Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach Hotel 450 East Harbor Boulevard • Ventura • California 93001

Living is easy in Ventura, California, a laid-back coastal town midway between the hectic Los Angeles scene and pricey Santa Barbara resorts. Ventura's beaches are picturesque even when the morning fog swirls above the breakers; on its many sunny days, beachcombers can spy the Channel Islands—a necklace of atolls—etched on the horizon.

As the only beachfront hotel in Ventura, this Crowne Plaza provides everything you need for a beach wedding ceremony right on the powdery sand. Their event team will arrange white folding chairs beside the aisle, and set a ceremonial arch in front of the surf so that you can exchange vows just steps from the shore—a microphone and speaker are included, too. Afterwards, your photographer captures shots of the two of you walking off into a glorious sunset, while friends and family begin the party on the Lanai Patio, a private terrace that faces the sea. As twilight descends, everyone moves indoors for your reception.

The versatile San Miguel Ballroom is conveniently located right on the first floor, and can accommodate a party of 200 or be sectioned off for more intimate gatherings. Alternatively, take the elevator 12 stories up to the most spectacular ballroom in the county. The circular Top of the Harbor Ballroom looks out on a captivating panorama through floor-to-ceiling glass: the Ventura hills in one direction and the sinuous shoreline in the other. At twilight, wisps of mist play along the crashing waves; as night descends, the city lights and the illuminated Ventura pier vie with a star-filled indigo sky in a contest of sparkle. The ballroom's contemporary styling, like the rest of the hotel, is both relaxed and confident and suits the soothing surroundings.

The venue's catering packages include many amenities that enhance your celebration at a very good value, such as custom floral centerpieces, table linens, chair covers, wine with dinner, custom wedding cake, and an oceanview suite. If you want to pamper your guests even more, consider adding hand-rolled cigars, an espresso cart, or a decadent chocolate fountain—or save these treats for your rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunch. The California-inspired cuisine showcases fresh, local ingredients complemented by an outstanding wine list. We were delighted with the meal we sampled, and bet your guests will be, too. (And yes, the chef is happy to customize your menu!) Other dining temptations include the new NOM Tequila Grill, which offers casually upscale authentic Mexican cuisine for any of your guests staying for the weekend.

Speaking of staying here: Guests will appreciate their oceanview accommodations, which feature the Crowne's "Seven Layers of Comfort" bed. As the newlyweds, you get to sleep in and then enjoy room service delivery of your complimentary breakfast. Eventually, though, you'll want to venture forth and explore the area's attractions. The hotel is walking distance to downtown, and you can also take an easy stroll along the promenade and watch the surfers ply the waves. Other diversions include kayaking around the Channel Islands (adventurous) or renting an on-site bicycle (fun), visiting the hotel's art gallery (cultured), or simply lounging by the oceanfront swimming pool (sublime!).

Every step of the way, the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach will contribute to a scenic and stress-free wedding weekend.