Planning a wedding takes up a lot of time and energy! There are countless decisions to make, details to juggle, and expectations to manage. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of it all. That’s why one of the biggest pieces of advice we give to our couples is this: lean on your planner, trust your vendors, and don’t forget to enjoy this season.

And part of truly soaking in this special time? Making space for a romantic getaway—just the two of you.

Whether you need a quiet escape from the planning whirlwind or you’re dreaming up a mini-moon after the big day, Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur are two of our absolute favorite spots for a weekend away. Tucked along the rugged California coast, this stretch is pure magic—filled with cozy charm, stunning natural beauty, and the kind of calm that makes you slow down and simply be together.

So if you're based in Northern California (as many of our couples are!) or you’re up for a little road trip, here’s our curated guide to the most romantic things to do in Carmel & Big Sur:

Where to Stay

Villa Mara – Carmel
We can’t say enough about this beautiful boutique hotel. It’s intimate, elegant, and feels like a true hideaway. Nestled right near the coast, you’ll fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and wake up with coffee on the terrace. Every detail is intentional, and the setting is absolutely perfect for reconnecting and unwinding.

What to Do

Take the Iconic 17-Mile Drive
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of sightseeing and sweet photo ops, this is your route. The 17-Mile Drive winds through the coast with breathtaking views, charming stops, and so many opportunities to pull over, snap a few photos, and take it all in. It’s a slow, scenic kind of drive that feels just right for a weekend made for slowing down.

Eat at Stationaery – Carmel
Stationaery is one of those rare gems that feels both refined and completely welcoming. It’s tucked into a quiet corner of Carmel and serves up fresh, seasonal dishes that are full of flavor and care. Share a delicious meal (we highly recommend their pasta!), open a bottle of wine, and linger over conversation—you’ll be so glad you did.

Visit Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur
You simply can’t head to Big Sur without visiting Pfeiffer Beach. It’s known for its dramatic purple sand, rocky sea stacks, and that iconic keyhole rock formation where the sunset pours through like something out of a dream. It’s the perfect spot to cozy up on a blanket, watch the sky turn gold, and breathe in that salty, soul-filling air.

A Word from Our Friend Grace

Our dear friend and incredibly talented vendor partner, Grace of Grace T Photography, knows Big Sur like the back of her hand—and captures it beautifully through her lens. She shared this sweet reflection:

“Big Sur is one of the most magical places to visit. You can enjoy a vacation or celebrate your wedding day next to the redwoods and then head to the rocky beaches for sunset photos. I personally love a sunset on Pfeiffer Beach, with the golden light peeking through the rocks as the sun goes down.”

Her words perfectly capture what we love most about this place: it’s romantic, grounding, and full of moments you’ll remember forever.