Aerial view of a beach at sunset with a coastal town, palm trees, and mountains in the background.

The Perfect Coastal Wedding Awaits in Santa Barbara

CATEGORIES

January 27, 2025
Words by John Roark
Photos courtesy of Mar Monte Hotel

If the fabled, tranquil land of Shangri-La was on the central California coast, we would place it in Santa Barbara. Located 90 miles north of Los Angeles, the city can seem like a fairytale: miles of pristine coastline accompanied by gentle breezes; near-perfect year-round weather; the dramatic vistas of the Santa Ynez Mountains; gorgeous Mediterranean white stucco buildings with red tile roofs dotting the landscape. You’ll quickly sink into the upscale, but unpretentious, vibe and maybe even spot some of the celebrities who call this beautiful enclave home. Even the airport has an unhurried, hometown feeling about it. You’ve just discovered your idyllic, accessible destination getaway with a gorgeous backdrop for romantic events, large or small. 

Collage of scenic beach view, a bar with high chairs, an elegant library room, and a stylish restaurant interior with arched designs and hanging lights.

Gorgeous Historic Venues

If there is one historic oceanfront resort that perfectly embodies the spirit of Santa Barbara—past and present—it is the Mar Monte Hotel. Built-in 1931 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style and extensively renovated in 2020, the pet-friendly, 200-room luxury boutique property is located on Cabrillo Blvd. across from East Beach, where a palm-lined beachfront pedestrian pathway is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Whether your style is a casual gathering of family and friends or a formal sit-down affair for up to 220 guests, the Mar Monte makes your wedding or commitment ceremony worry-free, with picturesque indoor and outdoor venues that showcase that famous Santa Barbara locale.

A coastal hotel with a Mediterranean design is flanked by palm trees. Interiors feature a living area, chandelier-lit hallway, and a lavish lounge.Outdoor patio with seating, fire pit, palm trees; dining area with yellow chairs and floral wall pattern; indoor lounge with yellow sofas, chairs, and large windows. Collage of four images showing a cafe interior with blue seating, a modern bathroom, a dining area with arches, and a person in a yellow swimsuit at a pool.

Celebrate on The Sea

See why Santa Barbara is called the American Riviera with a sunset happy hour cruise on a 70-foot luxury yacht. Departing from the iconic Stearns Wharf and accommodating up to 46 guests, your 90-minute cruise aboard the Azure Seas by Celebration Cruises includes light snacks and a full bar stocked with cocktails and local beers and wines. Two decks offer a variety of seating options. As if on cue, our magical voyage included dolphins playing in the golden light against the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Go Tasting

Santa Barbara has one of the world’s largest concentrations of female oenologists, and no visit is complete without sampling the region’s boutique wineries. Whether tasting rooms or wineries are on your list, Coastal Concierge will tailor a customized itinerary by land, air or sea. Wherever you go, the vibe is laid-back, authentic and friendly. Three of our favorite stops: We could have happily lazed away an entire day beneath the umbrellas of Frequency Wine Company’s shady patio. The staff’s reverence for the craft of winemaking made the experience even better. Specializing in Rhone-style wines, Jaffurs Wine Cellar had us with the 2021 Sanguis Bossman, a dark, richly elegant Syrah. Showcasing single-vineyard vintages, Potek Winery applies traditional French techniques in crafting their respected wines. Don’t miss the 2023 Pino Noir Rosé. Reservations at all tasting rooms are encouraged.

Collage of a restaurant interior with yellow chairs, a bar, chandeliers, and a staircase outside. Drinks are shown on a table.

Santa Barbara offers a seamless blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and sophisticated experiences that make it an unparalleled destination for weddings. From the timeless elegance of venues like the Mar Monte Hotel to the enchantment of a sunset cruise along the American Riviera, every moment feels like a fairytale. Add in the region’s celebrated wine scene, and you have the perfect recipe for unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Santa Barbara promises a romantic backdrop that’s both accessible and extraordinary. Your dream coastal event awaits in this idyllic paradise, ready to captivate you and your guests.

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