If you’re dreaming of a luxury oceanfront wedding with breathtaking views, The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel is one of the best venues to consider in Southern California. Sitting 150 feet above the Pacific Ocean, this Dana Point resort offers everything you need for a stunning and unforgettable wedding day—incredible ceremony spots, elegant ballrooms, and world-class service. Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, this venue blends coastal beauty with five-star hospitality, making it a top pick for couples looking for a scenic, high-end wedding experience. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand and elaborate celebration, a Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel wedding will give you and your guests an unforgettable experience by the sea.
Wedding Ceremony Locations at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel has three incredible outdoor ceremony spaces, all with unbeatable ocean views. No matter which one you choose, your guests will have a front-row seat to the beauty of the California coast.
The Monarch Lawn
If you want a quiet, intimate setting, the Monarch Lawn is perfect. It’s a private courtyard with incredible ocean views and is exclusively used for weddings in the Plaza Room.
The Bluff
For a larger wedding, The Bluff is an amazing option. With space for up to 550 guests, this oceanfront lawn offers sweeping views of the coastline and crashing waves below.
The Pacific Promenade Lawn
For a ceremony with a mix of greenery and ocean views, the Pacific Promenade Lawn is a great choice. Lined with colorful flowers and tropical plants, this beautifully landscaped lawn can host up to 275 guests.
Wedding Reception Options at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel
Whether you’re envisioning a grand ballroom celebration or a more intimate indoor reception, The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel has a variety of elegant spaces to fit your vision.
The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom – The Largest and Most Grand Reception Space
The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom is the largest event space on the property, offering California elegance with modern touches. Featuring multiple crystal chandeliers, a neutral color palette, and a spacious layout, this venue can accommodate up to 550 guests, making it the perfect choice for lavish, large-scale receptions such as a big Indian Wedding.
The Pacific Promenade Ballroom – Stunning Ocean Views from Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
For couples who want ocean views throughout their reception, the Pacific Promenade Ballroom is a great fit. This space features floor-to-ceiling windows, a grand marble foyer, and an elegant coastal-inspired design, making it one of the most unique ballrooms in Southern California. It accommodates up to 275 guests.
The Pavilion – A Stylish Space with a Private Oceanfront Terrace
The Pavilion is a stunning ocean-facing reception space featuring crystal chandeliers, domed ceilings, and French doors. It’s a wonderful choice for couples who want a mix of indoor elegance and outdoor charm, with space for up to 200 guests.
Favorite Wedding Photo Locations at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel
With stunning ocean views, lush gardens, and elegant architecture, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel is a dream location for wedding photos. Here are some of the best spots to capture your big day.
Outdoor Ocean View Locations
The Monarch Lawn, The Bluff, and the Pacific Promenade Lawn offer classic Southern California backdrops for wedding photos. Whether you’re taking romantic couple’s portraits or fun group shots with your wedding party, these spots are picture-perfect, especially at sunset.
The Bridal Suites – A Relaxing Space for Pre-Wedding Moments
The bridal dressing suites at the Ritz-Carlton are designed for relaxation and getting ready in style. With huge windows, ocean views, and elegant decor, these suites are perfect for candid pre-wedding photos with your bridal party. Some even have private fire pits, adding an extra touch of luxury.
The Grand Staircase – A Classic & Elegant Backdrop
The grand staircase is a must-have photo location at the Ritz. Whether you’re capturing your first look or just a few timeless portraits, the sweeping staircase and sparkling chandelier create a stunning, sophisticated setting.
The Courtyard – A Hidden Gem for Photos
For group shots or couple’s portraits, the courtyard is a great option. It’s shaded, surrounded by greenery, and works well at any time of day, making it a flexible and gorgeous backdrop.
Hallways and Interior Lounges
The hallways and interior areas of the Ritz are well decorated and full of natural light, making it a great location for a few photos.
Salt Creek Beach – A Breathtaking Off-Site Photo Option
While Salt Creek Beach isn’t part of the resort, it’s just a short golf cart ride away. If you’re up for a short walk, the cliffs, sandy shores, and crashing waves make for some of the most beautiful wedding photos in Orange County.
Nighttime Wedding Photography at the Ritz-Carlton
If you love sunset and nighttime photography, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel is the perfect spot. From golden-hour portraits by the ocean to romantic, moonlit shots with the city lights in the background, you’ll have endless opportunities to capture stunning evening wedding photos.
Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel Wedding FAQ
Can we have amplified music at our wedding?
Yes! The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel allows amplified music in all indoor spaces until 2 AM.
How many guests can we invite?
The guest capacity varies by venue:
- Monarch Bay Sunset Terrace: Up to 75 guests
- The Pacific Promenade Ballroom: Up to 275 guests
- The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom: Up to 700 guests
Is the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel pet-friendly?
Yes! The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel is a pet-friendly hotel, so your four-legged friends can be part of your special day.
📍 Location: One Ritz-Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
If you’re searching for an oceanfront wedding venue in Orange County that offers breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and world-class service, a Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel wedding is an incredible choice. Let us help you capture every unforgettable moment—contact us today to learn more!
