Planning a small Santa Barbara Beach Wedding

January 21, 2026

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Hi there! Welcome to my blog where I love to share my couple's love stories and educational tips.

Hi, I'm LAUREN

If you’re looking to have a relaxed, intimate wedding, you should absolutely consider planning a small Santa Barbara Beach Wedding.

There’s so many beautiful places to get married in Santa Barbara with amazing weather year-round. The couple chose to have a small intimate wedding at Shoreline Park Beach in Santa Barbara. They visit this beach often and knew it would be the ideal for their small ceremony with their dogs.

We captured family photos, portraits, and when the light began to hit just right, picked a ceremony spot for the couple to read and seal their vows. The golden sunset added a glow that was unmatched! After the ceremony, we headed to one of their favorite dog friendly restaurants in Santa Barbara (https://www.loquitasb.com/menu/).

Planning a small beach wedding:

Permits & Regulations Matter

Unlike some SoCal cities that don’t require permits for small beach gatherings, Santa Barbara city beaches do require a permit through the City of Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation if you want to set up chairs, decor, sound, or have more than a minimal gathering.

Apply early — popular dates and summer weekends fill up.
Fees & rules vary — there are specific fees for amplified sound or rentals.
Check restrictions on tents, alcohol, and amplified music when you apply.

If your ceremony is extremely simple and tiny (just a few people with no setup), some couples opt to informally choose a spot without a permit.

✅ Choose your beach location
✅ Apply for permits early if you have a setup and larger group
✅ Confirm restrictions (sound, decor, alcohol)
✅ Plan for tides, wind, shade, and sand
✅ Book vendors and rentals familiar with beach logistics
✅ Communicate clearly with guests about attire and access

I would love to capture your small wedding or elopement! Contact me by clicking here.