Beach weddings along Highway 1 offer up the perfect combination of sunny weather, gorgeous coastal scenery and oceanfront hotels and vacation rentals perfect for hosting your big day and guests. With miles of pristine coastline and untouched alcoves, you can say “I do” backdropped by crashing waves, glittering tide pools and soaring seabirds. With cool, foggy mornings melting into bright sunny afternoons, you’ll find the perfect coastal venue for your ceremony and reception, whether large or intimate. Tie the knot perched atop a wind-swept cliff or go for a chill, barefoot ceremony on the golden sand. Whichever you choose, rest assured that the Pacific Ocean—a romantic witness to your love—is always close at hand.
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Explore Weddings Along Highway 1
Ragged Point and San Simeon Wedding Venues
Ragged Point Inn
One of the most impressive elevated views of the Pacific along Highway 1, recite your vows from Ragged Point Inn’s Wedding Pagoda overlooking a Million Dollar View of the Big Sur Coast. A flat, lush green lawn provides seating for a virtually unlimited number of wedding guests and a fully enclosed Solarium located directly above the cliffs seats up to 100 guests and showcases 360-degree, unobstructed views of the ocean. This unique wedding space can be decorated to suit you and your betrothed’s creative whims and tents can be erected on the Solarium Lawn to accommodate joyful outdoor festivities. Where to stay during your big day? Ragged Point Inn’s Cliff House is a cozy coastal hideaway that feels like home, albeit with a far more dramatic view. With five private guest-rooms, you can house your wedding party or start your honeymoon, all without having to stray from your wedding site. Featuring romantic, tree-shaded pathways, the Tip of the Point offers up another unique wedding venue on the property, while the Ragged Point Inn Restaurant—complete with ocean front tables, dining deck, fire pit and fish pond—allows your imagination to rule the day.
Enjoy a dramatic, elevated ocean view setting perched above crashing waves.
Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
Nestled along 900 feet of staggeringly beautiful San Simeon coastline, the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort offers up a breathtaking glass courtyard for ceremonies overlooking manicured grounds and the Pacific. Accommodating up to 130 guests and featuring 90 luxurious oceanfront rooms designed for a home-away-from-home experience along the surf, you’re friends and family will enjoy amenities like free WiFi, free parking, mini-fridge, Keurig single-serve coffeemaker—and in select rooms—a crackling, wood-burning fireplace. Your wedding party can enjoy the cozy convenience of connecting rooms and you can rest easy knowing that wedding room blocks are available for ten rooms or more.
Expect a stellar ocean view with a slightly elevated, grassy setting. Looking to get your toes in the sand? Guests are easily able to walk down to the beach.
Hearst State Beach
Nestled on the south end of Hearst State Beach just north of the historic Old San Simeon Bay Pier, you and your wedding guests can imagine late great publishing mogul William Randolph Hearst surveying what would become his world famous stomping grounds. Located just across the way from iconic Hearst Castle and accommodating 100 guests on the sand, this breezy California State Park-managed locale offers up a fresh view of an incredible landmark bolstered by the big blue horizon.
Discover a beautiful oceanfront setting that combines historic and scenic appeal. Visitors can host a wedding directly on the sand for wind-swept vows that wow.
Hearst Castle
The jewel of San Simeon, Highway 1’s Hearst Castle is a world famous destination featuring opulent statues, manicured grounds, sun-dappled terraces, and shimmering pools—not a bad backdrop for your coastal wedding. With expansive, elevated views of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Lucia Mountains and the onsite Roman-styled Neptune Pool, your big day can take on the classical, ethereal feel of a romantic oil painting. Host up to 250 guests at this famous California State Parks-managed destination, home to several unique venue areas. Nestled between two guest cottages and overlooking the iconic Neptune Pool, The Neptune Terrace accommodates up to 50 guests for a seated dinner and up to 100 guests for a cocktail reception and dancing. Throwing a lavish event with a long guest list? The Neptune Pool Deck offers up a poolside cocktail reception or seated dinner of up to 250 guests. With incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, Neptune Pool and Guest Cottage, the West or “C” Terrace accommodates up to 250 for a seated dinner, dancing, and cocktail reception, while the North “Unfinished Terrace” provides incredible views of the Santa Lucia Mountains for an equal number of guests. Located behind Casa Grande, the East Courtyard offers plenty of space for vendor set-up.
Cambria Wedding Venues
Weddings in Cambria
Cambria, the enchanting seaside hamlet where ocean meets pines, is home to multiple destination properties perfect for your Highway 1 beach wedding. Check out Cambria’s unique array of vacation rentals, historical hotels and spacious tree-flanked parks overlooking the ocean plus local caterers, florists and more. Whether you’re seeking an elegant wedding of opulent proportions or an intimate ceremony and rustic reception, Cambria’s diverse wedding venues are here to ensure your big day exceeds your wildest expectations.
Moonstone Beach
Tie the knot on scenic Moonstone Beach in Cambria and you’ll experience one of Highway 1’s most coveted coastal treasures. Named for the glittering rocks strewn along the sand, the central stretch of beach along Moonstone Drive offers up an uncrowded and naturally beautiful setting to commemorate your nuptials. With the easiest access point accessible from the nearby boardwalk’s observation deck, you and 50 of your closest friends and family members are invited to celebrate the big day with toes in the sand. That said, due to limited parking, your guests may want to carpool to the area.
Take advantage of a scenic oceanfront wedding venue that allows for a toes-in-the-sand connection with the coast.
Moonstone Boardwalk
Moonstone Boardwalk in Cambria is the perfect option for a private seaside ceremony that puts all the focus on your love. Located on the central portion of the boardwalk running along Moonstone Drive’s narrow pathway, you’ll say “I do” on an elevated wooden platform perched above the beach and across from the Sea Chest and Little Sur Inn. With a capacity of just ten guests, this breezy venue allows for maximum ambiance and a truly intimate vibe. See another spot on the boardwalk you’d like to use for your wedding? Simply submit a photograph to the California State Parks Event Coordinator for consideration.
Overall, expect a natural wedding venue with an ocean view and elevated boardwalk.
Leffingwell Landing
One of the most popular beach wedding locations on Highway 1, Leffingwell Landing in Cambria delivers with stunning scenery and ample guest capacity. With the ability to host up to 100 loved ones on the sand plus easy access to a nearby parking lot and public restrooms, this coastal wedding destination located at the northern end of Moonstone Drive is as dreamy as it is convenient. For these reasons, you’ll want to complete a special event permit to reserve your date well ahead of time.
Leffingwell Bluff
Invite 20 of your favorite people to a seaside ceremony at Leffingwell Bluff in Cambria and know that your big day will unfold with simple grace. Part of gorgeous Hearst San Simeon State Park, this delightfully tucked-away ceremony location is nestled at the northernmost end of Moonstone Drive, featuring an elevated ocean view set amongst low, coastal foliage and wildflowers. Although no public restrooms are located nearby, there is a small parking lot accessible just north of the ceremony spot (wedding guests can also use the larger parking lot for Leffingwell Landing proper, if needed).
Santa Rosa Creek Day Use Area
Located at the southernmost tip of Hearst San Simeon State Park, Santa Rosa Creek Beach in Cambria presents a uniquely pastoral ceremony setting blending meadowland, surf and sand. A boardwalk leads to two observation platforms overlooking the beach as well as the Santa Rosa Creek Lagoon, home to various bird species. In addition, a stairway leads down to a driftwood-studded beach below, the perfect place for a sunset photo opp with your beloved. Although this California State Park-managed location might sound like a storybook fantasy, we can assure you that it is indeed a real place (the parking lot entrance can be found at the south end of Moonstone Beach Drive).
Shamel Park and Beach
Running along Santa Rosa Creek in Cambria and not far from the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, you’ll find well-kept and locally-loved Shamel Park. Managed by the County of SLO Parks and Recreation and accessible from Windsor Drive, you’ll enjoy easy beach access, two group day-use areas, a playing field, horseshoes, a children’s play area and a heated, ADA-compliant swimming pool. The park’s quaint gazebo and large turf area allow for a simple coastal ceremony followed by an outdoor reception that incorporates as much playtime as you and your family can handle.
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
Allow lush foliage to provide all the decoration at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve in Cambria, where rugged weddings abound. Featuring dramatic ocean bluffs, a grassy marine terrace and a forested ridge showcasing views of migrating whales, birds, and playful otters, you can inject a dose of wilderness into your wedding day. With the ability to host up to 25 guests, this Cambria Community Services District Cambria Venues-managed location is open all year from dawn to dusk. Famous for its unique views combining land and sea, you’ll feel one with the land (and one with your partner).
Cayucos Wedding Venues
Shoreline Inn
Located along the water in Cayucos, the Shoreline Inn provides a variety of comfortable, well-appointed rooms to host your wedding party. Rest easy knowing your friends and family will enjoy modern suites featuring fireplaces, oceanfront views, and dog-friendly amenities to accommodate four-legged companions. Easily capture wedding photos along the beach before kicking back on an outdoor deck chair with a glass of local wine.
Historic Cass House
Located just one block from uncrowded Cayucos beach, the late 1800s-built Cass House is a time capsule of bygone charm sure to add a quaint vibe to your big day. With several wedding packages to choose from, host your event at four celebratory locations, including a gazebo and gardens perfect for a romantic ceremony; a front lawn great for the cocktail hour; plus a pavilion for your reception complete with dance floor and twinkle lights. With additional perks like a top notch bar, on-site restaurant and luxurious guest rooms, you’ll never need to step foot off the property. With the ability to host up to 100 guests and hotel amenities like a fireplace, veranda and oceanfront balcony, you might even be tempted to start your honeymoon early.
Swallow Creek Ranch
A stunning combination of beach and rustic ambiance sets Swallow Creek Ranch apart from the rest. Choose from three unique places to celebrate your special day: a historic dairy barn, a sea view meadow and a hilltop amphitheater. This working ranch property is located near the scenic Estero Bluffs along the Highway 1 coastline, so you’re never far from a great photo opp.
Cayucos Beach
An intimate wedding filled with fresh air and quiet calm can be yours when you choose a ceremony at serene Cayucos Beach. With a lovely sandy area to recite your vows designated at the north side of the historic, wooden Cayucos Pier, you’ll tie the knot amidst tied pools and seabirds at this County of SLO Parks and Recreation-managed locale.
Enjoy a sandy setting where vows are exchanged directly on the beach.
Cayucos Veteran’s Memorial Hall (under renovation and reopening in 2023)
Throw an epic party with a pleasing price tag at the Cayucos Vet’s Hall, located just steps away from the beach. Not only is the location stunning, offering all the charms of the sand, surf and fresh air, you can consider this venue a one-stop-shop for most of your logistical needs. Full day rental packages include a 30-by-60-foot party tent, full use of a commercial kitchen, barbecue pits, coffee pots, private restrooms, chairs, tables, a PA system, wifi, security and even a bartender. Currently, under construction until 2024, plan ahead to utilize this superb coastal venue.
Estero Bluffs
Backdropped by a pristine, protected landscape of undulating sandy bluffs, a wedding at Cayucos’ Estero Bluffs makes for a photogenic occasion. Permitted ceremonies of 15 people are invited to gather along a single scenic bluff overlooking a rustic shipwreck site at this California State Park-managed location. The southernmost trailhead just off of Ocean Avenue in Cayucos leads to this jaw-dropping vantage point (on a clear day, you’ll see all the way to Morro Bay).
Plan for a beautiful oceanfront setting where wedding guests can gather directly on the sand.
Los Osos Wedding Venues
Sea Pines Golf Resort
Situated between the entrance of Montaña de Oro State Park and the south end of iconic Morro Bay, Sea Pines Golf Resort in Los Osos is a captivating wedding destination. This 30-acre resort offers up views of endless Pacific beauty in every direction, creating the perfect backdrop for your wedding day. Whether you’re looking for a venue for your wedding ceremony, reception or rehearsal dinner, Sea Pines boasts a wide array of onsite amenities, including a theater capacity of 500, banquet capacity of 300 and reception capacity of 300. Need comfortable overnight accommodations for the bridal party and out-of-town guests? Simply book a room, studio or suite.
Back Bay Inn
The only waterfront inn located in Los Osos, Back Bay Inn is surrounded by a lovely combination of ocean views and lush gardens brimming with native succulents and coastal shrubbery. Weddings can be designed to include tented dinners, photoshoots along a dreamy dock, and ceremonies hosted along the water’s edge. The placid back bay waters are exceptionally lovely at sunset, when the sun turns the expanse of blue into a virtual watercolor painting of pinks, oranges and yellows. Overnight guests can also expect a warm and hospitable stay in one of the inn’s 16 uniquely decorated rooms crafted for relaxed comfort. With an emphasis on creating bespoke wedding events tailored to your unique needs, you can rest assured that your big day is in capable and caring hands.
Baywood Inn
A coveted bayfront view can be yours when you book your wedding at Baywood Inn. nestled at the edge of Los Osos and Morro Bay and part of a tranquil neighborhood overlooking the serene back bay, you’ll enjoy quick access to nearby Montana de Oro State Park and its incredible photo opportunities. With contemporary rooms and a half dozen five-star bedroom suites to choose from, enjoy ocean views, polished concrete floors, a double-sided fireplace, Nectar Sleep king-sized bed, sliding glass wall or private deck, double sink vanity and a lovely kitchen with quartz countertops and gas stove top. Every stay includes wine tasting and a delicious full breakfast sure to get your newly-minted marriage off to the right start.
Montana de Oro Weddings
Spooner's Cove
Located in scenic Los Osos, Spooner’s Cove is one of the most requested beach wedding locations on Highway 1. Tucked away along famous Montana de Oro State Park, you’ll tie the knot with up to 50 loved ones on a pebbly beach featuring unique rock formations, sea caves and tide pools teeming with sea life. Be sure to book this cove early, however: there is very limited availability, a special permit is required via California State Parks and the beach cannot be booked weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Experience a stunning oceanfront setting with ample opportunity to walk barefoot along the pebbly beach. Note: Guests can park incredibly near the beach here, allowing for excellent accessibility.
Bluff Trail
With elevated ocean views and seasonal wildflowers, the popular Bluff Trail is a no brainer for anyone interested in an epic-yet-intimate beach wedding. With a 10-guest capacity and sweeping vistas showcasing rocky cliffs and rugged coastline, you’ll find that the sandy tones of the terrain contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the water beyond. You should note, however: this venue is not available for weekend events from Memorial Day through Labor Day and a special permit must be obtained from California State Parks.
Fall in love with an elevated ocean view setting nestled along a romantic coastal cliff.
Corallina Cove
Just over a quarter mile from a trailhead and offering a more secluded feel than Spooner’s Cove, you’ll find that Corallina Cove is awash in surf and sea air. Nestled within Montana de Oro State Park, you’ll wed your beloved surrounded by rippling waves, tide pools and up to 25 guests. Although this intimate natural venue is breathtaking, it is also quite rugged. Therefore, it is important to note that some folks with mobility limitations may not be able to access this unique California State Parks-managed venue.
Expect an awe-inspiring oceanfront setting that allows for sandy vows. Note: Be aware that a half-mile hike is required to reach this locale.
Avila Beach Wedding Venues
Avila Beach
If a picturesque white sand beach, calm tides and rustic pier are part of your wedding mood board, Avila Beach won’t disappoint. With oceanfront ceremony locales nestled both East of the Avila Pier, West of the Avila Pier as well as at Olde Port Beach and Fishermen’s Beach, you can tie the knot at one of Highway 1’s most consistently sunny seaside wedding locations. With the ability to host up to 200 guests, this Port San Luis Obispo Harbor-managed locale is as picture-perfect as it is welcoming.
Discover a sunny oceanfront setting with ample opportunity to enjoy white sand and calm bay waters.
Garden Wedding at Sycamore Mineral Springs
Mere minutes from stunning Avila Beach, a Garden Wedding at Sycamore Mineral Springs combines ocean breezes, ancient oak trees and a tranquil garden setting. The East Meadows Garden and Gazebo Lawn are both popular open-air locations to exchange vows amidst verdant greenery and a blue sky, while the historic Fireside Palm Great Room, with its dramatic vaulted ceilings and handcrafted woodwork, makes for an elegant indoor celebration. Looking for an impressive place to house your loved ones? With an onsite spa and hot springs, your wedding party will feel pampered in deluxe suites featuring private decks complete with private mineral spring tubs. Plus: with close proximity to the sands of Avila Beach, you can easily snap romantic wedding photos along the water before heading to this grand garden for your ceremony and reception.
Avila Lighthouse Suites
With an oceanfront sun deck showcasing amazing views of the Avila Beach Pier and glittering blue Pacific, Avila Lighthouse Suites gets you as close to the water as you want to be. With a guest capacity of up to 110 guests, you’ll enjoy a vibrant and dynamic setting suited for any style of beach wedding you choose. Just steps from the sands of picture-perfect Avila Beach, enjoy all-suite accommodations, resort-quality amenities, and professional event planning services. Select from a range of wedding packages encompassing large and small ceremonies on the sand, a cocktail hour on a sun-dappled outdoor patio, or a reception in their Point San Luis Banquet Room, among other customizable options.
Beach Overlook at Avila Beach Golf Resort
A manicured putting green set against the coastal sunset makes for truly a remarkable setting to your big day at the Beach Overlook at Avila Beach Golf Resort. Celebrate with friends and family while surrounded by panoramic estuary and mountain views. Choose from indoor and outdoor event areas, including a ceremony on the grass Pavilion or a cocktail hour on the Beach Club Terrace overlooking the sand. Say “I do” under a gazebo set at the edge of a scenic manmade lake, pitch a tent on the lawn for a seated outdoor feast or shimmy with your betrothed on a covered dance floor aglow in string lights.
Oceano and Nipomo Wedding Venues
Kaleidoscope Inn & Gardens
With fragrant flowers blooming, sweet birds chirping and a charming old fashioned ambiance, Nipomo’s Kaleidoscope Inn & Gardens gives your wedding a delightfully vintage touch. With a lush garden for outdoor ceremonies, this regal Victorian estate offers colorful rooms and suites with unique features like private patios and stained glass windows. With a maximum guest list of 250 people and both the house and gardens to utilize as you wish, you’ll experience a grand combination of modern convenience and classic, time-honored elegance.
Oceano Dunes
For those who crave an off-road and adventurous wedding, the Oceano Dunes make for an exciting and unconventional coastal venue. Managed by California State Parks, the Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area is the only beach of its kind that you can drive on (yes, ceremonies are permitted in the motorized portion of the park). Whether you slide into an ATV or steer your own four wheels along the surf, you’re sure to explore the road less traveled with your soulmate. Plus, camping and bonfires are also permitted on this beach, so you can enjoy an outdoor reception complete with marshmallows and stargazing galore.
Discover an otherworldly dune setting where guests can enjoy sandy bonfires long into the night.
Wine Country Weddings
Famous for rolling green hills, lush vineyards, gorgeous ranches and rustic wine barrels, wine country weddings along Highway 1 are romantic, scenic and incredibly photo-worthy. From majestic oak trees and antique barns strung with twinkle lights to the simple grandeur of the vines, you’ll find unique wedding venues nestled all along Highway 1’s coveted slice of coastline, including Edna Valley, San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach and Pismo Beach. Whether you want to invite your wedding party for a romp along one of the region’s many wine trails or aim to spend the honeymoon in a cottage lounging by the beach, you’ll find a thousand reasons to say “I do” to a wedding in wine country.
More Information & Contacts
California State Parks, Coastal Division Office
805.927.2070
www.parks.ca.gov
County of San Luis Obispo Parks and Rec Department
805.781.5930 ext 4
slocountyparks.com
Cambria Community Services District, Ranch Manager
805.927.6220
cambriacsd.org
Port San Luis Harbor District
805.595.5400
portsanluis.com
