The Best South Bay Wedding Venues for a Coastal, Romantic Celebration

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s both timeless and coastal, South Bay Los Angeles is one of California’s most underrated gems, and here are best options for a romantic celebration. With sweeping ocean views, charming beach towns, and elevated venues that blend luxury with natural beauty, the South Bay is ideal for couples who want something refined yet relaxed.

From the dramatic cliffs of Palos Verdes to the sailboat-studded harbors of Redondo Beach and Marina del Rey, every location feels like a love letter to California’s effortless elegance.

As a South Bay wedding photographer, I’ve worked at many of the area’s most beloved venues—and here are my top picks for romantic, elevated celebrations.

1. La Venta Inn – Palos Verdes Estates

Best for: Clifftop weddings with timeless charm

A true South Bay icon, La Venta Inn offers a private estate feel with breathtaking ocean views. Its Spanish architecture, lush gardens, and golden-hour glow make it an ideal location for fine art wedding photography. It’s especially stunning for intimate or mid-sized weddings and has that tucked-away feeling without sacrificing luxury.

Photographer tip: The light here at sunset is magical—schedule couple’s portraits just before dinner for that dreamy editorial feel.

2. Terranea Resort – Rancho Palos Verdes

Best for: Grand, luxurious destination-style weddings

Perched on the bluffs of Rancho Palos Verdes, Terranea is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Southern California. With expansive ocean views, multiple ceremony site options, and five-star service, it’s perfect for South Asian weddings, large celebrations, and multi-day events. Voted one of the best venues, they now offer small wedding packages, where you can host an intimate dinner at Nelson’s. View more Terranea Events here.

Photographer tip: I love capturing pre-ceremony moments on the sea-view terrace or candid sunset walks along the resort’s private trail.

3. Shade Hotel – Redondo Beach

Best for: Stylish harborfront weddings with a modern twist

Located right on the marina, Shade Hotel Redondo offers a contemporary space with a romantic coastal vibe. Its waterfront deck is perfect for sunset ceremonies, and the boutique aesthetic adds a sleek editorial edge to your wedding photos. A popular option for a Redondo Beach Wedding, don’t delay!

Photographer tip: Don’t miss golden hour portraits along the dock or under the fairy lights on the rooftop terrace.

4. Los Verdes Golf Course – Palos Verdes

Best for: Elegant outdoor weddings with panoramic views

Los Verdes is a favorite for couples who want coastal beauty without a resort budget. The ceremony lawn overlooks the Pacific, and the grounds are beautifully maintained. It’s especially great for spring and early fall weddings when the light is soft and skies are clear. A popular option for a gree, Golf Course Wedding with panoramic views, don’t delay!

Photographer tip: The golden hills and tree-lined walkways here are perfect for soft, romantic couple portraits.

5. Hotel Maya – Long Beach

Best for: Cultural, colorful weddings with waterfront views

With Latin-inspired architecture, tropical landscaping, and bold colors, Hotel Maya offers a fun, unique option for couples wanting something vibrant. It’s especially popular for multicultural weddings and fusion celebrations. Views of the Long Beach skyline and oceanfront ceremony options make it feel destination-like without leaving LA County. A popular option for a large waterfront Wedding with outdoor access, don’t delay!

Photographer tip: Hotel Maya’s colorful murals and palm-lined paths are perfect for bold detail shots and joyful candids.

6. The Portofino Hotel & Marina – Redondo Beach

Best for: Nautical charm and romantic waterfront portraits

Tucked into the Redondo Beach marina, The Portofino is ideal for couples who love the idea of an ocean-inspired celebration without the sand. With floor-to-ceiling windows and serene harbor views, it’s a great option for intimate or mid-size weddings that want both elegance and ease. A popular option for a Redondo Beach Wedding with an intimate feel, don’t delay!

Photographer tip: I love doing a quick sneak-away session on the dock for intimate portraits at sunset.

Bonus Mentions: Other Notable South Bay Wedding Venues

• Verandas Beach House (El Segundo): Coastal charm meets private estate
• The Belamar Hotel (Manhattan Beach): Boutique, modern, and walkable to beach spots
• Marina del Rey Marriott / Ritz-Carlton: Great for larger receptions with water views

Planning a Wedding in the South Bay?

Whether you’re getting married on a cliffside in Palos Verdes or celebrating bayside in Marina del Rey, the South Bay offers the perfect blend of ocean views, refined venues, and California soul. My style blends documentary candids with fine art composition, so every gallery feels timeless, romantic, and entirely your own.

Let’s capture your love story with beauty and heart.
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