California boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, making it the ideal spot for couples to exchange vows. With stunning ocean views, unique landscapes, and atmospheric settings, these beaches offer unforgettable backdrops for your big day. Here are 25 amazing California beaches that can help bring your dream wedding to life.

1. El Matador State Beach

El Matador State Beach, located in Malibu, is renowned for its stunning sea stacks and hidden coves. Imagine saying “I do” against the backdrop of the vast Pacific Ocean, with a breathtaking sunset painting the sky.

Couples can enjoy a private ceremony, thanks to the secluded nature of the beach. This intimate setting is perfect for wedding parties looking for a unique and memorable experience.

2. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is famous for its vibrant artistic community and stunning coastlines. This beach features soft golden sands and unique tide pools that provide a magical atmosphere for your wedding.

Many venues along the shore offer direct access to the beach, allowing you to exchange vows with the soothing sound of waves nearby. With over 7 miles of coastline, there are plenty of picturesque spots to choose from.

3. Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is iconic and lively, famous for its pier and palm tree-dotted skyline. The expansive sandy shores offer ample space to accommodate guests comfortably for both the ceremony and reception.

A sunset ceremony at Santa Monica Beach can be nothing short of magical, providing a stunning display as the sun dips below the ocean.

4. Pismo Beach

Known for its serene dunes and gentle waves, Pismo Beach presents a relaxed vibe for couples. Get married on the soft sands and enjoy the surrounding cliffs that create a stunning horizon for your wedding photos.

With its beautiful sunsets, this beach offers incredible photo opportunities, ensuring that your special day is perfectly captured.

5. Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach, nestled in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, radiates romance. The beach is hugged by picturesque landscapes and impressive cypress trees, making it a picturesque spot for exchanging vows.

The quaint cottages nearby can add to the fairytale atmosphere, creating a stunning backdrop for photographs and memories.

6. Torrey Pines State Reserve

Located near San Diego, Torrey Pines State Reserve features breathtaking cliffs and expansive ocean views. Ideal for couples seeking natural beauty, this location offers picturesque trails leading down to the beach, perfect for bridal portraits.

The stunning cliffs and greenery combine to create a magnificent and unforgettable atmosphere for your ceremony.

7. Moonlight Beach

Moonlight Beach in Encinitas is a family-friendly spot cherished for its soft sands and vibrant atmosphere. This location is ideal for casual weddings that embody the laid-back California vibes.

With amenities such as fire pits and picnic tables, it’s easy to set up a cozy reception area along the shore. The beach’s accessibility ensures that all your guests can join in the celebration.

8. Point Reyes National Seashore – Limantour Beach

Limantour Beach is a hidden treasure in Point Reyes National Seashore, offering a pristine environment ideal for intimate weddings. The beach features stunning views thanks to its expansive shores and rolling hills.

This location enhances the wedding experience with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature surrounding your ceremony.

9. La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores offers golden sands and a more private environment compared to other busy beaches. Perfect for both intimate and larger gatherings, this beach also has nearby stunning rock formations at La Jolla Cove for impressive wedding photos.

The calm waters create a beautiful setting for a beach ceremony while ensuring your guests feel relaxed and comfortable.

10. Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is famous for its unique purple sand and jaw-dropping rock formations. If you want a one-of-a-kind setting, this secluded location might be just what you are looking for.

The interplay of colors on the beach adds an extraordinary touch to wedding photos, providing a dramatic backdrop for your celebration. With limited public access, your wedding can feel very private.

11. Coronado Beach

Coronado Beach, located close to San Diego, exudes romance with its soft sand and the iconic Hotel del Coronado just steps away. For couples wanting a touch of luxury alongside their ocean view, this location is ideal.

Guests can explore the charming hotel and gardens before or after the ceremony, adding an elegant and festive atmosphere to the day.

12. Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz is characterized by its natural rock arch and stunning ocean views. This beach is perfect for couples who appreciate rustic aesthetics paired with natural beauty.

The picturesque sunsets here can create a romantic and enchanting setting for evening ceremonies and celebrations.

13. Glass Beach

Glass Beach in Fort Bragg is known for the colorful glass pieces that have washed up on the shore. This unique backdrop makes it an ideal location for couples looking for a playful and creative wedding setting.

The coastal bluffs surrounding the beach enhance the charm, creating a whimsical atmosphere that is perfect for celebrating love.

14. Thousand Steps Beach

Thousand Steps Beach in Laguna Beach may be a hidden treasure that requires some effort to reach, but the stunning views are worth it. It’s perfect for smaller weddings, with its secluded areas providing intimacy for your ceremony.

The various nooks along the coastline create diverse and beautiful photo opportunities, ensuring your wedding pictures are unique.

15. South Palm Beach

South Palm Beach offers calm waters and expansive sandy shores, ideal for couples looking for a serene wedding atmosphere. With minimal tourist traffic, this beach provides a peaceful setting for your special day.

The gentle sound of the waves creates an intimate and romantic ambiance, perfect for both your ceremony and reception.

16. Baker Beach

Baker Beach in San Francisco is known for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The iconic scenery is perfect for couples wanting a picturesque backdrop for their wedding photos.

Baker Beach offers ample space to host larger gatherings, ensuring guests enjoy the overall experience while surrounded by the beauty of the city and ocean.

17. Morro Bay State Park Beach

Morro Bay State Park Beach provides a serene atmosphere with stunning views of Morro Rock. Surrounded by hills and wildlife, this location is perfect for nature-loving couples.

It invites guests to enjoy various beach activities, making it an ideal spot for a wedding followed by fun adventures.

18. Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach, located in Marin County, features a long stretch of sandy shores that provides a tranquil environment for wedding ceremonies. Couples can enjoy stunning views of the Marin coastline while surrounded by lush greenery.

This serene setting allows for a romantic and intimate wedding scene—perfect for creating lasting memories.

19. Carmel River State Beach

Carmel River State Beach features a unique blend of a flowing river meeting the ocean, creating a captivating wedding setting. This tranquil location offers beautiful views that enhance the beauty of your special day.

The calm surroundings can create a peaceful atmosphere ideal for both ceremonies and receptions.

20. Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach, located near the Sonoma Coast, is accessible via a short hike, rewarding couples with stunning views. This secluded beach offers rugged coastlines and dramatic rock formations for breathtaking wedding backdrops.

Couples can create unforgettable memories in an incredibly unique setting that feels personal and intimate.

21. Surf Beach

Surf Beach, part of Vandenberg Air Force Base, features wide sands and impressive ocean views. This beach’s simplicity allows couples to craft personalized wedding setups that reflect their style and preferences.

With fewer crowds, this location creates a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for intimate ceremonies along the water.

22. Avila Beach

Avila Beach is a charming community beach known for its warm weather and pleasant environment. Couples can celebrate their wedding in a friendly atmosphere while surrounded by stunning coastal views.

The expansive beach allows guests to feel comfortable while enjoying a beautiful seaside celebration.

23. Santa Cruz Main Beach

Santa Cruz Main Beach is situated next to the lively boardwalk, offering a fun and vibrant atmosphere for couples who love excitement. This beach provides plenty of space for wedding celebrations without compromising on thrill.

The lively setting and nearby attractions ensure that guests will enjoy an unforgettable experience during your wedding.

24. Gaviota State Park

Gaviota State Park is home to beautiful ocean views and dramatic cliffs. This park is perfect for adventurous couples looking for unique wedding venues. With trails leading to secluded beach areas, couples have flexibility in where to hold their ceremonies.

The natural beauty surrounding the park will leave a lasting impression on your guests and create an unforgettable atmosphere.

25. Drake’s Beach

Drake’s Beach, located in Point Reyes, features sprawling sandy shores and striking cliffs. The wide-open space is perfect for larger weddings, while the surrounding nature provides a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.

With spectacular coastal scenery, Drake’s Beach offers a captivating space for celebrating love and togetherness.

Finding Your Dream Beach Wedding

Selecting the perfect beach for your wedding is an exciting journey, and California’s beautiful coastline offers countless fantastic options. Whether you prefer the serene vibes of Limantour Beach or the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica, each location provides its unique charm.

As you plan your dream wedding, think about the moments and experiences you want to create. Let California’s gorgeous beaches tell your love story, ensuring your special day is truly unforgettable.