California’s breathtaking natural beauty and sun-drenched coastline make it a dream destination for many couples tying the knot. The diverse landscape provides stunning scenery for an array of picturesque venues, from the sweeping coastline and the majestic mountains to historic venues, wine country weddings, and ceremonies in the city. Whichever venue they land on, couples who say “I do” in the Golden State will find some wedded bliss in knowing that they’ve chosen from some of the best places to get married in California.
Coastal Celebrations
Stretching 900 miles along the Pacific Ocean, California’s sweeping coastline has no shortage of breathtaking beauty to serve as the backdrop for your big day. With its rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and panoramic vistas, the West Coast’s beachfront is versatile; the seaside scenery equally amplifies intimate weddings as well as lavish celebrations. Southern California destinations like San Diego’s iconic Hotel del Coronado, Huntington Beach’s Waterfront Beach Resort, and Santa Barbara’s Rincon Beach Club are stunning beachfront properties where you can say “I do” with your toes in the sand. Central California locales include Wind & Sea along the ethereal Big Sur coast, the dreamy Monterey Beach Station, and the oceanfront Seascape Beach Resort in Santa Cruz. The rugged northern California coast’s captivating cliffsides create a beautiful ceremony dreamscape at venues such as Mendocino’s Spring Ranch and Ferndale’s Lost Coast Estate.
Natural Destinations
Adventurous couples envisioning a wedding surrounded by the beauty of nature have plenty of ethereal locations to choose from in the Golden State. The serene blues of Lake Tahoe, the majestic natural cathedral of Yosemite Valley, and the shimmering sands of the Mojave Desert set the scene for your big day. Whether you’re hoping to lace up some hiking boots beneath your wedding attire or you’re looking for timeless elegance in an alfresco setting, California’s natural wedding destinations will certainly fulfill your desires. Embrace nature at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, an unforgettable place to pledge your love surrounded by the granite rockfaces, waterfalls, and wildflower meadows of Yosemite Valley. Lake Tahoe’s tranquil beauty is amplified at The HideOut at Kirkwood, where couples can exchange vows in a truly secluded destination. Ride off into the sunset-colored mountains at the luxurious Morada in Joshua Tree, a wildly romantic, Spanish-style estate that supplements the desert’s splendor.
Wine Country Weddings
Lush, sprawling vineyards have a timeless, romantic charm that is perfect for couples seeking an enchanting setting to celebrate their union. Toast your new life together with some of the best wines in the state at a charming chateau, an enthralling estate, or a romantic wine cave nestled amongst the rolling hills of California’s wine country. Make your matrimonial dreams come true at Napa Valley’s V. Sattui Winery, where you can exchange vows under a stonework tower before hosting a romantic reception in their ethereal courtyard. Your love will be written in the stars at Sonoma’s spectacular sparkling wine vintner, Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards. Walk down the aisle at the breathtaking Viansa Sonoma, whose ivy-covered courtyard and hilltop setting offer panoramic vistas overlooking the region’s natural beauty.
Charming Cityscapes
Couples who delight in the energy of the city’s hustle and bustle will find that wedding day thrill in the urban glamour of Los Angeles and San Francisco. Each has its distinct charms and a plethora of landmarks to show off your love story. The rolling Hollywood Hills and iconic skyline punctuate the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles. Consider a rooftop venue, like The London West Hollywood or the Hilton Checkers Los Angeles, both of which provide sweeping views of the city. The penthouse and sky deck at South Park Center truly showcase the city, supplying 360° panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline. Further north, San Francisco has no shortage of venues brimming with the city’s charm. To get truly unrivaled views of the city’s skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge, board one of the opulent yachts cruising the Bay with Luxe Cruises or head across the Bay to Marin’s Cavallo Point. Other iconic San Francisco locales include the Fairmont Hotel, the historic Julia Morgan Ballroom, and the Westin St. Francis on Union Square. Each vibrant venue creates a spectacular backdrop where California couples can tie the knot in style!
