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Updated Oct 14, 202415 Beach Wedding Venues California Couples Will Love
Exchange vows with your toes in the sand and the sparkling Pacific Ocean in the background.
Wondering what kinds of swoon-worthy beach wedding venues California has to offer? While there are all types of wedding venues to choose from, there's something special about saying "I do" by the ocean. California has so much to offer, and gorgeous wedding venues on beautiful beaches are definitely at the top of the list—so it's easy to see why beach weddings are a popular option for couples, whether they're Cali natives or hosting a destination wedding.
But, with so many amazing options in the Sunshine State, searching for the perfect wedding venue can be overwhelming. To help narrow down the myriad options, we're highlighting the best beach wedding venues in California. And if you'd like even more inspiration? Check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace for California venues, vendors and more. Your dream beach wedding awaits.
Bonus: Explore our favorite wedding venues by the beach in California, including Laguna Beach, Long Beach, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and Southern California.
Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach, California
If your heart is set on a dreamy Orange County beach wedding venue that's literally on the beach, look no further than the Surf and Sand Resort in Laguna Beach. Couples can say their "I dos" with their toes in the sand just before sunset surrounded by up to 180 of their closest friends and family members. There's also the option to host the wedding ceremony in one of the resort's two outdoor terraces, each with sweeping ocean views in the backdrop. The celebration can then continue in the Pelican Ballroom adorned with vaulted ceilings, artwork, and custom furnishings.
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- Guest Capacity: Up to 180
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, California
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara ticks all the boxes: it's luxe, beachy, and downright picturesque, which is what California beach wedding dreams are made of. Besides the high-end vibes, what makes this resort special is the awe-inspiring ocean views which makes tying the knot on one of the resort's terraces or lush lawns truly magic. For the wedding reception, there's the stunning Bacara Ballroom replete with 23-foot ceilings and mirrors, which can accommodate a lavish affair of up to 1,200 guests. Couples can also start their mini-moon ASAP thanks to wedding packages that include two-night accommodations for the newlyweds.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 1,200
Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas, California
If you're looking for a luxurious wedding venue in California, the Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas may be the perfect spot for your event. Your guests can spend the weekend enjoying all that SoCal has to offer, and you and your future spouse can relax at the spa, knowing that your wedding will go off without a hitch. Exchange vows on an oceanfront bluff, an open-air terrace or indoors, and then celebrate with your crew inside the ballroom, which can host up to 200 guests. The resort is well-known for its culinary program, so you know the food is going to be just as spectacular as the views.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200
La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla, California
Affectionately called the "Pink Lady," La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla is a pink oceanside palace that oozes charm and glamour. The Mediterranean-style hotel perfectly sets the scene for a quintessential California beach wedding—palm trees sway in the sky; the sparkling Pacific Ocean in the backdrop; bougainvillea adds a delightful pop of color to wedding photos. This iconic destination located just minutes from San Diego creates a magical ambiance you, your soon-to-be forever partner and your guests will never forget. To boot, La Valencia is also a great place to host all other wedding-related celebrations including a wedding shower, rehearsal dinner, and farewell brunch.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 175
Hotel del Coronado in San Diego, California
One thing is for sure: Hotel del Coronado in San Diego knows how to host a very memorable celebration. When it comes to beach wedding venues in Southern California, this hotel has various event spaces available for couples but the one that stands out the most is right on the beach. Beach-loving couples can get married right on the resort's private beach and have their reception in the sand and under the stars too complete with fireworks, live bands, outdoor beach games, and a custom sandcastle. If a ballroom is more your style, Hotel del Coronado has that too. Look to the Ocean Ballroom with crystal chandeliers dripping from the ceiling or the Crown Room infused with old Hollywood glamour that will make guests feel like they've stepped into a vortex of love.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 1,500
L'Auberge Del Mar in Del Mar, California
This breathtaking California Beach wedding venue accommodates weddings both big and small. For large celebrations of up to 200 guests, the hotel's Seagrove Park and Pacific Terrace spaces will take your breath away. Couples can host both the ceremony and the reception outside while taking in the awe-inspiring ocean views. For a more intimate wedding or an elopement, L'Auberge Del Mar has something for you too with the secluded Ocean Terrace which accommodates up to 20 guests. Whatever event space you choose, this California beach wedding venue sets the scene for love.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200
San Diego Mission Bay Resort and Spa in San Diego, California
If your wondering what kinds of beach wedding venues California has to offer in San Diego, look no further than this spot. Whether you're going for a toes-in-the-sand vibe or something a little more formal, the San Diego Mission Bay Resort and Spa has plenty of options. Yes, you can absolutely get married on the beach, but there's also a waterfront garden overlooking Mission Bay that's perfect for exchanging vows. There are three ballrooms of varying sizes to choose from, or you can enjoy dinner and dancing under the stars on the Bayside Terrace.
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- Guest Capacity: Up to 700
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in San Diego, California
Want to feel like you're on a tropical island without leaving San Diego? Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa will give you all the relaxed, beachy vibes to kick off your marriage. Host your ceremony on the white sand beach, or go with one of the lawns or the tropical garden gazebo. For an indoor reception, the Kon Tiki Ballroom can accommodate up to 350 guests, and the Aviary Ballroom is best for more intimate receptions. Outdoor receptions are also possible on the South Lawn. Perhaps the best part is the Catamaran's all-inclusive wedding packages, and the plentiful guest rooms so everyone can enjoy your wedding weekend in paradise.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 350
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente, California
Casa Romantica in San Clemente is the house of romance, literally. Its name means romantic house in Spanish and it really delivers on that promise. It was built in 1927 as the home of Ole Hanson, the founder of San Clemente. Now this Orange County destination, dubbed as a "Spanish village by the sea" serves as an arts and cultural center with various spaces perfect for couples celebrating their love. Have your ceremony on the Ocean Terrace overlooking the San Clemente Pier with a view of Catalina Island on the horizon, or opt for the Courtyard surrounded by Spanish archways and palm trees for a magical night under the moonlight.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 150
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay in Half Moon Bay, California
For couples searching for a California Beach wedding venue in the San Francisco bay area, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay perfectly fits the bill. For an outdoor ceremony, the luxury hotel's outdoor wedding spaces overlooking the ocean can be reimagined into the Pinterest-worthy setting of your dreams. For the reception, look at the ballroom with vaulted ceilings and chandeliers. The ballroom also happens to be the largest in Northern California, seating up to 300 guests for dinner and dancing.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 400
Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, California
Couples looking for a beachfront wedding venue in Los Angeles will swoon over Shutters on the Beach. Situated steps away from sandy Santa Monica beach, this luxe hotel offers multiple indoor and outdoor spaces for a memorable wedding ceremony. Exchange vows outside on the Pacific Terrace with up to 250 guests and have your reception there too as you and your guests dance the night away and cozy up by the fireplace. After the big day, there's a luxury day spa inside the beach hotel perfect for some quality newlywed time together.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 300
Duke's Malibu in Malibu, California
Laid-back, beach-loving couples will fall in love with Duke's Malibu. The beloved oceanfront restaurant's aptly called the Ocean Room is the perfect spot for hosting both your wedding ceremony and your reception. It can accommodate up to 200 guests and features Hawaiian koa wood, a standing balcony where guests can take in the beautiful ocean views, and a private entrance. And because this is a restaurant, expect the menu to be memorable. Options include plated, buffet, or family style menus starring sustainable and freshly caught seafood paired with California wine or beach-inspired cocktails (Mai Tai, anyone?). They also have a private apartment available for couples who want to turn their big day into a getaway.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach in Huntington Beach, California
Here's what makes this California beach wedding venue special: they take all the stress out of your wedding day. The Orange County beach hotel offers wedding packages that feature everything you need including a three-course menu, unlimited drinks, a wedding planner, an officiant, cake, flowers, and more. The Hyatt Regency can host large beach wedding ceremonies with hundreds of guests as well as micro weddings. And they also cater to couples who want to infuse their big day with meaningful cultural and religious details.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 400
Monterey Beach House in Monterey, California
Whether you're a central coast local or looking to have a destination wedding in this gorgeous California location, the Monterey Beach House takes all the fuss out of wedding planning with all-inclusive packages. Wedding ceremonies are held right on the sand and the reception takes place inside the beach club's banquet hall which can host up to 300 guests and offers views of the city, Santa Lucia mountains, and of course, the ocean. Oh, and did we mention there's also a fire pit ready for newlyweds to make s'mores after sunset? Dreams do come true.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 300
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Maria in Newport Beach, California
Wedding ceremony spaces? Check. Reception venues? Check. This luxury Newport Beach oceanfront hotel has you covered on your special day with various event spaces. Host your wedding right on the beach, under a charming gazebo adorned with flowers and framed by the waterfront, or in a lush garden surrounded by palm trees. No matter what space you choose, Amanda Kolbys, Newport Dunes' in-house wedding planner, will support you through the entire wedding planning process.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 350
More California Wedding Venues and Vendor Ideas
Looking for more ideas? Have a look at these recommendations from our editors for couples planning a California wedding.
- Wedding Venues in Northern California
- The Best Wedding Locations in Southern California
- Cheap Wedding Locations in California
- California Celebrity Wedding Venues
- Fall Wedding Venues in California
- Winter Wedding Venues in California
Bonus: Check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace for more California venues and vendors. Connect with wedding photographers, florists, cake designers and more.
