Recently, we began our three-part blog series highlighting a handful of wedding venues in Santa Barbara that are beautiful, but more importantly, affordable. Because, here at SBWS, we understand that weddings can be quite costly and you shouldn’t have to burden yourself with copious payments and even debt in order to have the wedding you and your significant other deserve.

In Volume 1 of our affordable venues series, we introduced you to three incredible locations all in the Chase Palm Park and East Beach area of the city.

Today, we have one more amazing Chase Palm Park venue to show off, as well as one of Santa Barbara’s most tranquil parks and a historical and timeless church situated right in the heart of downtown. Learn a little bit more about what each of these venues has to offer including maximum capacities, other features, and, of course, estimated rental prices.

Enjoy and happy (affordable) wedding planning!

Carousel House

The Carousel House is one of Santa Barbara’s newest rental facilities with an amazing beachfront view. The gorgeous white structure is located on the western end of scenic Chase Palm Park and was formerly the home of a carousel for 20 years. It has now been converted into an open space with both indoor and outdoor venue options for events of all kinds—including weddings.

Inside the Carousel House itself gives off a greenhouse-like industrial feel. Tall windows span each side and are able to be raised allowing for plenty of fresh air and natural light. On the outside, tall palm trees surround the building. Plus, the Plaza lawn is included with the house’s rental and features an eye-catching planted fountain perfect for a ceremony backdrop. The venue is perfect for an intimate affair with a capacity in the Carousel House of 150-180 seated and 240 cocktail-style.

Pricing: $$

Weekends (Fri - Sun and holidays): from $300 per hour (minimum of 10 hours)

Weekdays (Mon - Thu): from $178 per hour (minimum of 2 hours, maximum of 10 hours)

More Pricing Info: HERE

Photography: Wonder Tribe Photography and Willa Kveta Photography

Santa Barbara City College

This venue offers beautiful locations on the magnificent cliffs that overlook Leadbetter Beach and the harbor are available for wedding ceremonies. Each site has astonishing views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and Santa Ynez Mountains. Wedding ceremonies are held at three locations on SBCC’s beautiful campus.

Great Meadows

Located on West Campus is a full field open to numerous creative possibilities for a memorable wedding ceremony. With its gigantic space and unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains, the Great Meadows can accommodate an unlimited number of guests.

Pricing: $$

Maxwell Overlook

Located on the East Campus at the far east corner, it provides spectacular panoramic views stretching from the edge of the city to the mountains down to the pier and harbor. It is a private location consisting of a large grass circle in the center bordered by beautiful stone pillars. This site is available on weekends for Saturday or Sunday ceremonies and can be scheduled with a Friday rehearsal. 

Pricing: $ – $$

Bagish Overlook

The Bagish Overlook is located within the Great Meadow. Tucked behind a grassy mound, Bagish Overlook is hidden from sight for a more intimate ceremony. This private setting facing the ocean creates a romantic, breathtaking escape for small weddings.  Low trees protect the circular stone patio and provide shade and seclusion. Approximately thirty people can fit in the built-in stone seating, and more guests can stand atop the grassy hill facing Leadbetter Beach. Two pathways, one with steps and one without, connect to the patio and lead around the Great Meadow.

Pricing: $ – $$

Photography: Parker Strehlow

Elings Park

If you’re dreaming of a tranquil Santa Barbara wedding venue surrounded by natural elements and spectacular views, look no further than Elings Park. The park offers the best of both worlds, set between the mountain and the ocean, and presents three unique location options all perfect for weddings or corporate events.

GODRIC GROVE

Godric Grove is a large estate-like venue at the top of the park with incredible views of the city and ocean. It can accommodate up to 175 guests and includes a stone amphitheater, a large lawn surrounded by lush gardens and liquid amber trees, and a reception deck shaded by oak trees. There is a spacious serving area and room for a bride or caterer’s canopy. A private parking lot accommodates valet parking or guest self-parking with easy access. Beautiful matilija poppies bloom from spring to summer.

          Pricing: $

$2,800-5,000 (depending on day/time of year)

SINGLETON PAVILION

Singleton Pavilion is a gorgeous large grass area with a charming gazebo and two tree-shaded, natural stone terraces. It provides wonderful views of the mountains, Santa Barbara, and a just a peek of the ocean. The large lawn area can accommodate up to 200 guests for seated dining. Fabulous views have made this one of the most sought after venues for private, intimate events.

          Pricing: $

$1,200-2,500 (depending on day/time of year)

SOUTH BLUFFS

The South Bluffs is the Perfect ceremony site! With an incredible 180-degree view of the ocean at your feet, the cool ocean breeze and stunning sunset make this the ideal location to exchange your vows.

          Pricing: $

$1,000 (ceremony only)

More Pricing Info: HERE

Photography: RG Photo, Harmony Lynn Photography, Sara Weir Photography, and Josh Newton Photography

Unity of Santa Barbara Church

The beautiful Santa Barbara, CA location is conveniently situated downtown, near State St. and across from popular Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden. Noted as a Historical Landmark, the campus features timeless style, modern amenities, and built-in comfort, making it an ideal venue for various types of both large and small gatherings. For more than 60 years, Unity of Santa Barbara has been a warm and welcoming campus.

Enjoy the experience of a customized ceremony on your special day. Our campus offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, including an intimate chapel, a spacious sanctuary, and an airy outdoor courtyard as picturesque options for your ceremony with a maximum capacity of 175 guests. The church’s very own ministers, Rev. Cathy Norman and Rev. Dr. Temple Hayes are specialists in all types of wedding ceremonies, including same-sex, interfaith, and non-denominational unions. Our ministers transform every commitment ceremony into an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime, memorable event.

Pricing: $

Estimated Rate - $1,000-5,000*

More Pricing Info: HERE