Wedding Venues in Big Sur

The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Venues In Big Sur: Everything You Need to Know

The outstanding scenery provided by Big Sur’s open ocean presents a wonderful opportunity for a wedding. The bond created by weddings is hard won and long considered with hours of careful planning and mindful arrangements. Join us as we explore the traits and setbacks of Big Sur erdding venues, comparing it to its neighbors to give you an effortless planning process

Why Choose a Big Sur Wedding Venue?

A truly picturesque location, the turquoise waters and dazzling cliffside paint a surreal picture. It's hard to imagine a Californian seaside more beautiful or worthy of being called THE wedding destination. The unspoiled nature of Big Sur invites couples and guests alike to unplug and immerse themselves in its warm embrace. Here are a few other reasons to choose Big Sur:

• Exclusive & Intimate Atmosphere: For a location with such beautiful waters, the fact that it’s not overrun with tourists is a mystery, however, that mystery is very fortunate for you. You’ll be able to enjoy its serene beaches and become one with nature, without the omnipresence of tourists.

• Perfect for Adventure-Loving Couples: If hiking, camping, glamping, and more appeal to you, Big Sur’s secluded nature, tranquil waters, and great outdoors will definitely give you what you’re looking for.

• Mild Climate: You can't miss out on this wedding destination, sunny most of the year round, you can pick any date on the calendar, giving you maximum flexibility.

• Luxury Options: Nature and water is not all Big Sur has to offer. Luxury boutiques, hotels, and resorts offer an opulent alternative to those not seeking to brave the outdoors. 

Some cons you should be aware of:

• Limited Accessibility: Only one main road leads to this town, therefore, you, your party, and your guests are likely to be subject to any possible traffic delays, road closures, etc. that may occur on your travels. 

• Higher Costs: The exclusive location and unadulterated waters both contribute to its venues’ price points.

• Limited Guest Accommodations: While hotels, resorts, boutiques, and estates dot its ranges, one must remember its appeal as a destination to other travelers. Limited spots mean there might be a shortage when it comes to accommodating your entire guest list. Nothing that can’t be solved with foresight or with Breezit. 

• Permit Requirements: Many outdoor locations require permits, which can take time to secure.

What’s Included in Big Sur Wedding Packages?

Varying venue types may provide different packages, additionally so when it comes to proximity to the waterfront or main city. But here are some common inclusions:

• Exclusive Venue Access: Access to the allotted ceremony space or to the entire venue’s premises for the duration of time stipulated in your agreement.

• Catering & Bar Service: Deluxe catering with mouth-watering customizable menus featuring various cuisines, farm-to-table dining experiences, and delectable plates of fresh seafood.

• On-Site Coordination:  Some venues might offer On-site coordinators to help you manage your wedding planning and execution. Some venues alternatively assist with logistics and vendor coordination.

• Lodging: Resorts and hotels may offer accommodation packages for wedding guests.

• Floral & Decor: Some wedding packages come with basic floral arrangements and decorative setups.

Big Sur vs. Other Nearby Wedding Destinations

If you’re considering Big Sur, you might also be looking at nearby locations like Carmel, Monterey, and Santa Cruz. Here’s how they compare:

Carmel: Both are coastal cities with limited accessibility at high costs, differing in their weather, venue size, and forestry. Carmel’s venues are often bigger, its weather sunnier, and its woods of cypress fragrant. 

Monterey: Sporting wonderful bay views and a historic charm, its scenery can easily be compared to that of Big Sur. However, being more accessible at a lower cost, it’s no wonder couples often choose this location. But if you can get to Big Sur and it's withing your budget, that views are worth it.

The Bohemian vibe of Santa Cruz gives it a unique and laid-back charm. Sharing similar redwood forestry, Santa Cruz only beats Big Sur in terms of accessibility and cost. 

Tips for Booking a Big Sur Wedding Venue

• Book Early: As its popular venues fill up a year or more in advance, make sure to start your planning earlier than that.

• Consider Off-Peak Seasons: Off-peak dates mean less traffic, fewer visitors, less competition, and fewer chances of an unrectifiable incident. It's only a plus that the winters are magical here.

• Arrange Guest Accommodations in Advance: If lodging is limited, secure hotel blocks in nearby towns like Carmel or Monterey early.

• Hire a Local Planner: Logistical challenges in Big Sur including permits, limited vendor access, and unpredictable weather are best handled by organizers familiar with the region.

• Get the Necessary Permits: If you’re planning a wedding in a state park or other public land, you’ll need a special event permit. Check with California State Parks for regulations.

• Have a Backup Plan for Weather: Fog, rain, and strong coastal winds can occur unexpectedly. Consider renting a tent or choosing a venue with indoor options.

• Consider Transportation Needs: Many Big Sur venues have limited parking spaces. Providing shuttle services can be a great solution for guests.

Final Thoughts

While the views and sandy beaches of Big Sur are most definitely worth it, it can be a hard destination to get to, with a lot of considerations surrounding logistics. Should one booking be off, considering its exclusivity, distance, and limited availability of utilities, the incident might have a bigger effect on the wedding than if it were in a nearby destination.

However, the unforgettable experience of the location– intimate, quaint, and breathtaking– is worth the wedding of your dreams. To help you get the wedding you deserve, let Breezit do the planning so you can do the partying.