Skip to content
FacebookTwitterPinterestInstagram
  • Find a Vendor
  • Book Your Travel
  • Submit a Wedding
Destination I Do
  • Real Weddings
  • Destinations
  • Planning + Advice
  • About Us
Oversized Guest Rooms

5 Cali Hot Spots for Your Wedding

By Eric Hassler | June 24, 2019

Romance is Calling

From rolling vineyard landscapes to the sandy beaches of the Pacific, California offers gorgeous destination wedding backdrops in spades. Here are five Preferred Hotels & Resorts that provide the perfect place to say “I do” in the Golden State.

Carneros Resort & Spa – Napa

Surrounded by rolling vineyards, Carneros Resort and Spa is luxury and relaxation in a modern, farm-inspired setting. Offering high-end, cottage-style accommodations paired with fine dining and sumptuous varietals, this property is as special as it is romantic.

Alfresco showers, private gardens, poolside panoramic views of the nearby vineyards, and exclusive dining selections offer guests an unparalleled experience in the heart of Napa.

Enjoy an intimate ceremony or an event of up to 210 people with an unforgettable backdrop either indoors or out. The perfect balance of rustic charm and modern luxury, weddings at Carneros Resort and Spa are sophisticated, understated and tailored to your taste and personality.

The Huntington Hotel – San Francisco

San Francisco exudes romance and The Huntington Hotel encapsulates the history and panache of famed Nob Hill. Once a luxury apartment building in 1924, this historic landmark is now a modern icon offering couples a stylish retreat. With an unparalleled location, The Huntington Hotel overlooks Grace Cathedral, Huntington Park and the city skyline. 

The elegant, oversized guest rooms and three-story penthouse, on-site luxury spa and relaxation pool provide couples and guests respite from wedding planning and sightseeing. Indulge in a meal at the iconic Big 4 Restaurant and Lounge (named after the big railroad tycoons who developed the Southwest) where live music and delectable dinner options unite.

Hotel Californian – Santa Barbara

Sandwiched between the sandy beaches and quaint downtown of Santa Barbara is Hotel Californian. This historic (yet recently renovated) property boast 123 guest rooms each with ocean, garden or mountain views. Built in 1925, the property has been reimagined by celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard with a cool, Moroccan-inspired vibe. The sophisticated color palette and vibrant patterns found throughout the property’s three buildings lend themselves to gorgeous wedding celebrations.

Choose from beautifully appointed ball-rooms (for up to 285 guests), a rooftop terrace overlooking the Pacific or other outdoor venue spaces for your destination wedding.

Shutters on the Beach – Santa Monica

If you envision a lively beach wedding with the Santa Monica Pier in the distance, a secluded location and five-star service for your guests, Shutters on the Beach might be your perfect home-away-from-home for your wedding.

Situated in the heart of Santa Monica you’ll find a quintessential Southern California hotel that’s iconic for its nod to Cape Cod’s architecture. Enjoy all the area has to offer along with the welcoming residence-style Shutters on the Beach is so well known for. Gather around oversized fireplaces in the lobby or back in your upgraded room, surrounded by your wrap-around deck as the sunsets over the Pacific.

Hotel Casa Del Mar – Santa Monica

One of only two hotels on the sand in Los Angeles, Hotel Casa Del Mar is a marriage between Renaissance splendor and modern luxury. The Mediterranean-inspired historic property offers panoramic ocean views, 129 indulgently appointed guest rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, on-site spa and Palm Terrace Pool – all overlooking the sand and sea. Imagine getting wedding-day ready in one of their two-story penthouse suites, offering the ultimate in seaside luxury.

Saying “I do” on property is a dream come true with their sweeping staircase for the ultimate of entrances, seriously glamorous ballroom or outdoor terrace, allowing you and your guests to enjoy dinner under the stars after watching the sun slip below the horizon.

sponsored content

Tagged Cali Destination Wedding, Cali Wedding, California Destination Wedding, California Destination Weddings, California wedding, California Weddings, Carneros Resort and Spa, destination wedding, Destination Weddings, Hotel Californian, Hotel Casa del Mar, Preferred Hotels, Preferred Hotels and Resorts, Preferred Hotels Wedding, Shutters on the Beach, The Huntington Hotel, Wedding, Weddings

Get on the List

Get the latest wedding trends & ideas by email.

Help stop spam! (4 + 7 = )
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Follow Us On Pinterest
Your online resource for

Destination Weddings,
Honeymoons
and Romantic Travel

Get Social with Destination I DO

@destinationido
Follow Us On Instagram

Golden hour vows in an olive grove and a candlelit Golden hour vows in an olive grove and a candlelit dinner under the stars 🌿✨ This Puglia, Italy wedding at Masseria Moroseta is straight out of a slow-living, sun-drenched dream—and we’ve got the full scoop. From the bride’s effortless style to the aperitivo hour you’ll want to steal 🍋🍷, it’s all too good to gatekeep.

Comment “Puglia” below and we’ll send you the link to this Italian romance. 🇮🇹💌 

Photography @sarahlordphoto 
Venue @masseriamoroseta 
Planner @italianboutiqueweddings 
Stationery @aerialistpress 
Gown @kyhabride 
Groom’s Attire @ralphlauren 
Music @pastefasul.italianswing @caityheartofgold 

#destinationweddinggoals #italydestinationwedding #masseriamoroseta #italianevents
Bursting with color and romance, Tuscany was the p Bursting with color and romance, Tuscany was the perfect setting for an incomparably divine wedding editorial. ☀️🌱

You’ll want to see more of this one, trust us! Comment “Tuscany wedding” for a look at all the gorgeous deets! 

Photographer: @cortiellaphotography 
Planner & Designer: @eventsbycarmen 
Local Planner: @camelia_lambru 
Venue: @borgocastelvecchi 
Catering: @tt_food_and_service
Florals: @silviamerliflowers 
Rentals: @noloparty @royalcateringsiena
Linens: @nuagedesignsinc
Live Artist: @monja_paintyourdreams
Cake Designer: @sugarcups_cake_design
Stationery: @blissimprints
Fireworks: @fuochishow
Games: @italianweddinggames
Dress: @atelierferraribridal
Tuxedo: @urbanodellascala
Hair & Makeup: @giuliaditerlizzi
DJ: @djiaia
Content Creator: @marina_stories_wcc
Videographer: @nrfilms___
We think every moment of your wedding day should f We think every moment of your wedding day should feel like Hozier’s yell ☀️

If you envision a grand multi-day event, a simple seaside elopement, or an intimate ceremony with just your closest loved ones, @palladiumweddings brings your vision to life. Fully focus on your special day knowing you’re in good hands with expert coordination, stylish design options, and world-class hospitality. 💍

*s p o n s o r e d*
When your love story spans coastlines, why not cel When your love story spans coastlines, why not celebrate somewhere brand new? For Allie & Zack, that meant an adventure-packed “I do” in the stunning Mt. Hood wilderness. From group vows and dog-inspired cocktails to toboggan rides and wine bottle seating charts, every detail was so them. 🥂🐾⁠

Tap the link in bio or head to destinationido.com to see more of their unforgettable Oregon celebration!⁠

Photographer: @escapeandadventure
Assistant Photographer: @overlandelopements 
Planner: @reigel.weddingservices 
Venue: @skibowlweddings
Florist: @tabletopsetc 
Hair & Makeup: @wild.emerald.official 
Bride’s Dress Shop: @brilliantbridal
Groom’s Suit: @generationtux
DJ: @noteworthydjs
Some weddings feel like an embrace. Warm, familiar Some weddings feel like an embrace. Warm, familiar, and completely true to the couple at the heart of it. That's this one.⁣
⁣
Lani and Steven intimate wedding at the 𝐖𝐚𝐲𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐤𝐢 boutique hotel was just that: a love letter to their original home, their people, and to living fully in the moment—𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 😳😂🥰⁣
⁣
Photography @kamarinann_photo⁣
Florals @kahihaefloral⁣
Venue @wayfinderwaikiki⁣
Videography @whiteheadfilms⁣
Beauty @ak.hawaii⁣
Stationery @chandler_d_designs⁣
Catering @redfishpoke⁣
Shoes @bellabelleshoes⁣
⁣
#weddingflowers #weddingflorist #weddingbouquet #weddingdesign #weddingvenue #hawaiiwedding
Always love a good reason to resurface this incred Always love a good reason to resurface this incredible, rainbow floral arch and PRIDE MONTH couldn’t be a better one! 🌈

📸: @bohemiaphotography 
💐: @ladistribuidoracdmx 
🗓: @bestbride_ @wedawaystravel 
📍: @grandvelasmaya

#destinationwedding #weddingflowerideas #weddingflowersinspiration #lgbtlove #rainbowflowers
✨ Dreaming of a destination wedding? Before you ✨ Dreaming of a destination wedding? Before you book based on pictures alone, there’s one *major* planning step you shouldn’t skip…⁠ ⁠

Wedding planner Michelle Durpetti says a **scouting trip** is essential — and after hearing why, we’re fully convinced. From taste-testing the local cuisine to walking the streets where your love story will unfold, it’s about so much more than just touring venues.⁠ 💫⁠

Want the full scoop (and all Michelle’s expert tips)? ⁠Comment “scouting trip” and we’ll DM you the article! 🧳📍✈️⁠

📸 @collinpierson
When Jennifer and Dave decided to tie the knot, th When Jennifer and Dave decided to tie the knot, they knew one thing for certain: a one-day, ballroom-back-home situation just wasn’t their style. ✨

See more of their St. Barths destination wedding on DestinationIDo.com 💕

Photography: @phillipvnweddings 
Planning & Production: @epicpresentations 
Videography: @bstudios_sb 
Entertainment: @stella_pda 
Venue: @stbartschurch.stbarts 
@lebarthelemy @er_stbarths 
Reception: @lebarth_villas 
Florals: @libertystbarth 
Wedding Dress & Shoes: @leegrebenau @aquazzura 
Party: @galialahav
Bride: @jbassoxo
A bride’s adventure to the altar in beautiful Ca A bride’s adventure to the altar in beautiful Cartagena, Colombia 👰🏼‍♀️💍🇨🇴

Photographer: @chrisjevansphoto 
Creative Director: @melgeorgeweddings @sofitellegendsantaclaractg @bridalagency_ @lilianrojasm @sposamia_cartagena @weddingselianagonzalez 
@procolombiaco 
@vintagecarexperiences 

#BridalCouture #SofitelStyle #CartagenaVibes #FashionForwardBride #LuxuryWeddings #EditorialPerfection #BridalInspiration #ModernElegance #WeddingGoals #BridalFashion #chicbride
Like opening up a storybook 🌹 Comment “insp Like opening up a storybook 🌹 

Comment “inspo” to see more from this incredible editorial on Destination I Do ✨

🏰 Venue: @villapizzo 
📸 Photographer: @lisettegatliff 
📋 Planning: @sparklingmoments.events 
🌸 Florals: @botanicaevent 
🛋 Rentals: @integra_rent 
🚤 Boat: @vagueluxuryrent 
👗 Gowns: @riccasposa 
🤵 Tux: Carlo Pignatelli
💎 Jewelry: Jonida Ripani
💄 Makeup: @anastasiakataurova 
💇‍♀️ Hair: @elenlenko 
✉️ Stationery: @papier.handmade 

#lakecomowedding #italyweddings #weddinginspiration #weddingflowersdecor #bridefashion
How can it get more scenic than THIS? See more of How can it get more scenic than THIS? See more of this Costa Rica Chapel Wedding with a Volcano View on DestinationIDo.com! 🌋

Photography & Videography: @bacalaofilms 
Wedding Planner: @milbesoscr 
Reception Site: @jalapas__restaurant 
Florist: @flores_de_campos 
Hair & Makeup: @wanderlustmua 
Rentals: @losprimosdesigns 

#tropicaldestination #weddingdestination #volcanoview #volcanowedding #costaricapuravida
Let’s passport stamp our way through our list of Let’s passport stamp our way through our list of the top LGBTQ-friendly wedding destinations outside the U.S.!

🇲🇽 MEXICO CITY, MEXICO

🇦🇷 BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

🇪🇸 BARCELONA, SPAIN

🇪🇸 MADRID, SPAIN

🇩🇪 BERLIN, GERMANY

🇩🇪 COLOGNE, GERMANY

🇬🇷 MYKONOS, GREECE

🇹🇭 PHUKET, THAILAND

🇹🇼 TAIPEI, TAIWAN

Planning a destination wedding is about choosing a place that speaks to your soul—and supports your love. Happy Pride! 🏳️‍🌈 

 #pride2025 #lgbtqtravel #lgbtqweddings
An oceanfront ceremony, personalized coconut cockt An oceanfront ceremony, personalized coconut cocktails, and a Champagne wall that literally rang when guests wanted a refill. This wasn’t JUST Mely and Steve’s wedding. It was a full-on experience.

Photographer: @jorgemercadophotography 
Venue: @grandvelasnay 
Florist: @adore.floreria @yessymendez.mx 
Stationery: @paperlust.co 
Hair & Makeup: @beautyexpertmx 
Gown Designer: @veekeejames_official 
Men’s Attire: @menswearhouse 
Bridesmaids Dresses: @birdygrey 
DJ/Production: @maceventgroup @celtrevaudiovisual 
Decoration: @dwsvallarta 
Party Favors: @bellsandwhistlescabo 
Audio Guestbook: @theotherlineco 
Coconut & Seating Chart: @maceventgroup
Bridal Robe: @nolagrey_uk 

#rivieranayarit #mexicowedding #weddingdecor #tabletopdecor #beachsidewedding
To kick off Pride Month 2025, @kiveli_weddings and To kick off Pride Month 2025, @kiveli_weddings and photographer @constantinos_oikonomou teamed up for a breathtaking editorial celebrating LGBTQ+ love and Mediterranean elegance. Set against the wild coastline of Greece and featuring two brides, this shoot blends raw nature, cultural richness, and quiet luxury. 🌈🇬🇷✨

Comment “pride” for a direct link to the article.

Planner & designer: @kiveli_weddings
Photographer: @constantinos_weddings_
Cinematographer: @g.tsiroulis_films 
Florist: @anthea_floral_design 
Rentals: @tore_event_furniture_rentals 
Catering: @olon_odoskassandras 
Bridal dresses: @ioanna_kourbela 
Content creator: @ellwedmag 
Audio guestbooks: @voicemailsgr 
Hair & makeup: @joannaspapathanasioubridal 
Models: @allipomilio @misskristalllia 

#PrideMonth #LGBTQWeddings #MediterraneanLove #DestinationWedding #GreekIslands #StyledShoot #LoveIsLove #KiveliWeddings
Just arrived to enjoy @terranearesort for a few da Just arrived to enjoy @terranearesort for a few days and this place is where #destinationwedding dreams are made of! We will post more through the weekend, but if So Cal is on your list of places to say “I do,” you’d be in great hands here! #terraneawedding
Whether your vision is a romantic coastal escape o Whether your vision is a romantic coastal escape or a grand city affair, Bweddings turns wedding dreams into effortlessly elegant realities. 💍🍾

📍Italy never looked so magical—comment “Bweddings” to learn more! 

🗓️ @bweddingschicago 
📸 @matteocuzzolaphotography @erinandgabri @elisarussophotography_2nd  @juliaelise.co 

#ItalyDestinationWedding #DestinationIDo #Bweddings #LuxuryWeddingPlanner #WeddingsIn
From stargazing in a luxury tent at @undercanvasof From stargazing in a luxury tent at @undercanvasofficial to dancing the night away at @ebenezersbarnandgrill and unwinding off-grid at @bouldermountainguestranch — this Utah honeymoon adventure is anything but ordinary. 🌌

@brycecanyoncountry #HoneymoonInUtah #AdventureHoneymoon #UnderCanvas #BryceCanyon #NewlywedGetaway #brycecanyoncountry
In a SUNSHINE STATE of mind! 🌴☀️🌊 On a In a SUNSHINE STATE of mind! 🌴☀️🌊

On a sunny day in the Florida Keys, a wedding photographer ended up on the other side of the lens. 

Leah selected a color palette bursting with energy 🍊for her destination wedding at Isla Bella Beach Resort in Marathon, Florida. 🐬

Photography: @kennaschott 
Planning: @annacarolineweddings 
Venue: @islabellabeachresort
Florals: @revelationfloral 
Hair & Makeup: @kissthismakeup
Videography: @cinemologyfilms
Gown: @callablanchedress 
Groom’s Suit: @josabank
Romantic decor and details perfectly highlighted t Romantic decor and details perfectly highlighted the setting of this styled wedding in none other than Lake Como, Italy! 🌸

Gather more inspiration from this beautiful wedding on the water on DestinationIDo.com ✨

Vendors:
 📍 Venue: @villapizzo 
 📸 Photographer: @lisettegatliff 
 📋 Planning: @sparklingmoments.events 
 🌸 Florals: @botanicaevent
 🛋 Rentals: @integra_rent 
 🚤 Boat: @vagueluxuryrent 
 👗 Gowns: @riccasposa 
 🤵 Tux: Carlo Pignatelli
 💎 Jewelry: Jonida Ripani
 💄 Makeup: @anastasiakataurova 
 💇‍♀️ Hair: @elenlenko 
 ✉️ Stationery: @papier.handmade
Finding the right destination wedding planner can Finding the right destination wedding planner can feel like a full-time job 😅 But don’t stress—Taryn Stark Wyant, founder of @tarynstarkwyant , is sharing the real questions you should be asking to find your perfect match. 💍✨ Her expert tips go beyond the basics to help you build trust, align your vision, and create a truly seamless wedding experience. 

#DestinationWeddingPlanning #WeddingTips #TarynStarkWyant #WeddingPlannerAdvice
Here’s the scene: The sand is soft. The breeze i Here’s the scene: The sand is soft. The breeze is laced with salt and sunlight. And just steps away, the Caribbean Sea glitters like it’s celebrating too.

This could be your reality when you select @sandalsresorts in Jamaica for your nuptials! 

Tap the link in our bio to learn more about having your wedding or honeymoon in the Caribbean with @sandalsresortsweddings! 

#sandalsweddings #caribbeanvibes #caribbeanwedding #beachceremony
It was a GROOOOVY time for LeAnn, James, and their It was a GROOOOVY time for LeAnn, James, and their guests in beautiful Telluride, Colorado! 🪩

Get the link to see more of their inspirational, colorful wedding in the Rocky Mountains by commenting “disco”⛰️ 
.
.
Venue: @peaksresortspa @tellurideweddings 
Photo: @natepuhr 
Video: @jasonanddaris 
Florals: @dahliafloraldesign 
Lighting: @nightcircuslighting 
Desserts: @jacquessweettreatsllc 
Cold Sparks: @valkyrie_productions_co 
Beauty: @yougotmoxie @haleyskyemakeup 
Linens: @bbjlatavola 
Planning: @k2eventco 
Film Lab: @richardphotolab 
.
.
#destinationwedding #discowedding #telluridewedding #coloradogram #discoparty #weddingflorals
The Secret Garden vibes are strong with this Michi The Secret Garden vibes are strong with this Michigan destination wedding at @greencrest_manor 🌿🪻

See more of Veronica and Dewran’s wedding celebrations by commenting “Greencrest” on this post! 

Photography: @the.fourniers 
Venue: @greencrest_manor 
Planning & Design: @moderndaycollective 
Stationery: @inquisited 
Entertainment: djzu
Dessert: @sweetdetails.gr 
Beauty: @face_by_nertila 
Quartet: @horizon_string_quartet 

#greencrestmanor #michiganwedding #gardenweddings #secretgarden #weddinginspirations
A Bride-Turned-Planner’s Guide to Selecting the A Bride-Turned-Planner’s Guide to Selecting the Perfect Wedding Venue in Cabo, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas has long been a dream destination for couples craving sun-drenched coastlines, vibrant culture, and unforgettable wedding backdrops. But with so many stunning options, choosing the right venue in Cabo can feel overwhelming—especially for couples planning from afar.

To help, we tapped into the expert advice of Amanda Antonetti, a destination wedding planner and recent Cabo bride. Amanda planned her own celebration at the Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, giving her a unique dual perspective: both as a professional and as someone who’s been in her clients’ shoes.

Here, Amanda shares her personal and professional tips for selecting the perfect wedding venue in Cabo.

Photography: @km.weddings 
Venue: @hrhloscabos 
Planning: @amandaantonettii
Travel & Wedding Specialist: @islandvows | @allinweddings
Coordination: @eddianacortezweddings
Decor: @zunigadecocancun
Floral: @emporioartefloral
Content Creation: @jjstudio_photo
DJ: @inspiremexico
Entertainment: @cabofineentertainment
Dress Designer: Madysen Blayke | @alexandrasbridalboutique
Suits: @bonobos
Beauty: @stylingtrio
Jewelry: @snyderjewelers | @darethcolburndesigns
Details & Design: @truly.engaging | @stoneandco.designs | @theedibledesignco | @savethedatedesigns | @paperpeachshop
•
•
•
#DestinationIDo #CaboWedding #DestinationWeddingPlanner #caboweddingvenues #mexicowedding
Follow on Instagram

Explore

  • Real Weddings
  • Destinations
  • Planning + Advice
  • About Us
  • Blog
Tools

  • Find a Vendor
  • Submit a Wedding
  • Advertise
Information

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
Get the Latest Inspiration by Email
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

©2025 Destination I Do. All rights reserved