
Big Sur offers the most dramatic coastal wedding venues in California with overnight lodging for intimate celebrations. Our exclusive properties combine breathtaking cliffside ceremony sites, redwood forest elegance, and luxurious accommodations along America's most scenic coastline.
See real wedding properties. Get real pricing. Book exclusive venues.
ig Sur has become California's premier destination for intimate coastal weddings and romantic elopements, offering 90 miles of dramatic Pacific coastline with 1,000-foot cliffs plunging into turquoise ocean, ancient redwood forests, and some of the most photographed natural landscapes in the world. Located 150 miles south of San Francisco and 300 miles north of Los Angeles along legendary Highway 1, Big Sur provides unmatched natural beauty and seclusion perfect for couples seeking authentic nature-focused celebrations without traditional venue constraints, making it ideal for adventurous duos and small groups (2-75 guests) who prioritize breathtaking scenery over ballroom formality.
Big Sur weddings average $18,000-$45,000 for intimate celebrations of 10-75 guests in 2025, with venue rental costs ranging from $2,500-$21,500 depending on guest count and property exclusivity. Elopement packages for 2 people start at just $4,550 including photography ($1,200 for 2 hours), florals ($450 for bouquet and boutonnière), officiant ($500), hair and makeup ($500), and planning assistance ($1,500) - though most couples add lodging at venues like Glen Oaks Big Sur (no elopement fee when booking accommodations). Small wedding venues include Glen Oaks lawn ceremony site at $2,500 for up to 100 guests, Post Ranch Inn at $5,000 for tiny weddings (10 people) or $10,000-$20,000 for 11-40 guests, and exclusive estate properties like our WedStay "Big Sur Oceanfront Estate" offering cliffside ceremony sites for up to 75 guests with complete privacy and dramatic ocean panoramas.
The best time for Big Sur weddings is late spring through fall (May-October) when Highway 1 is reliably open, fog patterns are predictable (morning fog burns off by afternoon), and temperatures range 60-75°F with minimal rainfall. Summer (June-August) offers the most reliable weather with 65-75°F temperatures and rare rain, though morning coastal fog can delay ceremonies until noon - plan afternoon or sunset ceremonies starting 4-6 PM for best lighting and clear conditions. Fall (September-October) provides the clearest skies, warmest ocean temperatures, and stunning golden California light but books 12-18 months ahead. Avoid winter (November-March) when Highway 1 closures from storms are common, rainfall is frequent (December-February brings 60% of annual precipitation), and venue accessibility can be unpredictable - though dramatic storm watching and winter rates 30-40% below peak season appeal to flexible couples. Book Big Sur venues 12-18 months in advance for peak season dates as limited venue inventory and small guest capacities create high demand.
Save thousands compared to traditional venues while getting more time, privacy, and flexibility for your celebration.
Unlike traditional venues charging $2,000-$5,000 for "exclusive use," every WedStay property includes complete privacy at no extra cost.
All guest rooms included in venue price. No separate hotel block coordination or costs.
Traditional venues limit you to 6 hours. WedStay properties are yours from Friday check-in through Sunday checkout. No overtime fees ($300-$500/hour).
No preferred vendor lists or markup fees (10-20% at traditional venues). Bring your own caterer, photographer, and vendors without restrictions. Browse our curated vendor marketplace or work with your own team.
Use our AI-powered venue matcher to discover properties that match your vision and budget.