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If you're dreaming of a wedding or elopement surrounded by dramatic cliffs, towering redwoods, and the endless Pacific Ocean, Big Sur is one of the most breathtaking places to say "I do." With its iconic landscapes and intimate settings, it's no surprise that Big Sur has become a sought-after destination for couples looking for a wedding day that feels both adventurous and unforgettable.
In this guide, I’m highlighting six of my favorite venues in Big Sur — each offering something uniquely beautiful. From cozy forest lodges to cliffside resorts, I’ll share why each spot is special, the most cinematic moments I've captured there, and a few planning tips to make your day as seamless as possible.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Set against the backdrop of towering redwoods and the tranquil Big Sur River, Glen Oaks Big Sur offers the perfect fusion of rustic charm and modern comfort. The property features modern redwood cabins, many with private patios, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying contemporary amenities. The on-site Big Sur Roadhouse provides a stylish setting for event dinners, with options like the back terrace surrounded by twinkle lights and redwood trees, or the interior dining room with fireplaces and a bar area.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: I loved starting the day with Alexis + Frank’s Glen Oaks Elopement alongside the the soothing sounds of Big Sur River, as they had their private first look to shake off the wedding day jitters. They chose the The Big Sur Cabin, which boasts two stunning outdoor clawfoot soaking tubs, showcased throughout the film.
Other magical moments here: If you book the Bridge House, you are able to have Ceremonies in the Fairy Circle, an intimate spot enveloped by ancient redwoods, which create a magical ambiance that's a dream to capture on film, and such an immersive experience for a ceremony.
PLANNING ADVICE:
For intimate ceremonies outside of elopements, the Fairy Circle accommodates up to 20 guests, while the Redwood Grove Lawn can host up to 100 guests for larger gatherings.
Consider booking the back patio or the full restaurant for your reception, depending on your guest count. Site fees vary based on the season and event specifics, so reach out to Glen Oaks directly for detailed pricing.
Given the popularity of Glen Oaks, especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to book well in advance to secure your preferred dates.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Perched atop the cliffs of Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, providing a serene and luxurious setting for weddings. The property boasts several unique ceremony locations, including private houses like the Post House or Cliff House, as well as a majestic Redwood Forest setting among towering redwoods. While filming, I often spot wildlife roaming the property, from deer and quail to turkeys, rabbits, and even the occasional whale spouting in the vast ocean below.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: Lucy & Jon shared their vows and love with each other under the radiant Sun beaming through vast, dense Redwood trees. These forests truly feel like something out of a fairytale, and are often completely silent apart from the small chirps of native animals. We ended on the cliffs overlooking a truly panoramic view of the Big Sur Coastline.
Other magical moments here: Post-ceremony celebrations at the award-winning Sierra Mar restaurant, overlooking the ocean, provide stunning visuals of culinary delights and joyous moments.
PLANNING ADVICE:
A minimum two-night stay is required in the accommodation of your choice, with ceremonies held outdoors on the terrace of your guestroom or private house.
For Redwood Forest ceremonies, booking any single or bottom-floor room is necessary. After the ceremony, guests can enjoy Champagne in the beautiful Chef’s Garden.
Post Ranch Inn offers several Wedding & Romance Packages, which typically include photography, floral arrangements, champagne, and everything else needed to ensure a stress-free and unforgettable wedding day.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Wind & Sea Estate is a private oceanfront property perched atop the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The six-acre estate is enveloped by pines, eucalyptus, vibrant succulents, and various fruit trees, creating a serene and intimate environment ideal for small, bespoke weddings. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to the entire property, ensuring a relaxed and unrushed experience.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: Kate's graceful descent down the stunning winding staircase added an extra touch of magic to the ceremony. The expansive coastal views from nearly every location on the property evoke a profound sense of being at the edge of the world. The estate's secluded beaches, accessible via a staircase, provide a unique setting for intimate moments.
Other magical moments here: Ceremonies held on the ocean-view lawn, where the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs creates a dramatic and cinematic backdrop. Sunset portraits along the estate's private pathways capture the golden hues reflecting off the ocean, adding a romantic glow to your wedding film. Receptions under the stars, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean, offer a magical atmosphere perfect for capturing heartfelt moments.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Due to its exclusivity, availability at Wind & Sea Estate can be limited. Early booking is recommended to secure this coveted venue.
Keep in mind the closest proper hotels are almost an hour away, so if you are having a higher guest count, make sure to plan for shuttles, and adjust your timeline to give them extra drive time as they travel through a sometimes unpredictable highway 1.
Be mindful of local regulations and noise ordinances to ensure your celebration aligns with community guidelines.
Soberanes Point, Big Sur, CA
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Soberanes Point, located within Garrapata State Park, offers an awe-inspiring coastal landscape featuring dramatic cliffs, vibrant wildflower fields, and unobstructed ocean views. The rugged terrain creates a breathtaking setting for couples looking to embrace the natural beauty of Big Sur for their outdoor elopement.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: The incredible views at Soberanes Canyon Trailhead and Soberanes Point speak for themselves. The trails provide access to cliffside perches that bring you closer to the crashing waves, offering the perfect vantage point for unforgettable shots. Avery and Claudia were up for a bit of hiking, which made for some epic, intimate moments.
Other magical moments here: Cliffside ceremonies set against the vast ocean create an unforgettable backdrop. Couple portraits in the wildflower fields highlight the natural beauty of Big Sur, adding a vibrant touch to your wedding film. Candid shots along the coastal trails capture the adventurous spirit of the day, making it feel both intimate and wild.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Each season at Soberanes Point offers unique experiences. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall provides warm temperatures and clear skies. Summer may have coastal fog, and winter offers dramatic scenery with cooler temperatures.
Some trails at Soberanes Point can be uneven and rocky. Ensure that guests are aware of the terrain and wear appropriate footwear. Consider the mobility of all attendees when planning the ceremony location.
To preserve the natural beauty of this stunning location, follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, and ensure the landscape remains undisturbed for future visitors.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Alila Ventana Big Sur is a luxurious resort perched high above the Pacific coastline, offering breathtaking views and an intimate connection with nature. The property features several unique ceremony and reception spaces, each providing a distinctive atmosphere for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: For Erick & Helen’s elopement, they chose to exchange vows in The Circle of Life — an intimate, peaceful clearing surrounded by towering old-growth redwood trees. Despite being enclosed by the forest, soft beams of sunlight poured through the canopy, creating a warm, golden glow in the center of their ceremony. It was a perfect balance of seclusion and light, making the moment feel incredibly sacred. We ended their day at Garrapata Beach, one of my personal favorite coastal spots, where we soaked in the final moments of daylight as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Other magical moments here: Ceremonies at Sur Vista offer an awe-inspiring setting for exchanging vows, with panoramic ocean views stretching endlessly behind you — creating a cinematic and unforgettable backdrop. For a more immersive forest experience, The Redwood Cathedral surrounds you with the grandeur of towering redwoods, offering a tranquil and almost otherworldly atmosphere. For receptions, The Glass House is a standout, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean, allowing for stunning natural light and dramatic coastal views, making it an incredible setting for heartfelt toasts and lively celebrations.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Alila Ventana provides various wedding packages of all sizes and locations, even including full venue buyouts for ultimate privacy and exclusivity.
For smaller weddings and elopements, The Circle of Life or Sur Vista are ideal ceremony locations. The Circle of Lifeoffers an intimate, forested setting surrounded by towering redwoods, while Sur Vista provides expansive ocean views that feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world. Both spaces offer a sense of peaceful seclusion, allowing couples to be fully immersed in the natural beauty of Big Sur.
For post-ceremony celebrations or private dinners, The Glass House Gallery offers a breathtaking space perched on the edge of the coast. Perfect for intimate gatherings of up to 12 guests, this venue captures some of the most striking ocean views on the property. It’s also available for photoshoots or proposals, offering a secluded and scenic backdrop for unforgettable moments.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Tucked within the heart of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur Lodge offers a serene and immersive experience surrounded by towering redwoods and the gentle flow of the Big Sur River. What makes this venue truly special is its seamless connection to nature — ceremonies can take place beneath ancient redwoods in the Redwood Grove, while receptions unfold on the Redwood Patio or inside the rustic Homestead Restaurant. The lodge’s peaceful, secluded setting combined with its natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for couples wanting a laid-back, forest-inspired wedding that feels deeply connected to Big Sur’s wild charm.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: Kira and Chad began their day with a private first look on the serene Nature Trail, surrounded by towering, legendary redwoods that set a peaceful, intimate tone. Their ceremony took place in a secluded redwood grove, where the towering trees and soft natural light created a magical, timeless atmosphere. Afterward, their reception flowed seamlessly onto the redwood patio, perfectly complementing the “Big Sur” vibe with its rustic charm and stunning natural surroundings. The whole day felt like a true reflection of Big Sur's breathtaking beauty and the couple’s connection to it.
Other magical moments here: Exchanging vows beneath the towering redwoods creates a timeless and enchanting backdrop, perfectly capturing the natural beauty of Big Sur. After the ceremony, celebrations on the Redwood Patio offer a warm, open-air atmosphere, where candid moments unfold effortlessly under the sky. For couple portraits, the surrounding park provides endless scenic opportunities, from quiet riverbanks to winding forest trails.
PLANNING ADVICE:
The lodge offers personalized catering and an event coordinator to assist in planning, ensuring a seamless and tailored wedding experience.
Big Sur experiences heavy traffic and limited parking during weekends, especially in summer. Opting for a weekday wedding can provide a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
Cell phone reception in the Big Sur area can be unreliable. It’s a good idea to inform your guests in advance and consider providing clear directions or alternative ways to communicate, ensuring everyone can easily navigate the area.
I truly love and feel blessed to have filmed at each of these beautiful venues in Big Sur. They each offer something unique, while still capturing the essence and timeless beauty of this incredible location. If you’re considering an elopement or wedding in Big Sur, or if you have any questions about these venues, feel free to reach out. I’d love to chat with you about your vision for the day and how I can help capture those unforgettable moments.