooms. With every detail meticulously crafted, Pelican Hill creates an extraordinary experience for couples seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed California wedding.
Heather Kincaid, The Resort at Pelican Hill
