The Best Covered Outdoor Wedding Venues in Santa Cruz, CA

Nestled along the dramatic cliffs and gorgeous white-sand beaches of the Central California Coast, Carmel Fields by Wedgewood Weddings boasts exceptional views across Monterey County. Choose from either the garden ceremony site set alongside Palo Corona Regional Park - an area of outstanding natural beauty - or head down to nearby Monastery Beach for a toes-in-the-sand beach wedding ceremony. Then, settle into your choice of elegant reception rooms, where the modern chandeliers and bistro lights provide a romantic glow guaranteed to make everyone feel the love.

The Highlands House is an elegant-meets-homey mansion with a private yard nestled in enchanted forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The venue features several rooms for dining and dancing, a wet bar, a large kitchen, two changing rooms, an elegant staircase perfect for grand entrances. A brick pathway leads from the house to the lawn. There, you’ll find a ceremony area on one side and on the other, space large enough for guests to dine and play yard games. The lawn is surrounded by trees and hedges, creating intimacy for your upscale backyard party. Tables and chairs are provided. The rest - from décor to caterers - is up to you, which makes the Highlands House an extraordinarily customizable venue. The Highlands House can host up to 200 people in the peak season (April – October) and 100 during the winter season (November – March). This includes your guests, vendors, and anyone else helping you on your big day.

Felton Covered Bridge Park features the historic covered bridge that stood as the only entry to Felton for 45 years. Dating back to 1892-93, the Felton covered bridge is believed to be the tallest covered bridge in the country.

Nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains, yet easily accessible, River House is a blend of rustic hideaway and country estate. One of the most beautiful aspects of the property is the wisteria covered arbor that leads the bridal party to the wooden gazebo overlooking San Lorenzo River. 14000 square feet of lawn easily accommodates up to 250 guests. a large aggregate patio serves as the cocktail area. A Redwood grove is available for the ceremony or a small cocktail hour. Flower-lined paths encircle the property. Catering station and bridal cottage included. A 3500 square foot barn has just been completed and is an absolutely stunning addition to the property . The Rustic/Industrial barn is furnished with custom lighting and windmill fans. A 600 Square Foot lounge on the second floors allows for relaxing and viewing of the dance floor. A wrap around cat walk circle the second story. Just added beautiful rustic bathrooms

Quail Hollow Ranch is a charming ranch of historical and ecological significance. The ranch was once the home of the Lane family who owned Sunset Magazine from 1929-1991. The park sits on ecologically rare habitats with endemic wild flowers and abundant wildlife. Your reservation includes the exquisite ranch house and spacious lawn which offers scenic views of an orchard and the forested Santa Cruz Mountains. This location is well-suited for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

Valencia Hall is a popular location for weddings, parties and meetings. The Valencia Hall and historic General Store/Post Office are the last two remnants of Frederick Hihn's logging community of Valencia. Built by Hihn in the early 1880's, these historic buildings allowed the community to gather for a variety of events. Following in this tradition, Santa Cruz County Parks offers this unique facility for your special event.