Where Dreams Meet the Sea: 8 of Carmel's Most Magical Wedding Destinations

Nestled along California's breathtaking Central Coast, Carmel offers couples an idyllic backdrop for their special day. The coastal area delivers dramatic ocean vistas and fairytale-like cottages against crashing waves, while just inland, the valley unfolds with sun-drenched vineyards and elegant estates. Whether you envision exchanging vows on the beach, within a historic mission, or amid gardens overlooking vine-covered hills, Carmel's diverse landscape provides a setting for every couple's dream celebration!


CARMEL VALLEY


The Quail

Carmel Valley, California

Venue Superpowers:

Sprawling Setting

All-Inclusive

Resort Activities

Fab Features: lakeside ceremonies overlook tree-covered hills • a variety of indoor and outdoor event spaces can accommodate weddings of all sizes • the Peninsula Ballroom boasts three walls of windows that showcase the spectacular surrounding

Catering: In-house
Price: $$
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Bernardus Lodge & Spa

Carmel Valley, California

Venue Superpowers:

Idyllic Setting

Romantic Rose Garden

Seasonally-Inspired Menus

Fab Features: it's an Old World-meets-Monterey-style resort • exchange vows under a classic stone pergola adorned with flowering vines • the elegant Meritage Ballroom impresses with a 22-foot vaulted ceiling and wrought-iron chandeliers

Catering: In-house
Price: $$ • $$$

Los Laureles Lodge

Carmel Valley, CA

Venue Superpowers:

Historic Charm

Romantic Elopements

Luxurious Private Home

Fab Features: a relaxed vintage lodge in sun-dappled Carmel Valley • hold your intimate wedding at Hill House, a private home with a hillside deck • say your vows beneath the largest oak, with guests seated in the shade on reclaimed wooden pews

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$
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CARMEL & CARMEL BY THE SEA


Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Carmel, California

Venue Superpowers:

Breathtaking Coastline Views

Romantic Elopements

Luxurious Accommodations

Fab Features: gorgeous cliffside sanctuary with spectacular vistas of the Big Sur coast • world-class dining means you'll feel pampered at every meal • plush suites include a private balcony, wood-burning fireplace, and Jacuzzi tub

Catering: In-house
Price: $$ • $$$
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The Holly Farm

Carmel, California

Venue Superpowers:

Whimsically Woodsy

Picturesque Setting

Late Night Celebrations

Fab Features: chic tropical hideaway • whimsical redwood bungalow comes with “island wild” décor and a wraparound redwood deck • a koi pond, sparkling waterfall, and majestic oak tree make a lovely backdrop for your celebration and photos

Catering: In-house
Price: $$ • $$$
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Carmel Valley Ranch

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Venue Superpowers:

Panoramic Views

Late Night Celebrations

Overnight Accommodations

Fab Features: exclusive country hideaway • lawn ceremonies bordered by acres of grapevines with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains • Spa Aiyana offers an exhilarating menu of services and includes a salon as well as fireplace suites

Catering: In-house
Price: $$ • $$$
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Carmel Fields by Wedgewood Weddings

Carmel, California

Venue Superpowers:

Surprisingly Affordable

All-inclusive Packages

Breathtaking Views

Fab Features: beautiful and budget-friendly Spanish Colonial-style banquet center • garden or beach ceremonies • customized, all-inclusive event packages

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$
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Church of the Wayfarer Garden Weddings

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Venue Superpowers:

Garden Ceremonies

Historic Details

Picturesque Setting

Fab Features: quaint historic chapel • garden backdrop for small ceremonies • 18th-century hand-carved walnut wainscoting and ornately carved altar add warmth to the sanctuary

Catering: BYO
Price: $
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