Over the past 15 years of being a destination wedding photographer I have been truly shaped by the stories I’ve had the joy of documenting. And with that, I have seen a lot of venues. How they run, how they treat guests, how they treat vendors, how they function, and photograph at an actual event. Carmel-by-the-sea is my home away from home. I adore this central coast of California town. From the scenic views, to its closeness to Big Sur and the redwoods. It’s charming, perfect for a destination wedding without going overseas. Moreover, you can make it a home base to explore all the wonderful surrounding areas and really create and experience for yourselves and guests. It really is one of the most special locations.

These are a few of my favorite Carmel Wedding Venues from a photographers perspective.

If you are reading this and planning your own wedding. I am honored you chose this little corner of the internet. You can explore the real wedding galleries linked throughout this guide to see more, or inquire about Carmel wedding photography and I am happy to talk through your wedding with you.

Santa Lucia Preserve

Exclusive and absolutely worth it! Santa Lucia Preserve is beyond stunning. Only a few miles from the coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, is this picturesque location nestled among the rolling golden hills of Carmel Valley. I have had the honor of photographing numerous weddings at different spaces on this property. It boasts 20,000 acres of protected land. Which means it’s an incredible landscape of untouched Carmel beauty. The hills are dotted with hundreds of year old Oaks trees that sweep across effortlessly from the secure gate entrance to the Hacienda. The drive to the venue is magical. Everything is cared for with such heart and preservation for the land, plus of utmost care with the privacy of guests.

Above the 100 year old barn is transformed with a custom carpeted floor, build in banquettes with ferns to add lush natural environment to this rustic indoor space. Completely wowing guests. Mindy Rice design and Kindred Events co were the geniuses behind it.

More than a venue, it’s an experience from the first moment you step onto the property, you know something memorable is about to happen. Serenity and calm fill this location and we all know, weddings can be hectic. However, the team at The Preserve are top tier, offering personalized care and design expertise throughout the process.

Ceremony locations can vary, importantly the most unique is the intimate redwood grove located on the property. Truly feeling like you are secluded within these magnificent trees.

Over the years, I have photographed quite a few weddings at this property. This link shows a sample of my work from across diverse events Santa Lucia Preserve wedding photography, or you can see Clare and Chris’s Santa Lucia Preserve wedding story.

In addition, Caroline and John’s three day wedding at the Preserve.

Holman Ranch

There is nothing quite like Holman Ranch . One of the great things about this venue is you can stay the weekend with guests and make it a true getaway. It is the wine country part of Carmel Valley and is a showstopper. Each vista boasts views for miles. The sunsets are incredible for photographs and it has an Italian villa vibe that is to swoon over.

Set atop an incredible vineyard with magical stone architecture and lush landscape. There are a few spaces on the property for reception, however my favorite is courtyard. It is surrounded by stone walls and makes for a charmingly intimate space to enjoy delicious meals with your loved ones.

See Savannah and Riley’s wedding at Holman Ranch

See Daphne and Taylor Holman Ranch Wedding

See Ashley and Ben’s Holman Ranch wedding photographs.

The Holly Farm

If you’re looking for a tropical hidden gem with beautiful gardens, this is for you. The Holly Farm offers a secluded space that feels like you are in Hawaii. It is a dual purpose space that can be transformed. Couples can host numerous events all with different themes as well. Such as one couple, had a movie night for guests as their welcome party with wood fired pizzas and popcorn bar.

Pebble Beach Resorts

One of the most magical places in the Carmel-by-the-Sea area is 17 mile drive and Pebble Beach. Pebble beach is an absolutely priceless coastline with one of the most famous golf courses in the world. It is stunning! Pebble Beach Resorts is an exclusive all inclusive venue. Offering floral design, catering, and much more. They have numerous locations to host a wide variety of events. A few of my favorites are: The Hay, the inn at Spanish Bay, and the lodge at Pebble Beach. All have unique dining and spa experiences to make your stay memorable and as relaxing as possible.

A photo from the lodge where the bridesmaids were getting ready. I mean look at this coastline.

Planning by Kindred Events co.

See Vee and Pete’s Carmel and Pebble Beach wedding gallery.

Mission Ranch in Carmel-by-the-sea

This venue is a hotel, restaurant, and event space at one location. Which works perfectly to host a weekend getaway for your guests. It is about a 5 minute drive to the super soft sandy beaches Carmel is known for. It also has tennis courts, sheep, and the best patio to have early bird apps and wine while you wait for sunset.

Stonepine Estates

I was recently introduced to a newly restored venue and had the joy of photographing a wedding there this Summer. First, the grounds are sprawling, it takes a little trek to get there by car with deer and other fun friends to see along the way, however once you step into the garden and historic home, you will feel transported. They have a front and back side of the home which has wonderful space for reception, cocktail, or ceremony set ups. You can really make the space your own and add personal details, while still providing guests with a true Carmel Valley experience.

Stonepine estates is a family owned working ranch and vineyard. The staff are incredibly kind and the gardens are perfect for photographs.

Behind the estate you will discover the back lawn. A reception or ceremony or cocktail hour are beautiful here. Versatility is part of this properties charm. Photo note: I find the front drive to have the best light throughout the day with the trees and the stone adds an architecture and even color cast for photos.

Planning by Kate Ford Events

La Playa Hotel

If you are looking for a place to host guests, have your wedding, and be close to the heart of Carmel-by-the-sea La Playa Hotel is a gem. Last year they completed a full renovation and it is cuter than ever. Inside you step into a moody and velvet draped space, while outside you can meander the gardens and hear the ocean.

One of my couples held their Welcome Event here and it was a magical night on the indoor/outdoor patio with big windows to see the view and gets a lot of light throughout the day.

Explore Carolyn and John’s wedding weekend, including their La Playa welcome event.

This is the perfect location to stay as a getaway for your Carmel engagement session. What a great jumping off point for photos in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-sea. In my opinion, hosting ceremony when the light can be back lit is best for photos. Although, this leaves your guests facing the sun. There is also an option to host the cocktail hour in this space, however it requires venue to remove the chairs while guests remain on the upper patio and lawn area.

Thank you for reading along and seeing some of the venues I have loved collaborating with and photographing at. Also, lived in San Diego for over 20 years and if looking along the California coast for some other inspiration for your venue search. Explore my San Diego wedding venue guide for more California coast inspiration.

Planning your Carmel wedding?

I’d love to hear about your plans. Explore my wedding photography portfolio, or tell me about your wedding date and venue.