Planning a Wedding at the Santa Barbara Courthouse
The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is one of the most popular courthouse wedding locations in California. Couples from around the world travel to Santa Barbara to get married at the famous Sunken Garden, known for its Spanish-Colonial architecture, mountain views, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Whether you are planning a small elopement or a larger outdoor ceremony, the Santa Barbara Courthouse offers a romantic and unforgettable setting for your wedding day.
The Sunken Garden offers a stunning outdoor ceremony space that combines the simplicity of a courthouse wedding with the charm of a destination celebration. Its wide lawn, historic courthouse backdrop, and relaxed coastal atmosphere make it an ideal location for intimate ceremonies, elopements, and small gatherings with family and friends.
After the ceremony, couples often stay on the courthouse grounds for portraits or head to nearby beaches and parks to continue celebrating. The relaxed atmosphere of Santa Barbara makes it easy to turn a courthouse wedding into a full day of memorable moments with loved ones.
For couples planning a larger outdoor ceremony, areas of the Sunken Garden can be reserved through the county’s Parks Division. These reservations typically include a three-hour time block and allow couples to bring chairs, décor, and other ceremony elements.
To learn more about reserving the space or obtaining the proper permits, visit the official county page here:
https://www.countyofsb.org/1065/Courthouse-Garden-Weddings
All Courthouse Gardens and Mural Room reservations are handled by email. Please do not call for Courthouse Reservations or inquiries. Send applications or emails to: events@countyofsb.org.
Best Photo Locations at the Courthouse
The Santa Barbara Courthouse is considered one of the most photogenic wedding locations in California. After the ceremony, couples often take time to explore the property and capture portraits in several iconic locations, including:
The Sunken Garden lawn with the courthouse tower in the background
The colorful Spanish tile staircases inside the courthouse
The historic arched hallways and balconies
The clock tower overlooking Santa Barbara and the coastline
The lush garden pathways surrounding the courthouse grounds
Celebrate After Your Ceremony
Many couples continue their celebration with family and friends after the ceremony by visiting nearby restaurants, beaches, or parks in Santa Barbara.
Another popular option is hosting a relaxed outdoor celebration picnic. A styled picnic setup allows couples and their guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while continuing the celebration in a more intimate and relaxed setting.
The Picnic Place specializes in luxury picnic setups designed for courthouse weddings, elopements, and small celebrations. With elegant décor, comfortable seating, and thoughtfully styled tablescapes, a picnic reception can turn a simple courthouse ceremony into a memorable and stylish experience.
For couples looking for a romantic, scenic, and effortless wedding day, the Sunken Garden at the Santa Barbara Courthouse remains one of the most charming places in California to say “I do.” 🌿
Courthouse Garden Weddings
