Villa MaraCarmel
Guests arrive at Villa Mara Carmel to sweeping coastal views and the sound of waves below—a Carmel-by-the-Sea hotel where the ceremony takes place steps from the Pacific.
- Ceremony
- 20 seated
- Reception
- 150 seated
- Nearest airport
- MRY · 45 minutes
- Open season
- June – October
- Price range
- $$$
- Rating
- 4.9 /5 · 147
Villa Mara Carmel is a hotel destination wedding venue in CA 93923, USA, hosting 20 to 150 guests in the $$$ price range, reached from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), 45 minutes. Best months: June, July, August, October.
Villa Mara Carmel in CA 93923, open June–October.
Guests arrive at Villa Mara Carmel to sweeping coastal views and the sound of waves below—a Carmel-by-the-Sea hotel where the ceremony takes place steps from the Pacific.
The property accommodates your entire wedding party under one roof, eliminating logistical headaches and creating genuine moments between celebrations.
With 4.9-star ratings across platforms, this venue has hosted 200+ destination weddings since opening.
We had the most wonderful experience at Villa Mara Carmel during our wedding weekend. From the moment we arrived, their team provided exceptional support and made everything feel seamless and special. They graciously allowed us to store some of our wedding décor, which was incredibly helpful and took so much stress off our plates. The location is perfect - just a short, peaceful walk to Carmel Beach and with easy access to downtown Carmel, which made it so convenient for us and our guests. The space itself is spotless, beautifully maintained, and has such a warm, comfortable ambiance that truly feels like a retreat. We were also so touched by the many sweet treats they provided throughout our stay, such a thoughtful and generous touch that made the weekend feel even more celebratory. Villa Mara was the perfect home base for our wedding weekend, and we are so grateful for their hospitality. We can’t recommend it enough!
4 notes, from the desk.
Oceanfront location at 2408 Bay View Ave with unobstructed Pacific views
On-site accommodation for 80+ guests across hotel rooms and suites
Licensed for ceremonies on multiple terraces; largest holds 150 guests
Full-service hotel amenities including spa, restaurant, and concierge
Best held in June, July, August.
The months the weather — and the local rhythm — is kindest to a stay at Villa Mara Carmel.
Check availability.
Choose a day from the calendar.
We hold dates in pencil. A first note comes back within two business days.
How the weekend usually runs.
Yours will be different — nothing below is required. Every planning begins with the three meals you most want to eat, and builds outward.
- 3:00 PMGuest arrival and check-in; welcome reception with wine and appetizers on oceanfront terrace
- 6:00 PMRehearsal on ceremony terrace with officiant
- 2:00 PMBride/groom preparation in suite; guest welcome and seating begins
- 3:30 PMCeremony on oceanfront terrace; cocktail hour with photos
- 5:00 PMReception: dinner, toasts, dancing in ballroom until 11:00 PM
- 10:00 AMFarewell brunch; guest checkout
Things worth knowing.
MRY · 45 minutes
Guests fly into Monterey Regional Airport. The desk arranges every transfer.
$35,000
Final pricing depends on guest count, season (peak May–October), menu selections, and add-ons (florals, photography, entertainment). Off-season (Nov–April) discounts available. Gratuity and taxes not included.
$2,500
A one-time licence and setup fee, paid to the venue.
$125 / head
A seated dinner with wine and service, by headcount.
$200 / night
A standard room in the wedding window. Group rates on request.
June – October
4 viable months. Shoulder dates soften the light and the rates.
Asked along the way.
Can we host both ceremony and reception at the venue?+
Yes. Villa Mara Carmel offers oceanfront terraces for ceremonies and multiple indoor/outdoor reception spaces. Most couples use the seaside terrace for vows and transition guests to the main hall or garden pavilion for dining and dancing.
How many guests can stay on property?+
The hotel accommodates approximately 80 guests across its rooms and suites. Additional guests can book nearby hotels within Carmel-by-the-Sea, located within 1-3 miles of the venue.
What's included in the venue fee?+
The ceremony venue rental includes access to oceanfront terraces, tables, and basic linens. Reception packages typically include the space, table settings, and bar service; catering is priced separately through the hotel's culinary team.
What's the weather like for outdoor ceremonies?+
Carmel experiences mild weather May–September (60–75°F). The hotel provides heated outdoor spaces and covered areas year-round. Winter weddings are popular but cooler (50–60°F).
In the same country.
Hold dates at Villa Mara Carmel.
A note to the desk with a rough season and guest count. We hold dates in pencil for three weeks before confirmation. A reply comes within two business days, from a person by name.