Eight of California's most beautiful eco-friendly venues.
June 9, 2022
Whether you’re looking to host a big event or an intimate affair, these venues offer guests both luxury and sustainability, with the bonus of breathtaking backdrops. Honoring the earth by giving back, these eco-friendly venues are California’s finest, from northern retreats to southern beachside havens.
Vibiana
If you are a history nut or maybe just a fan of 19th- century church architecture, head to Vibiana. The property is the site of Los Angeles’ first archdiocese cathedral, completed in 1876 and now owned by Amy Knoll Fraser and Neal Fraser; it was recently awarded Los Angeles Conservancy’s Preservation Award. Vibiana’s rectory has been lovingly and creatively restored by the Frasers, and now is home to the acclaimed restaurant Redbird, under the helm of renowned chef Neal Fraser. In addition to Redbird’s main dining room and lounge on the first floor, five unique private dining rooms are available for events on the floors above. A favorite spot for tying the knot is the secret garden, tucked between the Main Hall and the Little Tokyo Library. The garden is lined with olive trees and features the chef’s herb and vegetable garden, which often contributes farm-to-table ingredients to both the dinner and cocktail menus.
Alila Ventana Big Sur
Perched on what it calls “the edge of the world,” Alila Ventana Big Sur is truly the lap of luxury but with a strong focus on sustainability. The property has 59 guest rooms, suites and villas, situated on more than 160 acres of expansive space and natural beauty. The hotel is surrounded by redwood trees, giving the sense of a splendid refuge in the forest primeval, and encouraging wonder and exploration. With property-wide recycling programs, low-flow faucets and irrigation coming from 100% recycled water, Alila Ventana Big Sur takes planet-friendly initiatives seriously. Landscaping has been carefully designed to be drought resistant, with native species highlighted throughout the property. This forest haven is able to accommodate weddings of any size in indoor and outdoor spaces.
Bardessono
Luxury is front and center at this Napa Valley getaway. Founded in 2009, Bardessono Hotel & Spa strives to give guests “a hotel and spa experience unlike any other, one that soothes and impresses, calms and renews.” The hotel can accommodate as many as 120 guests, and its staff members work to personalize weddings for each couple. Green initiatives offer guests chances to protect the environment in a hands-on way through Bardessono’s Guest Garden option, by which guests who opt out of housekeeping services are given the chance to plant an herb in the garden. Bardessono also practices creekside protection, keeping local fauna and flora healthy and happy.
The Pearl Hotel
Eco-friendly initiatives are at the forefront of The Pearl Hotel, an oasis in Point Loma located just moments away from both downtown San Diego and the beach. Managed by the Casetta Group, this minimalist 23-room hotel in San Diego can accommodate weddings with as many as 150 guests. The intimate atmosphere of this boutique hotel is enhanced by midcentury modern design and sleek décor. Eco-friendly products are the focus of this chic retreat, with certified 100% organic bath products, Parachute bedding and bath linens, and handcrafted sustainable candles. Casetta properties are also plastic neutral and offset the plastic footprint of employees by supporting the discovery of ocean-bound plastic. Rooms surround the property’s oyster-shaped pool and stunning native plantings.
L'Auberge Del Mar
If you’re seeking a seaside retreat, look no further than L’Auberge Del Mar. Overlooking breathtaking coastal views and situated in the heart of San Diego, this getaway blends luxury and sustainability. With a staff ready to accommodate all your wedding needs and a range of wedding and reception locations on-site, creating your event will be effortless. As a designated Surfrider Foundation venue, L’Auberge Del Mar brings green practices into nearly every aspect of its day-to-day business. From its locally sourced food to linen reuse programs, the hotel makes the environment a top priority. It even offers guests complimentary bikes to explore nearby San Diego attractions.
Carmel Valley Ranch
Inspired by the concept of summer camp, Carmel Valley Ranch has something to offer for all ages. The stunning resort, located in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains near Big Sur, is all about maximizing guests’ experiences, offering endless options for exploring and relaxing in luxury. On-site features include an organic garden, a lavender field, a 4-acre pinot noir vineyard and a salt house. Grab a bite to eat at the award-winning Valley Kitchen, or stop by Spa Aiyana, nestled in the treetops, for spa treatments inspired by each season. Sprawling over 500 acres, the ranch can accommodate weddings of all sizes and even offers personalized group activities.
Greengate Ranch & Vineyard
Nestled in California’s central coast, 140 acres of natural beauty make up Greengate Ranch & Vineyard. With a history that dates back to the 1800s and stunning rustic architecture, Greengate Ranch combines a rich past with a modern wedding experience. Original structures have been renovated to feature modern amenities in a chic yet historical setting. Exceptionally suited for weddings, Greengate Ranch offers couples unique opportunities to explore the entirety of its property and engage in activities that include wine tasting, surfing and yoga. The vast sprawling vineyards are SIP certified, meaning that in growing its wine grapes, the ranch meets rigorous and strict sustainability standards in protecting the planet and people.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Situated between land and sea, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is all about laid-back luxury. Located in the Aliso and Wood canyons and with access to Aliso Beach, the property has no shortage of breathtaking views. With an emphasis on sustainable practices, the ranch has modified irrigation systems and practices composting. The on-site garden provides the Harvest restaurant with fresh produce used to prepare seasonal specials. With salon services on-site as well as individualized options, the ranch can cater to your specific needs on your special day.
