This venue has some outstanding qualities. After navigating through the tents and RVs at the State Park campground, the Historic Cottage reveals a stunning backdrop. With pristine white adobe walls, striking red Spanish tiles, and a panoramic view of the California coastline and the Pacific Ocean, it's hard to beat, especially when you consider the sandy cliffs and the twinkling lights of San Clemente in the distance. The only extra decor we added were table decorations, the wedding arch, floral centerpieces, and personal details. Priced at $5,000 for events on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays, and just $3,500 for Monday to Thursday bookings (as of 2022), this outdoor venue offers an unbeatable deal compared to others in the region with similar or superior views, which tend to be pricier. One significant selling point was our freedom to choose any vendors we preferred, a rarity since many other venues required a set catering service that often meant paying more for food and sometimes receiving lower quality. This flexibility allowed us to save substantially on drinks, as we bought our own alcohol from Costco and only hired bartending services. While it was a bit of a hassle, it resulted in a savings of around $3,000. We sourced our flowers from the LA Flower Market and had a family member create stunning arrangements. This option would not have been available had we chosen Casa Romantica or Ole Hanson; Casino San Clemente, while also accommodating, posed fewer restrictions. We had to get approval for all vendors as some have been banned in the past. Hosting both the ceremony and reception within the venue is straightforward; we coordinated with our rental company to set up tables in a less visible area and completed the arrangements during cocktail hour. Though we didn’t fully utilize it, the nearby campground is a unique feature, providing adequate facilities and a beach just a short stroll away. For those interested in a rustic-themed wedding or who want to save on lodging costs, staying in campsites or RV spots could be a perfect alternative, but be sure to book in advance as the campground fills up quickly. However, the public bathrooms were a downside. As the venue is in a California State Beach park, guests have to share restrooms with beachgoers, leading to some issues with cleanliness. While these restrooms are large and open-air, they are typical state park facilities and can become dirty with sand, ants, and lack of soap despite being cleaned before events. We provided luxury soaps and toiletries, but it was disappointing to have to make that effort. Moreover, the private bathroom inside the Historic Cottage was minimal in space, causing issues for our elderly guests. Although there are ADA-compliant restrooms, their maintenance left much to be desired, posing accessibility challenges. There was also a concerning lack of cleanliness; we found ants in one of the men's restrooms, which should not have been the case. Such instances left several guests struggling, including my brother who requires assistance due to cerebral palsy. Frustrations with state park staff were numerous, but bathroom conditions garnered the most ire; it’s unacceptable to have guests encounter ants on the toilet seats. We had to expend extra resources buying soap, paper towels, and other necessities only to find they were taken by the public during our event. We even assembled a 'Guest Toiletry Basket' with essentials, receiving positive feedback but knowing we'd have to replenish what was inevitably used or taken. It was unsettling to consider our items might be stolen on the big day. We had been monitoring the venue since 2019 when we noticed broken windows, and despite assurances that repairs would be made, they remained unfixed until only weeks before our wedding following our intervention. Additionally, be wary of the contract, as it allows them to change terms without notice; we learned of new restrictions regarding lighting options just weeks out. Expect to require ample lighting for evening events outside, as the lack of options can make it difficult to see. Wind is a factor near the ocean, so ensure your decorations can withstand it. Staff were often focused on protecting the property rather than supporting the emotional aspects of the celebration. Final thoughts: be ready for rigidity and potential fines for state park rules which even extend to food on the ground—telling us the possibility of fines at the end of our wedding was unbelievable. Access to the venue is strictly monitored, with our entry delayed until a specific time, adding to our stress. If possible, hire a planner to manage the details—this made our experience smoother despite the obstacles with staff. Although we faced significant challenges, we made beautiful memories that day, and if you’re considering this venue, proceed with caution and bring your own planner or caterer if you want to lessen the logistical headaches.