California isn’t just one of the most beautiful places to get married in the U.S.—it’s basically a choose-your-own-adventure wedding destination. Want vineyard views? We’ve got ‘em. Towering redwood forests? Check. Misty cliffs, cozy beach towns, mid-century desert hotels? Yep, all here.
And the best part? You don’t have to leave the country—or even the state—to have a wedding that feels like a once-in-a-lifetime getaway. Whether you’re planning from out of state or just want your “I do” to feel like a vacation, California delivers.
From wine country weekends to barefoot beachfront vows, here are seven California destination wedding spots that are actually worth packing a bag for.
Why California Is the Ultimate Destination Wedding State
California has something most wedding destinations don’t: variety. You can host a mountain elopement, a coastal ceremony, a wine country weekend, and a desert getaway—all without ever leaving state lines.
That’s why so many couples choose California for destination weddings, even if they already live on the West Coast. It’s about creating a vibe shift from your everyday life and turning your wedding into a real experience. Plus, with year-round mild weather (and direct flights from basically everywhere), it’s easier for your guests to say yes to the RSVP.
7 Wedding Locations in California
1. Wine Country
If your dream wedding involves wine tastings, rolling hills, and weekend-long celebrations, Northern California wine country is where it’s at. This region—stretching from Napa to Mendocino—offers estate-style venues with panoramic views, vineyard villas, and endless charm.
It’s perfect for couples who want their wedding to double as a getaway for their guests: think welcome dinners under string lights, group wine tours, and lazy Sunday brunches surrounded by vines.
🗺️ Look for venues that offer multiple event spaces and allow for multi-day celebrations. That way, your wedding won’t feel rushed—and your guests will have more time to relax and explore.
Need help choosing the perfect spot? This roundup of Northern California wedding venues is a great place to start.
2. NorCal’s Redwood Forests
There’s something undeniably magical about getting married beneath a canopy of redwoods. The stillness. The light. The sense that your love story is being witnessed by trees that have been around for hundreds of years.
Redwood forest weddings feel like an escape from reality—in the best possible way. Guests can stay in cozy cabins, hike between events, and experience a weekend that’s less “wedding factory” and more “fairy tale retreat.”
This option is ideal for nature-loving couples who want something grounded, gorgeous, and deeply personal.
🌲 Choose a redwoods venue with private acreage and all-inclusive options to make the logistics easier—especially if cell service is spotty (which it probably will be).
Looking for your forest dream venue? This Redwood wedding venue guide breaks down the best spots.
3. Southern California Beaches
It doesn’t get more iconic than a California beach wedding. From Malibu to Santa Barbara to Laguna, SoCal’s coastal towns offer postcard-worthy backdrops, laid-back luxury, and built-in ambiance (read: crashing waves and ocean breezes).
If your vibe is barefoot ceremony + breezy cocktail hour + coastal views at sunset, a beach wedding is the move.
🏖️ Check tide charts and local permits—especially if you’re dreaming of a toes-in-the-sand ceremony. And always, always plan for wind.
4. Big Sur
Dramatic cliffs. Moody mist. Wild coastline. If you’re going for ethereal elopement energy—or want guests along for the wild ride—Big Sur is your best bet.
It’s not the easiest location to access, but that’s part of the magic. What you lose in convenience, you gain in cinematic views and true escape-from-it-all vibes. Many Big Sur venues feel more like intimate retreats than traditional wedding venues, and that’s exactly why couples love them.
🌊 Lodging can be limited and books up quickly. Secure room blocks and share travel tips with guests early.
5. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is that rare unicorn location that works for both winter and summer weddings. In the warmer months, you’ve got alpine lakes, mountain meadows, and clear blue skies. In the winter? Cozy lodges, fireplaces, and snow-covered peaks.
It’s a top pick for couples who want to combine outdoor beauty with modern amenities—especially if their guest list includes people who love a good ski run or paddleboard session.
🏔️ Make sure you have a weather backup plan, no matter the season. Mountain weather can turn fast.
6. Palm Springs
Palm Springs is the ultimate party-meets-design-lover’s dream. With colorful hotels, mid-century modern vibes, and desert light that just gets your photographer, this destination has serious style.
It’s perfect for couples who want something playful and aesthetic-forward, with plenty of pool time and strong cocktails built in. Your wedding weekend will basically feel like a vacation you’d plan anyway—just with better outfits.
🌴 If you’re hosting in peak season (spring), book early—this is a hot spot for both weddings and festivals.
7. Joshua Tree & The High Desert
For couples who love boho style, wide open spaces, and off-the-grid energy, Joshua Tree is a total vibe. Elopements, micro-weddings, and Airbnb-style weekends all thrive here.
You’ll trade ballrooms for backdrops and banquet halls for backyard dinners—but that’s the point. It’s stripped down, stylish, and surprisingly romantic.
🔥 Bring in a planner who knows the local vendor scene—especially if you’re hosting a nontraditional setup.
Planning a California Destination Wedding | 5 Quick Tips
- Choose a location that matches your vibe. Romantic, rustic, coastal, or modern—California has it all.
- Look for venues with weekend options. Give yourself time to actually enjoy it.
- Send save-the-dates early. Especially for popular tourist spots like wine country or Palm Springs.
- Plan activities for guests. Think wine tastings, hikes, or brunch the day after.
- Work with local vendors. They know the terrain (and the permits).
Book Your Dream Wedding in CA
California offers more than just a wedding backdrops, it offers built-in experiences. Whether you’re raising a glass in wine country, walking barefoot down a beach aisle, or exchanging vows beneath ancient redwoods, your wedding can be both beautiful and unforgettable.
No flights to Europe required. No passports necessary. Just the perfect destination and a whole lot of love.
