Introduction
You got engaged. Congratulations! And now you’re thinking about something truly special—a destination wedding in Southern California.
Maybe you’re dreaming of saying “I do” with your toes in the sand at a La Jolla beach. Or exchanging vows surrounded by vineyard rows in Temecula wine country. Or hosting an elegant coastal celebration overlooking the Pacific Ocean at sunset.
Here’s the good news: planning a Southern California destination wedding from out of state is easier than you think. The weather is nearly perfect year-round, the venues are world-class, and with the right local vendors (especially your photographer!), the logistics practically handle themselves.
As San Diego wedding photographers who’ve worked with dozens of out-of-state couples, we’ve seen firsthand what makes destination weddings here successful. This guide will walk you through everything—from choosing your SoCal destination to navigating permits, hiring local vendors, and creating an unforgettable experience for your guests.
Let’s make your California dream wedding a reality.
Why Choose Southern California for Your Destination Wedding?
Southern California isn’t just a beautiful wedding destination—it’s the perfect wedding destination. Here’s why couples from across the country choose SoCal:
Year-Round Perfect Weather
Southern California boasts 320 sunny days per year. While couples in other parts of the country worry about rain, snow, or humidity, you’re practically guaranteed gorgeous weather. Even winter weddings enjoy 60-70°F temperatures with rare rain. Spring through fall? Absolutely stunning.
Best months for weddings: April-June and September-October offer ideal temperatures (70-80°F), minimal rain, and stunning natural light for photos.
Diverse Venue Options for Every Style
Want a beach wedding? You’ve got dozens of stunning coastal venues from San Diego to Malibu. Vineyard wedding? Temecula wine country delivers Napa-style charm without the Napa price tag. Modern urban celebration? Los Angeles and San Diego offer architectural gems and rooftop venues. Garden estate wedding? Southern California’s year-round blooms create natural beauty.
Whatever your vision, SoCal has the venue to match it.
Unbeatable Guest Experience
Your wedding doubles as a vacation for your guests. They’ll have access to:
- World-famous beaches (La Jolla, Laguna Beach, Malibu)
- Theme parks (Disneyland, Universal Studios)
- Wine tasting in Temecula
- Brewery tours in San Diego
- Shopping and dining in Los Angeles
- Cultural attractions (museums, art galleries, theaters)
Your guests will actually want to travel for your wedding.
Photography Backdrops That Can’t Be Beat
As photographers, we have to mention this: Southern California offers unparalleled diversity for wedding photos. Ocean cliffs, desert landscapes, mountain views, urban architecture, vineyard rows, tropical gardens—all within a few hours of each other. Your wedding album will look like it was shot across multiple destinations.
Easy Accessibility
Three major airports serve Southern California:
- San Diego International (SAN): 20-30 minutes to most San Diego venues
- Los Angeles International (LAX): 30-90 minutes to LA, OC, and Malibu venues
- Orange County (SNA): 45-60 minutes to Orange County venues
Direct flights from major cities make travel simple for out-of-state guests.
Top Southern California Wedding Destinations
Not all Southern California destinations are created equal. Here’s how to choose the right one for your wedding style:
San Diego (Beach & Coastal Weddings)
Best for: Couples who want laid-back beach vibes, stunning sunsets, and relaxed elegance
Top Areas:
- La Jolla: Upscale coastal charm with dramatic cliffs and cove beaches
- Coronado: Historic island with the iconic Hotel del Coronado
- Del Mar: Sophisticated beach town with bluff views
Must-See Venues:
- Hotel del Coronado (iconic beachfront luxury)
- Paradise Point Resort & Spa (tropical island feel)
- The Lodge at Torrey Pines (Craftsman elegance + beach access)
- Scripps Seaside Forum (modern oceanfront)
Why couples love San Diego: Perfect weather, diverse beach options, craft brewery scene for groomsmen, world-class restaurants, and that California-casual vibe.
Travel time from airport: 20-30 minutes to most venues
Orange County (Luxury & Resort Weddings)
Best for: Couples who want upscale resort elegance and premium amenities
Top Areas:
- Laguna Beach: Artist colony with pristine beaches and resort luxury
- Newport Beach: Sophisticated coastal living with yacht club vibes
- Dana Point: Dramatic bluffs and luxury resorts
Must-See Venues:
- Montage Laguna Beach (luxury resort perfection)
- Resort at Pelican Hill (Tuscan-inspired with ocean views)
- Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel (perched on coastal bluffs)
Why couples love Orange County: Resort packages simplify planning, upscale guest experience, stunning coastal settings, proximity to Disneyland for pre-wedding fun.
Travel time from airport: 45-60 minutes from LAX or 30 minutes from Orange County airport
Los Angeles (Urban & Modern Weddings)
Best for: Couples who want urban sophistication, celebrity glamour, or unique venues
Top Areas:
- Downtown LA: Industrial-chic warehouses, rooftop venues, art deco hotels
- Santa Monica: Beach access meets city convenience
- Malibu: Coastal luxury with celebrity-level privacy
Must-See Venues:
- Vibiana (historic cathedral turned modern venue)
- Calamigos Ranch (rustic ranch in Malibu hills)
- Adamson House (Malibu beach estate)
- The Ace Hotel Downtown (rooftop urban wedding)
Why couples love LA: Endless venue variety, world-class dining and nightlife, cultural attractions, unique photo opportunities from beaches to cityscapes.
Travel time from airport: Varies by neighborhood (30-90 minutes from LAX depending on traffic)
Temecula Wine Country (Vineyard Weddings)
Best for: Couples who want wine country charm without the Napa Valley price tag
Top Wineries:
- Ponte Winery (largest estate, Tuscan villa)
- Wilson Creek Winery (sparkling wine and scenic vineyard rows)
- Europa Village (three distinct European-themed properties)
Why couples love Temecula: Wine country romance, rolling vineyard views, all-inclusive packages, more affordable than Napa, only 60 miles from San Diego (easy guest access).
Travel time from San Diego airport: 60-75 minutes
How to Plan Your Southern California Destination Wedding (Even from 2,000 Miles Away)
Planning from out of state feels daunting, but breaking it into phases makes it manageable:
12 Months Before: The Foundation
Your priorities:
- Choose your Southern California destination based on style, guest experience, and budget
- Book your venue – Popular SoCal venues book 12-18 months out for peak season (May-October)
- Hire your photographer and videographer EARLY – This is critical. A local photographer who knows Southern California inside and out will make everything easier. We can recommend venues, help you scout locations, coordinate with other vendors, and ensure your timeline works perfectly for photos. And unlike hiring an out-of-state photographer, you pay zero travel fees.
- Secure hotel room blocks – Negotiate group rates 9-12 months in advance, especially for popular areas like San Diego during peak season
Pro Tip: Working with a local photographer who specializes in destination weddings (like Salt & Sol Studios) gives you an instant SoCal expert on your team. We’ll recommend the best vendors, help navigate permits, and scout photo locations before your big day.
6-9 Months Before: The Details
Your priorities:
- Book local vendors – Caterer (or confirm venue catering), florist, DJ/band, day-of coordinator
- Schedule your engagement session – Fly to California for a long weekend. This lets you meet your photographer in person, scout your venue, and get comfortable in front of the camera. Bonus: You’ll get incredible engagement photos with SoCal backdrops.
- Apply for permits – If you’re having a beach or state park ceremony, permits require advance booking (popular spots like Torrey Pines book months ahead)
- Finalize guest list and send save-the-dates – Give out-of-state guests plenty of notice to book flights and hotels
3 Months Before: Final Touches
Your priorities:
- Hair and makeup trial – Many SoCal artists can do virtual consultations, then refine in-person the week of your wedding
- Create your wedding day timeline with your photographer – This is crucial. We’ll help you factor in travel time between locations, optimal lighting for photos, and buffer time for traffic
- Plan your rehearsal dinner – Ask your photographer or planner for local restaurant recommendations (we know all the best spots!)
- Confirm all vendor details – Final check-in with everyone via phone or email
Week Before: Arrive and Enjoy
Your priorities:
- Arrive 3-4 days early – Don’t fly in the day before. Give yourself time to relax, handle any last-minute details, and actually enjoy your destination
- Wedding rehearsal – Walk through the ceremony, coordinate with your officiant and photographer
- Welcome party – Host a casual gathering for guests who arrived early (beach bonfire, brewery tour, wine tasting)
- Final venue walk-through – Visit your venue one last time with your photographer to finalize shot lists
Southern California Destination Wedding Logistics (The Practical Stuff)
Weather & Best Months to Get Married
Perfect weather months: April-June and September-October
- Temperatures: 70-80°F
- Minimal rain (less than 5% chance)
- Stunning natural light for photos
- Peak season pricing
Good weather months: March, July-August, November
- Slightly cooler (March, November) or hotter (July-August inland)
- Off-season pricing can save 20-30%
- Beach venues stay cooler in summer
Winter weddings (December-February):
- Temperatures: 60-70°F (still gorgeous by most standards!)
- Occasional rain (5-10% chance)
- Lowest pricing
- Perfect for couples who hate heat
Pro tip: Avoid July-August if your venue is inland (like Temecula wine country) as temperatures can hit 90-100°F. Beach venues stay comfortable year-round.
Guest Accommodation & Travel
Hotel room blocks:
- Book 6-9 months in advance
- Negotiate group rates (typically 10% off for 10+ rooms)
- Offer 2-3 hotel options at different price points
- Choose hotels near your venue or near the airport
Guest transportation:
- Rent shuttles for wine country venues (Temecula is 60 miles from San Diego)
- Beach venues often have ride-share access
- Provide clear transportation info on your wedding website
What guests will want to do:
- Beach day (rent umbrellas, chairs, coolers)
- Brewery tours (San Diego has 150+ craft breweries)
- Wine tasting (Temecula day trips)
- Theme parks (Disneyland, Universal Studios)
- Shopping (Fashion Valley, The Grove, South Coast Plaza)
California Marriage License Requirements
Great news: California makes it easy!
- No waiting period – You can get your license the day before your wedding if needed
- Valid for 90 days from issue date
- Can apply online in advance through the county clerk’s office
- Cost: $35-$100 depending on county
- Both partners must be present to pick up the license (or apply in person)
- No blood test required
- Your officiant files the license within 10 days of your ceremony
Permits for Public Spaces
Beach weddings:
- Most public beaches require permits ($50-$300)
- Popular beaches (La Jolla Cove, Coronado, Laguna) require 1-3 months advance booking
- Permits specify ceremony time and guest capacity
- Your photographer can help navigate this – we know which beaches require permits and how to apply
State parks:
- Torrey Pines State Reserve, Point Duma, Crystal Cove
- Permits required (book 3-6 months in advance)
- Limited ceremony times and locations
- Worth it for exclusive, stunning settings
Private venue ceremonies: No permits needed (much easier!)
Why Hiring a Local Photographer Is Essential for Destination Weddings
Here’s something most couples don’t realize until they start planning: your photographer becomes your most valuable resource for destination weddings.
1. Location Expertise
We know Southern California’s best ceremony spots, portrait locations, and lighting conditions at every time of day. We know:
- Which beaches have the softest sand (matters for heels!)
- Where to capture sunset without crowds
- Which urban alleys create stunning backdrops
- When golden hour hits your venue (it varies by season!)
- Backup locations if weather changes
2. No Travel Fees
You’re already paying for flights and hotels for yourselves and your guests. Why pay $1,500-$3,000 in photographer travel fees on top of that? Local photographers charge zero travel costs.
3. Vendor Network
Need a last-minute florist recommendation? Hair artist who specializes in beach weddings? Day-of coordinator who knows your venue? Local photographers have trusted vendor networks we’ve worked with for years.
4. Pre-Wedding Scouting
We can scout your venue and photo locations before your wedding day, send you photos of different ceremony setup options, and identify the best portrait spots. This peace of mind is priceless when planning from 2,000 miles away.
5. Guest Photo Opportunities
Your guests are traveling to California for your wedding—we’ll make sure they get incredible photos too. We’ll share the best Instagram spots, coordinate family photos efficiently, and capture candid moments throughout your destination celebration.
Real Couple Story:
“We flew in from Chicago for our San Diego wedding and chose Salt & Sol Studios because they specialize in destination weddings. They recommended the perfect rehearsal dinner spot in La Jolla, helped us get our beach permit, and knew exactly where to take us for sunset photos. Planning from out of state felt seamless because we had local experts on our team.” — Sarah & Mike, Chicago → San Diego Wedding
What Does a Southern California Destination Wedding Cost?
Let’s talk numbers. Here’s what you can expect for a 100-guest Southern California wedding:
Venue: $5,000-$15,000
- Wide range depending on location and amenities
- Beach resorts and luxury venues at the higher end
- Wine country and private estates more affordable
Catering: $100-$200 per person
- $10,000-$20,000 for 100 guests
- Includes appetizers, dinner, cake, beverages
Photography + Videography: $6,000-$10,000
- Full-day coverage (8-12 hours)
- Engagement session included
- Second shooter and cinematographer
- Our $6,400 combo package covers both
Florals: $2,000-$5,000
- Ceremony arch, centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres
- SoCal’s year-round blooms keep costs reasonable
DJ or Live Band: $1,500-$4,000
Hair & Makeup: $500-$1,200
- Bridal party styling for 4-6 people
Rentals (if needed): $2,000-$4,000
- Tables, chairs, linens (many venues include these)
Permits (if beach/park): $50-$300
Wedding Coordination: $2,000-$5,000
- Highly recommended for destination weddings
Average Total: $30,000-$60,000 for 100 guests
Cost-Saving Tip: Off-season weddings (November-March) can save 20-30% on venue and vendor costs. Plus, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds at tourist attractions!
Real Southern California Destination Weddings We’ve Photographed
Emily & Jordan – Boston to La Jolla
Emily and Jordan wanted a beach wedding with urban sophistication. They chose La Jolla for their sunset ceremony at Scripps Seaside Forum, then moved downtown to The US Grant Hotel for their reception.
- Guest count: 80 (flew in from Boston, New York, and DC)
- Timeline: 4-day celebration (welcome beach bonfire, wedding day, brunch the next morning)
- Photography package: Full-day coverage + engagement session at Torrey Pines
- What they loved: “We wanted our wedding to feel like a vacation for everyone, and San Diego delivered. Our guests still talk about the beach bonfire and the incredible sunset ceremony.”
Marcus & Lisa – Austin to Temecula Wine Country
Wine lovers Marcus and Lisa chose Temecula for vineyard romance close to San Diego.
- Guest count: 120 (many flew into San Diego, rented cars for the drive)
- Timeline: Weekend celebration with wine tasting the day before
- Photography package: Full-day vineyard coverage + engagement session in downtown San Diego
- What they loved: “We got wine country elegance for half the price of Napa, and it was only an hour from the airport.”
Ready to Plan Your Southern California Destination Wedding?
Southern California offers everything you’re dreaming of: perfect weather, stunning venues, incredible photo backdrops, and an unforgettable experience for your guests. Planning from out of state is easier than ever when you work with local experts who know SoCal inside and out.
The key to a stress-free destination wedding? Book your local vendors early—especially your photographer.
Salt & Sol Studios Specializes in Southern California Destination Weddings
We’ve photographed hundreds of California weddings and helped dozens of out-of-state couples plan their dream celebrations. We know the best venues, the permit process, the ideal ceremony times, and how to make your wedding day timeline work perfectly.
Here’s what you get when you book with us:
✅ No travel fees (we’re local to San Diego and Southern California)
✅ Venue recommendations based on your style and budget
✅ Location scouting before your wedding day
✅ Vendor network (florists, planners, hair/makeup we trust)
✅ Permit navigation for beach and park ceremonies
✅ Engagement session to scout locations and get comfortable on camera
✅ Full-day wedding coverage (8-12 hours)
✅ Photography + Videography combo packages (save $1,000+)
📸 View Our Southern California Destination Wedding Portfolio
📅 Check Our 2026 Availability
💬 Schedule a Virtual Consultation (Even If You’re 2,000 Miles Away)
We’d love to help you plan your perfect Southern California destination wedding. Book your free consultation today and let’s start creating your dream day.
Download Your Free Destination Wedding Planning Checklist
Planning a destination wedding has a lot of moving pieces. We created a free Southern California Destination Wedding Planning Checklist to keep you organized—from choosing your destination to the week of your wedding.
Download includes:
- 12-month timeline for destination wedding planning
- Vendor checklist with local recommendations
- California marriage license requirements
- Beach permit application guide
- Guest travel and accommodation planning
- Day-of timeline template
Download Your Free Checklist →
FAQ’s:
Book your venue 12-18 months in advance for peak season (May-October) weddings. Popular San Diego beach venues and Temecula wineries fill up fast, especially for summer Saturday weddings. If you’re flexible with dates or planning an off-season wedding (November-March), 9-12 months is usually sufficient. Book your photographer and key vendors at the same time to secure your date.
Yes, most public beaches in California require permits for wedding ceremonies, costing $50-$300 depending on the beach and guest count. Popular beaches like La Jolla Cove, Coronado, and Laguna Beach require 1-3 months advance booking. The permit specifies your ceremony time, location, and guest capacity. Private beach venues (like Hotel del Coronado) don’t require separate permits. Your photographer can help navigate the permit process—we do this all the time!
A 100-guest Southern California destination wedding typically costs $30,000-$60,000, including venue ($5,000-$15,000), catering ($100-$200/person), photography + videography ($6,000-$10,000), florals ($2,000-$5,000), DJ/band, and other vendors. Off-season weddings (November-March) can save 20-30% on venue and vendor costs. Destination weddings in wine country or private estates tend to be more affordable than luxury beach resorts.
April-June and September-October offer the best combination of perfect weather (70-80°F), minimal rain, and stunning photo lighting. July-August can be hot inland (90-100°F in wine country) but beach venues stay comfortable. November-March offers the best pricing with mild weather (60-70°F) and occasional rain. Southern California’s 320 sunny days per year means you’ll likely have gorgeous weather regardless of when you choose.
California makes it easy! Both partners must appear together (in person or via online application) at any California county clerk’s office. There’s no waiting period—you can get your license the day before your wedding if needed. The license costs $35-$100, is valid for 90 days, and requires government-issued ID. No blood test required. Your officiant files the completed license within 10 days after your ceremony. You can pre-register online before arriving in California.
Local photographers save you $1,500-$3,000 in travel fees, know the best ceremony spots and lighting at every venue, can scout locations before your wedding day, have trusted local vendor networks, and understand permit requirements for beaches and parks. We become your Southern California expert from day one—recommending venues, coordinating timelines, and ensuring your photos showcase SoCal’s best backdrops. Plus, we’re available for engagement sessions when you fly in to tour venues.
Arrive 3-4 days before your wedding to avoid stress and handle any last-minute details. This gives you time for rehearsal, a welcome event for guests, and actually enjoying your destination. Many couples schedule their engagement session during this trip to scout photo locations. Plan to stay 1-2 days after for a mini-moon or brunch with guests before heading to your honeymoon destination.
San Diego offers laid-back beach vibes, perfect weather, and craft breweries—best for casual coastal elegance. Orange County delivers luxury resort weddings with upscale amenities at venues like Montage Laguna Beach—ideal for couples wanting premium all-inclusive packages. Los Angeles provides urban sophistication, celebrity glamour, and diverse venues from downtown lofts to Malibu beaches—perfect for modern, unique celebrations. Temecula wine country (60 miles from San Diego) offers vineyard romance at Napa-style prices.
Absolutely! Most planning happens via email, video calls, and online tools. The key is hiring local vendors (especially a photographer and day-of coordinator) who know Southern California and can handle on-the-ground logistics. Schedule one trip 6-9 months before your wedding for venue tours and your engagement session. Many couples do virtual hair/makeup consultations and finalize details in-person the week of their wedding. With the right team, planning from 2,000 miles away is seamless.
Southern California offers endless activities for destination wedding guests: beach days (La Jolla, Laguna, Malibu), wine tasting in Temecula, San Diego craft brewery tours, Disneyland/Universal Studios, hiking (Torrey Pines, Runyon Canyon), shopping (Fashion Valley, The Grove), world-class dining, museums, and cultural attractions. Most guests treat your wedding as a 3-5 day vacation. Provide a list of recommendations on your wedding website, and consider organizing group activities like a welcome beach bonfire or post-wedding brunch.
About Salt & Sol Studios
Salt & Sol Studios is a San Diego-based wedding photography and videography team specializing in Southern California destination weddings. We’ve helped couples from across the country create unforgettable California celebrations, from intimate beach elopements to grand resort weddings. Let us show you why Southern California is the perfect destination for your wedding day.
