15 Stunning Santa Cruz Wedding Venues for Every Budget in 2025

Last Updated on June 2, 2025 by Joy Editors

Santa Cruz wedding venues blend natural beauty with romantic charm in a way you won’t find elsewhere. The area’s stunning redwood forests, picturesque coastline, and mild year-round climate make this California gem a favorite among couples planning their special day.

Santa Cruz CA wedding venues come with incredible variety in both settings and costs. You’ll find options that fit almost any budget, with prices starting at $295 and going up to $17,000. The area gets more sunshine than its coastal neighbors like Half Moon Bay and Monterey, which means beautiful ceremonies happen here all year round.

The venues here tell amazing stories. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has hosted celebrations since 1907, and Roaring Camp’s train rides through majestic redwoods create memories that last forever. These spots work well for both small gatherings of 50 guests and grand celebrations with up to 500 people.

This piece showcases 15 breathtaking venues that represent the best options for your 2025 wedding plans in Santa Cruz.

Sparrow Valley Retreat

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Sparrow Valley Retreat sits beautifully among the enchanting redwoods of Aptos. This hidden gem stands out among Santa Cruz wedding venues with its unique blend of rustic charm and boutique style. Your celebration will feel magical in this secluded 12-acre paradise, just seven miles from the Pacific Ocean.

Sparrow Valley Retreat vibe and setting

Towering redwoods welcome you the moment you step into Sparrow Valley, creating a natural cathedral-like atmosphere. This woman-owned venue perfectly balances rural charm with elegant details throughout the property. Valencia Creek’s peaceful sounds create a perfect backdrop while you and your guests enjoy this hidden sanctuary. The location is perfect – less than an hour from San Jose and a quick drive from downtown Santa Cruz.

The venue’s magic comes from its perfect mix of natural beauty and cozy spaces. You’ll discover hidden treasures across the property – outdoor hot tubs, sprawling deck areas with valley views, and a handcrafted redwood cathedral. Couples exchange their vows here, surrounded by an ancient fairy ring of trees.

Sparrow Valley Retreat ceremony and reception options

The venue gives you two great choices to celebrate:

• Ceremony & Reception Package: Perfect for 1-120 guests with vendor access at 1pm and client access at 2pm. You’ll get an onsite property manager, welcome bag, and helpful amenities like setup/breakdown services.
• Ceremony Only Package: A great option Monday-Thursday for intimate gatherings of 1-10 guests (including vendors) with a 4-hour rental window.

The reception space showcases beautiful handcrafted redwood features, including an impressive 52-foot-long family-style table that brings everyone together. The venue also has a dance floor, speaker system, lawn games, and private creek access to make your guests’ experience special.

Sparrow Valley Retreat pricing and packages

While public materials don’t list specific prices, the packages are complete with lots of features. You’ll get prep spaces (Main Cabin and Chic Mobile Suite), an outdoor bar, redwood cocktail tables, dinner tables, bench seating, string lights, audio equipment, and lawn games.

The venue runs on battery power, which makes it eco-friendly but needs careful power planning. You’ll need to rent extra restrooms if your guest count goes above 40 people (including vendors).

A two-night minimum stay lets you really enjoy your experience without rushing – something you won’t find at venues that pack multiple weddings into one weekend.

Roaring Camp Railroads

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Roaring Camp Railroads sits in the coastal Santa Cruz Mountains, where couples step back in time at a vintage train-depot camp surrounded by ancient redwoods. This historic railroad creates one of the most distinctive wedding experiences among Santa Cruz wedding venues. The combination of rustic charm and memorable transportation makes it special.

Roaring Camp Railroads unique features

A 100-year-old steam train stands out as the venue’s star attraction. It takes guests through an old-growth redwood forest. Your wedding party crosses a covered bridge into a world where steam engines rule and celebrations happen under star-filled skies. The 6,000-square-foot Bret Harte Hall serves as the main reception space. It showcases rustic elegance with wrought-iron chandeliers, wooden beams, and bistro lighting. The massive barn doors open to a lawn where guests can play games and gather around a fire barrel.

Roaring Camp Railroads ceremony experience

The venue offers three amazing ceremony options:

• Cathedral Grove: Your guests take an exclusive steam train ride through the forest to a secluded “fairy circle” of redwoods. Three generations of trees grow in a perfect circle to create an enchanting backdrop for your vows.
• Schoolhouse Lawn: Say your promises on a spacious lawn next to a vintage schoolhouse under oak tree shade.
• Bret Harte Hall: The rustic redwood barn welcomes you with ceremony stage spotlights and twinkle lights that create warm ambiance.

Each package comes with a one-hour day-before rehearsal and day-of ceremony coordination.

Roaring Camp Railroads pricing and guest capacity

Bret Harte Hall fits up to 300 guests while outdoor locations can host up to 500. Here’s the pricing by ceremony location:

• Steam Train Wedding Ceremony & Barn Reception: $14,000
• Schoolhouse Lawn Wedding Ceremony & Barn Reception: $12,000
• Barn Wedding Ceremony & Barn Reception: $10,000

Saturday events need at least 100 guests, while Sundays require 80 guests minimum. The venue allows professional licensed outside caterers with approval. They also provide various in-house catering options from taco bars to upscale carving stations.

Roaring Camp stands out among wedding venues in Santa Cruz CA. It gives couples an unforgettable experience that blends historic charm with natural beauty.

UCSC Cowell Ranch Hay Barn

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The UCSC Cowell Ranch Hay Barn stands beautifully restored since its original construction in the 1860s. This historic building from the Cowell Lime Works operation blends rustic charm with modern functionality. The venue sits at the base of the University of California Santa Cruz campus and gives couples a unique setting that celebrates local history with modern comforts.

UCSC Hay Barn location and ambiance

The Hay Barn boasts a prime spot at the UCSC campus entrance with stunning views of redwoods, meadows, and ocean vistas. Next to the barn lies the UCSC Farm, managed by the Center for Agroecology. This creates a beautiful agricultural setting that matches the barn’s historic feel.

The barn’s interior creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere where vintage elements meet modern features. Large sliding doors reveal breathtaking views of Monterey Bay as ocean breezes flow through the space. The barn’s radiant floor heating keeps guests comfortable whatever the season.

UCSC Hay Barn ceremony and reception spaces

The venue has:

• 2,500 square feet of flexible indoor space
• 1,500 square feet of outdoor event area
• Large open floor plan perfect for ceremony and reception
• Optional Ocean View Ceremony Site as an add-on

The barn’s open layout fits up to 150 guests and works well for different event setups. You’ll find 80 black chairs, 15 five-foot tables, a small kitchenette, Apple TV, projector with screen, and bathroom facilities.

UCSC Hay Barn pricing and availability

The rental fee for 2025 weddings (July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025) costs $6,350 for 12 hours. Extra hours cost $500 each. The Ocean View Ceremony Site costs $375 per hour with a two-hour minimum. A security deposit of $1,000 is required.

Weekend weddings come with a two-hour rehearsal on the Friday before your event. The Hay Barn doesn’t provide catering, event staff, or coordination services. Yet its amazing amenities and spectacular setting make it one of the most popular wedding venues in Santa Cruz CA.

Waterfall Lodge

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Waterfall Lodge spans 80 stunning acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This enchanted forest escape blends luxury with rustic charm. The secluded retreat stands apart with its ancient redwoods and gentle waterfall sounds that create perfect wedding moments.

Waterfall Lodge forest setting

Nature shows off its extraordinary features here. A “fairy ring” of 1,000-year-old redwoods graces the property. The Redwood Cathedral draws many couples to exchange vows in a manicured clearing surrounded by towering trees. The High Meadow Camp features an ancient “Mother Tree” that symbolizes strength as couples begin their journey together. The lodge welcomes grand entrances through massive 1820’s French carved wooden doors that transform into a dramatic aisle.

Waterfall Lodge lodging and amenities

The lodge houses 32 exceptional cabins that sleep up to 96 guests. These include:

• Nine A-frame loft cabins next to a waterfall that each fit four guests
• A luxurious Bridal Cabin Suite with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette that sleeps 6
• A cozy Honeymoon Cabin with a king-sized bed, in-room fireplace, and private balcony
• Two spacious ADA-accessible bedrooms inside the main lodge

Your wedding party can fully immerse in the experience without rushing away. Each cabin comes equipped with full bathrooms, wraparound decks, towels and toiletries.

Waterfall Lodge pricing and guest capacity

The venue welcomes up to 150 guests for daytime events with these package options:

• 100-125 guests: $10,500 plus tax
• 75-100 guests: $9,500 plus tax
• 50-75 guests: $8,500 plus tax
• 25-50 guests: $6,500 plus tax
• Under 30 guests: $5,500 plus tax

Prices for 2025 range from $11,668 to $14,028. Couples should book about a year ahead due to limited availability. The venue requires non-refundable deposits when signing contracts. The lodge runs on battery power, showcasing its eco-friendly spirit while needing careful planning for electrical needs.

Fern River Resort

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Fern River Resort sits along Highway 9 in Felton. The venue blends the peaceful beauty of redwood forests with a flowing river to create a magical setting for weddings. Nature surrounds this spot just 6 miles from Santa Cruz, giving couples the perfect mix of easy access and private woodland celebration space.

Fern River Resort redwood charm

Majestic redwoods tower throughout the property, creating a natural cathedral feel while letting sunlight stream through. A sun-filled manicured meadow stands at the heart of the venue. Lilacs, lilies, pear trees, and wild strawberries dot the landscape. Ivy, bay trees, and tall redwoods frame this beautiful space. Each season brings new colors and textures to this diverse botanical setting.

The redwood gazebo, custom-built from hand-milled wood, serves as a stunning centerpiece for ceremonies. The venue’s natural beauty stretches to the water’s edge. A new river overlook area provides another stunning backdrop for your celebration.

Fern River Resort lodging and layout

The resort’s four distinct spaces help create your perfect wedding:

• Arbor Garden
• Redwood Gazebo Meadow
• River Overlook
• Cocktail lawn

Couples can use these areas together to create a seamless flow throughout their event. The resort’s cabins accommodate up to 62 overnight guests. Booking all cabins gives couples exclusive access to the grounds. This also lets the reception continue until 10:00 PM.

The venue also has:

• Private river beach
• Community campfire ring
• Ping pong table and badminton court

Fern River Resort pricing and packages

Fern River Resort’s prices match different wedding needs. Ceremony-only packages range from $500-$2,500. Eight-hour events cost between $4,000-$6,500. Full access packages need a 3-night cabin rental and run from $6,000-$8,000.

Every rental comes with exclusive use of the Gazebo Garden and River Overlook area. You’ll also get ceremony and reception chairs, dining tables, LED uplighting, cafe lighting, and a professional sound system. The venue needs licensed and insured vendors. Outside caterers add $5 per plate.

Fern River Resort stands out among Santa Cruz wedding venues because of its flexibility. The space works perfectly for intimate ceremonies and larger celebrations. The venue can host up to 200 guests for ceremony-only events or 150 for full receptions.

Rancho Soquel

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Rancho Soquel combines Spanish hacienda charm with garden splendor to create a distinctive wedding experience near San Ardo, California. This beautiful property stands out from other Santa Cruz wedding venues with its mix of rustic countryside charm and classic architecture that makes celebrations truly memorable.

Rancho Soquel garden and ranch vibe

The stunning gardens are the soul of Rancho Soquel’s charm. Lush hydrangeas, vibrant succulents, and oak trees create a feeling of an English garden with ranch-style touches. Soquel Creek wraps around the grounds with a wooden footbridge that adds to the venue’s romantic atmosphere.

The old water tower and rustic barn next to the well-kept gardens create a perfect wedding backdrop. Photographers who’ve captured events here say the venue’s Spanish architecture and relaxed style makes guests feel like they’re in “some far off place” even though it’s just a mile from town.

Rancho Soquel ceremony and reception areas

Couples usually celebrate their ceremony on the open green lawn, which features:

• A beautiful archway with lush garland and hanging white chandeliers
• A gazebo in the courtyard that’s perfect for intimate moments
• Separate spaces where bride and groom can get ready

The reception space includes:

• Outdoor-only reception areas (no indoor options)
• A stone dance floor where guests can dance under the stars
• An outdoor gas fireplace that sets the mood for evening celebrations
• Bocce ball courts to keep guests entertained

The venue comes with enough chairs, tables, and linens for all guests.

Rancho Soquel pricing and guest capacity

Weddings in 2025 start at $13,110. You can invite up to 125 guests, though the barn fits 120 people comfortably.

Here’s what else you need to know:

• Each event runs for 6 hours
• Everything wraps up by 10:00 PM
• You can start setting up at 10:00 AM
• You can bring your own caterer (with venue approval)
• Guests can bring drinks if professional staff serves them

Rancho Soquel shines among Santa Cruz CA wedding venues because it balances garden romance with rustic charm. The natural beauty means you won’t need many decorations.

Amphitheater of the Redwoods

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The Amphitheater of the Redwoods creates a mystical mountain paradise for couples who want tranquility among Santa Cruz wedding venues. This stunning property is part of the Pema Osel Ling Retreat Center, which means “Lotus Land of Clear Light.” The 102-acre sanctuary provides an extraordinary backdrop for destination weddings that value natural beauty and peaceful connection.

Amphitheater of the Redwoods natural setting

A breathtaking fairy ring of ancient redwoods serves as the signature ceremony site. These towering trees form a perfect circle that grew from one “grandmother” tree. Couples exchange vows in this natural cathedral where the trees’ intertwined roots symbolize unity and strength. The Bay View Meadow and Terrace offers another ceremony option with panoramic views of Monterey Bay’s distant blue waters.

The expansive Gallery Meadow welcomes reception celebrations where guests can dance under the stars until 10pm. Later, everyone gathers around a fire circle until midnight to create lasting memories.

Amphitheater of the Redwoods lodging and amenities

This venue stands out with its detailed accommodation options. Your package includes the Honeymoon Redwood Cottage. The property also features:

• Two houses, seven cabins and a yurt that fit up to 72 guests
• Over 20 camping spaces
• The Orchard House lodge with a fireplace and a unique deck where a redwood grows through it

The venue dedicates itself to one wedding at a time, giving couples 43 hours of exclusive access to the entire property. Couples can bring their own alcohol without corkage fees, which adds to the customized experience.

Amphitheater of the Redwoods pricing and packages

Wedding packages for 2025 cost between $12,935 and $39,860, based on guest count and specific needs. The Weekend Wedding Package features:

• 45 hours of property use
• Wedding coordinator support (14 hours pre-wedding, 8 hours day-of)
• On-site catering with custom menu options
• Multiple ceremony and reception location choices
• Pool access during season (May-October)

This venue operates as a non-profit organization that promotes Tibetan Buddhist ideals of peace and compassion. Couples can celebrate their special day in a space that perfectly balances natural splendor with mindful purpose—a unique quality among wedding venues Santa Cruz CA.

Seascape Resort

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Seascape Beach Resort sits on the bluffs of Monterey Bay, giving couples a coastal alternative to Santa Cruz’s forest venues. This oceanfront property in Aptos creates a stunning backdrop where celebrations blend with the rhythm of waves and endless sea views.

Seascape Resort ocean views

The resort’s name perfectly matches its setting, with breathtaking ocean panoramas from almost every spot. The natural coastal beauty becomes part of your celebration. The ceremony site rests on a manicured bluff where cypress trees frame your vows against Monterey Bay’s shimmering waters. This setting creates an open atmosphere while the sea air energizes guests throughout your event.

Seascape Resort ceremony and reception options

The venue provides several spaces for ceremonies and receptions:

• Ceremony Sites:
  • The Bluff – Ocean views with sequoia trees, fits up to 250 guests (needs 120 minimum)
  • The Island – Near a pond with fountains and palm trees, perfect for up to 110 guests
  • Indoor options in the Seascape Ballroom or Riviera Room
  • Beach ceremonies for those who want sand between their toes

Reception spaces include the bright Seascape Room with stunning ocean views, the Riviera Room overlooking the bay and treetops, or the cozy Bayview Room with its private terrace. The venue works well for both large celebrations and intimate gatherings.

Seascape Resort pricing and accommodations

Prices vary based on your chosen spaces:

• Indoor ceremony fees: $3,000-$5,000
• Outdoor ceremony fees: $3,500-$7,000
• Beach ceremony fee: $15,000
• Reception venues range from $18,500 (Riviera) to $75,000 (Beach)
• Package pricing starts at $175 per person, including hors d’oeuvres and meal service

Guests can stay in resort rooms that feature a deck or patio, kitchenette, and fireplace. Many units have direct ocean views, making your celebration a full weekend experience. The resort offers three heated pools, hot spas, tennis courts, and access to Seascape Sports Club’s Olympic-size pool.

Sand Rock Farm

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Sand Rock Farm stands as the first winery in Santa Cruz County since 1887. This beautiful historic property blends California’s rich past with modern luxuries perfect for today’s celebrations.

Sand Rock Farm historic charm

Swedish immigrants August and Eva Lilliencrantz bought the property and turned it into a thriving winery that produced 130,000 gallons of wine shipped to Europe annually. The property’s character evolved as ownership changed hands. Local legend says members of the Grateful Dead and Santana used to hold jam sessions in the barn during the sixties and seventies. The property went through a major change in 1999 when it became a bed and breakfast while keeping its authentic Craftsman architecture.

The property’s craftsman-style home showcases stunning period details. Dark wood finishes, original fixtures, and a formal dining room with wainscoting create a timeless atmosphere. A grand staircase takes guests to relaxed rooms that feature en-suite baths and cozy window nooks.

Sand Rock Farm Barrel Room and gardens

The venue creates perfect spaces for each wedding moment:

• A redwood grove creates intimate ceremonies under majestic trees
• The historic Barrel Room welcomes guests with authentic stone walls for cocktail hour
• A meadow provides a beautiful outdoor dining setting
• A carriage barn features a wood mosaic bar and foraged wood wall for memorable receptions

The property charm extends to its friendly goats, chickens, an Airstream trailer, and picture-perfect spots throughout the grounds. Sand Rock Farm’s layout makes celebrations flow naturally between different areas, setting it apart from other Santa Cruz wedding venues.

Sand Rock Farm pricing and packages

Venue fees for 2025 weddings range from $4,500 for small gatherings of 18 or fewer guests in low season to $6,500 for high-season Saturdays (May-October). Couples can secure their date with a 30% deposit, followed by another 30% payment 90 days before the event.

Wedding packages come with six hours of exclusive venue use, planning and coordination services, a custom wedding cake, café lighting, wine barrel cocktail tables, and rustic wood bars. The property’s accommodation includes five rooms with nine beds that sleep up to 18 guests. Each room features private bathrooms and luxurious Jacuzzi tubs.

Nestldown

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Nestldown lies tucked away in the Los Gatos hills. This magical venue transforms into a fairytale realm with its whimsical gardens, towering redwoods, and enchanting details. The venue stands out among other Santa Cruz wedding locations. The 180-acre retreat sits in the stunning Santa Cruz Mountains terrain. It feels worlds away yet stays just 20 minutes from Silicon Valley.

Nestldown fairytale setting

The heart of Nestldown beats in its 36-acre wonderland of lush gardens surrounded by majestic redwoods. Two large ponds, peaceful waterfalls, and a willow-lined koi pond with brass sculptures create a water-rich landscape. The grounds blend natural beauty with playful elements like topiary serpents, a life-size chess set, and a charming fairy cottage that adds to the venue’s storybook feel.

Stone pathways wind through various themed areas, making the property feel like a hidden garden. Creative touches appear at every turn. Bentwood benches look out over meadows, while unexpected stairways and artistic sculptures add elements of surprise and wonder.

Nestldown ceremony and reception spaces

The venue offers several unique settings to exchange vows:

• A flagstone amphitheater sits next to a forest-fringed lake, creating a natural cathedral under redwood cover
• The Foxglove Meadow bursts with colorful blooms
• The Apple Knoll showcases an 88-foot pergola complete with fire pits and chandeliers

The stunning Barn hosts most receptions. This glass-and-fir structure features timber columns that support a steep-pitched ceiling, crystal chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The space blends indoor dining with outdoor terraces and the Main Lawn.

Nestldown pricing and guest capacity

The venue’s prices vary by season and day:

• Weekdays: $15,000-$22,000
• Fridays: $20,000-$30,000
• Saturdays: $22,000-$38,000
• Sundays: $22,000-$32,000

Guest limits change with seasons. November through mid-May welcomes 125 base/150 maximum guests. Mid-May through October allows 150 base/200 maximum attendees. The venue gives 9 hours of access and detailed amenities. These include a Special Events Manager, tables, chairs, sound systems, a 20-passenger train, and a 1967 London Taxi for the couple’s transport.

Felton Guild

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The magical redwood forest of Felton sets a stunning backdrop for the Felton Guild wedding venue. Towering ancient trees create a natural cathedral where couples can celebrate their woodland ceremony. This intimate yet grand venue sits tucked away in nature but remains easy to reach.

Felton Guild redwood cathedral

The venue’s crown jewel is its outdoor redwood cathedral – a fairy circle of magnificent trees that creates a naturally enchanting atmosphere. Sunlight streams through the canopy and bathes the ceremony space in a cathedral-like glow. This hidden grove fits about 100 guests with redwood chairs and benches, plus extra standing room for bigger celebrations. The natural acoustics make this space feel sacred while staying more relaxed than a traditional church setting.

Felton Guild ceremony and reception layout

A sunny garden lawn reception area welcomes guests as they leave the redwood cathedral. This space comfortably fits up to 200 people. The venue’s Redwood Hall showcases exposed timbers and high ceilings – perfect for large gatherings. The Garden Courtyard provides a more intimate setting. The venue has:

• Separate preparation rooms for bride and groom on opposite sides of the redwood cathedral
• Tables, chairs, and linens for up to 130 people
• Flexible spaces that adapt to custom layouts

Felton Guild pricing and accessibility

Wedding packages in 2025 cost between $4,360 and $8,175. Couples need to pay a $500 deposit and a refundable $700 security deposit when booking. Events run for 6 hours, with setup starting at 8:00 AM and everything wrapping up by 9:00 PM. Indoor music must stop at 8:00 PM, but outdoor sound can continue without limits. The venue sits at 5449 Highway 9 in Felton, right in the heart of the Santa Cruz mountain community.

Kennolyn Camp

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Kennolyn Camp offers a unique weekend wedding retreat that sets it apart from other Santa Cruz wedding venues. This 150-acre property in Soquel combines rustic charm with detailed amenities. Your entire wedding party can enjoy a carefree extended celebration here.

Kennolyn Camp summer camp vibe

Stone Creek Village at Kennolyn captures an old Western town atmosphere that feels like home the moment you arrive. The property gives guests endless spaces to gather and connect throughout their stay. The expansive grounds feature countless recreational options. Guests can explore miles of hiking trails, take a dip in the swimming pool, or test their courage on the trapeze and ropes courses.

The spacious Caldwell Lodge serves as the venue’s social hub. Guests naturally gather here to relax by the fire and enjoy refreshments all day long. This summer camp setting creates a sense of community that one-day venues can’t match. The shared weekend experiences help your guests form deeper connections.

Kennolyn Camp ceremony and reception options

The venue’s detailed wedding packages include everything from gourmet catering and beverages to planning help. We noticed that couples love having DJ and MC services included in every package, which saves them from finding additional entertainment vendors.

You can customize the schedule to match your vision. Most couples choose a Friday-to-Sunday format. The celebration starts with Friday’s welcome dinner and happy hour. Saturday brings fun activities and the wedding ceremony. Sunday wraps up with a farewell brunch. You’ll have the entire 150-acre property to yourself, ensuring total privacy for your celebration.

Kennolyn Camp pricing and guest lodging

Stone Creek Village offers 30 charming cabins that feature:

• En-suite bathrooms with fluffy white towels
• Cozy propane stoves for comfort
• Quality bedding and bath products

The venue needs at least 60 adult guests and can host up to 150 people. Looking ahead to 2025, lodging costs $500 per person for two nights with meals (not including the wedding reception dinner). Kids’ rates vary: teens 13-20 pay $225, children 5-12 pay $175, toddlers 2-4 pay $100, and kids under 2 stay free.

Wedding packages typically cost between $35,000 and $40,000, starting with a site fee of $17,500. Couples should plan their budget for this detailed weekend experience that delivers much more than a standard ceremony and reception.

The River House

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The River House sits a few minutes from Ben Lomond’s charming community. This California ranch-style home brings together a rustic woodland retreat and an elegant country estate. Built with wood and river rock, it gives couples a perfect Santa Cruz mountains backdrop for their special day.

The River House redwood and barn combo

Natural beauty meets architectural charm at this stunning property. A wisteria-covered arbor creates a dramatic path that leads to ceremony spaces among tall redwoods. The venue’s crown jewel is a new 3,500-square-foot barn with rustic-industrial design, custom lighting, and windmill fans. This remarkable structure has a 600-square-foot second-story lounge above the dance floor and a wraparound catwalk that circles the upper level. Redwood groves and river views create a romantic hideaway throughout the grounds.

The River House ceremony and reception layout

Couples can say their vows in several picture-perfect spots:

• A wooden gazebo with San Lorenzo River views, ideal for ceremonies and cake displays
• A Redwood Cathedral surrounded by ancient trees
• Expansive lawns ready for elegant garden celebrations

The venue’s reception areas feature 14,000 square feet of level lawns, a large stone patio for cocktail hour, and the magnificent two-story barn. These spaces work beautifully for different themes – from formal garden weddings with white umbrella-shaded tables to country-western parties with hay bales and checkered tablecloths.

The River House pricing and guest capacity

This exclusive venue can host up to 250 guests. The pricing structure works like this:

• Up to 175 guests: $17,000
• 175-250 guests: $18,500

The rental fee comes with The Wedding Connection’s “Project Management Package” (worth $5,000). This package offers detailed planning help, vendor suggestions, contract review, timeline creation, and day-of coordination. The River House books just one event each weekend, which means couples get complete attention during their celebration.

Sequoia Retreat Center

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Sequoia Retreat Center sits peacefully in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just 50 minutes from Silicon Valley. This intimate venue creates a unique setting among towering redwood trees. Nature and thoughtful amenities blend perfectly for couples who want a woodland wedding experience.

Sequoia Retreat Center forest setting

A serene 300-acre property surrounds the retreat center with ancient redwood trees, lush meadows, and peaceful streams. Natural beauty creates many breathtaking photography backgrounds throughout the grounds. The property showcases several distinctive outdoor spaces. You’ll find a Redwood Grove, Zazen Circle, and the magical Peace Park—a grove of soaring old-growth redwoods that serves as the main ceremony site. The secluded location gives you privacy and peace while staying available to guests from nearby cities.

Sequoia Retreat Center ceremony and reception options

Sequoia gives you exclusive venue access for up to 150 guests. Their complete package gives you:

• Peace Park for ceremonies among the redwoods
• Las Alas Lodge with floor-to-ceiling windows for dancing
• Pixie’s Garden as the main dining space
• Two designated cabins to prepare

The venue’s special amenities have fruitwood folding chairs, 60-inch round tables, market umbrellas, wine barrels, cocktail tables, and decorative elements like wooden lanterns and triangle arches. The venue works perfectly whether you want a relaxed, boho-inspired gathering or a more formal event.

Sequoia Retreat Center pricing and packages

Wedding rental fees for 2025 range from $5,450 to $19,900 per event. Prices change based on weekday choice, guest count, and your chosen package. The rental gives you 12 hours of exclusive property use (10am-10pm). You can extend until 11pm for an extra fee.

Overnight stays cost $3,889 per night and sleep up to 22 guests. The property has plenty of space for extra DIY glamping. You can bring your own beer and wine, but professional staff must serve it.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

This piece showcases 15 amazing Santa Cruz wedding venues that highlight the region’s rich variety. Your dream wedding might be under ancient redwoods, by the ocean waves, or in a historic barn – Santa Cruz has that special something for every couple.

These stunning venues come with price tags to suit different budgets. Felton Guild starts at $4,360, making magical redwood ceremonies available to many couples. Luxury seekers might prefer Nestldown’s fairytale setting or Kennolyn Camp’s detailed weekend celebration.

The real charm of Santa Cruz lies in its flexibility. You’ll find cozy spaces that work great for 50 guests and grand venues that welcome up to 500 people. On top of that, many spots offer places to stay, so your celebration can last more than just a day.

The weather in Santa Cruz should shape your 2025 wedding plans. The area gets more sun than other coastal spots, which makes outdoor ceremonies possible year-round. All the same, places like UCSC Cowell Ranch Hay Barn keep guests comfortable whatever the season with their radiant floor heating.

Your perfect venue depends on what matters most to you. Nature lovers often pick the Amphitheater of the Redwoods or Sparrow Valley Retreat. Beach fans fall for Seascape Resort’s ocean views. History lovers connect with Sand Rock Farm’s rich past or Roaring Camp’s vintage train experience.

Picking your Santa Cruz wedding venue starts an amazing adventure. These places aren’t just pretty backgrounds – they’re where special moments happen and memories take root. Your ideal spot is waiting somewhere between the redwood groves, coastal bluffs, and historic properties.

Which of these beautiful Santa Cruz spots matches your wedding dreams?