11 Dreamy Wedding Venues in California for Your Big Day

When it comes to unforgettable wedding backdrops, California has it all. From coastal cliffs to hidden vineyards and charming historic towns, the Golden State offers endless options for couples planning a one-of-a-kind celebration.

Whether you're dreaming of a sunlit ceremony by the ocean or a romantic evening under vineyard lights, this list of wedding venues in California will inspire your planning journey.

1. Malibu – For Coastal Elegance

Malibu is made for romance—with sweeping ocean views, golden cliffs, and luxury estates tucked away from the crowds. A ceremony here feels like a cinematic moment. Malibu weddings often strike the perfect balance between laid-back and luxurious.

2. Temecula – For Wine Country Romance

Nestled in Southern California’s wine country, Temecula is a favorite for vineyard weddings. Picture rows of grapevines, sunset ceremonies, and candlelit receptions. It's ideal for couples looking for a countryside escape without leaving the state.

3. Santa Clarita – For Rustic Charm

Just outside Los Angeles, Santa Clarita offers beautiful ranch venues and natural scenery perfect for an outdoor wedding. Think rolling hills, oak trees, and starlit dance floors. It's a hidden gem for those who want nature with convenience.

4. San Juan Capistrano – For Historic Beauty

If you're after history and romance, San Juan Capistrano delivers. The old-world architecture, cobblestone courtyards, and iconic mission make it a stunning choice for timeless weddings.

5. Pasadena – For Garden Glamour

Pasadena is known for its classic beauty. From manicured gardens to elegant mansions, this area gives couples a wide range of stylish venues with a refined touch.

6. Laguna Hills – For Laid-Back Luxury

Laguna Hills offers serene spots for intimate celebrations. It’s perfect for those wanting a wedding that feels both elevated and down-to-earth, with lovely views and a relaxed Southern California vibe.

7. Orange County – For Variety and Vibes

Orange County is a wedding haven—beachfront resorts, modern ballrooms, and private estates are just the beginning. It’s also home to some of our favorite wedding memories, with couples who know how to celebrate in style.

8. Julian – For Cozy Mountain Weddings

If you're looking for fall colors or a forest feel, Julian is a cozy little town that makes for a charming and intimate wedding setting—especially in the cooler months. It’s one of the most underrated destinations in California.

9. Los Angeles – For Urban Meets Art

LA has everything. Rooftop venues with skyline views, industrial-chic lofts, and iconic spots like Griffith Park or the Getty. It’s a city where creativity meets celebration, and no two weddings ever look the same.

10. Westlake Village – For Lakeside Views

Peaceful and polished, Westlake Village offers serene lakefront backdrops and upscale venues perfect for couples seeking a quiet escape close to LA.

11. Bakersfield – For a Family-Focused Feel

For couples rooted in community and family tradition, Bakersfield brings warmth and heart. It’s a place where weddings feel deeply personal—something we’ve witnessed time and time again.

Real Weddings, Real Memories

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of capturing weddings across all these incredible California locations. Each one offers something different—from Malibu’s ocean breeze to the warm vineyard light in Temecula. What they all share in common is this: when the right couple finds the right place, everything else falls into place.

Planning your own California wedding?

At Big Bliss Weddings, we’ve been documenting love stories throughout California since 2015. Whether you’re celebrating by the coast, in the vineyards, or under the city lights, we’d love to help tell your story exactly as it unfolds.