You have plenty of choices for chic coastal wedding venues in San Diego. Restaurants, hotels, even a museum, all offer a seaside view while you tie the knot.
Bali Hai
Why: A little tiki-inspired island paradise without the airfare
We love… the architecture and the Polynesian aesthetic, the stunning San Diego cityscape, and dreamy bay views
What every couple should know: Reserve in six-hour blocks (11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. to midnight)
Guests: 350 max
Budget range: $35-$85 per person
Inside scoop: Best Mai Tai in Southern California
All in the details: Fifteen types of wood, Polynesian artifacts, including tiki figures, statues, antique tapa cloths, wood weapons, ocean charts, and maps.
Only here… has a groom paddleboarded up to his wedding ceremony and a newlywed couple water-skied off into the bay, while countless other couples have sailed off into the sunset for a grand exit!
balihairestaurant.com | 619.222.1181
Photo by Bauman Photography
The Dana on Mission Bay
Why: A perfect trifecta: gorgeous giant lawn for nuptials, terrace for sunset cocktails, and elegant ballroom with 18-foot-high windows for your reception—all with bay views
We love… that there’s only one wedding per day and newlyweds get a complimentary bay suite for their wedding night
What every couple should know: You can dance the night away until midnight
Guests: 275 max
Budget range: $75-$100 per person
Inside scoop: Sweet bridal dressing room with more waterfront views for pre-wedding prep
All in the details: Savor chef Eric Manuel’s eclectic Cali cuisine, or if you have a specific ethnic preference—Portuguese, Polynesian, even Russian—he can cater to your tastes
Only here… can you spill out your door to jet ski or have a private yacht waiting for you at the Dana Marina
thedana.com | 619.222.6440
Photo by Studio Paris
La Jolla Cove Suites
Why: Need we say more than a rooftop terrace in La Jolla with ocean breezes, coastal views, and the crashing surf?
We love… that the ocean is a guest at your wedding
What every couple should know: The terrace is a giant blank canvas for you to create your dream
Guests: 225 max
Budget range: $3,000-$4,500 for space rental
Inside scoop: You can choose your own vendors; easy access to the beach and picturesque covefor great photos
All in the details: Old-fashion street lights, a glass solarium entrance, 180 degree unobstructed panoramic view
Only here…. can you see sea lions sunning themselves and whales spouting in the distance as you exchange vows
lajollacove.com | 888.525.6552
Photo by heidi-o-photo
L’Auberge Del Mar
Why: Glam cottage-style luxury
We love… the cocktail hour on the roof deck for views of the sun dipping into the Pacific
What every couple should know: There’s a “Romance Director” on site ready to consult on all things wedding
Guests: 250 max
Budget range: $153-$190 per person, $123 per person (brunch)
Inside scoop: Insider access to Seagrove Park for beachside ceremony
All in the details: Innovative cuisine like coffee-crusted buffalo, lobster corn dogs, truffled grilled cheese, and mini blue cheese crème brûlée
Only here… can you find the coveted combo of gorgeous ocean view, luxe style, and intimate setting
laubergedelmar.com | 866.778.5548
Photo by Rouse Photography
La Valencia
Why: The Pink Lady is the crown jewel of La Jolla Village
We love… the bougainvillea-laced English garden setting overlooking the cobalt sea
What every couple should know: The chef will completely customize your menu from scratch—no pre-printed menus in sight
Guests: 200 max
Budget range: $135-$160 per person
Inside scoop: One wedding per day
All in the details: Fun pre- and post-wedding packages like golf outings, Del Mar horse racing, and high teas
Only here… will you find so many stunning photo backdrops in colorful settings with Old-World ambiance and architectural flair
lavalencia.com | 858.454.0771
Photo by True Photography Weddings
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Why: Dynamic art, cool architecture, and views of La Jolla Cove
We love… that your guests can mingle through the galleries
What every couple should know: The art will rotate and there are restrictions on red wine
Guests: Seated ceremony, 120; seated reception, 200; standing reception, 500
Budget range: $95-$170 per person, plus usage fee
Inside scoop: Weddings run from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., limited daytime options
All in the details: The space itself is a work of art with its distinctive architecture, patterned terrazzo floor, sculptures, vaulted ceilings, and more
Only here… can you have your first dance under a seven-point, star-shaped clerestory skylight
mcasd.com | 858.454.3541
Photo by Vanessa Ien
—By Ann Wycoff
