santa cruz Wedding Venues

Santa Cruz is one of the most beautiful places to get married in California. Between redwood forests, coastal cliffs, rivers, and garden estates, the venue options here are incredibly diverse.

As a Santa Cruz wedding photographer, I’ve photographed weddings across the county and have seen how the right venue can completely shape the flow, energy, and overall experience of the day. Below is a curated list of some of the best wedding venues in Santa Cruz County, organized by setting to help you find the right fit.

One of the most popular camp-style wedding venues in Santa Cruz. Kennolyn offers lodging, forest ceremony spaces, and a full weekend experience—perfect for couples wanting a relaxed, communal celebration.

A peaceful retreat space in the redwoods with an earthy, grounded feel. Ideal for couples drawn to nature, mindfulness, and a slower-paced wedding weekend.

One of the most well-known oceanfront wedding venues in Santa Cruz County. Seascape Resort offers dramatic coastal views, on-site accommodations, and multiple ceremony and reception locations—ideal for couples wanting a classic beach wedding with full-service amenities.

Perfect for couples who want a true redwood ceremony. Towering trees, filtered light, and a peaceful natural setting make this a favorite for intimate weddings and elopements.

final thoughts

The best wedding venues in Santa Cruz are the ones that support how you want your day to feel—relaxed, meaningful, and connected.

If you’re planning a Santa Cruz wedding and want photography that feels natural, emotional, and true to your experience, I’d love to connect.

Serving Santa Cruz, Capitola, Aptos, Felton, Ben Lomond, and the California coast.

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Set along the San Lorenzo River, this venue blends river and forest elements and is a great option for couples wanting a nature-forward wedding that’s still close to downtown Santa Cruz.

A truly sacred-feeling space nestled in the forest. This amphitheater offers a circular ceremony layout surrounded by towering redwoods—perfect for couples wanting a spiritual, grounded redwood wedding experience.

A truly unique venue featuring a waterfall, creek, and redwood surroundings. This space feels magical and intimate, especially for smaller guest counts.

A historic estate-style venue nestled in the Santa Cruz hills. Hollins House features elegant indoor spaces, garden ceremony areas, and a timeless feel that works beautifully for classic and romantic weddings.

A Santa Cruz classic. Roaring Camp is known for its redwood grove ceremonies, rustic buildings, and historic charm—perfect for forest weddings with personality.

A classic redwood venue located just outside Santa Cruz County, but often chosen by Santa Cruz couples. Saratoga Springs offers towering trees, creekside ceremony options, and a versatile reception space—ideal for larger redwood weddings.

A peaceful, intimate chapel tucked into the redwoods above Santa Cruz. Chapel on the Hill is perfect for smaller weddings or ceremonies that feel spiritual, quiet, and deeply connected to nature.

One of the most iconic redwood wedding venues in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Nestldown blends manicured gardens, redwood forest paths, and elegant architecture, making it ideal for couples wanting a refined yet nature-forward wedding.