It’s not every day that you tie the knot, so why not make it an unforgettable experience for you, as well as your family, friends, and loved ones present for the big day? If you are on the hunt for a California wedding venue that stands out from the crowd, then look no further than our list of the 11 most unique venues in the Golden State.
Sacramento
Located just north of downtown Sacramento, Camp Pollock is an incredible property for those looking for an outdoorsy and adventurous wedding location. Sitting on an 11-acre riverfront property, Camp Pollock has a 3,000 square foot lodge built in the 1920s, complete with a wraparound porch, stone fireplace, covered deck, native plant garden courtyard, and river access. Host anywhere from 25 to 500 guests in their four event spaces!
San Francisco
For music lovers, the Fillmore San Francisco might be a dream wedding location. This legendary venue has hosted the likes of The Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors. As if that’s not enough of a selling point, booking with the Fillmore also gives you access to dedicated wedding specialists who can help you create everything from custom floral centerpieces to food and beverage menus. Check out the “Poster Room” and balcony for up to 100 guests or the auditorium for weddings over 100 guests.
Big Sur
Nestled in the rugged beauty of Big Sur, the Ventana Resort blends the ocean, mountains, and forest into an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding. Take in the architecture and design inspired by Big Sur and its beautiful coastline and ancient redwoods with up to 150 wedding guests. Don’t forget to check out the spa and on-site restaurant with ocean views!
Carmel-By-The-Sea
This 20,000-acre private nature preserve in the Santa Lucia Mountains offers an unbelievable setting in an “enchanted woodland oasis” for your wedding day. Besides the epic California scenery, Santa Lucia Preserve can seat approximately 300 guests inside its 100-year-old barn, oozing with rustic elegance, all while indulging in farm-to-table fare and fine California wines. Do yourself a favor and check out the honeymoon suite in the Hacienda, as well as the preserve’s rich history here.
Santa Barbara
The Riviera Mansion is a historical full-service wedding venue constructed in 1880. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, this charming venue can accommodate up to 300 guests with options for both indoor and outdoor weddings. Be sure to take notice of all the mansion has to offer, such as picturesque gardens, impressive architectural design, balconies, chandeliers, fireplaces, wooden floorings, plus two dance floors and private dressing suites for the wedding party.
Malibu
If you long for a lush landscape and panoramic views inspired by the rolling hills of Tuscany, then Cielo Farms is your place. This magnificent estate spans more than 30 acres with hundreds of olive trees and views of the Malibu Hills. The venue can accommodate up to 200 guests and can assist the lucky couple with every aspect of the event, from the menu to the lighting.
Oxnard
For a truly unique experience, have your wedding aboard the Scarlett Belle, a beautiful paddlewheel riverboat built specifically for all-inclusive events. With picturesque ceremony areas and reception space, you and up to 150 wedding guests can cruise the Channel Island Harbor while enjoying onboard cocktails, buffet menus, and, of course, a spectacular sunset on the upper-level deck.
Los Angeles
With a total of five properties that can accommodate from 30 people to up to 750, this DTLA location boasts some of the most stunning and unique event locations in the city. Marvimon has converted unused buildings like an old marijuana factory and an abandoned seafood market into dreamy spaces gleaming with murals, fresh greenery and plants, repurposed wooden walls, and ultra-mod furniture. Ask about the company’s customized equipment and personalized support to help you manifest your perfect reception.
Palm Springs
With outdoor space that can accommodate up to 130 guests, Korakia offers an intimate and dramatic setting for your destination wedding, complete with stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains. This Mediterranean-style resort sits on 1.5 lush acres consisting of bungalows, guesthouses, gardens, and pools. Don’t miss the citrus blossoms, olive trees, oleander bushes, date palms, bougainvillea vines, and gorgeous fountains.
Carlsbad
This year-round venue features three locations for your big day, with indoor seating for up to 225 guests and access to amenities like a garden cocktail area, firepits, food truck access, and more. Of course, the stand-out feature of this venue is the whimsical backdrops of flower gardens. (From March through May, The Flower Fields come alive with millions of ranunculus flowers!)
San Diego
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps overlooks the Pacific Ocean and offers a one-of-kind location for your wedding ceremony, reception, or rehearsal dinner. Your guests will be wowed by the abundance of undersea creatures in realistic habitats and the experience of hands-on museum exhibits. Be sure to check out the Galleria, which can accommodate 200 for a sit-down dinner. The best part about booking this location is that the proceeds support the aquarium’s exhibits and education programs!