
Explore all that Southern California has to offer and check out the list I have compiled just for you!! Here is my “Top 10 California Wedding Venues” I have either had the pleasure of photographing myself or have dreamed of photographing at! Each venues offering a unique and stunning backdrop for your special day. From coastal beachfront overlooks that capture breathtaking ocean views to charming wineries nestled in picturesque valleys, Southern California has it all. Imagine exchanging vows in a desert oasis or celebrating in a Tuscan/Italian-inspired estate. Each venue provides a distinct atmosphere, ensuring a memorable experience.
Don’t worry! I did the research for you on these California Wedding Venues!
You will find that I not only shared the names of these venues with you but I also included location, capacity, quick link to their contact page for pricing info, and overall style and aesthetic from each venue!! This wedding photographer is here to make your wedding planning journey as stress free as possible!
1. The Darlington House


Capacity: Can seat up to 200 guests
Location:San Diego, California
Contact: Inquire here
Top Features: Just blocks from the ocean hidden near the coastal neighborhoods of La Jolla is “The Darlington House.” Charming architectural details, colorfully tiled patios, and lush gardens create a beautiful and romantic backdrop that your guests will talk about for years to come.
Style: Historic Architecture, Coastal Charm, Tuscan Villa Vibes
2.The Valencia




Capacity: Accommodate up to 250 guests
Location: San Diego, California
Contact: Inquire here for pricing
Top Features: Offering classic glamour and coastal charm above the cliffs of La Jolla Cove, La Valencia Hotel. It gives a Hollywood vintage vibe with it’s pink walls, ocean overlooks, and classy ballroom! Whether you are a California local or planning a destination wedding “The Valencia” is the picture-perfect setting for your California wedding.
Style: Oceanfront, Coastal Hollywood Charm
3.Bougainvilla Estate
Capacity: Can seat up to 250 guests
Location: Indio, California
Contact: Inuire here
Top Features: A little oasis hidden in the deserts of Indio, California. This 5 acre venue has natural landscapes, which featured gardens, a pool, and, as the name suggests, bougainvillea as far as the eye can see. With it’s beautiful white exterior and pops of color from the bougainvilla and gardens this venue truly is “A Hidden Gem.”
Style: Mediterranean, Desert Oasis, Modern/Bohemian
4.Monserate Winery– California Wedding Venues



Photos by @shootiriephoto
Capacity: Can seat up to 250 guests
Location: Fallbrook, California
Top Features: A stunning estate nestled in the rolling hills of San Diego County. With its beautiful vineyards, rolling hills, towering trees, gorgeous lakes, and immaculately kept landscaping, Monserate Winery is the perfect place to celebrate your love.
Contact: inquire here
Style: Italian Inspired, Modern Elegance, Timeless
5.Grand Gimeno



Photos taken by the talented film photographer: Kari Tello
Capacity: Can seat up to 200 guests
Location: Orange, California
Top Features: Revival design and an interior that has been reimagined with influence from the structure’s past while incorporating modern-day, custom details. Grand Gimeno’s expansive back patio features something extra special and unique to the venue: A custom wood-fired pizza oven and live fire cooking station to flawlessly execute their traditional Argentine asado experience. This romantic wedding and event venue combines one-of-a-kind al fresco dining features with swoon-worthy architecture.
Contact: inquire here
Style: Spanish, Modern, Elegance
6. The Richland



Capacity: 150-200 guests
Location: Old Town Orange, California
Top Features: The indoor ceremony space has exposed wood beam ceilings paired with wainscoting detail and bright natural light provide an acoustically rich environment. Their intimate outdoor cocktail space has jasmine vine-covered pergolas surrounded by lush greenery for a refreshing, romantic ambiance. The Richland has a back house cottage and rooms on site for your family and wedding party available for booking for a convenient stay!
Contact: inquire here
Style: Modern Historic, Bright and Airy
7. Franciscan Gardens



Capacity: seated-250, standing-350
Location: San Juan Capistrano, California
Contact: inquire here
Style: Spanish Style Garden, Romantic, Historic
8. The Swanner House


Capacity: The venue can accommodate up to 300 guests for events.
Style: The Swanner House is a beautifully restored farmhouse surrounded by citrus groves, offering a timeless and intimate setting for weddings and special occasions. The property features exquisitely manicured gardens and original architectural details, providing a seamless blend of historic charm and natural beauty.
Contact: https://swannerhouse.com/
9. Cielo Farms
Capacity: 200
Location: Malibu, California
Contact: inquire here
Style: Tuscan Inspired, Romantic, Nature
10. Leo Carrillo Ranch



Capacity: 300
Location: Carlsbad, California
Contact: inquire here
Style: Romantic, Spanish Style, Outdoor
11. The Guild
Capacity: 370+
Location: San Diego, California
Contact: Inquire here
Top Features: A unique space that showcases a modern aesthetic blended with original historic features. Natural Light, Original textured brick walls & vaulted ceilings
Style: Elegant, Urban, European Inspired
Meet your California Wedding Photographer!

Hi! I’m Dani! The girl who created this blog with the intention of inspiring you to dream big for your wedding day! In case you didn’t know I am a California wedding photographer. Here to help you have a stress-free & fun experience as you check off those boxes on your wedding checklist! If you haven’t already go ahead and check out what’s included in my wedding packages & experience! You’ll learn what it’s like to work with me, what planning help I offer, read FAQs, see the booking process, starting pricing, and more!
I truly hope that you have found this blog helpful and if you choose any of these venues, tell me which one had your head turned in the comments! Happy planning!