Unique Southern California Wedding Venues for 2024
Finding a unique Southern California wedding venue is in one way, quite easy, there are so many choices – urban revivals, wineries, historic buildings, beach resorts, and specialty venues – but finding the perfect one for your wedding can be a lot to process!
The first step is to decide what are the “must-haves” for your big day. Do you want a gorgeous natural background? Easy access that’s mobility friendly for your guests? Maybe a cigar lounge, food truck or an ice-cream bar ? A humongous dance floor since you know your guests will be losing the jackets, shoes, and dancing the night away? Figure out what’s most important to the two of you, and the vibe you want, it will make your search so much easier!
Before hitting the road for a ton of venue visits, do some online investigating. There are two important things to keep in mind:
- Read the reviews. Check out Google, The Knot, WeddingWire, and Facebook for comments from couples who have experienced the venue already. Obviously, the more 5-star reviews the better, but don’t necessarily discount the venue for one low review. Read as many reviews as you can and pay attention to the details like professionalism, customer service, surprise fees.
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Look at photos. This might seem obvious, but there’s several different ways to find pictures of the venues you’re thinking about. You can start on the site’s website, but Instagram and the hashtags associated with the venue will yield you many more photos to compare. Pinterest is another source for curated wedding photos, as well as viewing the Google business profile of the venues that you’re considering. The Google business info will also include reviews, directions and more photos uploaded from other wedding couples and their guests.
So in no particular order, here’s our list of unique Southern California wedding venues:
Lake Arrowhead Resort
Lake Arrowhead, CA
A gorgeous, easy to get to, mountain location surrounded by stunning views of the forest and the serene waters of the lake. Imagine getting married on a huge wooden deck surrounded by trees and spectacular lake views for you and all of your guests. One of the few venues in Southern California to actually experience all four seasons too! This idyllic setting is perfect for both ceremonies and receptions with several onsite options for guest counts from 50 to 400. Lake Arrowhead Resort website
California Yacht Club
Marina Del Rey, CA
The California Yacht Club specializes in waterfront weddings with a ceremony site that is unmatched among the unique Southern California Wedding venues, with breathtaking views, the stunning yachts and twinkling lights that keep it alive, you are sure to be celebrating your vows with one of the most sought after backdrops in Los Angeles! The venue can accommodate guest counts from 75 to 300. California Yacht Club website
The Ultimate Skybox
San Diego, CA
With breathtaking views of San Diego, city skyline, San Diego Bay, Coronado and looking directly into Petco Park, DiamondView Tower is one of downtown’s most exquisite buildings and located on the top floor is the Ultimate Skybox. Recently, WeddingRule.com selected The Skybox as the #1 Best Wedding Venues in San Diego! The Ultimate Skybox creates a singular and magical environment for your big day with accommodations for 20 to 220 of your guests and closest friends. Ultimate Skybox Website
Galway Downs
Temecula, CA
The uniqueness of Galway Downs serves as a perfect location for your wedding day. The majestic view, relaxed, yet refined atmosphere and skilled staff transforms the property into a magical place for a truly unforgettable day. The natural beauty of the surroundings and the feeling that the world has taken pause for this special moment makes it an easy choice for your wedding. Available for up to 300 guests. Galway Downs website.
The Mitten Building
Redlands, CA
The Mitten Building was built in 1890 as a citrus packing house and became Mitten Letter Factory from 1940-1980. It has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind wedding venue by the current owners who appreciated its history, sturdy brick walls, and delightful wood detailing. Indoor and outdoor venue spaces and available for up to 500 guests. Mitten Building website
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Escondido, CA
Literally the “Wildest” and absolutely most unique Southern California Wedding venues. Several unparalleled and exotic wedding locations onsite and wild inhabitants create the perfect combination of love and adventure for you, your family and friends. Your celebration also supports conservation efforts locally and around the globe. Several indoor and outdoor venue spaces and available for up to 250 guests. Safari Park Wedding website
The Barton House
Redlands, CA
Located in the gorgeous town of Redlands, which was founded in 1888, nicknamed “The Jewel of the Inland Empire” in-between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, The Barton House is a beautiful venue and features a lush, manicured lawn, breathtaking views of the nearby San Gorgonio Mountains and surrounding seasonal roses and trees, this historical gem is as unique as it’s restored look. Catering to a variety of budgets & styles. Offers indoor getting ready rooms and an expansive outdoor venue space with accommodations for up to 150 guests. Barton House Website
Ole Hanson Beach Club
San Clemente, CA
Ole Hanson Beach Club sits oceanfront in San Clemente, CA — a quaint Southern California beach-side community located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego. The 1928 Spanish-Revival-style white stucco building features traditional arches, elaborate hand-painted tiles, and ornate stain-glass Windows as the classic “old California” backdrop to your wedding. Offers indoor and several outdoor venue spaces with accommodations for up to 225 guests. Ole Hanson Website
Hawk Ranch
Murrieta, CA
Located at the south end of beautiful Murrieta near Temecula Wine country, you will find Hawk Ranch, a gorgeous location that sits on forty acres of tall trees, lush green hills, and a beautiful pond. Additionally, the Hawk Ranch staff goes the extra mile (or two) in making sure your big day is one that’s remembered for a lifetime. Indoor and outdoor venue spaces and available for up to 300 guests. Hawk Ranch Website
Temecula Creek Inn
Temecula, CA
Indulge in the day of your dreams with a handcrafted wedding, enhanced by the natural beauty and mild climate of the Temecula Valley. This outdoor wedding venue is centrally situated in Southern California, yet secluded and intimate. Whether you envision a small gathering or a gala with hundreds of guests this resort is a scenic spot that can be perfectly personalized for your celebration. Two separate, on-site locations accommodate from 30 to 270 guests. Temecula Creek Inn Website
Padua Hills Theater
Claremont, CA
Perfectly nestled in the foothills of Claremont, Padua Hills is a historic indoor and outdoor venue surrounded by natural beauty. The beautiful enchanted forest and sunset-view terrace provide a stunning backdrop for your happy day. Whether your style is glamorous, rustic, modern, or bohemian, Padua Hills is perfect all year round celebrations! Accommodates up to 250 guests. Padua Hills Website
Calamigos Ranch
Malibu, CA
Quietly nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains in Malibu Wine Country, Calamigos Ranch is a one-of-a-kind destination for outdoor ceremonies with over 5,500 acres of undisrupted beauty that extends into the Santa Monica Mountains. Sprinkled with waterfalls, gorgeous greenery, quaint rustic surroundings, and flowing branches decorated with fairy lights, Calamigos Ranch is in a class of its own. Multiple indoor and outdoor venue spaces with accommodations for up to 500 guests. Calamigos Malibu Website
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