After photographing hundreds of weddings across Orange County, I've seen the inside of nearly every venue OC has to offer. Some are jaw-dropping. Some are overpriced. And some hidden gems most couples never discover.
Here's my honest guide to the best wedding venues in Orange County, with tips on what each one looks like through the lens, the best times of day for photos, and which ones give you the most value.
Oceanfront Venues
The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Coast
Pelican Hill is the crown jewel of Orange County weddings. The rotunda, with its 180-degree Pacific views, creates a ceremony backdrop that's almost impossible to photograph badly. Even on an overcast day, the coastal light is gorgeous.
Best photo spots: The rotunda at golden hour, the Coliseum Pool terrace, and the circular staircase in the main building. Budget: Premium. Expect $50,000+ for a full wedding. But the photos will be portfolio-defining. View our Orange County wedding photography packages
Montage Laguna Beach
Montage sits on a bluff above the ocean in Laguna Beach, and the sunset ceremonies here are some of the most dramatic I've ever shot. The craftsman-style architecture gives everything a warm, California-luxe feel.
Best photo spots: The ocean-view lawn during golden hour, the resort lobby with its ocean backdrop, and the beach trail below the property. Budget: High-end. Similar to Pelican Hill, this is a splurge venue.
Casa Romantica, San Clemente
Casa Romantica is an underrated gem. This historic estate sits on a cliff above San Clemente beach with Spanish colonial architecture, lush gardens, and panoramic ocean views. It's one of my favorite venues to shoot because the variety of backdrops in one location is unmatched.
Best photo spots: The front garden with the ocean behind, the archway courtyard, and the cliff-edge terrace at sunset. Budget: Mid-range. Significantly more affordable than Pelican Hill or Montage, with equally beautiful photos.
Garden & Estate Venues
Rancho Las Lomas, Silverado Canyon
Tucked into Silverado Canyon, Rancho Las Lomas feels like a private wildlife reserve. The ceremony site sits beneath towering oak trees, and the grounds include gardens, a lake, and even exotic animals. It photographs beautifully in every season.
Best photo spots: The oak-canopy ceremony site, the bridge over the lake, and the reception courtyard with string lights at dusk. Budget: Mid-range to high. The all-inclusive packages are actually great value when you factor in everything included.
The Franciscan Gardens, San Juan Capistrano
Located next to the historic Mission, Franciscan Gardens offers old-world charm with exposed brick, garden pathways, and a rustic-elegant atmosphere. Intimate weddings thrive here.
Best photo spots: The vine-covered ceremony wall, the garden pathway arches, and portraits by the Mission's stone walls. Budget: Affordable. One of the best value venues in OC for couples who want character without the price tag.Modern & Industrial Venues
The Colony House, Anaheim
If you want a modern, Instagram-worthy venue, Colony House delivers. Clean white walls, industrial windows, and abundant natural light make this venue a photographer's dream. The rooftop has a view of the Anaheim skyline including the Disneyland fireworks.
Best photo spots: The main hall with its floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooftop at blue hour, and the minimalist staircase. Budget: Mid-range. The bright, airy space means you need less decoration, which can save money overall.
Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach
Balboa Bay Resort sits right on the harbor, offering a more refined, nautical-chic wedding experience. The waterfront ballroom and outdoor terrace are spectacular at sunset.
Best photo spots: The harbor dock at golden hour, the waterfront terrace, and the club lobby's grand entrance. Budget: Mid-range to high. The waterfront location is worth the premium if coastal elegance is your vibe.Insider Tips From a Wedding Photographer
After years of shooting at these venues, here's what most couples don't think about:
Book a venue visit at the same time of day as your ceremony. Light changes everything. A venue that looks magical at golden hour might feel flat at noon. Ask about photo-friendly timelines. Some venues have tight schedules between events that limit your portrait time. At places like Pelican Hill, you can negotiate early access to the grounds for couple portraits before the ceremony. Consider the season. Orange County's coastal venues are fogged in during June ("June Gloom"). September and October offer the best light. Warm, golden, and reliable. Don't overlook the getting-ready rooms. Some venues have gorgeous bridal suites with natural light (Montage, Pelican Hill). Others stick you in a windowless conference room. This matters more than you'd think, because getting-ready photos are some of the most emotional moments of the day.Start Your Wedding Journey
Every venue looks different through the lens. As Orange County wedding photographers, we know the best angles, the best light, and the best moments at each of these locations. If you're planning an OC wedding, we'd love to help you capture it.
View our wedding packages or claim your free engagement session to meet your photographer before the big day.
