As a NorCal wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to shoot at some truly incredible places. But Santa Cruz holds a special spot in my heart. It’s the go-to destination for anyone dreaming of a wedding surrounded by California redwoods. These trees are tall, iconic, and magical in a way that never gets old.

Every time I drive up here for a wedding, I catch myself saying the same thing: “This is amazing! I can’t believe I get to shoot here.” And honestly, that’s how I feel about every one of these Santa Cruz wedding venues. Each one brings something unique to your day, whether you’re going for woodsy, whimsical, or elegant.

Here are a few of my favorites that I think you’ll love too.

1. Waterfall Lodge

Waterfall Lodge is easily one of my favorite Santa Cruz wedding venues. It’s tucked deep in the redwoods, surrounded by huge, towering trees that make the whole place feel secluded and peaceful. All of the rooms have that cozy, lodge-like cabin vibe that’s super cute and inviting. It’s perfect for a wedding weekend getaway.

The ceremony space sits in a clearing in front of a redwood grove, and it’s absolutely stunning. Then, just down the hill, there’s a big barn where receptions are held. The barn itself is beautiful, but I especially love the back patio where dinner happens under strings of bulb lights. It feels like a forest fairytale in the evening. After dinner, everyone moves inside for dancing, and it always feels like the perfect ending to a perfect day.

2. Sequoia Retreat Center

Sequoia Retreat Center is right next to Waterfall Lodge. They’re sister venues that share the same street. Both offer that “wedding in the redwood forest” vibe that couples come to Santa Cruz for, so you can’t go wrong with either one.

Sequoia is definitely a bit more adventurous. It’s set on a steep hill, so guests get a little workout climbing stairs between the ceremony and reception spaces. But the views and atmosphere make it 100% worth it! The ceremony site sits in an open meadow with a beautiful staircase where the bride descends, and it’s always such a stunning scene.

The reception area at the top of the hill has a huge cabin for dinner and dancing, plus an outdoor deck with fire pits and little seating nooks everywhere. It’s warm and rustic, exactly the kind of place where everyone feels instantly at ease to mingle and enjoy.

3. Nestldown

Nestldown is definitely one of my favorite venues in the entire region. It’s straight out of a fairytale, and I kind of mean that literally. There’s a whole section of the property dedicated to this whimsical, fantasy garden theme.

This place is a photographer’s dream because it has so many diverse photo opportunities, and the venue was intentionally designed that way. You can have your ceremony under the massive redwood cathedral, take portraits by the lake and fountain, enjoy cocktails on the terrace, and then move to a big open field for dreamy golden-hour photos. Later, the reception takes place in the barn under a huge chandelier. It is all pure magic!

Nestldown gained a lot of attention when Twilight actress Ashley Greene got married here, and it’s easy to see why. It’s now known as the fairytale wedding venue, and it does not disappoint!

4. Hollins House at Pasatiempo

Hollins House is one of the most elegant and timeless Santa Cruz wedding venues. It has that old California charm paired with sweeping views of the hills and the coast. It’s a dream backdrop for golden-hour portraits.

The house itself is elegant without trying too hard and the gardens and terraces catch this warm, glowy light in the evenings that makes everything feel soft and romantic. When I’m shooting here, it’s easy to capture real emotion because the environment just puts everyone at ease. It’s relaxed, intimate, and naturally stunning.

For couples who want a luxury experience, Hollins House really gets the details right. The staff is warm and attentive, the food is amazing, and the flow of the venue makes your day feel elevated but not overly formal or stiff. It’s the kind of place where you can sip champagne on the lawn, laugh with your favorite people, and then have the most beautiful dinner as the sun sets behind you. It's the kind of venue that helps you make memories that look and feel timeless — which is exactly what most couples tell me they’re dreaming of.

5. Hilltop Hacienda Estate at Kennolyn

Hilltop Hacienda at Kennolyn is one of those venues you drive up to and immediately think, “Ohhhh, this is the vibe.” It’s tucked up in the Santa Cruz Mountains, surrounded by redwoods and drenched in that warm, golden California sunlight.

The Spanish-style hacienda gives everything this cozy, earthy, romantic feel. Think terracotta tiles, wooden beams, open courtyards, and charming little corners that just beg to be photographed. As a photographer, I love that it feels private and quiet, like you’ve got your own little world for the day. And the light? Stunning. Soft, golden, flattering… the kind that makes everyone look like they’re in a movie. My dream!

You can have your ceremony overlooking the hills, cocktail hour under the trees, and dinner in the courtyard beneath twinkle lights. It’s elevated without trying too hard, just a perfect mix of intention and ease. And that’s where the best photos happen, when everyone is just genuinely having the best time.

6. Roaring Camp

Roaring Camp is such a FUN venue! It combines redwoods, railroads, and that adventurous Santa Cruz spirit all in one. The bride and groom and their guests literally hop aboard the train that winds up through the forest to a mountaintop redwood ceremony site. It’s magical!

On the ride back down, I always grab some of my favorite photos: the newlyweds celebrating on the train, laughing with their wedding party, soaking in the moment. Back at the main site, the venue feels like a western movie set, with dirt roads, rustic charm, and the sound of the train horn echoing in the background.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy forest lodge, a Spanish-style hacienda, or an elegant estate overlooking the coast, Santa Cruz wedding venues have something for everyone. This area is one of the most magical corners of California to get married in, full of towering redwoods, golden light, and venues that feel like they were made for love stories.

If you’re planning your own wedding in Santa Cruz and want photos that feel as natural and alive as the landscape itself, I’d love to be part of it. Every time I shoot here, I fall in love with this place all over again and I’d be thrilled to help you capture your own story among the redwoods.