7 Affordable Santa Cruz, CA Wedding Venues


With its forested hillsides, gorgeous shoreline, and fabulous sunsets over the ocean, Santa Cruz and its suburbs have become a sought-after wedding destination. Here you'll find small-town charm aplenty, along with a laid-back sophistication—and some surprisingly affordable wedding venues, from a remarkable coastal marine center to a creekside winery.


Roaring Camp Weddings

Felton, California

Fab Features: exchange vows in Cathedral Grove, a circle of redwoods formed by 3 generations of trees • guests can enjoy rides through the forest on a 100-year-old steam train • ask about their pop-up wedding packages with options for up to 75 guests

Catering: In-house, BYO
Price: $ • $$

Quail Hollow Ranch County Park

Felton, California

Fab Features: back-to-nature celebrations in a secluded, woodland setting • ceremonies beneath a giant oak, then lawn receptions with scenic views of a pond, orchards and hillsides • historic home with a cheery great room, changing room, and patio

Catering: BYO
Price: $

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Santa Cruz, CA

Fab Features: perched on a bluff overlooking the Santa Cruz coast and Monterey Bay • ceremonies surrounded by coastal prairie, wetlands, and wildlife like birds, sea lions, and whales • unique cocktail hour with interactive exhibits and access to the aquarium

Catering: Preferred list, BYO
Price: $ • $$

Seascape Golf Club

Aptos, CA

Fab Features: perched on a hillside looking out towards wooded meadows and a ribbon of ocean • ceremonies on the beautiful 10th tee • budget-friendly, all-inclusive wedding packages come with caring event pros.

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$

The Wedding Garden at Inn at Pasatiempo

Santa Cruz, CA

Fab Features: charming boutique venue • romantic ceremony garden • reception rooms with garden and golf course views

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$

Bargetto Winery

Soquel, California

Fab Features: family-run winery with Old World hospitality • woodsy creekside ceremonies • elegant Mediterranean-style banquet room • award-winning wines

Catering: BYO
Price: $ • $$

Highlands House and Park

Ben Lomond, California

Fab Features: 43-acre park setting • wonderful house and lawn encircled by towering oaks, pines, and redwoods • second-floor balcony for the bouquet toss

Catering: BYO
Price: $

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