If you’ve ever dreamed of having a coastal wedding overlooking the beach on a beautiful blue sky day, or during a radiant sunset you’re not alone. According to The Knot, 350,000 destination weddings happen annually, with a majority of newlyweds choosing to venture into wedded bliss while overlooking the seaside. Coastal weddings are both gorgeous and simplistically romantic, providing a beautiful blue water backdrop for saying ‘I do.’
Of all the coastal properties that provide wedding services, there’s one hidden gem in particular worth mentioning: the Hyatt Carmel Highlands. Located in central California, minutes from downtown Carmel, the Hyatt Carmel Highlands offers some of California’s most breathtaking views within one of the state’s most gorgeous properties. Charmingly built using Craftsman-style architecture, the natural environment is able to shine; with the picturesque retreat overlooking the Big Sur coast, and floor-to-ceiling windows displaying epic views of the Pacific Ocean at every turn.
There are a variety of locations at the Hyatt Carmel Highlands suitable for all backdrops, sizes and budgets, allowing for newlyweds of all preferences and financial means to find something perfect for them.
One of my personal favorites is the Gazebo Deck, nestled above the cliffs of Big Sur with endless views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. I first came across this location last year during Monterey’s annual Food & Wine Festival which was featured at their on-property adjacent restaurant Pacific’s Edge and instantly fell in love, with multiple other guests voicing similar opinions. The redwood deck can feature up to 120 guests comfortably and is beautifully surrounded by lush gardens and mild ocean breezes. The location is perfect, as every guest can have a clear view of the ceremony and given the seclusion of the ocean below, the view is virtually uninterrupted.
There’s also the Surf Room which can equally accommodate 120 guests and provides its own private balcony. While the space is indoors, the Surf Room works great if you prefer dining inside while still having a breathtaking view. This space is known to work wonderfully for those who want a California Coastal wedding, but are choosing a month that’s known for more chilly weather as well as those who want to weather-proof their wedding.
The third main location for weddings at the Hyatt Carmel Highlands is their Yankee Point, noted for providing an intimate wedding complete with a romantic atmosphere and wood-burning fireplace. Best for smaller weddings of 30 guests or less, the room extends partial views of the Pacific Ocean and is great if privacy is a main focus of your wedding.
No matter which of the three locations best suits your wedding needs, every wedding held at the Hyatt Carmel Highlands is treated like a one-of-a-kind event complete with a professional wedding specialist, gourmet cuisine alongside premium beverages customized to fit your occasion, and a complimentary guest room with a chilled bottle of Champagne for your wedding night.
The complimentary guest rooms are certainly a gift worth waiting for. Rooms feature a private patio, spacious vanity with upgraded bath products, a wood burning fireplace and of course, gorgeous views. With the average wedding night hotel room averaging hundreds of dollars, this not only is a wonderful surprise but a fantastic treat!
While prices vary due to the season, time of the week, and holidays, the Hyatt Carmel Highlands offers competitive pricing, excellent service, and the latest hours of any local hotel, allowing your wedding night to extend far past the normal curfew! Once here, you can see for yourself just how breathtaking the views are while previewing some of the finest wedding fares at the resort’s Pacific’s Edge restaurant and mingling with other guests.
Monterey truly is one of my favorite locations in the entire world, partly due to the romantic nature of the quiet seaside community, but also due to the one-of-a-kind views and truly memorable staff. Hyatt Carmel Highlands genuinely has something to offer couples of all budgets and concepts and can make your memorable day, unforgettable for everyone involved.
For more information on Hyatt Carmel Highlands, including venue options, contacts, and their location, visit their website at http://highlandsinn.hyatt.com/ for more information.
All pictures not taken by myself, are used with permission courtesy Hyatt.
[…] In this picturesque and passionate town founded on romance, its only fitting that Monterey is quickly becoming one of California’s top destinations for getting married. Couples are flocking for the opportunity to retreat at one of the county’s stunning beach destinations, gorgeous courtyards and premiere golf courses to enjoy all that this amorous location has to offer. If you’re looking for a fairy-tale location look no further than Monterey, especially the Hyatt Regency Monterey and Hyatt Carmel Highlands. […]