There’s something about Santa Cruz that just feels right for a wedding. Maybe it’s the golden light that filters through the redwoods, or the sound of waves crashing in the distance. Maybe it’s the friendly, come-as-you-are vibe that instantly makes everyone feel at home. Whatever it is, this little coastal town in California sets the stage for a wedding day that’s full of heart, connection, and unforgettable moments.
Santa Cruz, Ca - An Overview
Located just an hour south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz is a laid-back coastal town with so much to offer. It’s packed with beautiful wedding venues that span everything from redwood forests to beautiful historical buildings. Beyond the ceremony, there’s no shortage of cozy places to stay, talented local vendors, amazing food, and fun things to do around town. It’s the kind of place where you can not only get married but turn the whole experience into a memorable getaway.
Let's talk about the weather
Overall, Santa Cruz’s weather is pretty mellow—plenty of sunshine, cool ocean breezes, and just enough variety to keep things interesting. In the summer, especially in June, it’s common to get some morning fog that usually burns off by midday, revealing sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s. We also experience a bit of an Indian Summer, meaning the warmest months are actually in late August, September, and even into early October. Average highs throughout the year hover around 70°F, while winters are cooler and wetter, with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. Most of the area’s 33 inches of annual rainfall comes between November and March.
September weddings in Santa Cruz are my favorite!
Location (and why it's great!)
If you're not from the area, let me just start by saying—Santa Cruz is absolutely beautiful. Nestled on the northern edge of the Monterey Bay, it boasts some of the best coastline in all of California. If you're planning a destination wedding in Santa Cruz, you'll have a couple of great airport options. San Jose International (SJC)— about 40 minutes away—is a convenient choice for many travelers. There is also San Francisco International (SFO) which is a bit farther away but often offers more affordable flights, and the drive down Highway 1 is a scenic bonus.
Another reason why the location is great is that there are a lot of options for accommodations in different price ranges, great food and beer scene, and plenty of local vendors (like me!) to work with on your wedding day
If you choose to stay for more than just your wedding day, you can easily take a day trip down to Big Sur, go see some towering redwood forests, , or even go explore San Francisco.
My Top Wedding Venues picks in Santa Cruz, Ca
Nestldown
Nestldown is easily one of the coolest, most whimsical wedding venues in California. If you looking for a fairytale wedding, look no further! Located just 20 minutes out of Santa Cruz you'll find this breathtaking property nestled in a towering redwood forest. It's lush gardens, whimsical buildings, and incredible staff make it one of the best places to get married around Santa Cruz!
When you book your wedding at Nestldown, you can let you wedding planning stress melt away with their amazing staff and planning team. They cater to your needs and are so organized making sure that all your vendors know exactly where to be and what to expect on the day of the wedding. Because of this, you can save a bit of money by not hiring a wedding planner/ day-of coordinator... Nestldown has got you covered with their special events managers and even provide extra help on your wedding day!
Another great thing about a Nestldown wedding is that it comes with so many ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and dance location options. Nestldown is set on 35 acres of magic. There's a big beautiful barn, an epic redwood ceremony location, a couple different lawns with gorgeous landscaping all around, whimsical buildings spread across the property, a tree fort, a mini train to ride, and even a 1960's London taxi for the Bride and Groom's transportation. All you have to do is choose where you want each part of your wedding to be!
Lets talk pricing and what's included
Here's what to expect to pay for having a wedding at Nestldown in 2025.
- Mondays–Thursdays | $15,000–$22,000
- Fridays | $20,000–$30,000
- Saturdays | $22,000–$38,000
- Sundays | $22,000–$32,000
What's included in these prices?
- 9 hour venue rental with exclusive usage of the entire property
- A special events manager that will help you plan everything and day of coordination
- Start to finish timeline and layout planning
- Chairs and tables for both reception and ceremony (up to 200)
- A 5 person golf cart for transportation and a 1960's London taxi for bride and groom transport
These prices are based off of hosting about 125-150 people. Prices will vary depending on guest count and keep in mind that the prices you see here are just for the venue rental and all that comes with it!
You'll need to book your own food and beverage catering, photographer (hello! 👋🏼), florals, and perhaps transportation.
Nestldown once again makes this part easy with a list of approved vendors.
Like I said before, this is one of my top picks for wedding venues in the Santa Cruz area! They really make it easy with all the planning help you get from their staff and the property has so much variety!
Fun Fact: I grew up about ten minutes down the road from here and it really feels like home when i'm there shooting a wedding! If you're looking for a Local Santa Cruz wedding photographer who can help you create magic and tell the story of your day, look no further!
The Hollins House
If you're dreaming of a wedding day with ocean views, historic charm, and delicious food, The Hollins House is an incredible Santa Cruz wedding venue to consider. Located on the grounds of the Pasatiempo Golf Club, this elegant spot overlooks Monterey Bay and has some of the best sunset views in the area. It’s perfect for couples who want a romantic, elevated feel without losing that laid-back coastal California vibe.
The venue has a timeless charm to it—think ivy-covered walls, classic architecture, and a cozy, intimate atmosphere that feels both upscale and welcoming. You can exchange vows on the outdoor lawn with the ocean in the distance, host cocktail hour on the terrace with sweeping views, and enjoy dinner and dancing inside their beautiful dining room or under the stars.
One of the best parts of getting married at The Hollins House? The food. They’re known for their top-tier cuisine and curated menus, which are perfect for food-loving couples who want their guests to actually remember what they ate. Plus, their staff is super accommodating and experienced—you're definitely in good hands here.
I can say with confidence that you're in great hands with the Hollins House staff—because I used to be one of them! During my college years, I worked as a bartender there and saw firsthand how smoothly weddings are run. Giselle, the Events Coordinator, will guide you through every detail, and much like at Nestldown, you likely won’t need to hire a separate wedding planner. She’s supported by a fantastic team that’s incredibly detail-oriented and runs events like a well-oiled machine.
Lets talk pricing and what's included
Here's what to expect to pay for a wedding at The Hollins House in 2025. (100 person guest count on Fri-Sun)
Venue Fees: $9,700
Catering: $9,500
Beverage Service: $3,700 (minimum)
Taxes and Tip: $4000
Total: ~ $27,000
What's included in these prices?
- Exclusive usage of the entire property
- A special events manager that will help you plan everything and day of coordination
- Start to finish timeline and layout planning
- Chairs and tables for both reception and ceremony
- Food and Beverage. (excluding desert)
These prices are based off hosting 100 people. Prices will vary depending on guest count! You'll need to book your photographer (hello! 👋🏼), florals, and perhaps transportation.
Click here to schedule a tour at The Hollins House
If you're looking for a local Santa Cruz Wedding Photographer who knows The Hollins House like the back of their hand shoot me a message through my contact page!
Sand Rock Farm
If you're looking for a romantic, tucked-away wedding venue with European vibes and a rustic, wine-country aesthetic—Sand Rock Farm might just be your dream come true. Located in Aptos, just a short drive from Santa Cruz, this former winery-turned-wedding-venue is full of old-world charm and redwood forest magic. It’s a hidden gem that feels intimate, stylish, and completely unique.
What makes Sand Rock Farm so special is its blend of lush greenery, historical architecture, and serene privacy. The property dates back to the 1880s and features ivy-covered stone buildings, winding garden paths, charming courtyards, and even a rustic barn. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret garden—totally secluded, but only minutes from town.
Weddings here have a naturally romantic vibe, whether you’re exchanging vows beneath a canopy of redwoods, dining al fresco under twinkle lights, or sneaking away for portraits in the fern-lined forest trails. It’s ideal for couples who want an intimate, nature-forward setting that still feels polished and a little luxurious.
Sand Rock Farm also offer packages for elopements and intimate weddings! So if you’re dreaming of something smaller, more personal, and completely stress-free, this venue might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Their elopement and small wedding packages include access to the stunning property, overnight accommodations, and support from their planning team to help the day flow smoothly. It’s ideal for couples who want a beautiful setting without the pressure of a huge guest list.
As a Santa Cruz Wedding Photographer, I love capturing intimate weddings at Sand Rock Farm. The slower pace, the quiet moments, the personal touches—it’s all so meaningful. Plus, the property is full of dreamy photo spots, from forest trails and secret garden paths to rustic architecture and soft golden light in the evenings.
How much does it cost to get married at Sand Rock Farm in 2025?
- Venue Fee: Starts around $12,000–$16,000 depending on the day of the week and time of year
- Guest Capacity: Up to 120 guests
- Elopements and Intimate Weddings at Sand Rock Farm - $4500-$6500
- Guest capacity - 18 guests (you can add up to 22 more guests for $95 per person)
What’s included in the venue fee?
- Wedding Design
- Access to multiple ceremony and reception locations
- Tables and chairs
- On-site coordination and planning support
- Use of the wine cellar and gardens for photo ops and cocktail hour
- A wedding cake
Because the venue doubles as a B&B, it has a cozy, “weekend retreat” feel—perfect if you're dreaming of a more relaxed wedding weekend experience with your closest friends and family.
Keep in mind that catering, bar service, and most vendors are booked separately. But Sand Rock Farm has a preferred vendors list to make the process simple, and their staff is super helpful when it comes to planning the logistics.
👉🏼 Click here to learn more about Sand Rock Farm and schedule a tour.
Looking for a photographer who knows Sand Rock Farm?
If you’re planning a wedding at Sand Rock Farm and want a photographer who knows how to capture the romance, charm, and natural beauty of this incredible venue—I’d love to connect! From golden-hour portraits in the gardens to cozy wine cellar moments, I know all the best photo spots on the property.
Reach out through my contact page and let’s start planning something magical.
Thinking about saying "I do" in Santa Cruz? Let’s make it happen!
If you’re dreaming of a wedding or elopement in the Santa Cruz area, Maddie and I would love to help capture your story in a way that feels authentic and true to you.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony tucked away in the redwoods or an extravagant wedding overlooking the ocean, We'd love to be apart of your day
