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View ProductLos Angeles is famous for its sunny weather, glamorous lifestyle, and gorgeous beaches. If you’re dreaming of a wedding where you can feel the ocean breeze, hear the soothing sound of waves, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets as you say “I do,” then a beach wedding in Los Angeles is the perfect choice! In this post, we’ll explore why Los Angeles is ideal for a seaside celebration and highlight some of the best beach wedding venues in the area. Read on to learn about planning tips, popular locations, venue packages, and everything you need to know for a stunning coastal wedding.
Los Angeles offers diversity when it comes to wedding venues. Whether you want a grand affair hosted at an exclusive oceanfront hotel or a relaxed, intimate elopement on the sand, LA has it all. Here are some key reasons why a beach wedding in Los Angeles might be the best decision for your special day:
Planning a wedding on the beach does require extra attention to detail compared to traditional venues. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when planning your Los Angeles beach wedding:
Many popular beach locations in Los Angeles require permits for weddings or events, especially if you’re hosting your ceremony in a public area.
• Research what permits are needed well in advance and be sure to check with local authorities.
• Some venues offer full-service packages that handle all the necessary permits, including insurance and cleanup services.
When choosing a date and time for your beach wedding, consider:
• Off-Peak Seasons: For budget-friendly options, consider scheduling your wedding during shoulder seasons such as spring or fall.
• Weekday Weddings: Weekday events might be less expensive and more accessible when it comes to permits and vendor availability.
• Sunset Ceremonies: A ceremony timed for the golden hour (just before sunset) creates a magical atmosphere perfect for romantic photos.
While Los Angeles is known for its great weather, coastal areas can sometimes be breezy or cooler in the evenings. Keep these tips in mind:
• Have a backup plan or tent setup available in case of unexpected weather changes.
• Choose a venue that offers both outdoor spaces and covered or indoor options, so you’re prepared no matter what.
A beach wedding involves more logistics:
• Work with vendors experienced in outdoor ceremonies to ensure that everything from lighting to sound is suitable for a beachfront environment.
• Some venues offer in-house packages that include catering, decor, and photography, simplifying the planning process.
Enhance your venue with thoughtful beach-inspired decor:
• Think of natural elements such as driftwood, seashells, and soft linens paired with vibrant floral arrangements.
• Plan for comfortable seating for your guests, keeping in mind the softness of the sand and possible ground variations.
Los Angeles boasts several iconic beach areas, each offering its own unique set of vibes and amenities. Below are some popular locations along the coast:
Malibu is known for its celebrity-favorite beaches and exclusive wedding venues. Options here include luxurious seaside estates and intimate beach clubs.
• Duke’s Malibu: With its picturesque oceanfront location, Duke’s offers panoramic views of the Pacific and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
• Bel-Air Bay Club: Located in Pacific Palisades (just minutes from Malibu), this venue is reminiscent of Old Hollywood elegance and offers sweeping ocean views that are perfect for larger weddings.
• Adamson House: A historic Spanish Colonial Revival-style home, Adamson House features magnificent tile work and offers stunning outdoor spaces for your ceremony.
Santa Monica is celebrated for its vibrant energy and famous pier. Wedding venues here combine modern elegance with beachfront charm.
• Shutters on the Beach: This high-end hotel is an iconic Santa Monica venue ideal for couples seeking glamour with a seaside twist. Exchange vows on the sand and celebrate in a refined indoor setting designed to impress.
• Hotel Casa del Mar: Just steps from the beach, this luxurious option offers majestic ocean views, a grand staircase for memorable entrances, and opulent ballrooms that create a truly unforgettable celebration.
These neighboring beach towns offer a more laid-back vibe with plenty of options that combine modern amenities and intimate settings.
• The Portofino Hotel & Marina: Set on a private peninsula, this venue offers nautical-chic decor and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the sparkling ocean.
• Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina: Known for its breathtaking views and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, this venue is ideal for couples who want both elegance and nature on their big day.
• Crystal Cove Venue: For couples desiring a smaller, intimate setting, Crystal Cove Venue offers a quaint setup right on the beach with picturesque ocean views.
Long Beach’s vibrant waterfront scene is great for couples who want a blend of artistic style and coastal beauty.
• Long Beach Museum of Art: Housed in a restored Craftsman-style residence, this venue offers an open-air setting on a lush lawn with views over Long Beach Harbor.
• Marina Del Rey Venues: Options like City Cruises and FantaSea Yachts offer unique wedding experiences on the water, perfect for couples seeking a maritime celebration.
For a more secluded and luxurious setting, Palos Verdes offers venues perched atop cliffs with magnificent ocean views.
• Palos Verdes Golf Club: Surrounded by 800 acres of landscaped greenery, this venue boasts beautiful ocean vistas and a tranquil, romantic ambiance.
• Neighborhood Church & Historic Seaside Estates: These venues provide a sense of history and natural beauty combined, ideal for elegant outdoor ceremonies.
One of the appealing aspects of booking a beach wedding in Los Angeles is the variety of venue packages available to suit different styles and budgets. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, there is a package designed just for you.
Many top venues now offer all-inclusive packages that simplify your planning process:
• Comprehensive Services: Packages may include everything from the ceremony and reception setup to catering, photography, decor, and even cleanup.
• Budget Control: By bundling services into one package, couples can often save money while reducing the stress of managing multiple vendors.
• Customization: Even within an all-inclusive package, many venues offer customizable options for a personal touch to your ceremony—think custom floral arrangements, bespoke lighting designs, and tailored menu options.
If you prefer to have control over each wedding element, many venues provide the flexibility to choose services separately:
• Flexible Rentals: Some venues allow you to rent the space by the hour and hire your favorite vendors separately, such as independent caterers, photographers, or planners.
• Vendor Recommendations: Even if you decide on a la carte arrangements, many locations provide a list of recommended vendors who are familiar with the unique needs of beach weddings in Los Angeles.
For couples planning on a tight budget, Los Angeles offers many affordable beach wedding venues without sacrificing beauty or style:
• Elopement Packages: These are ideal for couples who want a simple, intimate ceremony—with options starting at modest prices that cover key elements like ceremony setup, officiant, and basic decor.
• Off-Peak Weddings: Booking a weekday or an off-season date can significantly reduce costs, allowing you to enjoy the magic of a beach wedding without breaking the bank.
There’s no better way to imagine your wedding day than by looking at real wedding stories and photographs from couples who celebrated on the beach. Many Los Angeles beach wedding venues have hosted events that are perfect examples of how the natural surroundings can enhance the overall experience. Here are a few inspirational ideas:
Couples who opt for smaller, intimate affairs often choose a simple ceremony on the beach followed by a close-knit celebration. Imagine exchanging vows on the soft sand with only your nearest and dearest as the ocean provides a natural backdrop. The gentle sound of waves and a golden sunset create a serene, almost magical atmosphere.
For those with a larger guest list, many venues offer spaces that transition beautifully from an outdoor ceremony to an elegant reception. Imagine a grand tent set up on the beach where you and your guests can dine under the stars, with the ocean in the background and fairy lights enhancing the ambiance.
Some couples decide to add an element of adventure to their wedding day by hosting unique experiences like boating or yacht ceremonies. Venues such as City Cruises in Marina Del Rey provide a remarkable alternative where you can literally set sail and exchange vows while gliding over the sparkling ocean.
Historical venues like the Adamson House in Malibu combine a rich cultural heritage with breathtaking coastal views. The unique architectural details, vibrant tile work, and well-manicured gardens make for phenomenal wedding settings that feel both timeless and modern.
Here are a few additional tips to ensure that your beach wedding day is as seamless and memorable as possible:
Arrive Early for Set-Up:
Allow extra time on the wedding day for setup and any last-minute adjustments. With outdoor venues, weather conditions can change quickly, so having a buffer is invaluable.
Consider the Tide:
If your ceremony is right on the beach, coordinate with your venue to ensure that the tide schedule won’t interfere with the setup or photos. Most experienced beach venues will have protocols in place to handle this.
Dress Appropriately:
Beach weddings call for both style and practicality. Consider lightweight fabrics, comfortable footwear (or plan for barefoot options), and perhaps a stylish wrap or jacket for cooler breezes.
Sound and Seating Arrangements:
Outdoor ceremonies can sometimes be challenging for microphones and audio equipment. Choose a venue that provides top-quality sound systems or hire a specialist to ensure that every word is heard.
Plan for Cleanup:
Beach venues often include cleanup services in their wedding packages, but always confirm these details with your vendor. A pristine beach not only looks beautiful but also helps maintain environmental standards.
Personalize Your Decor:
Use the natural surroundings to enhance your theme. Incorporate local elements like seashells, driftwood, and nautical accents. Consider natural, airy colors to complement the ocean and sky.
Here is a closer look at several standout wedding venues that have consistently received rave reviews from couples:
City Cruises in Marina Del Rey offers a unique twist on the traditional wedding venue.
• Features:
– Host your ceremony on a private yacht cruise while taking in stunning views of the marina.
– Ideal for larger gatherings (300+ guests) with options for customizable packages.
• Why Couples Love It:
– The combination of a luxurious experience on the water and personalized service makes it a memorable choice for those wanting an unconventional wedding.
Located in the breathtaking landscapes of Rancho Palos Verdes, this venue is perfect for couples seeking elegant simplicity.
• Features:
– Breathtaking ocean vistas ranging from Malibu to Catalina.
– Outdoor event spaces that lend themselves well to both ceremonies and receptions.
• Why Couples Love It:
– The natural beauty of the location, paired with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, creates a romantic setting for your big day.
For couples who appreciate art and history, the Long Beach Museum of Art provides a unique wedding setting.
• Features:
– A combination of indoor and outdoor spaces with modern and sophisticated decor.
– An open-air area that overlooks Long Beach Harbor, providing unmatched views during sunrise or sunset.
• Why Couples Love It:
– Its blend of historical charm and artistic flair makes it perfect for intimate gatherings that celebrate both culture and natural beauty.
If you’re looking for an all-round oceanfront experience, Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina offers just that.
• Features:
– Spectacular ocean views and access to a private marina.
– Multiple event spaces that can accommodate both large and intimate weddings.
• Why Couples Love It:
– The venue is praised for its accommodating staff, beautiful scenery, and the ease with which guests can transition from the ceremony to the reception.
For a more relaxed, laid-back vibe, Duke’s Malibu is a standout choice.
• Features:
– A picturesque location right on the beach with abundant natural light and sweeping ocean views.
– Ideal for smaller gatherings and intimate celebrations that capture the essence of a true beach wedding.
• Why Couples Love It:
– The combination of great food, a serene environment, and the iconic Malibu coastline makes for an unforgettable wedding celebration.
With so many extraordinary venues to choose from, deciding on the perfect spot for your beach wedding can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help narrow down your choices:
Determine Your Guest Count:
Identify how many guests you plan to invite, as this will help filter venues by capacity. Some venues are perfect for larger celebrations, while others cater to intimate elopements.
Budget Considerations:
Set your budget and explore packages that match your financial plans. Whether you are looking for an affordable beach wedding or a lavish celebration, there are options available that fit every purse.
Location and Accessibility:
Consider the location’s ease of access for both you and your guests. Many of the best venues are located near popular attractions and have ample parking or transport links.
Visit the Venue in Person:
If possible, take a tour of the venue to get a first-hand feel for its ambiance, available lighting, and overall suitability. This will also give you an opportunity to meet the venue staff and discuss details.
Read Reviews and Ask Questions:
Look for reviews on platforms like The Knot, WeddingWire, and Tagvenue. Pay attention to comments regarding customer service, vendor reliability, and overall satisfaction with the venue.
Visualize Your Wedding:
Picture your ceremony and reception at the venue. Does the setting match your wedding vision? Whether you want a modern, chic affair or a vintage beachside celebration, the venue should help bring your dreams to life.
When choosing a wedding venue, hearing real-life experiences can be invaluable. Many couples have shared the following feedback regarding their beach weddings in Los Angeles:
These testimonials are a testament to the magic that beach wedding venues can create in Los Angeles. With their natural charm and professional event management, these locations ensure that your special day unfolds exactly as you envisioned.
Here are a few extra tips to make your beach wedding day as memorable as possible:
Lighting is Key:
Consider natural lighting enhancements. Use lanterns, tiki torches, or fairy lights to add warmth and charm to your reception as the sun sets.
Acoustic Considerations:
Partner with experienced sound professionals who have worked on beach weddings before. The natural acoustics of an open environment can sometimes be challenging for speeches and toasts.
Guest Comfort:
Provide amenities like sunscreen, hand fans, or blankets in case of cooler breezes. Make sure there is shaded seating and refreshments readily available to ensure everyone stays comfortable.
Floral Arrangements:
Work with florists who are experienced in outdoor events. Use hardy blooms that can withstand the sea air while providing vibrant splashes of color that complement the natural surroundings.
Photography Planning:
Choose a photographer who has extensive experience with beach settings. The interplay of natural light, ocean hues, and candid moments on the sand is a photographic dream, and professionals who specialize in beach weddings know exactly how to capture these moments.
Personal Touches:
Incorporate sea-inspired elements like custom driftwood signage, delicate seashell adornments on the tables, or even a custom cocktail that reflects the local vibe of Los Angeles.
A wedding is one of life’s most cherished celebrations, and choosing the right venue is critical to making your special day truly extraordinary. Los Angeles offers some of the most breathtaking beach wedding venues in the world—from Malibu’s luxurious, intimate settings to Santa Monica’s iconic coastal glamor, Redondo Beach’s nautical charm, Long Beach’s artistic vibe, and the serene elegance in Palos Verdes.
Whether you opt for an all-inclusive package that leaves you stress-free or prefer to tailor every detail with individual vendors, LA’s wedding venues cater to every couple’s dream. With unforgettable natural beauty, professional event services, and a relaxed yet glamorous atmosphere, your beach wedding in Los Angeles is destined to be a celebration that you—and your guests—will treasure for a lifetime.
Remember, planning a beach wedding involves careful coordination, but the end result is a serene, stylish celebration that perfectly matches your unique love story. Take your time to research venues, ask plenty of questions, and visualize your dream wedding with every detail in place.
If the idea of exchanging vows under a canopy of blue skies and sparkling ocean waves fills your heart with joy, start exploring these wonderful venues today. With the perfect blend of nature’s beauty and professional wedding planning, there’s no better place to say “I do” than on the sunny, spectacular shores of Los Angeles.
To recap, here are the key takeaways for planning and enjoying the best beach wedding venues in Los Angeles:
Whether you’re drawn to a luxurious venue with full-service amenities or an affordable, budget-friendly option that still offers beauty and charm, Los Angeles has a beach wedding venue that will match both your style and your dreams.
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, commitment, and new beginnings. With the stunning coastline of Los Angeles as your backdrop, every moment—from the intimate ceremony on the sand to the lively reception under the stars—will be filled with natural beauty and cherished memories. Embrace the relaxed, romantic vibe that a beach wedding offers and let the sound of the waves be the soundtrack to your love story.
We hope this guide has provided you with insight and inspiration as you embark on the wedding planning journey. Get in touch with local vendors, schedule tours of your favorite venues, and start visualizing your perfect day by the sea. Your dream beach wedding in Los Angeles is waiting—let the ocean be your witness as you say “I do” in one of the world’s most enchanting settings.
Happy planning, and may your special day be as beautiful and unforgettable as the stunning Los Angeles coastline!
Whether you’re planning a luxurious celebration or an intimate elopement, Los Angeles’ beach wedding venues offer a perfect setting to start your happily ever after. Enjoy the journey, personalize every detail, and let your love shine as brightly as the California sun.