The Best Select Services Wedding Venues in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

The Best Select Services Wedding Venues in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

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5 Wedding Venues in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

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GemHidden gem
The Holly Farm 

5.0

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $57,000

This is a special place. The moment you walk through the welcoming rustic gate and past a quintessential redwood barn, you enter a quiet, peaceful world of bird-song, the splash of water falling, tropical plantings of every conceivable varietal, winding paths, and cottages tucked away among exotic palms, banana, and ancient cypress trees. Abundant oak trees and giant prickly-pear cacti stand sentinel. Wooden benches and comfortably-cushioned, bent willow chairs in secluded, shady oases offer places to sit, to rest and to absorb the quiet. This spectacular private estate is a sanctuary, nestled along the Santa Lucia Mountain Range. Family-owned and operated, this expansive Carmel jungle hideaway was created exclusively for destination weddings or for those looking for a relaxing, retreat-style experience. Your closest family and friends gather to spend 2-5 nights together at your own private oasis, a hidden Shangri-la- your home base for days of celebration of love. All are welcome.

My husband and I got married at Holly Farm in June 2024. We found the venue in October which gave us about 9 months to plan our wedding. Holly Farm made it relatively simple to piece together all the vendors due to their incredible and long lasting relationships. And while wedding planning is still stressful, what I didn't expect and was so very grateful for was feeling like I could hand everything over to them upon arrival for the wedding weekend and really feel like everything was in good hands (I did not have a wedding planner). I knew the venue was going to be beautiful but I did not expect to feel so at ease the entire weekend. I had the BEST time at my own wedding because the Holly Farm staff went above and beyond to take care of everything we could possibly need on our behalf. There was nothing they couldn't assist with. It was the most perfect weekend, and I could not recommend this venue more!
Keerthi N., a year ago
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa 

5.0

Monterey, CA
  • Up to 260 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

Fall in love with timeless beauty of the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa. Our historic oceanfront retreat on Cannery Row is a picture-perfect backdrop for weddings and bridal events. Offering sweeping oceanfront views in every direction and warm, personalized service, our classic coastal hotel will captivate your guests with its turn-of-the-century romance and irresistible setting. Let your imagination take flight. From first visit to last dance, allow our professional wedding planners to custom curate your perfect celebration, tapping a trusted team of premier vendors, including photographers, florists, musicians and wedding officiants. We also stand ready to delight your guests with unique-to-Monterey experiences, including wine tasting tours in Carmel Valley, and bike trips along scenic Monterey Bay.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Offers full-service amenities
  • Full catering menu to choose from

Venue considerations

  • No on-site bridal suite
  • Does not allow pets
  • Best for events with big guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
Our wedding company, Weddings in Monterey, has been a part of weddings as an officiant and photographer for the past twelve years. The Monterey Plaza is one of those venues that makes you feel very comfortable from the moment you start working with them. As a vendor, we are greeted, introduced to the team/other vendors, and given clear direction. There is no shortage of staff and ceremony areas are set up well in advance (no last-minute setting up of chairs/staging/sound system). They have always been true professionals and that is very helpful on a day that can be somewhat stressful.
Brian Borgia, 5 years ago
Cella Restaurant & Bar 
Monterey, CA
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $4,275

Nestled in the heart of downtown Monterey, Cella Restaurant & Bar welcomes you to experience a culinary journey that embraces the abundance of the Central Coast. Our family-style meals are a celebration of community and connection, offering a bountiful spread that brings people together. From intimate company gatherings to joyous rehearsal dinners, our heated pergola and inviting dining room provide versatile space for any occasion. Whether you are seeking a charming atmosphere or considering a full buyout, we’re here to craft a unforgettable experience.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Provides catering services

Venue considerations

  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • No in-house lighting and sound packages available
  • No on-premises lodging options
Fieldwork Brewing Company - Monterey 
Monterey, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor

Fieldwork's Monterey Beer Garden is located in the Uptown Shopping Center. Monterey's generally mild and beautiful weather offers the perfect setting for enjoying a beer with friends in the outdoor beer garden. Visitors to our Monterey Beer Garden can expect an ever-changing tap list of fresh releases to enjoy by sampler flight or beer by the glass. Our Monterey Taproom is an excellent location for welcome drinks and events leading up to your big day! Private Event inquiries are fielded from the form on our website. Please visit our website's private events page to submit an event inquiry with our team.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Allows pets
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Venue is completely outdoors

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No on-site bridal suite
  • No venue-provided food services
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Tarpy's - Coastal Roots Events & Catering 
Monterey, CA
  • Up to 90 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $75

Bring your “happily ever after” to life with Tarpy’s Roadhouse handling all the details that make your wedding truly unforgettable. Tarpy’s can create the affair of a lifetime featuring creative cuisine, fine wines, expert service and stunning backdrops. With a long and storied history dating back to 1917, the Roadhouse property creates an idyllic setting for your ceremony and/or rehearsal dinner. Wisps of trailing ivy line the rugged stone walls with gorgeous greenery and flowers adorning every nook. There’s a rich array of private and semi-private rooms, landscaped gardens, courtyards and patios, — a heavenly backdrop for your special celebration. Get married here or have a beach wedding and meet friends and family at Tarpy’s for the reception of your dreams.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Classic, vintage atmosphere
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Classic seating dinner

Venue considerations

  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • Does not allow pets
  • No free parking

Location flexible? Discover venues near Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

About wedding venues in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Carmel by the Sea stands out as one of California's most sought-after wedding destinations thanks to its stunning coastal beauty, rich artistic heritage, and charming village atmosphere. You'll find an impressive range of venues throughout this special pocket of the Monterey Peninsula; everything from the rustic charm of Holman Ranch's barn settings to Tehama Golf Club's Mediterranean-inspired spaces with breathtaking panoramic views. If you're planning something more intimate, L'Auberge Carmel in downtown offers a boutique hotel setting perfect for celebrations with up to 60 guests.

What Makes Carmel Wedding Venues Uniquely Special?

The wedding venues in Carmel seamlessly combine dramatic natural backdrops with distinctive character you won't find elsewhere. The area's unique microclimate often creates morning fog that burns away just in time for midday ceremonies creating that perfect lighting photographers love. You'll be amazed by places like Folktale Winery where sunset views filter magically through rows of vineyards. La Playa Hotel showcases beautiful Spanish-style grounds while Quail Lodge gives you incredible versatility with rustic barn settings alongside sophisticated ballrooms and meadows all in one location so you can create different moods throughout your celebration.

How Much Should You Budget for a Carmel Wedding?

Weddings in Carmel reflect the premium nature of this gorgeous coastal destination. The costs here run substantially higher than the national average where venues alone typically range from $6,500 to $12,000. For your planning purposes here's what you might expect:

Guest CountEstimated Total Budget
50 guests (small ceremony)$26,449
100 guests$44,123
150 guests$60,734
200 guests$75,572
250 guests$90,410
300 guests (large wedding)$105,248
For a typical 150-guest Carmel wedding your major costs will likely include venue at $10,771 (18% of budget), catering around $8,617 (14%) and florals at approximately $7,899 (13%). Bar services usually run about $6,894 (11%) while photographers and wedding planners each take about 8% at $4,811 and $4,883 respectively. Videography typically costs around $4,352 (7%) with bands or DJs at $1,717 (3%). Hair and makeup services average $606 (1%) and cake/desserts about $826 (1%).

Which Venues in Carmel Offer Exceptional Culinary Experiences?

Folktale Winery creates unforgettable dining experiences by partnering with talented local chefs who can customize your event menu to highlight the region's incredible flavors. You'll love how Carmel Valley Ranch focuses on locally-sourced ingredients throughout their comprehensive packages that showcase the best of California cuisine. For a truly luxurious experience Bernardus Lodge & Spa offers exquisite farm-to-table dining in an elegant setting. If you're drawn to seafood La Playa Carmel specializes in local ocean-to-table cuisine served in a romantic downtown atmosphere that your guests will talk about for years.

When Should You Book Your Carmel by the Sea Wedding?

October sees the highest demand with most couples booking their venues about 16 months (471 days) ahead of time so you'll want to plan accordingly. Summer brings reliable sunshine for your outdoor ceremony but also peak tourist crowds and higher prices. Fall offers that magical golden California light along with lower hotel rates for your guests. Winter can be surprisingly lovely for more intimate weddings with many venues offering heated outdoor spaces or cozy indoor alternatives that still capture Carmel's special charm without the crowds.

What Accessible Wedding Venues Can You Find in Carmel?

The Griffith House features well-designed wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout its beautiful Spanish-style grounds including a private ceremony lawn and separate preparation areas for your wedding party. Holly Farm located nearby offers wheelchair accessibility across its various event spaces perfect for both outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Carmel Fields by Wedgewood Weddings provides serene settings for your special day though you'll want to confirm specific accessibility features directly with them to ensure they meet your needs.

How Can Remote Guests Participate in Your Carmel Wedding?

While Carmel venues primarily focus on creating magical in-person experiences locations like La Playa Hotel and The Quail Lodge can work with specialized AV vendors to create interactive remote experiences that go beyond simple streaming. You might consider platforms like Lovecast or Wedfuly that offer integrated chat and guest engagement features to help everyone feel included. Make sure your photography team knows to capture special moments specifically for virtual guests and consider creating custom welcome packages you can send to remote attendees so they feel part of your celebration regardless of distance.

Carmel by the Sea stands out as one of California's most sought-after wedding destinations thanks to its stunning coastal beauty, rich artistic heritage, and charming village atmosphere. You'll find an impressive range of venues throughout this special pocket of the Monterey Peninsula; everything from the rustic charm of Holman Ranch's barn settings to Tehama Golf Club's Mediterranean-inspired spaces with breathtaking panoramic views. If you're planning something more intimate, L'Auberge Carmel in downtown offers a boutique hotel setting perfect for celebrations with up to 60 guests.

What Makes Carmel Wedding Venues Uniquely Special?

The wedding venues in Carmel seamlessly combine dramatic natural backdrops with distinctive character you won't find elsewhere. The area's unique microclimate often creates morning fog that burns away just in time for midday ceremonies creating that perfect lighting photographers love. You'll be amazed by places like Folktale Winery where sunset views filter magically through rows of vineyards. La Playa Hotel showcases beautiful Spanish-style grounds while Quail Lodge gives you incredible versatility with rustic barn settings alongside sophisticated ballrooms and meadows all in one location so you can create different moods throughout your celebration.

How Much Should You Budget for a Carmel Wedding?

Weddings in Carmel reflect the premium nature of this gorgeous coastal destination. The costs here run substantially higher than the national average where venues alone typically range from $6,500 to $12,000. For your planning purposes here's what you might expect:

Guest CountEstimated Total Budget
50 guests (small ceremony)$26,449
100 guests$44,123
150 guests$60,734
200 guests$75,572
250 guests$90,410
300 guests (large wedding)$105,248
For a typical 150-guest Carmel wedding your major costs will likely include venue at $10,771 (18% of budget), catering around $8,617 (14%) and florals at approximately $7,899 (13%). Bar services usually run about $6,894 (11%) while photographers and wedding planners each take about 8% at $4,811 and $4,883 respectively. Videography typically costs around $4,352 (7%) with bands or DJs at $1,717 (3%). Hair and makeup services average $606 (1%) and cake/desserts about $826 (1%).

Which Venues in Carmel Offer Exceptional Culinary Experiences?

Folktale Winery creates unforgettable dining experiences by partnering with talented local chefs who can customize your event menu to highlight the region's incredible flavors. You'll love how Carmel Valley Ranch focuses on locally-sourced ingredients throughout their comprehensive packages that showcase the best of California cuisine. For a truly luxurious experience Bernardus Lodge & Spa offers exquisite farm-to-table dining in an elegant setting. If you're drawn to seafood La Playa Carmel specializes in local ocean-to-table cuisine served in a romantic downtown atmosphere that your guests will talk about for years.

When Should You Book Your Carmel by the Sea Wedding?

October sees the highest demand with most couples booking their venues about 16 months (471 days) ahead of time so you'll want to plan accordingly. Summer brings reliable sunshine for your outdoor ceremony but also peak tourist crowds and higher prices. Fall offers that magical golden California light along with lower hotel rates for your guests. Winter can be surprisingly lovely for more intimate weddings with many venues offering heated outdoor spaces or cozy indoor alternatives that still capture Carmel's special charm without the crowds.

What Accessible Wedding Venues Can You Find in Carmel?

The Griffith House features well-designed wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout its beautiful Spanish-style grounds including a private ceremony lawn and separate preparation areas for your wedding party. Holly Farm located nearby offers wheelchair accessibility across its various event spaces perfect for both outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Carmel Fields by Wedgewood Weddings provides serene settings for your special day though you'll want to confirm specific accessibility features directly with them to ensure they meet your needs.

How Can Remote Guests Participate in Your Carmel Wedding?

While Carmel venues primarily focus on creating magical in-person experiences locations like La Playa Hotel and The Quail Lodge can work with specialized AV vendors to create interactive remote experiences that go beyond simple streaming. You might consider platforms like Lovecast or Wedfuly that offer integrated chat and guest engagement features to help everyone feel included. Make sure your photography team knows to capture special moments specifically for virtual guests and consider creating custom welcome packages you can send to remote attendees so they feel part of your celebration regardless of distance.

What types of wedding venues are in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA?

What other Carmel-by-the-Sea vendors will I need?

What other wedding venues are nearby?

What other wedding services are nearby?