Our Top Wedding Venues in Santa Barbara

As a wedding planner, our top five wedding venues in Santa Barbara, California

Want that classic California atmosphere for your wedding day? Santa Barbara, California, is the place! Often called the “American Riviera” for its Mediterranean-like climate and architecture, this is one city that will take your breath away. And because it’s located just 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles, you get the best of both worlds – mountain and ocean!

If laid back, but effortlessly laid back and naturally beautiful, is how you’d describe your dream wedding, take a look at our top wedding venues in Santa Barbara. 

#1: Rosewood Miramar Beach 

Old California charm meets Cape Cod. If you love a venue that’s as upscale as it is relaxed, this is your place. With an estate-style feel, your wedding is bound to feel like an intimate celebration with world-class service. 

More reasons to love Rosewood Miramar Beach: 

• 16 acres of beachfront property
• 158 stunning rooms 
• A diverse catering menu appealing to a range of tastes
• Family and pet friendly
• Can accommodate up to 400 guests

Learn more about Rosewood Miramar Beach here. 

#2: The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

At the infamous Ritz-Carlton, you can expect nothing short of a grand time. This secluded resort offers top-of-the-line luxury amenities and Mediterranean-inspired architecture that is sure to dazzle you. It’s timeless elegance right on the beach!

More reasons to love The Ritz-Carlton Bacara:

• 78 beachfront acres
• 311 rooms and 49 suites
• Upscale American cuisine 
• Large ballroom for grand celebrations and outdoor options with ocean views 

Learn more about planning your wedding at the Ritz-Carlton here.

#3: Belmond El Encanto

This Santa Barbara venue offers you a boutique luxury experience without leaving California. Not to mention, it’s packed with historic elegance and perched atop a hill, where you can take in panoramic views of the Santa Barbara coast. 

It also provides an old-Hollywood feel, and when paired with the views, can be incredibly romantic on your wedding day!

More reasons to love Belmond El Encanto:

• 7 lush acres
• Indoor and outdoor spaces
• 92 private bungalows and suites
• Fitting for couples who want the garden vibe
• Caters Californian coastal cuisine with craft cocktails
• Pet friendly

View all of Belmond El Encanto’s amenities here. 

#4: Hotel Californian

Coastal charm doesn’t always mean laid back and secluded. This stylish and modern venue, with a Spanish/Moroccan flair, is located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown scene, but still offers plenty of ocean views for an unforgettable ceremony and reception. 

Guests can easily explore Santa Barbara’s attractions, dining, and nightlife on foot — perfect for those visiting from out of town or if you’re planning extra events like a rehearsal dinner. 

More reasons to love Hotel Californian: 

• Located at the heart of the Funk Zone
• Can accommodate up to 200 guests
• 121 seaside rooms
• El Mirador rooftop deck offers 360° views of the Pacific and Santa Ynez Mountains
• Modern, upscale catering
• Pet friendly 

Learn more about hosting your wedding at Hotel Californian here. 

#5: San Ysidro Ranch

Cottage-style accommodations. A cozy, residential feel to host you and your guests. One expansive, awe-inspiring ranch setting for the celebration of a lifetime. Need we say more? 

This venue also bears a touch of history. It was once a mission farm and citrus ranch, and is a bit famous itself; several celebrities and famed public figures chose to celebrate here. 

And if you prefer a more mountainous setting to a beachfront one, you’ll love the views. The aesthetic is nothing short of “storybook romance.”

More reasons to love San Ysidro Ranch:

• 500 acres in the Montecito foothills
• Abundant gardens and lush landscaping
• Can accommodate up to 100 guests
• 41 individually decorated private cottages, making it ultra romantic and historically influenced
• Gourmet Californian coastal cuisine

Learn more about San Ysidro Ranch here.