Hello, San Diego: Elegant Resorts, Chic Industrial Spaces in Venue Round Up of Sunny San Diego

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From seaside escapes and mountain highs to elegant resorts and chic industrial spaces, San Diego has it all
Written by
Lara Burnap and Megan Simpson Teeter

Published:

California Wedding Day Fall/Winter 2025
INLAND NORTH COUNTY

Located in the more rural and agricultural part of San Diego County, this region is known for its wineries and scenic landscapes. It encompasses the Fallbrook and Valley Center areas, which are both home to elegant wedding locations.

Fallbrook’s MONSERATE WINERY (@monserateweddings) is a picturesque option for couples who are wine connoisseurs. Tucked in the scenic Gird Valley in Fallbrook, this former public golf course was transformed 10 years ago into a stunning winery with breathtaking vineyards, tranquil lakes and magnificent views. Three venues are nestled on the grounds, tucked among the lush landscaping and towering oak and sycamore trees. Set against the backdrop of a serene lake and waterfall, The Tuscan Estate exudes old-world charm with its stunning architecture and vaulted barrel room. Villa Fiore’s Tuscan-inspired stone courtyard exudes Renaissance charm underneath twinkling market lighting and offers sweeping views of both the lake and vineyard. Or tie the knot among a forest of trees at The Hideaway, which also features a sweeping lawn space and majestic vineyard views.

Photography | Maria Davis Photography

JEUNE PERCHÉ (@jeuneperche) is a stunning, family-owned boutique venue nestled in the picturesque Morro Hills. Spanning 10 acres of rolling hills, it offers breathtaking views, stunning sunsets and a refreshing ocean breeze. The estate features elegant French furniture, chandeliers and drapery, creating a luxurious atmosphere for weddings. Most notable is the ceremony space, a beautiful arched backdrop that mimics the exterior of a Spanish mission–style church, which frames the picturesque views and creates a stunning photo opp. 

Photo | Karina Santos Photography

CORONADO ISLAND

This serene destination off the coast of San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, charming small-town atmosphere, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego skyline. It is easily accessible from San Diego via a short drive across the Coronado Bridge or by ferry.

Opened in 1888, HOTEL DEL CORONADO (@hoteldelcoronado) showcases Victorian architecture with its iconic red roof and turret. This historic gem is one of the largest wooden structures in the United States and is widely known for its tie to The Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum, who frequented the hotel while writing, and it’s believed that the hotel was an influence in the creation of the magical world of Oz. The hotel’s whimsical and enchanting atmosphere, together with its location just off the beautiful Pacific coastline, make this historic gem a breathtaking choice for tying the knot. Couples can choose from one of The Del’s many breathtaking spaces, all of which offer ocean views. For toes-in-the-sand ceremonies, couples should consider Del Beach, the hotel’s private setting on Coronado Beach. Romantics will love the ocean views from the elegant garden on Windsor Lawn. Those planning a grand affair will love the drama of the timeless Ocean Ballroom, which features crystal chandeliers and a built-in stage. History buffs and Wizard of Oz fans will appreciate the majesty of the Crown Room, named for the crown chandeliers designed by Baum. The space features 30-foot-high wood ceilings and panoramic windows displaying the full grandeur of the ocean. The resort’s luxurious accommodations make it a lovely experience for a wedding-weekend experience.

Couples seeking an intimate nuptial suite or a block of rooms should turn to the EL CORDOVA HOTEL (@elcordovahotel), a charming Mediterranean-style boutique hotel located in the heart of Coronado Island. Known for its historic appeal and tranquil atmosphere, the village-style hotel offers a personalized experience. The Babcock Room, ideal for weddings and events, provides an elegant indoor/outdoor space and connects to the Spanish Courtyard, offering a charming setting.

 

LA JOLLA

This stunning coastal paradise offers breathtaking ocean views, sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. Its charming village vibe, combined with luxurious venues and incredible natural beauty, makes it an unforgettable destination for couples seeking an elegant seaside celebration.

Nestled in the heart of La Jolla, LA VALENCIA HOTEL (@lavalenciahotel) is an enduring symbol of Southern Californian elegance. Known for its iconic pink exterior and sweeping views of the Pacific, this property offers an array of unique spaces, from a stunning garden terrace to a breathtaking oceanfront ceremony spot. Whether you’re seeking a grand ballroom affair or an intimate seaside gathering, La Valencia will serve as an unforgettable canvas for your wedding day.

Tucked within 10 acres of scenic gardens, ESTANCIA LA JOLLA (@estancialajolla) offers a peaceful, secluded atmosphere for weddings. The hotel’s Spanish-inspired architecture creates an elegant setting, while its lush outdoor spaces offer the perfect space for exchanging vows. From a lively reception in the grand ballroom to a serene ceremony in the garden, this estate offers the flexibility to make your day unforgettable.

 

DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO

Downtown is a vibrant urban setting with stunning waterfront views, historic landmarks and a lively atmosphere that is perfect for couples seeking a modern wedding. Featuring diverse venues, from chic rooftop spaces to elegant ballrooms, San Diego’s downtown district is a charming blend of sophistication and industrial chic.

Situated in the heart of San Diego’s historic Liberty Station district, LIBERTY STATION’s venues (@libertystation) offer a versatile blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. From the industrial elegance of Building 177, with its soaring ceilings, to the vibrant energy of the Arts District, Liberty Station’s event spaces provide unique settings for a wedding celebration. The backdrop of lush gardens and historic architecture create a dynamic area where creativity and tradition are the stars.

SAN DIEGO MISSION BAY RESORT (@sdmissionbayresort), just minutes from downtown San Diego, brings the city’s laid-back energy to beautiful waterfront weddings. The beachy resort offers a collection of indoor and outdoor events spaces including the Garden by the Bay, which has an archway of majestic tropical palms overlooking the picturesque waterfront, the Bayside Terrace that features a canopy of large tropical trees and a garden waterfall setting the mood for a night full of dancing under the stars, and the Terrazza Ballroom with elegant French doors and windows that overlook Mission Bay. Couples also have the option to take advantage of the resort’s beachfront location, which grants the option of walking down the aisle towards the sparkling Pacific. San Diego Mission Bay Resort is the perfect home-base for all wedding guests, offering beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites; multiple dining options including Covewood, the signature waterfront dining experience spotlighting California coastal cuisine; a 4,000-square-foot pool area with spacious cabanas overlooking the bay; a luxurious full-service spa, pickleball and tennis courts and a variety of other experiences, including the Mission Bay shoreline.

Situated in the historic 1928 Carnation Dairy Building, LUCE LOFT (@luceloft) offers an urban-chic setting for intimate gatherings. Its high-arched barrel ceilings, concrete walls and expansive windows provide an out-of-the-ordinary setting for your event. The 4,000-square-foot space accommodates as many as 75 guests and features a furnished bridal suite, market lighting and a state-of-the-art sound system.

For couples seeking a stunning waterfront backdrop, THE LANE (@thelanesd) offers sweeping views of San Diego Harbor. This contemporary venue marries modern design with natural beauty and features a spacious indoor area that opens seamlessly to a grand terrace. The atmosphere here is sleek and elegant, with clean lines and minimalist charm, making it a perfect canvas for couples who love sophisticated simplicity.

NORTH COUNTY COASTAL

Located just north of the city of San Diego, stretching along the coastline from La Jolla to Oceanside, this area is home to the popular coastal towns of Encinitas, Carlsbad and Del Mar.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Los Peñasquitos Canyon, FAIRMONT GRAND DEL MAR (@fairmontgranddelmar) offers a refined atmosphere for weddings. The expansive Aria Lawn provides a stunning outdoor setting for the ceremony, while the sophisticated indoor Salona or Capella rooms embody vintage charm. Every detail in the Fairmont’s impeccable service and luxurious accommodations is thoughtfully curated for couples seeking elegance, romance and tranquility.

L’AUBERGE DEL MAR (@laubergedelmar) captures the essence of coastal California, rich with ocean views and fresh sea breezes. Whether exchanging vows in Seagrove Park or on Pacific Terrace with their panoramic vistas, these venues create a picture-perfect atmosphere. The resort’s proximity to the beach and relaxed yet elegant ambiance make it ideal for couples seeking chic and intimate festivities.

RANCHO SANTA FE

Rancho Santa Fe is an affluent neighborhood with a quaint country-club vibe. Lush greenery, horse ranches and large estates dot the area, creating a rural, park-like atmosphere. The area is known for its equestrian culture, with many residents owning horses, and the surrounding hills and valleys rich with designated trails for horseback riding. 

Set on 11 acres of lush gardens, THE INN AT RANCHO SANTA FE (@theinnatrsf ) exemplifies historic charm, yet comes with all the modern luxuries. Exchange vows beneath the grand magnolia tree on the Rose Lawn or amidst the iconic Croquet Lawn, which offers expansive views of the charming town center and rolling Rancho Santa Fe hills. Celebrate in either of the elegant Azalea Ballrooms or dine alfresco under the stars. With The Inn’s 85 cottages, bungalows and residences, guests can fully immerse themselves in this enchanting retreat.

Photos | Courtesy of The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

RANCHO VALENCIA RESORT & SPA (@ranchovalencia) is renowned for its Spanish Colonial hacienda–inspired architecture, set on 45 acres of lush gardens and citrus groves. The intimate, luxurious atmosphere, coupled with its world-class amenities—including a Forbes 5-star-rated spa (perfect for wedding-day prep), fine dining and impeccable service—make it a truly magical setting for weddings. The verdant property offers a variety of enchanting wedding venues, such as intimate courtyards adorned with trickling fountains and lush gardens or opt for the opulent Wine Cave or the lantern-lit Sunrise Room for a cozier reception or rehearsal dinner. The dramatic lawn is a transformative space that is large enough for tented gatherings under twinkling lights or pristine ceremonies with dramatic views. The resort’s original adobe hacienda, nestled among orange and olive groves, offers a unique and historic setting.

Located in Vista, THE HAVENS COUNTRY CLUB (@thehavenscc) offers a unique blend of rustic elegance and historical significance. The clubhouse features high-beam vaulted ceilings and intricate hand-carved paneling, complementing the venue’s collection of antiquities that dates back to the 1700s. Outdoor terraces give panoramic views of the lush valley, making them picturesque settings for ceremonies and receptions. With a capacity to host as many as 550 guests outdoors, it’s an ideal venue for grand fetes.

Photo | Shane and Lauren Photography