Getting Married in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is one of those places that just makes sense for a wedding. Between the redwoods, the coastline, and the variety of unique venues, it offers an incredible range of settings without feeling overdone.

I’ve photographed weddings all over Santa Cruz, from forest ceremonies to coastal celebrations, and these are some of my favorite venues to work at. Each one has its own feel, and I’ve included real weddings here so you can get a sense of what your day could actually look like in each space.

Here are a few of my favorite Santa Cruz wedding venues:

Amphitheater of the Redwoods

Outdoor wedding ceremony on a wooden deck surrounded by towering redwood trees in a forest setting.

Amphitheater of the Redwoods is one of my favorite Santa Cruz wedding venues for a true forest ceremony. The redwood amphitheater feels magical, with a beautiful wooden deck surrounded by towering trees. There are quiet forested areas nearby for first looks and portraits, plus indoor and outdoor reception options, which is always helpful with Santa Cruz weather.


I especially love the outdoor space in the evening, when the string lights come on and everything feels cozy, romantic, and tucked into the woods.

Real weddings at this venue:

Bride and groom share a romantic moment on a forest path, surrounded by lush green trees and dappled sunlight.
Bride and groom embrace during golden hour sunset at outdoor wedding venue with natural bokeh lighting.
Couple embraces under string lights in lush garden at twilight wedding, bride in floral crown and groom in black suit.

Melania & Michael

Lucy & Michael

Devon & Nick

Roaring Camp Railroads

Bride and groom posing in front of Roaring Camp & Big Trees railroad car surrounded by lush green trees.

Roaring Camp Railroads is one of the most unique wedding venues in Santa Cruz. The redwood train ride up to the ceremony site is an experience in itself, winding through the forest and setting the tone for a day that feels both relaxed and memorable. The ceremony space is tucked into the trees, and the ride back down adds a fun, celebratory moment for everyone.


The barn reception space is large and beautifully lit, with warm chandeliers that create a cozy, inviting atmosphere in the evening. It’s a great option for bigger weddings, with plenty of space, easy access, and a setting that feels distinctly Santa Cruz.

Real weddings at this venue:

Bride and groom pose on railroad tracks before a vintage steam train in a lush forest wedding photo.
Bride and groom enter rustic barn wedding reception with string lights and chandeliers as guests watch from decorated tables.
Bride and groom kissing on a yellow train car surrounded by tall redwood trees in a lush forest wedding photo.

Liz & Amir

Jackie & Ari

Nicole & Johnny

Seymour Marine Center

Bride and groom kissing under a vibrant circular floral arch with colorful blooms, ocean view backdrop on a sunny day.

Seymour Marine Center is perfect for couples who love the ocean. Perched right along the cliffs, it offers some of the most unique coastal views in Santa Cruz, with ceremonies overlooking the water. The reception space features large glass windows, so even indoors your guests can enjoy the ocean views and sunset. There’s also a fun, interactive element with the marine exhibits, touch pools, and aquariums, which makes the whole experience feel a little more memorable and personal.


It’s also incredibly easy for portraits. A quiet beach nearby is perfect for first looks and couple photos, and you can step right outside for sunset along the cliffs without having to travel anywhere. Everything is close, convenient, and beautifully coastal.

Real weddings at this venue:

Couple in wedding attire holding hands on a scenic beach path with green cliffs and ocean views on a sunny day.
Bride and groom share first dance kiss at indoor wedding reception with colorful banners and guests in background.
Couple in wedding attire poses before a whale skeleton sculpture with ocean views at sunset.

Sara & Kami

Emily & Alex

Allison & Tim

Waterfall Lodge & Retreat

Bride in white gown descends stone steps surrounded by ferns as groom in blue suit waits below in lush forest setting.

Waterfall Lodge & Retreat feels like a hidden retreat in the redwoods, and in the right season, you even get a real waterfall for portraits, which adds something really magical to the day. The ceremony space is surrounded by trees and easy for guests to access, while the handcrafted lodge and outdoor reception area under the redwoods create a warm, intimate atmosphere.


One of the best parts is the A-frame cabins on site, which turn it into a full weekend experience where everyone can stay together. It’s a beautiful option for couples who want something relaxed, immersive, and a little bit tucked away in nature.

Real weddings at this venue:

Rustic wooden barn with ornate doors, lantern sconces, and decorative windows nestled among tall evergreen trees.
Bride and groom share a romantic moment on a wooden deck with a waterfall backdrop in a lush forest setting.
Outdoor wedding ceremony in redwood forest with bride and groom kneeling, surrounded by wedding party and floral arch.

Shayla & Steve

Danika & Robert

Dayana & Rodolfo

More Venues in Santa Cruz

String lights illuminate an outdoor dining table set up under a natural green archway during golden hour.

Sand Rock Farm

Outdoor wedding ceremony takes place in front of rustic wooden fence under golden autumn foliage.

Mt Madonna County Park

An intimate outdoor garden wedding ceremony takes place surrounded by lush greenery and bright orange flowers.

Fern River Inn

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Hollins House

Kennolyn Hilltop Hacienda

Seascape Beach Resort

A dressed up couple crosses a small stream in a lush forest setting during what appears to be a wedding photoshoot.

Cowel Ranch Hay Barn

Elegant black and white wedding photo of couple holding hands and dancing joyfully in a grassy meadow.

Home Restaurant

Seascape Golf Course

A dressed up couple crosses a small stream in a lush forest setting during what appears to be a wedding photoshoot.

The Forest of Nisine Marks

Elegant black and white wedding photo of couple holding hands and dancing joyfully in a grassy meadow.

Quail Hollow Ranch

If you're planning a wedding in Santa Cruz and still figuring out the right venue, I’m always happy to help guide you based on what actually photographs well and fits your day.