If you are a 2025 and 2026 couple looking for wedding venues in Monterey California, then I am excited you are here! Blogging is something I love to do on the side, because educating couple who are newly engaged and planning is what I enjoy when I am not photographing weddings.
Destinations with Dana
Hey, there! My name is Dana, a Monterey Wedding Photographer and I just want to first say congratulations on being engaged. I know this is an exciting time for you and your family and friends as you plan your wedding. Since 2018, I have been photographing weddings all over the the U.S and Europe. Joyful couples who love the light and airy look are the ones I love serving. If you are looking for your Monterey wedding photographer, I would love to be considered!
Wedding Venues in Monterey California
There are three wedding venues in Monterey that are the most popular to get married at. We call them the ‘sister venues’ because they are all owned by the same company/ wedding planning team.
Each venue is unique to it’s own. Different locations, catering, views, and more. But, the experience all my couples have had at each was all positive! Couples from all over fly in to host their wedding in Monterey, and those in the bay area enjoy having their local weddings here as well.
Perry House Monterey
The historic Perry House is located in a quiet community. From the balcony of the house, you can see the town of Monterey and Monterey Bay. This house is newly painted white (it was yellow), has suites for both wedding parties, and is perfect for guests around 100 people. This is a venue that is popular to have both the ceremony and reception outdoors with dancing inside. Do not worry, there is a tent in case it rains. The mansion gives a nice classic feel. Close enough for guests to stay at nearby hotels and walk, but secluded enough to where it can be quiet and away from the busy part of town.
A few things I love about this venue is the natural indoor lighting for getting ready portraits, an indoor reception area big enough for a nice dancing time, and the catering. In fact, this venue has some of my favorite foods!
The Barns
To me, The Barns is one of the most popular venues in Monterey all together. This venue is located in downtown Monterey and walking distance to Alvarado Street. As well as many popular hotels, and even a quick drive from the Monterey Airport. I love The Barns personally because it has a great outdoor space for ceremonies with many options to set it up. You can also convert the outside for a reception as well if the weather is nice. Either way, dancing is done inside with plenty of room for guest count to be around 150 or so.
What is most popular about this venue is that you have plenty of space upstairs to get ready, store your items, hang out, and enjoy the pre-wedding festivities. You have the option to walk a few blocks to get chipotle, trader joes, Alta bakery, and more. Plus, you are right next to the bust streets where there are late night bars, perfect for after parties!
You also have space for outdoor wedding party and couples portraits.
Monterey Beach Station
The last (but not least) of the three wedding venues is the Monterey Beach Station. Also newly updated, this beach house sits right on Monterey Beach and across the parking lot from The Fisherman’s Warf, plus walking distance to a few hotels. I love this venue because it is perfect for beach ceremonies, and indoor modern look receptions. They have wonderful food, a patio for those to want to enjoy the beach without getting sandy toes, and a firepit for roasting s’mores!
Getting ready suite here is small. So, I would suggest booking a hotel nearby to get ready in.
I know some worry about people being in the way and area for where the wedding ceremony is. However, from my experience, bystanders were respectful and stayed out of the way.
Wedding Venues in Monterey California
I hope if you decide to get married in Monterey, you consider these three wedding venues to host your special day. Each are special in their own way, and offer a vibe/look no matter what you are looking for.
