How to Get Married at Alila Ventana Big Sur, California

Planning a Big Sur wedding? Alila Ventana (formerly Ventana Big Sur), perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific and nestled among ancient redwoods, offers a breathtaking and unforgettable backdrop. Here’s your definitive guide—to tying the knot at one of California’s most spectacular wedding destinations.

1. Scenic Ceremony Locations

• Sur Vista Terrace – Seats up to 70 guests on a cliffside terrace with sweeping ocean views—ideal for romantic, sun-drenched ceremonies.

• Ocean Meadow Lawn – A lush, manicured space accommodating up to 200 guests. Perfect for larger ceremonies with panoramic sea-and-forest vistas.

• Redwood Cathedral – A majestic grove offering an earthy, atmospheric ceremony spot for up to 100 guests under towering redwoods.

• Circle of Life – An intimate spot for very small gatherings (up to 10 guests), surrounded entirely by ancient forest serenity.

2. Reception Spaces & Guest Capacity

• The Loft – Rustic indoor space cozy enough for intimate receptions (up to ~70 guests), featuring a grand hearth and redwood views. ventanabigsur.com+1ventanabigsur.com+1

• Glass House Gallery – A striking ocean-view indoor venue for VIP dinners, ideal for 12–50 guests depending on package. Alila Hotels+1Alila Hotels+1

• Sky Terrace & Sur House Terraces – Open-air spaces for receptions and cocktail hours with chef-curated meals and ocean panoramas. ventanabigsur.com+8ventanabigsur.com+8Alila Hotels+8

Wedding Packages Overview

Alila Ventana offers tailored packages:

PackageGuestsIncluded HighlightsElopement2–102-night suite, Circle of Life or Sur Vista, champagne toast, referral to vendor listventanabigsur.com+13Alila Hotels+13Alila Hotels+13Intimate WeddingUp to 25Sur Vista ceremony, Sky Terrace reception + food/drinks Alila HotelsOcean View WeddingUp to 50Sur Vista, reception in the Loft (upgrade options available) Alila HotelsBig Sur WeddingUp to 175Ocean Meadow or Redwood Cathedral ceremony, Sur House reception, property buyouts available Alila Hotels

3. On‑Site Amenities & Accommodations

• 54 Rooms & Suites – Eco-friendly architecture blending organic materials, ocean- or forest-facing patios, fireplaces, and private hot tubs. oyster.com+1Los Angeles Times+1

• Glamping Tents – Luxe canvas tents with heated floors, fire pits—ideal for adventurous guests. oyster.com

• Dining & Spa – Inclusive meals at The Sur House, plus pools, Japanese hot baths, spa treatments, fitness, an art gallery, game room, and library. Alila Hotels+4ventanabigsur.com+4travelocity+4

• Event Support – Wedding coordinator, tables/chairs, linens, glassware, and vendor referrals are included or available a la carte. Alila Hotels+1Breezit+1

4. Location & Travel Logistics

• Proximity to Carmel – Only 28 miles south of Carmel, about a 40–45 minute drive along scenic Highway 1.ventanabigsur.com

• Nearest Airport

  • Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is about 1 hour away with flights from major cities.ventanabigsur.com+1travelocity+1

  • San Francisco International (SFO) is approximately 2½ hours by car. ventanabigsur.com

• Ground Transportation – Free area shuttle, valet, self-parking, and EV charging stations (including Tesla Superchargers) on-site.

5. Why Couples Love It

• Unrivaled Setting – Romantic ocean cliffs, towering redwoods, and luxury combined. Alila Hotels+1ventanabigsur.com+1

• All‑Inclusive Convenience – Inclusive meals, spa, and event packages reduce planning stress. Alila Hotelsventanabigsur.com

• Eco‑Chic Design – Rustic-modern aesthetics with sustainability at its core. Alila Hotels

6. Essential Tips

• Book Early – Especially for summer/fall weddings or full buyouts.

• Hire Local Vendors – Flora Gibson Photographer

• Plan Permits If Off-Site – For state parks or beach photoshoots, expect ~$400–$550 permit fees