12 Best Malibu Wedding Venues 2026 | Photographer's Guide
Quick Answer — The best Malibu wedding venues include Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards, Calamigos Ranch, and Malibu West Beach Club. Which is best for you depends on what you’re looking for: luxury vineyard, lush garden greenery or coastal views.
Prices range from $8K-$35K+ with peak season April-October.
Hi, I'm Sage, a wedding photographer based in Los Angeles who has captured over 200 weddings across Southern California. If you are planning your wedding in Malibu, you are in one of the most stunning destinations in the region. From private oceanfront estates and beachfront venues to scenic vineyards and lush garden retreats, Malibu offers a wide variety of wedding locations for every couple’s dream celebration.
In this guide, you’ll find the 12 best Malibu wedding venues, organized by style: Oceanview/Coastal, Vineyard/Estate, and Garden/Canyon/Ranch. Whether you imagine an intimate oceanfront wedding, an elegant vineyard ceremony, or a romantic garden celebration, these venues provide breathtaking scenery, perfect natural lighting, and unforgettable backdrops for your wedding photos. As a Malibu wedding photographer, my goal is to help you choose a venue where every moment can be captured beautifully. These locations are not only stunning for your ceremony but also ideal for creating timeless, memorable images that will last a lifetime.
Quick Reference: Top 12 Malibu Wedding Venues at a Glance
Oceanview / Coastal
| Venue Name | Capacity | Location | Price Tier | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malibu West Beach Club | 150–200 | Malibu | $$ | Private beachfront |
| Bel-Air Bay Club | 200–400 | Pacific Palisades | $$$ | Ocean-view terrace |
| Malibu Sea View Estate | 100–400 | Malibu | $$$$ | Expansive ocean & mountain views |
| The Surfrider Malibu | 50–80 | Malibu | $$$ | Boutique beachfront |
Vineyard / Estate
| Venue Name | Capacity | Location | Price Tier | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards | 100–125 | Malibu | $$$$ | Tuscan-style vineyard |
| Saddlerock Ranch | 200–500 | Malibu | $$$ | Rolling hills & vineyards |
| Malibu Solstice Vineyards | 50–100 | Malibu | $$$ | Rustic elegance |
| Stone Mountain Estates | 100–200 | Malibu | $$$ | Panoramic mountain & vineyard views |
Garden / Canyon / Ranch
| Venue Name | Capacity | Location | Price Tier | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calamigos Ranch | 150–800 | Malibu | $$$ | Canyon estate with waterfalls |
| Deer Creek Ridge | 100–200 | Malibu | $$$ | Hillside estate |
| Cielo Farms | 100–200 | Malibu | $$$ | Farm & vineyard |
| Oak Canyon Ranch | 150–300 | Agoura Hills (Malibu Canyon) | $$ | Secluded oak grove with natural creek |
Price Guide
$ = Under $8k
$$ = $8k-$15k
$$$ = $15k-$25k
$$$$ = $25k+
Why Choose Malibu for Your Wedding
Malibu weddings offer a truly breathtaking setting along California’s iconic coastline. Couples can exchange vows at a private oceanfront estate, a scenic vineyard, or a lush garden tucked into the hills, all within easy reach of Los Angeles.
With more than 280 days of sunshine each year and average temperatures between 60 and 75°F, outdoor celebrations in Malibu are reliably beautiful and comfortable for you and your guests no matter the season.
Malibu is also home to world-class wedding vendors including photographers, florists, caterers, and planners, making planning smooth and stress-free. Its dramatic coastlines, rolling vineyards, and natural beauty often mean you need minimal decoration, allowing the landscape to provide an unforgettable backdrop for your ceremony and photos.
Oceanview / Coastal
1. Malibu West Beach Club
Venue Type: Private Beachfront Club
Guest Capacity: 100–150
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (oceanfront terrace and indoor spaces)
Best Season: April–October
Parking: On-site available
Getting Ready Spaces: Beachside suites
Why Photographers Love It
Malibu West Beach Club is a standout among Malibu wedding venues for its direct beach access and private terrace. Photographers can capture the ocean, sand, and sky in every shot. The clubhouse’s bright interiors and natural wood finishes offer a mix of indoor and outdoor shooting options, making it easy to capture both intimate moments and group photos. What I love most is the sense of seclusion—the beach feels private, even though you’re just minutes from Malibu’s main road. Golden hour over the water creates cinematic, editorial-style images that couples love. The combination of indoor and outdoor areas offers flexibility for portraits and group photos.
What Couples Should Know
This venue is perfect for intimate weddings or small receptions, accommodating 100–150 guests comfortably. Multiple ceremony sites include the terrace for beachside vows and the indoor club for backup or reception use. On-site parking and beachside suites make logistics simple. Catering is flexible with approved vendors, and the venue staff assist with event flow. Book early for weekends in peak season to secure ideal ceremony timing.
The Vibe
Relaxed coastal elegance with private beachfront access. Ideal for couples who want the beach without crowds, sophistication without formality.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Offers excellent value for a private beachfront Malibu wedding, including terraces, indoor spaces, and flexibility for small to medium celebrations.
Contact: Malibu West Beach Club
2. Bel‑Air Bay Club
Venue Type: Oceanview Estate
Guest Capacity: 150–200
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (lawn terraces and indoor rooms)
Best Season: Year-round
Parking: Ample on-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Bel‑Air Bay Club offers photographers sweeping ocean views and manicured terraces. The combination of classic architecture and panoramic scenery creates versatile photo opportunities. I particularly enjoy capturing sunset ceremonies on the terrace, with reflections on the water and the elegant lines of the estate in the frame. Interior spaces have ample natural light, perfect for preparation shots and intimate portraits.
What Couples Should Know
The venue accommodates mid-sized weddings with flexible ceremony and reception areas. Catering and event coordination are handled by an experienced team. Multiple terraces allow cocktail hour, ceremony, and reception to flow seamlessly while maintaining privacy.
The Vibe
Timeless coastal sophistication. Couples who value elegant ocean views and classic architecture will feel at home here.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Ideal for couples seeking flexibility and beautiful ocean vistas.
Contact: Bel‑Air Bay Club
3. Malibu Sea View Estate
Venue Type: Private Oceanview Estate
Guest Capacity: 100–125
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (terraces and interior estate rooms)
Best Season: March–October
Parking: On-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Malibu Sea View Estate delivers stunning backdrops for Malibu oceanfront wedding photography. The terraces overlook the Pacific, providing dynamic compositions for portraits and wide-angle shots. Interior spaces are bright and airy, ideal for capturing details and intimate moments. I love the combination of manicured lawns, terrace settings, and dramatic ocean views, which ensures variety throughout the day. Golden hour over the cliffs produces exceptional natural lighting for editorial-style photos.
What Couples Should Know
This estate is best for intimate weddings. Coordination and catering can be arranged through trusted vendors. Private terraces and gardens allow for multiple ceremony and reception setups. Its exclusivity guarantees a serene environment, perfect for couples seeking privacy and elegance.
The Vibe
Exclusive, luxury coastal estate with intimate, romantic settings.
Pricing Insight
Ultra-luxury tier ($$$$) Reflecting the private location, amenities, and spectacular ocean views.
Contact: Malibu Sea View Estate
4. The Surfrider Malibu
Venue Type: Boutique Modern Hotel
Guest Capacity: 50–100
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (beach terrace and indoor lounge)
Best Season: Year-round
Parking: Limited on-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Boutique suites
Why Photographers Love It
The Surfrider Malibu is perfect for intimate Malibu beach weddings. The terrace offers sweeping coastal views for ceremony photos, while modern interiors provide soft light for detail shots and getting-ready images. Sunset over the water adds a natural glow to portraits, making every frame cinematic. Its boutique scale makes it ideal for couples who want a private, editorial feel.
What Couples Should Know
Best suited for small weddings, welcome parties, or rehearsal dinners. Indoor and outdoor spaces ensure flexibility. Catering and event coordination are available on-site, and the intimate scale allows personalized attention from staff.
The Vibe
Chic, modern, and relaxed coastal elegance. Perfect for couples who want a stylish, intimate wedding with ocean views.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Offers a private beachside experience with boutique charm.
Contact: The Surfrider Malibu
Vineyard / Estate
5. Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards
Venue Type: Tuscan-Style Vineyard Estate
Guest Capacity: 100–125
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (vineyard terraces and indoor estate)
Best Season: March–October
Parking: Ample on-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards is a top choice for Malibu vineyard weddings. The Tuscan-inspired architecture, terraced vineyards, and rolling hills provide dramatic vistas for editorial photos. Terraces, arches, and manicured gardens create variety in portraits, while sunsets over the vineyards add warm, golden lighting. I love capturing both intimate moments in the gardens and wide shots of the estate framed by vineyard rows.
What Couples Should Know
This venue works beautifully for intimate to mid-size weddings. Multiple terraces allow flexible ceremony and reception layouts. Catering, rentals, and coordination are available through preferred vendors. Its private, secluded setting ensures a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Book early for weekends during peak season for the best sunset ceremony spots.
The Vibe
Romantic Tuscan elegance with panoramic vineyard views. Couples who prioritize exclusive, picturesque settings will love this estate.
Pricing Insight
Ultra-luxury tier ($$$$) Reflecting its high-end services and iconic location.
Contact: Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards
6. Saddlerock Ranch
Venue Type: Ranch-Vineyard Hybrid
Guest Capacity: 150–200
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (vineyards, gardens, and indoor spaces)
Best Season: March–October
Parking: On-site available
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Saddlerock Ranch is a photographer’s favorite for Malibu vineyard weddings thanks to its rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyard rows. The ranch provides endless variety for portraits, from rustic barns to manicured lawns, vineyard terraces, and panoramic hills. Sunset light over the vineyard hills creates magical golden hour portraits. I also love the eclectic details: stone paths, wooden gates, and vineyards that feel timeless and editorial.
What Couples Should Know
This venue accommodates medium-sized weddings comfortably. Ceremony and reception spaces can be customized, allowing for unique layouts that maximize views. Catering is flexible with approved vendors. The ranch’s secluded setting ensures privacy, and multiple terraces allow guests to enjoy cocktail hour, ceremony, and reception in distinct, connected spaces.
The Vibe
Rustic elegance meets vineyard charm. Saddlerock Ranch attracts couples who love natural beauty, variety in photography locations, and a relaxed, yet refined, atmosphere.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Offers excellent value for vineyard charm, flexibility, and scenic backdrops in Malibu.
Contact: Saddlerock Ranch
7. Malibu Solstice Vineyards
Venue Type: Elegant Vineyard Estate
Guest Capacity: 100–150
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (vineyard terraces and indoor spaces)
Best Season: March–October
Parking: Ample on-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Malibu Solstice Vineyards is a top choice for couples seeking intimate Malibu vineyard weddings. The estate’s manicured gardens and terraced vineyards create multiple opportunities for editorial-style portraits. I love how the rows of grapevines naturally frame ceremony and couple portraits, and the sunlight over the vineyards produces rich, warm tones for photography. Interior spaces provide bright, elegant spots for getting-ready photos.
What Couples Should Know
Ideal for smaller weddings, this venue offers flexible ceremony locations and reception layouts. Catering and rentals are available through preferred vendors. Its secluded location ensures privacy while allowing easy access for guests. The terraces and indoor rooms provide weather backup without compromising aesthetics.
The Vibe
Elegant, intimate vineyard romance. Couples seeking privacy, greenery, and a refined yet relaxed experience will love this setting.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Provides excellent value for a scenic vineyard wedding with full amenities in Malibu.
Contact: Malibu Solstice Vineyards
8. Stone Mountain Estates
Venue Type: Luxury Mountain Estate
Guest Capacity: 150–200
Location: Malibu Hills
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor ceremony terrace and indoor event space
Best Season: April–October
Parking: Valet or shuttle recommended
Getting Ready Spaces: Private suites available
Why Photographers Love It
Stone Mountain Estates is one of Malibu’s most cinematic wedding venues, sitting high above the coastline with panoramic mountain and valley views. The stone architecture and dramatic elevation create a naturally grand atmosphere. The ceremony terrace overlooks vineyards and canyon ridges, offering a sense of peaceful isolation that translates beautifully in photos. Golden hour here is spectacular, with soft light bouncing off the stone walls and mountain peaks. Every angle offers visual depth and natural texture—perfect for couples who want that elevated, editorial aesthetic in their gallery.
What Couples Should Know
The venue’s location provides total privacy and stunning views, but logistics like transportation and valet coordination are important to plan in advance. It’s ideal for couples looking for a true estate experience with a mix of sophistication and nature. The property includes preparation suites, flexible catering options, and a professional event team accustomed to high-end weddings.
The Vibe
Refined mountain luxury with vineyard elegance. Stone Mountain Estates appeals to couples who love natural grandeur, architectural beauty, and the tranquility of a private Malibu setting.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$$). Includes private use of the estate and terraces, coordination services, and valet parking.
Contact: Stone Mountain Estates
Garden / Canyon / Ranch
9. Calamigos Ranch
Venue Type: Forested Canyon Estate
Guest Capacity: 150–250
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (forest gardens, oak tree groves, and indoor spaces)
Best Season: Year-round (peak blooms March–May)
Parking: On-site available
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Calamigos Ranch is a top choice for Malibu garden weddings. Its towering oak trees, lush gardens, and cascading waterfalls create dynamic and romantic backdrops for photography. I love capturing bridal portraits under the tree canopy, wide-angle shots of the estate, and intimate moments along the garden paths. The variety of spaces allows me to create editorial-style images throughout the day without leaving the property.
What Couples Should Know
Ideal for mid-sized weddings, Calamigos Ranch offers flexible indoor and outdoor ceremony options. Preferred caterers provide farm-to-table menus, and the staff ensures smooth event flow. Multiple terraces and gardens allow cocktail hour, ceremony, and reception to each have distinct settings. Weather backup is available indoors without sacrificing style.
The Vibe
Romantic, lush, and versatile. Couples who love greenery, rustic elegance, and variety in photography will feel at home here.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Provides excellent value for multiple settings, gardens, and flexibility for weddings in Malibu.
Contact: Calamigos Ranch
10. Deer Creek Ridge
Venue Type: Hillside Estate with Moroccan Influence
Guest Capacity: 100–150
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (hillside terraces and indoor estate)
Best Season: March–October
Parking: On-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Deer Creek Ridge offers photographers a unique setting for Malibu canyon weddings. The hillside terraces and Moroccan-influenced architecture provide distinctive backdrops for editorial photos. I enjoy capturing intimate portraits with sweeping canyon views, and the sun over the hills creates natural golden hour light. The property offers multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, which keeps photography varied and interesting.
What Couples Should Know
Perfect for smaller weddings, this venue provides flexible ceremony options and reception layouts. Catering and coordination are handled through approved vendors. Its elevated location ensures privacy and unforgettable views.
The Vibe
Romantic hillside elegance with global influences. Couples who want something unique and intimate in Malibu will love this venue.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Offers excellent value for its views, architectural character, and exclusive setting.
Contact: Deer Creek Ridge
11. Cielo Farms
Venue Type: Farm-and-Vineyard Estate
Guest Capacity: 120–180
Location: Malibu
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (vineyards, gardens, and indoor spaces)
Best Season: March–October
Parking: On-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Estate suites
Why Photographers Love It
Cielo Farms is perfect for Malibu rustic-chic weddings. Vineyards, gardens, and open farm fields provide a wide variety of shooting locations. I love capturing ceremony shots among the vines and reception photos in the garden with string lights. The property’s relaxed vibe allows for candid, editorial-style images, and the natural light is excellent throughout the day.
What Couples Should Know
Ideal for mid-sized weddings, Cielo Farms offers multiple ceremony and reception setups. Catering, rentals, and coordination are available through preferred vendors. Its relaxed yet refined aesthetic allows creative styling while ensuring comfort and elegance.
The Vibe
Rustic sophistication with vineyard charm. Couples who want a flexible, stylish, and nature-oriented venue will feel at home here.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Provides excellent value for the scenic landscapes, indoor/outdoor flexibility, and creative opportunities.
Contact: Cielo Farms
12. Oak Canyon Ranch
Venue Type: Canyon / Ranch Estate
Guest Capacity: 150–300
Location: Agoura Hills (Malibu Canyon)
Indoor/Outdoor: Both (canyon lawns, oak groves, and event barns)
Best Season: Spring through Fall
Parking: Ample on-site
Getting Ready Spaces: Private bridal and groom suites
Why Photographers Love It
Oak Canyon Ranch provides stunning Malibu ranch wedding photography opportunities. The sprawling oak groves, natural creek, and rustic barns give a natural and editorial feel. I enjoy capturing couples along tree-lined paths, wide shots of the canyon, and intimate moments beneath the canopy of oaks. Sunset over the hills creates perfect warm light for portraits and cinematic images.
What Couples Should Know
The ranch works well for medium-sized weddings and offers flexible ceremony and reception layouts. Catering, coordination, and rentals can be arranged with preferred vendors. Its secluded setting ensures privacy while remaining convenient for Malibu-area guests. The natural beauty of the canyon requires minimal décor, letting California landscapes create the perfect backdrop.
The Vibe
Rustic elegance meets serene outdoor romance. Couples who love nature, privacy, and a relaxed yet sophisticated ranch wedding will feel at home at Oak Canyon Ranch.
Pricing Insight
Premium tier ($$$) Offers excellent value for its combination of privacy, versatility, and picturesque canyon landscapes.
Contact: Oak Canyon Ranch
How to Choose Your Perfect Malibu Wedding Venue
With 12 stunning options across three distinct styles, how do you find the right one for your wedding? Here’s my framework for choosing a Malibu wedding venue:
1. Define Your Style First
Which type of setting speaks to you?
Oceanview/Coastal — For couples who love waves, sand, and dramatic seaside backdrops
Vineyard/Estate — For romantic couples drawn to rolling hills, vineyards, and timeless elegance
Garden/Canyon/Ranch — For intimate, rustic celebrations surrounded by greenery and natural beauty
2. Consider Your Guest Count
Your number of guests immediately narrows your options:
Under 100 guests — Focus on intimate estates or boutique venues
100–250 guests — Most Malibu venues work perfectly
250+ guests — Consider larger coastal estates or ranch properties
3. Evaluate Your Budget Realistically
$ (Under $8k) — Smaller estates or permit-based venues, often DIY-friendly
$$ ($8k–$15k) — Mid-tier venues with some services included
$$$ ($15k–$25k) — Premium estates and vineyard venues with full amenities
$$$$ ($25k+) — Ultra-luxury oceanfront or vineyard estates
4. Prioritize What Matters Most
Rank your top factors: views, architecture, weather reliability, guest convenience, catering, vendor flexibility, and photo opportunities. Your priorities will guide the perfect venue choice.
5. Consider Season and Timing
Beach and coastal venues — Best from April to October
Vineyards and gardens — Peak bloom March through May
Indoor venues — Flexible year-round
6. Visit During Your Ceremony Time
Lighting is everything. Tour venues at the same time of day as your wedding to see how natural light falls and how the space feels at your celebration time.
7. Think About Guest Experience
Are accommodations nearby?
Is parking easy?
How long is the drive for guests?
Is there a weather backup plan?
Planning Your Malibu Wedding? I’d Love to Help
If you’re drawn to any of these breathtaking Malibu venues, I’d be honored to capture your day beautifully. As a Malibu wedding photographer, I know the best photo spots, ideal lighting, and timing requirements for each location. From oceanfront estates to vineyard ceremonies and rustic garden celebrations, I can help you make the most of your venue and create timeless memories that last a lifetime.
Malibu wedding venues typically range from $8,000 to $35,000+ depending on the location and season. Budget-friendly options like Oak Canyon Ranch start around $8,000-$15,000, while luxury oceanfront estates like Malibu Rocky Oaks and Malibu Sea View Estate can exceed $25,000-$35,000. Mid-tier vineyard and garden venues like Calamigos Ranch and Saddlerock Ranch average $15,000-$25,000. Peak season (April-October) commands premium pricing, while off-season dates may offer better rates.
April through October is ideal for Malibu weddings, with warm temperatures (60-75°F) and minimal rainfall. Peak wedding season runs May-September when ocean views are clearest and vineyard landscapes are lush. March and November offer excellent value with slightly cooler weather but still reliable conditions. Winter weddings (December-February) are possible but may require indoor backup plans due to occasional rain. Malibu enjoys over 280 days of sunshine annually, making most months suitable for outdoor celebrations.
Book 12-18 months in advance for peak season weekends (May-September), especially for popular venues like Malibu Rocky Oaks, Calamigos Ranch, and Saddlerock Ranch. Ultra-luxury estates like Malibu Sea View Estate often book 18-24 months ahead. For off-season dates (November-March) or weekday weddings, 6-12 months is typically sufficient. Smaller boutique venues like The Surfrider Malibu may have more flexibility, but prime sunset ceremony times fill quickly year-round.
Several Malibu venues specialize in intimate celebrations: The Surfrider Malibu (50-80 guests) offers boutique beachfront charm, Malibu Solstice Vineyards (50-100 guests) provides elegant vineyard privacy, and Malibu Sea View Estate (100-125 guests) delivers exclusive oceanfront luxury. Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards and Deer Creek Ridge also accommodate 100-125 guests beautifully. These venues offer the same stunning backdrops as larger estates but with a more personal, exclusive atmosphere perfect for close family and friends.
For private venues like Malibu Rocky Oaks, Calamigos Ranch, or Saddlerock Ranch, permits are handled by the venue and included in your rental fee. If you're planning a ceremony on public Malibu beaches (like Zuma Beach or El Matador), you'll need a special events permit from LA County Parks and Recreation, which costs $150-$500 depending on guest count. Private beach clubs like Malibu West Beach Club handle all permitting internally. Always confirm permit requirements with your specific venue during the booking process.
Most Malibu private estates offer flexible catering with approved vendor lists. Venues like Malibu Rocky Oaks, Saddlerock Ranch, Calamigos Ranch, and Cielo Farms work with preferred caterer lists but often allow outside options with venue approval. Full-service venues like Bel-Air Bay Club and The Surfrider Malibu typically use in-house or exclusive catering partners. Always ask about corkage fees, kitchen facilities, and catering restrictions during venue tours—some estates require licensed and insured caterers with Malibu experience.
Malibu Canyon has the highest concentration of venues including Calamigos Ranch, Saddlerock Ranch, and Cielo Farms—ideal for vineyard and garden weddings. Central Malibu (near PCH) features oceanfront options like Malibu West Beach Club and The Surfrider Malibu. Malibu Hills offers elevated estates like Malibu Rocky Oaks and Stone Mountain Estates with panoramic views. Malibu Wine Country (inland) provides rustic vineyard venues like Malibu Solstice Vineyards. Each area offers distinct aesthetics—coastal, vineyard, or canyon—allowing couples to choose based on their vision.
Most Malibu venue fees cover exclusive site access, ceremony and reception spaces, tables and chairs, parking, and getting-ready suites. Mid-tier venues ($15,000-$25,000) often include event coordination, basic rentals, and preferred vendor access. Luxury estates ($25,000+) may include premium amenities like valet parking, on-site catering kitchens, and extended rental hours. Items typically NOT included: catering, alcohol, florals, photography, DJ/entertainment, and specialty rentals (linens, glassware, lighting). Always request an itemized breakdown during venue tours to understand exactly what's included in your rental fee.
Yes, several Malibu venues offer all-inclusive or semi-inclusive packages. Bel-Air Bay Club provides full-service coordination with in-house catering and event planning. Calamigos Ranch offers packages that include venue rental, catering, and coordination services. The Surfrider Malibu has boutique wedding packages with hotel accommodations, catering, and event planning included. All-inclusive options typically start at $200-$350 per guest and simplify planning by bundling services, though they may offer less vendor flexibility than DIY-style estates.
Malibu is extremely accessible for destination weddings, located just 30-45 minutes from LAX airport via Pacific Coast Highway. Most venues are within 10-20 minutes of Malibu's hotel corridor along PCH, which offers accommodations ranging from boutique hotels like The Surfrider to luxury resorts like Malibu Beach Inn. For large guest lists, consider shuttle services from Santa Monica or providing rideshare recommendations, as parking can be limited at some venues. The scenic drive from LA makes Malibu feel like a destination while remaining convenient for Southern California guests.
Beach venues (Malibu West Beach Club, Bel-Air Bay Club) offer oceanfront ceremonies, coastal breezes, and sunset views but may require weather contingencies and have more wind. Vineyard venues (Malibu Rocky Oaks, Saddlerock Ranch) provide rolling hills, Tuscan-style elegance, and excellent golden hour photography with more climate control. Canyon/Garden venues (Calamigos Ranch, Oak Canyon Ranch) feature lush greenery, oak trees, and forest-like privacy with natural shade and year-round reliability. Your choice depends on aesthetic preference—dramatic coastal, romantic vineyard, or intimate garden settings.
Ready to Book Your Malibu Wedding Photographer?
Once you've chosen your perfect venue, the next step is finding a photographer who can capture its unique beauty. I've photographed weddings at venues throughout Malibu and understand how to work with each location's lighting, timing, and special features.
Whether you're planning an oceanfront celebration, garden romance, historic affair, or urban warehouse party, I'd love to discuss photographing your Malibu wedding.
