The 65+ Most Popular San Diego Wedding Venues
Welcome to my list of the 65+ most popular San Diego wedding venues! San Diego is a wonderful city for a wedding. Not only does its amazing weather allow you to get married any time of the year, but there is a wide variety of venues for your wedding! There are wonderful beach wedding venues and gorgeous golf course venues. Planning a winery wedding? San Diego’s got you covered!
I’ve been a wedding photographer in San Diego for over 20 years and have shot at many of the best wedding venues in San Diego. If there’s a venue you’d like me to add, please leave a comment! I’ll be periodically updating this post with more venues, and galleries from each venue.
If you have any questions or would love my input for any particular venue, please shoot me an email at studio@johnschnack.com.
Best Beach Wedding Venues in San Diego
Sunset Cliffs : Located just south of the Ocean Beach Pier, Sunset Cliffs is one of the most gorgeous stretches of coastline in San Diego. With 180-degree views, the Cliffs is one of my favorite spots for a beach wedding, and one of the more affordable wedding venues in San Diego. Luscomb Point is the most popular area, with seating for up to 50 people. Permits can be obtained through the County Clerk’s office.
Windansea Beach : Made famous in Tom Wolfe’s 1968 collection of essays titled, The Pump House Gang, La Jolla’s most famous surfing beach is also one of my favorite spots for beach wedding. You can have your ceremony on the sand if the tide is low, or Windansea has a small bluff area that overlooks the cove-shaped beach. Suitable for ceremonies up to around 50 people. Permits can be obtained through the County Clerk’s office.
Best Winery Wedding Venues in San Diego?
Orfila Vineyards : Orfila is the perfect spot for a winery wedding. Located a few miles southeast of Escondido, in San Diego’s inland North County, about a 45 minute-drive from Downtown San Diego. Features a gorgeous ceremony site overlooking the vineyards, and a semi-permanent tent for your reception.
Forgotten Barrel Winery : A little farther north lies Forgotten Barrel Winery. Located just outside downtown Escondido, the winery offers a gorgeous lawn for your ceremony, a beautiful cocktail patio, and a barrel room for your reception. There are even bride and groom suites, so you can experience your entire day in one location.
Cordiano Winery : Nestled on a hillside with panoramic views of the Highland Valley, Cordiano Winery is a great spot for a wedding. Aside from its beauty, Cordiano partners with Sisti & Co, a wedding planner and floral designer, so you can enjoy your big day to its fullest.
Bernardo Winery : Located 30 minutes from the San Diego airport, Bernardo Winery has been hosting weddings for over 40 years. The winery can host weddings large and small. There are hotels nearby with shuttle service, so you and your guests can get to and from the winery with little trouble.
Milagro Winery : Situated in the northeast corner of San Diego County, Milagro Winery offers everything you need for your winery wedding. Accommodating up to 200 guests, Milagro offers a quiet, rural ambiance for you and your wedding guests.
Best Ocean View Wedding Venues in San Diego
Alila Marea Beach Resort : Sitting on a bluff with panoramic views of the ocean, the newest hotel in Encinitas offers everything you need for an upscale wedding in San Diego. The resort can accommodate up to 200 wedding guests, and offers plenty of extracurricular activities for those who decide to stay on property. If you’re looking for unique San Diego wedding venues, Alila Marea is a great option!
La Valencia Hotel : For nearly a century, La Valencia Hotel (referred to as “The Pink Lady” by locals) has been an iconic San Diego wedding venue. Boasting a oceanview ceremony site and a gorgeous ballroom, La Valencia is one of my favorite La Jolla wedding venues.
Hotel Del Coronado : Another one of my absolute favorite San Diego wedding venues is the Hotel Del Coronado. Widely considered one of the top wedding venues in San Diego, the Hotel Del Coronado is the benchmark for luxury weddings in San Diego.
L’Auberge Del Mar : Located in the heart of Del Mar, the L’Auberge Del Mar is a wonderful San Diego wedding venue for an oceanview ceremony and reception. With ceremony sites that can accommodate up to 200 guests, there are plenty of options for your luxury wedding. In addition to the on-property ceremony and reception sites, the hotel has a partnership with the city of Del Mar which allows ceremonies at nearby Seagrove Park.
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club : With 14 beachfront acres and a newly designed ceremony space, the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club is one of top San Diego wedding venues. Offering seclusion that many of the other La Jolla wedding venues lack, the LJBTC is perfect for celebrations large and small.
Martin Johnson House : If you’re looking for a relatively affordable San Diego wedding venue with an ocean view, the Martin Johnson House is amazing. Nestled under towering cypress trees with sweeping views of La Jolla and Scripps Pier, this converted cottage is the perfect place to celebrate with up to 130 wedding guests.
Scripps Seaside Forum : With its modern design and oceanfront location, the Scripps Seaside Forum is a unique San Diego wedding venue. With capacity for up 200 guests, the Forum features a ceremony lawn that overlooks the ocean. There are plenty of hotels nearby so you can make it a La Jolla wedding weekend!
TOWER23 Hotel : Located on the beach in happening Pacific Beach, TOWER23 is a sleek, modern venue for weddings of all shapes and sizes.
Best Bayfront Wedding Venues in San Diego
The Dana on Mission Bay : With ceremony and reception sites of all sizes, The Dana can accommodate both intimate weddings and large-scale affairs. Located on a gorgeous property overlooking Mission Bay, the hotel’s accommodations and recreational activities make the perfect venue for a San Diego wedding weekend!
Catamaran Resort : Its Polynesian-inspired design makes the Catamaran Resort one of the most popular San Diego wedding venues.
Paradise Point : With 80,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, Paradise Point’s bayfront views make it one of the favorite San Diego wedding venues. Spa services and a host of recreational activities make the perfect spot for a weekend-long celebration.
ZLAC Rowing Club : Built in 1932, this bayfront venue is an actual operational rowing club! With rowing-inspired decor and redwood interiors, this property has long been one of the best San Diego wedding venues.
Hilton San Diego Bayfront : With a variety of bayfront ceremony sites and tons of ballroom space, the Hilton San Diego Bayfront is a great San Diego wedding venue if you’re having a large celebration.
Loews Coronado Bay Resort : Situated on a private, 15-acre peninsula with views of the bay, the Loews Coronado Bay resort is one of the most popular San Diego wedding venues. This venue is ideal for larger celebrations, as it can accommodate up to 500 people.
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina : Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, right on the water, the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina is an amazing, all-inclusive wedding venue.
Best Wedding Venues for Golf in San Diego
Lodge at Torrey Pines : With views of the iconic Torrey Pines golf course, The Lodge at Torrey pines is widely considered on of the greatest San Diego wedding venues, and for good reason! With ceremony and reception space for up to 220 guests, the exquisite dining and five-star service is one of the most luxurious San Diego wedding venues.
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines : From its French-inspired Parterre Garden to it’s luxurious ballrooms, the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines is one of my favorite San Diego wedding venues. With views of the famous Torrey Pines golf course, the Hilton is a must-see for brides and grooms looking for a wedding venue near a golf course.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar : Long considered one of the most luxurious San Diego wedding venues, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is really something to behold. From its Mediterranean-inspired design to its luxurious ceremony and reception spaces, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar should be on your list if you’re looking for a sophisticated, luxurious experience.
Omni La Costa Resort : Situated in a quiet corner of southwest Carlsbad lies one of my favorite San Diego wedding venues, La Costa Resort. This gorgeous property has everything the golf lover needs in a luxurious wedding venue–amazing space for tons of guests, five-star service, and lots of extracurricular activities.
Vista Valley Country Club : This hidden gem has been one of my favorite San Diego wedding venues for years, and I’m fortunate to be one of their preferred vendors. Tucked away in the hills of Vista, this venue is decked out in authentic French decor. With a gorgeous ceremony site, amazing photo spots, and beautiful reception spaces, Vista Valley is a must-see for every golfer.
Park Hyatt Aviara : With a wide variety of ceremony and reception space, Park Hyatt Aviara has everything the golf lover needs in a wedding venue. Top it off with amazing food and five-star service, and it’s a must-see for anyone looking for a sophisticated, secluded venue for their big day.
The Crossings at Carlsbad : Located a stone’s throw from Legoland, The Crossings at Carlsbad offers coupules a luxurious experience at a relatively affordable price. From its gorgeous ceremony space to its varieity of reception sites, The Crossings offers the golf-loving couple a lot of bang for their buck.
Pala Mesa Resort : Nestled amongst the hills in Fallbrook, Pala Mesa Resort is a wonderful spot for couples looking for a golf-centric wedding venue. Complete with rose gardens and a 30-foot waterfall, Pala Mesa is the perfect spot for you and up to 300 family and friends to celebrate your big day in style.
Rancho Bernardo Inn : Popping out of an otherwise unremarkable neighborhood, Rancho Bernardo Inn epitomises luxury. With a wide variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for guest counts of up to 500, the Rancho Bernardo Inn should be on your list of San Diego wedding venues.
Maderas Golf Club : Situated in a secluded valley, Maderas Golf club offers luxury, amazing service, and exclusivity to couples looking for a wedding venue. The property has a wide variety of space for weddings of any size.
Morgan Run Golf Club : Located in the eastern portion of Del Mar, Morgan Run is a wonderful wedding venue for couples who love golf. With 27 holes from which to choose, there’s no shortage fun before and after your wedding.
Best Spa and Wellness Wedding Venues
Cal-a-Vie Spa : With its French decor and immaculate grounds, Cal-a-Vie Spa is, without a doubt, one of the most luxurious wedding venues in San Diego. From its 400-year-old chapel to its unique windmill, Cal-a-Vie Spa should be on anyone’s list who values sophistication combined with relaxation.
Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa : Tucked away in the hills of Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa exemplifies beauty and understated elegance. With romantic gardens, stunning accommodations, and a peaceful atmosphere, Rancho Valencia should be on the list of anyone looking for a next-level wedding venue.
Best Rustic and Quaint Wedding Venues in San Diego
Inn at Rancho Santa Fe : Nestled on a slight rise overlooking the village of Rancho Santa Fe, the Inn is one of the most popular wedding venues in San Diego. With a variety of venues for celebrations of any size to a wide range of services, the Inn is truly remarkable.
Darlington House : Built in 1925, Darlington House has long been a favorite wedding venue in San Diego. From the moment you walk in, it’s quaint charm and gorgeous design leave you breathless. Located in the heart of La Jolla, just two blocks from the ocean, Darlington House is a great venue for those looking for a relaxed, low-key wedding venue.
La Jolla Woman’s Club : With two ceremony gardens and a rustic indoor reception venue, the La Jolla Woman’s Club is one of my favorite wedding venues in La Jolla. With an indoor stage that’s perfect for a band, this venue is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a low-key yet gorgeous wedding venue.
Estancia La Jolla : With luxurious accomodations and gorgeous amenities, Estancia La Jolla has a well-earned reptuation as an amazing wedding venue. Situated on 10 sprawling acres in La Jolla, Estancia’s gorgeous hacienda-inspired design will wow even the most discerning wedding guests.
Leo Carillo Ranch : Once owned by the famous 1950s actor of the same name, Leo Carillo Ranch epitomizes rustic decor. As the original house on a once-sprawling ranch, the facility has preserved much of the decor and charm from the original construction. Conveniently located in Carlsbad, this venue is one of my favorites.
Ethereal Gardens : Set on 40 acres, Etheral Gardens has a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for wedings of any size and style. The venue is completely private, so there’s no chance you’ll be competing with another event for staff or service.
Condor’s Nest Ranch : Situated in the hills in the northeast corner of the county, Condor’s Nest Ranch offers couples a unique experience. With a ceremony site underneath a 200-year-old Ash tree, and a reception are that lets you party under the stars, Condor’s Nest Ranch is the perfect spot for a couple looking for an all-inclusive wedding.
Willow Creek Ranch : Built on seven acres, Willow Creek Ranch is an all-outdoor venue (tenting optional). With an expansive lawn and a lavender field, Willow Creek Ranch has amazing sites and amenities for your rustic wedding.
Mt. Woodson Castle : Another all-inclusive venue, Mt. Woodson Castle is a wonderful, low-key wedding venue. This historical site has many amenities, including bridal suites and a children’s play room.
Melrose Ranch : A 118-acre working ranch, Melrose Ranch is a venue known for its DIY-friendly approach. With a large ceremony lawn and a party barn that can host up to 500 guests, Melrose Ranch is the perfect wedding venue for couples who want a little more control over decor, food, and beverage.
Grand Tradition : With two distinct wedding venues spread over 30 acres, Grand Tradition has been one of San Diego’s most popular wedding venues for decades. Featuring waterfalls, lush gardens, and a heart-shaped lake, Grand Tradition has everything you need for a breathtaking wedding celebration.
Los Willows : With a unique blend of sophistication and enchantment, Los Willows is one of the more popular wedding venues in San Diego. From the lake to the property’s 360-degree views, Los Willows is the perfect venue for any couple looking for convenience wrapped in luxury.
The Fowler House : With a cap at 50 people, the Fowler House is perfect for the couple looking to host a small, unique event. Located 25 minutes from downtown San Diego, the Fowler House offers overnight stays, perfect for your weekend wedding.
Hazy Meadow Ranch and Carriage : Nestled in the shadow of El Capitan mountain, Hazy Meadow is the perfect spot for a private wedding. This 12-acre equestrian ranch offers a variety of spaces for weddings up to 400 people.
Pine Hill Lodge : Situated on a private mountaintop, Pine Hill Lodge offers couples a secluded spot for a wedding celebration. The Lodge hosts only one wedding per day, ensuring exclusivity and great service.
Sacred Mountain Julian : Sacred Mountain’s Private Ranch site offers three jaw-dropping, unique event spaces. With its ancient stone staircases and centuries-old oak trees, Sacred Mountain is the perfect location for those looking for a truly rustic wedding venue.
Oakwood Creek : Nestled in the backcountry, Oakwood Creek provides a picturesque setting for wedding celebrations of up to 80 people. With a variety of outdoor and indoor spaces–including a private lounge–Oakwood Creek is the perfect location for a low-key, rustic wedding.
Green Gables Wedding Estate : Surrounded by ivy-covered arbors and lush landscaping, and featuring a legitimate gentleman’s speakeasy, Green Gables Wedding Estate is the perfect venue for couples looking for a rustic wedding venue in San Marcos.
Canopy Grove by Wedgewood : With a luxurious, modern barn and sprawling landscape, Canopy Grove is the new kid on the block. Now booking weddings for 2023 and beyond.
Best Garden Wedding Venues in San Diego
San Diego Botanic Garden : With four diverse ceremony and reception sites, San Diego Botanic Garden is a great place for a low-key, garden wedding. Located centrally in Encinitas, the garden is surrounded by lush landscaping and many rare plants. There are plenty of accommodations nearby for your out-of-town wedding guests.
Secret Garden at Rancho Santa Fe : Located in the village of Rancho Santa Fe, the Secret Garden offers couples and their guests a quaint venue for a wedding. With a lush outdoor ceremony are and an indoor reception space, the Secret Garden is perfect for those looking for a secluded garden wedding venue.
Best Downtown San Diego Wedding Venues
The Lane : With views of the harbor and cruise ship terminal, The Lane is an amazing venue for a downtown San Diego wedding. Three versatile gathering areas ensure you can customize the wedding of your dreams.
US Grant Hotel : One of the oldest wedding venues in San Diego (and a personal favorite of this photographer), the US Grant Hotel is the perfect venue for a downtown San Diego wedding. With a vibe that’s classic yet modern, the US Grant Hotel is the perfect venue for a sophisticated wedding.
The Pannikin Building : With 5700 square feet of space located in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, The Pannikin Building offers an old San Diego vibe not found in many downtown San Diego wedding venues. Featuring original brick, hardwood floors, and an open ceiling, this space is the perfect venue for a rustic, downtown San Diego wedding.
Venue 808 : Situated in San Diego’s redeveloped East Village neighborhood, Venue 808 features modern industrial elements, exquisite dining, and outstanding service. Its unique grove of indoor olive trees make this venue a must-see for any couple looking for wedding with an industrial vibe.
Ultimate Skybox : Located on the top floor of Diamond View Tower, Ultimate Skybox is the perfect downtown San Diego wedding venue. Where else can you catch a Padres game and get married at the same time? With panoramic views of Petco Park and beyond, Ultimate Skybox is the perfect spot for a luxurious downtown San Diego wedding.
Luce Loft : Located in the historic 1928 Qualitee Dairy Warehouse, Luce Loft is the perfect spot for a intimate, urban wedding. Featuring poured concrete walls and an arched barrel roof, Luce Loft should be on your list of great downtown San Diego wedding venues.
Moniker Warehouse : Centrally located in San Diego’s thriving East Village, Moniker Warehouse is a virtual blank slate. Featuring a bright and airy cocktail area and a newly added 1500 sq. ft. to the main space, Moniker Warehouse is ready for any celebration you can throw at it.
Japanese Friendship Garden : A hidden gem in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden offers a unique and beautiful venue for weddings and receptions. Featuring a gorgeous reception site and a meandering garden, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a gorgeous spot for a San Diego wedding.
Westgate Hotel : Bathed in elegant French paneling and a delicate color palette, the Westgate Hotel is the perfect spot for your French-inspired wedding. With a rooftop ceremony area and gorgeous ballrooms, the venue’s central location will have your guests abuzz.
El Cortez Don Room : An homáge to old San Diego, the Don Room at the El Cortez is a sight to behold. Featuring a rooftop deck with seating for up to 500 guests, the El Cortez Don Room is a one-of-a-kind venue that must be seen to be believed.
San Diego Museum of Art : The iconic San Diego Museum of Art is one of my favorite wedding venues in San Diego. Featuring space for indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, the SDMA is the perfect spot for your downtown San Diego wedding in Balboa Park.
The Guild Hotel : Built in 1924 and recently remodeled, The Guild Hotel is elegance personified. With a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, The Guild Hotel is the perfect location for a downtown San Diego wedding.
The Prado at Balboa Park : The centerpiece of Balboa Park’s various event spaces, the Prado at Balboa Park offers everything you need for a truly San Diego wedding. WIth breathtaking views from the ceremony site and a grand ballroom with seating for up to 380 guests, The Prado at Balboa Park is a true gem.
Are You a Venue Manager or Owner?
If you’re a venue manager or owner and want to have your venue added to the list, please email me at studio@johnschnack.com.
