Over the past decade, we've been lucky enough to photograph countless weddings throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Personally, we love to be outdoors and enjoy the playful qualities of natural light photography. We tend to get asked about outdoor venues and we hope this list can be a resource to couples searching for the perfect space for their ceremony (Updated for 2024).
There is an overwhelming amount of beautiful places to get married in the Bay Area and boy do we have a lot of favorites throughout Berkeley, San Francisco, San Jose, etc. (we're working on those lists too!) but our one true love will always be shooting in our own backyard here in Oakland. Where else can you choose to be married surrounded by redwoods, on the steps of a historic estate, or in the garden of an art museum?
If you want to know our thoughts about a particular venue or have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us! Do you have a favorite venue that you think we missed? Let us know! We'll be updating this list with new images and blog posts in an effort to make it more comprehensive.
For more information about our wedding photography in the bay area, click here.
Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Oakland
1. Gardens at the Oakland Museum
Overlooking Lake Merritt, the public gardens at the Oakland Museum of California are definitely an urban oasis. The space has several ceremony locations to pick from and can cater to small and larger weddings. Following your ceremony you can even arrange to let your guests take in the museum’s exhibits.
This historic estate sits on the shores of Lake Merritt in downtown Oakland. Treat your guests to views of the lake and the Oakland Hills, enjoy the romantic lighting provided by the classic street lamps and elegant string lights that provide a beautiful atmosphere on warm summer nights.
3. Roberts Regional Recreation Area
For a private and intimate outdoor feel you can be married beneath the redwoods in the picnic area of Roberts Regional. Hang around and have your reception in the same area or move down the road just a little bit to the Sequoia Lodge for a more traditional wedding reception.
4. Woodminster Cascades at Joaquin Miller Park
Just on the edge of Joaquin Miller Park, the cascades feature beautiful stone steps, reflection pools, and fountains. This location is ideal for smaller ceremonies. Scenic views of the Bay Area below.
Can’t decide between a lively downtown venue and a secluded garden venue? This space is a perfect compromise. The rooftop is a hidden gem in the thick of it all in downtown Oakland. For more information visit, www.oaklandvm.com
Thoughtful landscaping, bistro lighting, ample space for dancing under the stars, this venue has it all. Flexibility is also key as there are 6 different sites at this venue to choose from.
7. Dunsmuir-Hellman Historic Estate
This historic mansion located in the hills near the Oakland Zoo offers several options for both large and small weddings. The mansion lawn accommodates up to 200 guests or you can opt for a smaller more intimate gathering overlooking their North Pond. No matter the size of the wedding this venue offers elegance and style in an outdoor setting.
For a more affordable option, the historic bandstand at Lake Merritt is a beautiful space for an outdoor wedding. Easy to access parking and right next door to the Grand Lake neighborhood and across the lake from the Terrace Room.
9. Pizzaiolo
Weddings at Pizzaiolo are some of our favorites. Pizzaiolo is a local restaurant located in the Temescal neighborhood of North Oakland and they book a small number of weddings each season. Ceremonies take place on their outdoor patio while dinner and dancing happens in the restaurant. Their staff are fantastic and they serve up some seriously delicious food.
The Beach House at Lake Temescal in Oakland is a lovely place for a wedding ceremony and reception. Its secret garden and lakeside views are beautiful and the surrounding park provides plenty of space for wedding photos. The property is managed by the East Bay Regional Park district, visit their website for more information about wedding rentals.
Found your venue? Now choose your photographer.
e&b photography is a natural light wedding and portrait photography studio located in Oakland, California.
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