Wedding Venues in Marina Del Rey

How to Choose a Wedding Venue Location in Marina del Rey, California

Marina del Rey, California, is often quoted for its picturesque harbor, luxury yachts, and proximity to Los Angeles. No wonder Marina del Rey is a prime location for those dreaming of a waterfront wedding. We’ve prepared this guide to help you understand what to pay attention to when looking for the perfect wedding spot in this part of California. 

Budget: Marina del Rey venues are known for their upscale venues, such as The Ritz-Carlton and Marina del Rey Marriott. Indeed, if you compare wedding locations in Marina del Rey to more affordable options in nearby cities like Culver City or Playa del Rey, you’ll discover that wedding venues here are more expensive for a very good reason, mainly for their premium amenities and breathtaking waterfront views.

High/Low Seasons: The peak season for wedding celebrations in Marina del Rey is summer, i.e. it starts in June and lasts until September. During this time, you can expect warm weather and clear skies, which is why outdoor weddings are especially popular at that time of the year. This also results in higher venue prices and increased demand, so booking early is crucial if you want to exchange vows in summer. If you want to save some money, consider cooler months for your big day. For example, November to February will most likely offer more availability and potential cost savings, but be prepared for occasional marine layers or rain.

Visit in Person: As Marina del Rey boasts a truly unique coastal charm, visiting several potential wedding spots here is a must. Marina del Rey offers a captivating blend of nautical elegance and modern luxury, which is best appreciated up close. Besides, it contrasts greatly with more urban venues in downtown Los Angeles or rustic settings in Topanga, and only photos won’t help much if you really want to appreciate the contrasts. 

Guest List: Marina del Rey venues tend to be more compact, so they often have limited parking and might come with some traffic congestion. This is particularly true if you compare Marina del Rey wedding venues to more sprawling venues in Malibu or Pacific Palisades. If you’re thinking of a small ceremony with close friends and family members, we suggest checking out what intimate yacht charters have to offer. If you’re looking for a spot that can accommodate hundreds of guests, we recommend researching larger venues like the Marina del Rey Marriott.

Aesthetics: If sleek, modern architecture is on your mind, have a look at venues like the Hotel MdR. If you prefer a classic, elegant wedding that is filled with the natural beauty of the marina and the Pacific Ocean, how about the Ritz-Carlton? We’re sure its opulent ballrooms with panoramic views of the harbor won’t let you down. For those seeking a more casual, nautical vibe, we could recommend a ceremony aboard a private yacht or at Marina Beach (Mother’s Beach).

Local Vendors: Marina del Rey has a vibrant community of local vendors who are experts in creating memorable wedding experiences. Florists specialize in coastal-themed arrangements, caterers offer fresh, seafood-centric menus, and photographers know the best spots to take the most memorable pictures. In fact, if you compare the more generalized services typically found in larger cities like Los Angeles, you’ll see that vendors in Marina del Rey are particularly good at arranging waterfront weddings.

Weather Considerations: Although the weather in Marina del Rey is generally mild, seasonal variations are noticeable. Of course, summer weddings have long daylight hours and clear skies. However, you should expect some marine layer, especially in the morning, even during this time of the year. Fall and spring also offer pleasant temperatures, but occasional rain or coastal fog might occur. If that’s when you’re planning your wedding ceremony, have a backup plan, such as an indoor hall or a tented outdoor area.

The Vibe: Wedding venues in Marina del Rey typically carry a unique vibe that combines coastal relaxation with urban sophistication. Wedding locations in Marina del Rey are distinctly different from the more traditional settings of nearby cities like Santa Monica or Beverly Hills. A Marina del Rey wedding usually means a chic, modern celebration at a luxury hotel or a laid-back, nautical-themed wedding on a yacht.