Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort Weddings
Weddings at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort | Photo & Video by One Story Weddings
Perched above the Pacific Ocean in Dana Point, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort is one of California’s most sought-after wedding destinations — a coastal haven where elegance meets ocean breeze. Every element, from its Tuscan-inspired architecture to its sweeping oceanfront lawns, is designed to create moments that feel cinematic, serene, and unmistakably luxurious.
As trusted Orange County wedding photographers and videographers, the team at One Story Weddings has documented more than fifty weddings at Monarch Beach Resort. Our deep familiarity with the property means we know how light moves across the Grand Lawn, when the ocean mist turns golden, and exactly where to capture those unscripted moments that define your day.
Planning a Wedding at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach
Nestled on 175 acres of coastal bluffs and manicured gardens, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach offers a rare combination of grandeur and intimacy. It’s one of the few Orange County venues that delivers both oceanfront views and five-star service in one setting — making it ideal for destination-worthy celebrations.
Couples are drawn to this resort not just for its beauty, but for the complete experience it offers: ocean-view accommodations, award-winning dining, spa indulgence, and seamless coordination from a seasoned event team. Whether you envision a sunset ceremony on the bluff or a candlelit ballroom reception, every space is crafted for unforgettable imagery and guest comfort.
Why Couples Choose Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort
Exclusivity and Service
Each wedding receives dedicated attention from the resort’s experienced planning and catering team. With limited events scheduled daily, your day feels private, uninterrupted, and uniquely yours.
Panoramic Ocean Views
From the moment guests arrive, they’re greeted by sweeping coastal vistas that stretch endlessly toward the horizon — a photographer’s dream and a breathtaking backdrop for vows.
Luxury Accommodations
Over 400 guest rooms and suites ensure your loved ones experience a full weekend of relaxation. The spa, golf course, and private beach club elevate the wedding weekend into a complete retreat.
Accessibility and Location
Situated between Laguna Beach and San Clemente, the resort is 30 minutes from John Wayne Airport and under 90 minutes from Los Angeles — ideal for traveling guests.
Culinary Excellence
Waldorf Astoria’s renowned culinary program offers customizable menus with world-class presentation, ensuring your dining experience matches the beauty of the setting.
Explore how we capture Monarch Beach’s signature elegance. View our portfolio or Watch wedding films.
Ceremony & Reception Locations
Each event space at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach offers its own distinct personality — from the grandeur of the oceanfront lawns to the intimacy of garden enclaves and terraces. Our team has captured celebrations in each of these iconic spaces, and every one photographs differently throughout the day.
Grand Lawn — Iconic Oceanfront Ceremonies
The Grand Lawn is the resort’s crown jewel — a perfectly manicured, ocean-view lawn framed by palm trees and accessed via a dramatic staircase. It’s one of the most recognizable ceremony locations in Southern California, offering unobstructed Pacific vistas that feel timeless and cinematic.
Capacity: Up to 300 guests for ceremonies; 250 for receptions with a dance floor
Best Light: 4:30–5:30 PM during spring and fall for golden, glowing light
From wide aerial shots of your walk down the aisle to intimate moments beneath the floral arch, every frame here feels expansive and luminous.
Photography Tip: Have your ceremony arch slightly elevated to align the horizon directly behind you — it creates a perfectly balanced composition that feels both grand and personal.
Learn more about our combined photography and videographer Orange County wedding photography and videography serrvices
Botanical Garden — Romantic & Secluded
Hidden among lush greenery and vibrant blooms, the Botanical Garden offers serenity and intimacy for smaller gatherings. The marble gazebo at its center creates a natural focal point for ceremonies surrounded by nature.
Capacity: Up to 120 guests
Atmosphere: Private garden charm with filtered natural light
This space feels personal and organic — perfect for couples who value natural beauty and soft, romantic lighting. The pathways, stone steps, and flowering trees provide countless backdrops for portraits that feel intimate and ethereal.
Photography Tip: Schedule your first look in the garden before guests arrive. The diffused sunlight through the canopy creates soft, flattering tones that photograph beautifully.
Dreaming of a garden ceremony? Contact us to see how we capture romantic, light-filled celebrations at Monarch Beach.
Pacific Lawn — Coastal Sophistication
Just steps above the beach, the Pacific Lawn combines laid-back coastal energy with the elegance of a luxury resort. The sound of the ocean becomes your soundtrack, while manicured grass and expansive views make this location ideal for both ceremonies and open-air receptions.
Capacity: 300+ for ceremony and reception
Atmosphere: Effortless coastal elegance with ocean breeze and open sky
This flexible space can host your entire event — ceremony, cocktail hour, and dinner — with the resort’s event team transforming it seamlessly between segments. During cocktail hour, couples can slip away for portraits along the bluff while the staff resets the lawn into a candlelit reception space under the stars.
Photography Tip: Schedule portraits during the 15 minutes after your ceremony to capture the golden reflection of the ocean — the light here creates painterly, luminous tones that define our signature style.
See real Pacific Lawn celebrations in our Orange County wedding videographer collection.
Monarch Ballroom Terrace — Indoor-Outdoor Perfection
With sweeping views of the coastline, the Monarch Ballroom Terrace offers an elevated, transitional setting — ideal for couples who want oceanfront ambiance with the comfort of an indoor ballroom.
Capacity: Approximately 200 guests
Atmosphere: Airy, sophisticated, and versatile
Start with cocktails on the terrace as the sun dips below the horizon, then move indoors for dinner and dancing surrounded by soft candlelight and panoramic windows.
Pro Tip: Keep the terrace doors open during your first dance for cinematic ocean breezes and glowing twilight hues.
Experience the elegance of the Monarch Terrace through our films — Watch wedding films from Monarch Beach Resort.
Pacific Ballroom — Classic Grandeur
For large-scale receptions, the Pacific Ballroom delivers dramatic scale and timeless elegance. With over 12,000 square feet, it features soaring ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and architectural detailing that reflects the Waldorf Astoria aesthetic.
Capacity: Up to 750 guests for seated dinners
Atmosphere: Formal, sophisticated, and endlessly customizable
This is where luxury meets celebration. The ballroom’s coffered ceilings and expansive space allow for full-scale design installations — from suspended floral canopies to custom dance floors. The lighting is rich and cinematic, perfect for photography and film transitions from dinner to dancing.
Club 19 — Private and Scenic
Overlooking Monarch Beach Golf Links and the Pacific beyond, Club 19 provides a private yet refined atmosphere for rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, or micro weddings.
Capacity: 80–100 guests
Atmosphere: Relaxed sophistication with golf course and ocean views
The terrace captures warm, low afternoon light, making it a favorite location for pre-wedding portrait sessions or next-day brunches.
Extend your coverage to include your rehearsal dinner — these quieter moments often yield some of the most emotional footage of the weekend.
Botanical Lawn — Elegant OUTDOOR Reception
Tucked within the resort’s lush landscape, the Botanical Lawn North offers a serene, garden-inspired setting for cocktail hours and intimate receptions. Surrounded by vibrant florals and shaded walkways, this space feels secluded yet sophisticated — a perfect transition from the formality of your ceremony to an evening of dining and celebration.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests
Atmosphere: Refined garden elegance with coastal breeze and soft lighting
At sunset, the natural greenery glows in warm golden tones, creating a romantic backdrop for speeches and toasts. The space is easily customizable with tenting, chandeliers, or soft drapery — allowing couples to design everything from alfresco dinners to garden soirées under the stars.
Photography Tip: During twilight, position your head table to face west. The soft, indirect light filtering through the trees creates luminous portraits with natural depth — ideal for editorial-style reception coverage.
The Wine Cellar — Intimate Dining & Timeless Ambiance
For couples seeking a truly exclusive setting, the Wine Cellar offers a refined, candlelit space tucked beneath the resort’s signature restaurants. Surrounded by walls of vintage bottles and warm wood tones, it feels like a secret retreat — perfect for rehearsal dinners, private tastings, or small wedding receptions with an atmosphere of understated luxury.
Capacity: Up to 60 guests for seated dining
Atmosphere: Elegant, intimate, and richly detailed
The space glows with amber light, creating cinematic warmth ideal for both photo and film. It’s an exceptional choice for couples who value conversation, cuisine, and a relaxed, elevated dining experience before or after their main wedding day.
Photography Tip: Low, ambient lighting makes for dramatic, artful imagery — consider candlelight centerpieces and textured linens to enhance visual depth.
Cost, Capacity & Timing
A wedding at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort is an investment in excellence — the perfect blend of refined service, coastal beauty, and five-star execution. While each event is custom-tailored, couples can plan with confidence knowing what to expect from this world-class venue.
Investment Overview
Ceremony & Reception Fees
Ceremony site fees range from $6,000–$9,000, depending on the space and season.
Reception site fees are typically included in food and beverage minimums.
Food & Beverage Minimums
Peak season (May–October): $55,000–$65,000 on Saturdays
Off-season (November–April): $35,000–$45,000 with weekday flexibility
Per-Guest Averages
Dinner service: $380–$500 per person
Bar packages: $85–$125 per person
Total investment: $120,000–$180,000 for 150 guests
Booking Tips
Saturdays in peak season: book 12–18 months in advance.
Fridays/Sundays: book 10–14 months ahead.
Off-season weddings: enjoy 25–35% savings and greater flexibility.
Guest Experience
400+ luxury rooms and suites
Spa, golf, and private beach club access for wedding guests
Dedicated group booking and planning team
Planning a destination weekend in Dana Point? Explore our Orange County wedding photography and videography services for multi-day celebrations.
Real Weddings at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach
Our work at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach spans every season, style, and size of celebration — from grand ballroom receptions to intimate cliffside ceremonies. Each event tells its own story, beautifully framed by the resort’s distinctive architecture and light.
Explore more real Monarch Beach weddings on our Orange County wedding photographer gallery page.
Best Times of Year to Get Married at Monarch Beach
Every season offers a distinct atmosphere, and our team knows exactly how to take advantage of each one for photography and film.
Spring (March–May)
Fresh blooms, temperate weather, and soft diffused light — perfect for lush garden ceremonies and portraits on the bluff.
Golden hour: 6:45–7:15 PM
Summer (June–August)
Vibrant sunsets and extended daylight. Morning marine layer often clears by mid-afternoon, leaving brilliant evening light.
Golden hour: 7:30–8:00 PM
Fall (September–November)
The most photogenic season at Monarch Beach — clear skies, golden light, and crisp air ideal for both indoor and outdoor celebrations.
Golden hour: 5:00–6:30 PM
Winter (December–February)
Cooler temperatures and early sunsets create a cozy, intimate atmosphere — especially for ballroom celebrations.
Golden hour: 4:30–5:00 PM
View how seasonal light transforms Monarch Beach weddings in our curated wedding photography portfolio.
Venue Considerations
Vendor Policy
Outside vendors are welcome with approval and insurance. As preferred partners, One Story Weddings couples enjoy waived outside vendor fees and seamless coordination.
Sound & Curfew
Outdoor music must end by 10:00 PM due to Dana Point ordinance. Indoor celebrations may continue until 11:00 PM.
Décor & Design
Candles are allowed in enclosed containers. Confetti, glitter, and rice are prohibited to preserve the resort’s pristine grounds.
Drone & Aerial Coverage
Drone photography and videography are permitted with venue approval and FAA-certified pilots — our team handles this process directly for all One Story Weddings couples.
Learn more about our signature approach as a Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach wedding videographer.
Photography & Videography at Monarch Beach Resort
Few venues photograph as elegantly as Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach. The resort’s architecture, ocean views, and coastal light combine to create endless opportunities for cinematic imagery.
At One Story Weddings, our integrated photo and film teams specialize in capturing both the emotion and artistry of your day. From bridal preparations to your grand exit, we blend fine art composition with natural storytelling for images that feel elevated yet authentic.
Our Signature Coverage Includes:
Two lead photographers + two cinematographers
10 hours of coordinated coverage
800+ edited high-resolution images
5–7 minute cinematic highlight film
Full ceremony and speech edits
Drone footage (where permitted)
Six-week photo delivery; eight-week film delivery
Online gallery and download access
Ready to see how your story could unfold here? Watch wedding films captured at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort.
Why Photo + Video Together
Booking both services with one creative team ensures your imagery feels seamless and cohesive.
Benefits of Combined Coverage
Coordinated angles for both mediums
Consistent editing and color grading
Streamlined planning with a single point of contact
Savings of 15–20% compared to separate vendors
Unified storytelling that blends movement, sound, and still imagery
Discover the difference of integrated artistry — Contact us to inquire about photo + video collections.
Sample Wedding Day Timeline
Every wedding at Monarch Beach is unique, but years of experience here allow us to design a timeline that balances beauty and flow. Below is a sample for a 5:00 PM ceremony on the Grand Lawn during spring or fall:
1:00 PM — Getting ready in ocean-view suites. Detail photos, flat lays, and candid moments.
2:30 PM — First look on the Grand Staircase; intimate portraits immediately after.
3:15 PM — Wedding party portraits on the bluff and around the garden paths.
4:15 PM — Family formals and ceremony setup coverage.
5:00 PM — Ceremony begins on the Grand Lawn with golden hour light.
5:45 PM — Cocktail hour on the terrace; couple portraits on the bluff.
6:30 PM — Grand entrance into reception, followed by dinner and toasts.
8:00 PM — Dancing begins under chandeliers or string lights.
10:00 PM — Sparkler or bubble grand exit down the staircase.
For a deeper look at timing and logistics, see our Wedding Day Timeline Guide.
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Wedding FAQs
Q: What is the average cost of a wedding at Monarch Beach Resort?
A: Most couples invest between $120,000–$180,000 for 150 guests, inclusive of ceremony, reception, catering, and full vendor team.
Q: How many guests can the venue accommodate?
A: The Grand Lawn and Pacific Lawn each host 300+ guests; Pacific Ballroom accommodates up to 750.
Q: Can we have both our ceremony and reception on the same lawn?
A: Yes. The Pacific Lawn is designed for all-in-one events, with cocktail hour transitions while staff resets the space for dinner.
Q: What’s the best time of year to get married here?
A: Fall (September–October) offers clear skies, warm light, and mild weather — ideal for photography and comfort.
Q: Does the resort require approved vendors?
A: Yes, Waldorf Astoria has a curated vendor list. One Story Weddings is a preferred partner, saving you the $1,500 outside vendor fee per service.
Q: Are drones allowed for wedding coverage?
A: Yes, with prior approval and FAA certification. We handle all logistics for our couples.
Q: How far in advance should we book?
A: Peak season Saturdays book 12–18 months ahead; off-season dates offer shorter lead times.
Q: Is there an indoor backup option?
A: The Pacific and Monarch Ballrooms both serve as elegant weather contingencies.
Have additional questions? Contact us for personalized guidance.
Begin Your Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Wedding Journey
Your wedding at Monarch Beach Resort deserves artistry equal to its setting. At One Story Weddings, we combine fine art composition with authentic storytelling to create imagery that feels as timeless as your vows.
Ready to See More?
Three Ways to Explore Our Work:
Why Couples Choose One Story Weddings for The Monarch BEach Resort
Experience That Shows
We’ve documented 300+ weddings at Monarch Beach Resort and other Premiere Orange County Venues since 2017.
True-to-Life Approach
We honor the venue's natural beauty and your real emotion—no filters, no fakery.
Stress-Free Presence
We guide you gently and document moments naturally.
Trusted by Monarch Beach Resort Staff and Associated Vendors
We understand their protocols, staff, and timeline expectations.
Recognition & Experience
California Wedding Day Best of 2023 Videographer Award
4.9/5 stars from 40+ verified couples
Trusted by Luxury Orange County Venues, Wedding Planners and Clients for both photography and video
Established Monarch Beach Resort specialists since 2019
Read Our Reviews →
Get Started: Your Monarch Beach Resort Wedding
We typically book 9–12 months in advance for peak season weddings at Monarch Beach. Let’s connect to check your date and create something unforgettable together.
Weddings at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort capture the essence of coastal luxury, combining panoramic ocean views, elegant architecture, and five-star service for an unforgettable celebration overlooking the Pacific. Every moment — from sunlit vows to candlelit receptions — reflects timeless sophistication and effortless romance.
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort
1 Monarch Beach Resort N,
Dana Point, CA 92629