Half Moon Bay Wedding Venue Spotlight at Oceano Hotel and Spa

Why Oceano Hotel and Spa is the Perfect Coastal Wedding Venue

Oceano Hotel and Spa sits right on the marina at Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay, and it was the perfect setting for Kendra and Mike’s wedding day. The whole place has this easy coastal calm to it, but still feels polished in all the right ways. Kendra got ready in one of the villas and I swear it was the most beautiful two-story prep space I got to enjoy this year. Natural light everywhere with soaring ceilings made the space feel so cozy. Meanwhile Mike was dressed and ready to go in the main lobby. Leaning fully into his personality, I was met with his a big hug and a glimpse at his amazing Star Wars cufflinks that immediately told me this was going to be a fun day.

The florals for their day were luscious, colorful, and added a cheerfulness that added to the setting perfectly. I’m now obsessed with Stacie from Earths Laugh Floral. She not only services the Bay Area, but Hawaii as well. Oceano Hotel and Spa gives you instant access to the coast with all the comfort of a full service hotel. Guests get balconies with marina views and cozy rooms before the celebration even begins.

What I love most about this venue is how it offers everything in one place. Beautiful views. The beach just minutes away. A ceremony space brides dream about. And a team that knows exactly how to run a wedding with confidence. Kendra and Mike’s day flowed with zero stress which is my favorite kind of wedding day. Oceano is a Northern California gem for couples who want that coastal magic wrapped up in an easy, elevated experience.

Beautiful Ceremony and Reception Spaces for Every Wedding Couple

Oceano gives you options and I am always here for that. Their Wedding Garden is a charming white fenced courtyard wrapped in greenery with an arbor that frames the ceremony perfectly. It feels intimate yet open with the harbor just a few steps away. There’s also a ton of room for kids of the family to run and play during cocktail hour!

For your reception, you can go grand or cozy. The Grand Ballroom and Atrium are filled with the kind of natural light photographers dream about because the glass ceiling glows beautifully until sunset. The Gate House leans more chic with exposed beams, warm wood, and French doors that open onto a breezy little patio. Kendra and Mike chose the Gate House and it fit them perfectly.

One of my favorite details from their reception was the sweets they left as favors at every table. It felt so personal right from the start. The bright florals added pops of color that were joyful instead of formal. Because the tablescapes were kept white and minimalist, the flowers really had room to shine. They tied the whole room together in the most effortless way. And then, as guests found their seats, each person discovered a little treat waiting just for them. It was simple, sweet, and exactly the kind of moment that matched the energy of their day.

Every space photographs beautifully which is honestly a gift. You get clean light, great textures and room to create something unique.

Why It’s a Great Fit for Couples and What I Capture as a Photographer

If you’re planning a Northern California coastal wedding with an ocean view and a relaxed, intimate vibe, Oceano Hotel and Spa is a beautiful choice. With the beach just minutes away and an indoor space that photographs effortlessly, it’s easy to capture real, meaningful moments. I’d love to be the photographer to tell your story and help make your day unforgettable. Reach out to check my wedding photography availability and let’s start planning your special day via contact form on my website.