The Best Wedding Venues in Santa Ynez, CA

The Best Wedding Venues in Santa Ynez, CA

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9 Wedding Venues in Santa Ynez, CA

Quick responder
Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Congregation 

5.0

Goleta, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,000

If you're looking for... ~ a rustic, farmhouse environment with quiet elegance ~ an open and inviting atmosphere ~ flexibility to stage both ceremony and reception in multiple spaces with ease of movement ~ an ADA-accessible venue with plentiful parking ~ a full kitchen and a bridal changing room ~ onsite tables and chairs for more than 100 dining guests... ... you'll love Live Oak for your wedding venue! At Live Oak, we put love at the center of all we do and welcome all committed couples to marry here. Built in 1916, Live Oak has beautifully maintained the original Farmhouse, Cottage, and Water Tower. Keeping with the early 20th-century farmhouse style, we've added two spacious buildings - Fellowship Hall and Sanctuary with 21st-century interiors, boasting shining hardwood floors for dancing. In addition, we have a beautiful Outdoor Sanctuary near the Water Tower with amphitheater seating, a 7-labyrinth, and a wooded picnic area - ideal for micro-weddings.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Additional event staff required
Everyone at Live Oak made it easy for us to achieve the wedding setup we envisioned. From showing us photos of the space with others' decor, to sending us links with suggestions, coming to the venue to help us plan at times that worked for us, working with us to create a checklist and timeline, and showing up early/ staying late to clean up, we felt that the people at Live Oak really wanted to help us achieve the wedding that worked for us. On the day of the wedding, it was nice to have the Cottage as a room to prep and primp, and I was able to see the arriving guests while staying unseen. We also stored flowers in the kitchen fridge, which helped keep them fresh. Overall, we were consulted as to our wishes prior to the event, then during the actual wedding, things that needed to be done "behind the scenes" were taken care of, which left us able to focus on our guests and each other.
Alexandra W., a month ago
Quick responder
Riverbench Vineyard and Winery 

5.0

Santa Maria, CA
  • Up to 125 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $10,000

Nestled in the heart of the Foxen Canyon, Riverbench Vineyard and Winery offers a truly romantic setting for your wedding day. The beautifully restored estate Farmhouse, rich with heritage and charm, provides a timeless backdrop surrounded by acres of lush vineyards and rolling hills. Located in one of the most sought-after regions on California’s Central Coast, this historic property blends rustic elegance with modern comforts. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate celebration or a grand affair, Riverbench’s serene landscape and authentic vineyard ambiance create an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of wine country romance.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Dressing room available
  • Sophisticated wine experience
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No free parking
We had an incredible experience getting married at the Riverbench Farmhouse! The venue was the perfect, charming setting for our 100-person celebration. Both houses on the property provided gorgeous backdrops for photos, and we loved having distinct spaces for the ceremony, dinner, and dancing. The staff was so friendly and accommodating, making the entire day seamless. We highly recommend this venue to anyone planning a wedding in Santa Barbara County!
Michelle F., a month ago
Gainey Vineyard 
Santa Ynez, CA
  • Up to 350 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

Today, our vineyards and winery comprise an important part of my family’s agricultural operations, and we’re fortunate to have vineyards that yield enough high-quality fruit to estate bottle all our wines. My wife, Diane, and I are proud that our son and daughters, the fourth generation of Gaineys in the Santa Ynez Valley, are continuing our family’s tradition of farming and winemaking in this most beautiful region of California. We invite you to come to visit us the next time you’re in Santa Barbara wine country.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Lighting and sound are not included
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
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The River Edge Farm 

5.0

Solvang, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $4,000

River Edge Farm, with its dramatic tree-lined corridor and iconic entrance, sits between the Danish village of Solvang and the historic town of Buellton, just minutes from Highway 101. Spanning 233 acres, our historic ranch includes a leading thoroughbred farm and breathtaking vistas from a 25-acre mesa. River Edge Farm, located in the heart of this vibrant wine-growing region, offers a gateway to tranquility and natural beauty. Our unique venue, set amidst lush vineyards and a renowned equestrian training center offers the ideal fusion of rustic allure and sophisticated grace for your special event. In the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, discover a landscape where nature’s artistry meets viticultural excellence.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Surrounded by nature
  • Offers full flexibility in setup and decor
  • Multiple event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
This new venue in the Santa Ynez Valley has all the elements people want for weddings - oak trees, vineyard, horses and views. From the top overlook under the oaks, to grassy areas under sycamores this venue has a lot of options for guest counts of all sizes. Vendors, paved areas make set up and logistics a dream. Definitely add it to your client's scouting list!
Tracey M., 6 months ago
Quick responder
Foxen Canyon Ranch 

5.0

Los Olivos, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $14,000

Foxen Canyon Ranch is a working cattle ranch tucked away on over 200 acres. We are located on the Santa Ynez Valley wine trail, just 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara. A striking white barn welcomes you and your guests as you arrive. Open gardens, expansive lawns and century old oaks, provide the perfect atmosphere for any event. There are infinite possibilities for events of different sizes, levels of grandeur or intimacy with plenty of interior and outdoor spaces. The ranch is designed to be the canvas for your unique creation and ideas.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Rustic charm with elegance
  • Romantic vineyard setting

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not provide event staff
Awarded Best of Zola
A Dream Wedding Come True – Thanks to Diana & Steve! If you’re searching for a venue that combines breathtaking beauty with top-notch service and the most genuinely caring owners you could ever hope to meet, look no further. Diana and Steve, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making our wedding unforgettable. You are truly the best of the best!
Katie B., 7 months ago
The Buellhouse at Zaca Creek 

5.0

BUELLTON, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $12,000

Zaca Creek has been an iconic landmark property in the Santa Ynez Valley for more than half a century. Much beloved by the locals for its deep roots in the history of Buellton; Zaca Creek has been resurrected after almost two decades of dormancy. Staying true to the history of the locale, the reclamation of this property was carefully centered around the founding principle of combining timeless resources of the highest quality with custom craftsmanship built to last. The transformation of this landmark establishment from the remodel, landscape, menu design and layout focus on the simple and time-tested philosophy of world-class materials and attention to detail in every aspect. The culmination of this is a masterfully reimagined establishment with nuanced flavors and old-world techniques. Our covered patio and inside tavern area are both open, with limited seating for both so reservations are recommended.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Bridal suite on site

Venue considerations

  • Additional event staff required
  • Does not allow pets
  • No free parking
From the moment we first toured The Buellhouse at Zaca Creek, we were blown away by the warmth and kindness of the staff. Chelsea and her team were incredibly friendly, open, and caring throughout the entire wedding planning process. The venue itself is simply gorgeous - classic, timeless, and beautifully maintained. We already loved Zaca Creek after a special previous stay, but this made it 10x as special. Chelsea was hands-on, going above and beyond to ensure our day was perfect. The event went off without a hitch and we couldn't be happier with our decision to host our wedding at this stunning, one-of-a-kind venue. We are forever grateful to the entire Buellhouse team for making our special day so incredibly memorable.
Ronni G., a year ago
Quick responder
Hotel Ynez 
Solvang, CA
  • Up to 100 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

At The Crossroads of Santa Ynez & Solvang— Hotel Ynez is nestled on two private acres with extensive gardens, a heated 21-and-over pool, bonfire pits, and a rustic outdoor pavilion for nights under the stars. Relaxed yet sophisticated, the property provides a respite from urban living. A place where modern travelers can lounge amongst the Oak trees or poolside, while nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Has onsite accommodations
  • Both indoor and outdoor options

Venue considerations

  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
  • On-site parking not available
  • Additional event staff required
Quick responder
The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Collection 
Los Olivos, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $45,000

Located in the northern part of the Santa Ynez Valley, Mattei’s Tavern is the heartbeat of historical Los Olivos, and the warm aura of the 1886 original reigns. A pioneering social hub both then and now, Mattei’s welcomes couples, families and friends – old and new – to enjoy locally sourced, farm-driven menus that highlight the bounty of the central coast’s land and sea, and a destination spa that practices an innovative seasonal treatment menu.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Unique barn setting
  • Has onsite accommodations

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • Does not have a dance floor

About wedding venues in Santa Ynez, CA

California offers an incredible 840 miles of coastline, 3,000+ wineries and ancient redwoods for your wedding day. When you choose the Golden State, you're getting exceptional natural lighting for your ceremony across diverse settings from Mediterranean coastal zones to alpine mountain backdrops. Each region has its own distinctive character that can perfectly match your vision.

What Makes California Wedding Venues So Special?

Northern California's Napa Valley welcomes you with rolling vineyards and Spanish colonial architecture where intimate wine cave ceremonies create unforgettable moments. Head to Southern California and you'll find oceanfront venues like Duke's Malibu where you can exchange vows with the Pacific stretching out behind you while enjoying fresh coastal-inspired cuisine. Palm Springs offers dramatic desert venues with mountain backdrops and striking midcentury modern architecture that photographs beautifully.

How Much Do Wedding Venues in California Cost?

Wedding venues in California typically run between $9,600 and $11,700 which aligns nicely with the national range of $6,500-$12,000. This represents about 18% of your total wedding budget. Your overall costs will vary based on guest count:

  • 50 guests: $26,190
  • 100 guests: $43,692
  • 150 guests: $60,141
  • 200 guests: $74,836
  • 250 guests: $89,530
  • 300 guests: $104,224

Which California Venues Are Fully Accessible?

The Griffith House features wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout its Spanish-style grounds including the private ceremony lawn and separate preparation spaces for couples. You might also consider Holman Ranch Sunstone Winery and Villa del Sol d'Oro though you'll want to directly confirm their specific accessibility features when you visit. Accessibility options have improved greatly across California venues in recent years.

When Should You Book Your California Wedding Venue?

October leads venue inquiries in California with couples typically booking venues about 13 months (400 days) before their wedding date. If you're dreaming of a Northern California wine country wedding during peak season you'll want to book up to 18 months in advance. Southern California venues offer more flexibility especially during winter months when you can still enjoy beautiful weather while potentially securing better rates.

Where Can You Find Exceptional Culinary Experiences in California?

La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla delivers impeccable service with menu options from lobster bisque to perfectly prepared steak. You'll love Vibiana in Los Angeles with its chef-driven menus served in a stunning restored cathedral setting. Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park offers Michelin-star fine dining while Bali Hai Restaurant serves authentic Polynesian cuisine with breathtaking views overlooking San Diego Bay. California's culinary scene truly elevates the wedding experience.

How Do California Wedding Costs Break Down?

VendorAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$10,66518%
Catering$8,53214%
Florists$7,82113%
Bar Services$6,82611%
Photography$4,7648%
Wedding Planners$4,8358%
Videography$4,3097%
Hair & Makeup$6001%
Cake & Desserts$8181%

Which California Venues Offer Enhanced Remote Participation?

Parq Event Center in San Diego features state-of-the-art sound LED screens and projection walls that support advanced streaming capabilities for guests who can't attend in person. You'll find Exchange LA and Wing Tip in San Francisco offer flexible spaces that adapt beautifully for innovative tech integration. These can include virtual reality experiences interactive live streaming and 360-degree cameras that make remote guests feel like they're right there with you. Technology has transformed how we can include loved ones from anywhere in the world.

California offers an incredible 840 miles of coastline, 3,000+ wineries and ancient redwoods for your wedding day. When you choose the Golden State, you're getting exceptional natural lighting for your ceremony across diverse settings from Mediterranean coastal zones to alpine mountain backdrops. Each region has its own distinctive character that can perfectly match your vision.

What Makes California Wedding Venues So Special?

Northern California's Napa Valley welcomes you with rolling vineyards and Spanish colonial architecture where intimate wine cave ceremonies create unforgettable moments. Head to Southern California and you'll find oceanfront venues like Duke's Malibu where you can exchange vows with the Pacific stretching out behind you while enjoying fresh coastal-inspired cuisine. Palm Springs offers dramatic desert venues with mountain backdrops and striking midcentury modern architecture that photographs beautifully.

How Much Do Wedding Venues in California Cost?

Wedding venues in California typically run between $9,600 and $11,700 which aligns nicely with the national range of $6,500-$12,000. This represents about 18% of your total wedding budget. Your overall costs will vary based on guest count:

  • 50 guests: $26,190
  • 100 guests: $43,692
  • 150 guests: $60,141
  • 200 guests: $74,836
  • 250 guests: $89,530
  • 300 guests: $104,224

Which California Venues Are Fully Accessible?

The Griffith House features wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout its Spanish-style grounds including the private ceremony lawn and separate preparation spaces for couples. You might also consider Holman Ranch Sunstone Winery and Villa del Sol d'Oro though you'll want to directly confirm their specific accessibility features when you visit. Accessibility options have improved greatly across California venues in recent years.

When Should You Book Your California Wedding Venue?

October leads venue inquiries in California with couples typically booking venues about 13 months (400 days) before their wedding date. If you're dreaming of a Northern California wine country wedding during peak season you'll want to book up to 18 months in advance. Southern California venues offer more flexibility especially during winter months when you can still enjoy beautiful weather while potentially securing better rates.

Where Can You Find Exceptional Culinary Experiences in California?

La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla delivers impeccable service with menu options from lobster bisque to perfectly prepared steak. You'll love Vibiana in Los Angeles with its chef-driven menus served in a stunning restored cathedral setting. Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park offers Michelin-star fine dining while Bali Hai Restaurant serves authentic Polynesian cuisine with breathtaking views overlooking San Diego Bay. California's culinary scene truly elevates the wedding experience.

How Do California Wedding Costs Break Down?

VendorAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$10,66518%
Catering$8,53214%
Florists$7,82113%
Bar Services$6,82611%
Photography$4,7648%
Wedding Planners$4,8358%
Videography$4,3097%
Hair & Makeup$6001%
Cake & Desserts$8181%

Which California Venues Offer Enhanced Remote Participation?

Parq Event Center in San Diego features state-of-the-art sound LED screens and projection walls that support advanced streaming capabilities for guests who can't attend in person. You'll find Exchange LA and Wing Tip in San Francisco offer flexible spaces that adapt beautifully for innovative tech integration. These can include virtual reality experiences interactive live streaming and 360-degree cameras that make remote guests feel like they're right there with you. Technology has transformed how we can include loved ones from anywhere in the world.

What types of wedding venues are in Santa Ynez, CA?

What other Santa Ynez vendors will I need?

What other wedding venues are nearby?

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