How to Plan a Waterfront Wedding Without Breaking the Bank

Planning your dream waterfront wedding doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. With breathtaking ocean views, charming venues, and a laid-back coastal vibe, Half Moon Bay, California, is one of the most stunning and affordable places to say “I do” on the West Coast—if you know how to plan it right.

Nestled between the cliffs and waves just 45 minutes from San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is a hidden gem for budget-conscious couples who don’t want to sacrifice beauty or experience.

Set a Realistic Budget (and Stick to It)

Before booking a venue or ordering invitations, decide on your overall budget. Knowing how much you can spend—and allocating it wisely—is key to staying on track. Here’s a simple breakdown for budget allocation:

• Venue – 30-40%
• Catering – 20-25%
• Attire and Beauty – 10%
• Photography/Videography – 10-15%
• Flowers and Décor – 5-10%
• Entertainment – 5%
• Miscellaneous (permits, rentals, etc.) – 5%

Start with this framework and adjust based on your priorities. For example, if photos are most important, you might shift more of your budget there and cut back slightly on entertainment.

Choose an Affordable (But Beautiful) Venue

Venue selection is usually the biggest expense, but it’s also where you can save the most. Half Moon Bay has a variety of stunning, budget-friendly venues that offer ocean views and natural charm.

Consider these options:

• The Oceano Hotel & Spa – While known for upscale weddings, Oceano Hotel offers custom wedding packages and Friday/Sunday specials that are more affordable.

• State Beaches (like Poplar or Dunes Beach) – For a minimal permit fee, you can have a romantic toes-in-the-sand ceremony. You’ll need to apply through the California State Parks system.
• Harbor Area – Public spaces around the harbor offer ocean views and casual charm. Check with the Harbor District for rental policies.
• Cypress Meadows – An intimate venue with sweeping views, gardens, and flexible pricing packages for small to mid-sized weddings.

Booking on a weekday or in the off-season (November through April) can significantly reduce costs.

Keep the Guest List Intimate

The easiest way to lower your wedding costs is to trim your guest list. More guests mean more chairs, more food, a bigger venue, and more logistics. Aim for fewer than 100 guests to create an intimate celebration that feels personal and meaningful.

Smaller weddings allow you to splurge on details that matter most to you, like a gourmet meal or high-end photography.

Tap Into Local Vendors and Talent

Using local vendors can save you money on travel and delivery fees. Half Moon Bay and the surrounding areas are home to talented photographers, florists, bakers, and musicians who know the area and offer competitive pricing.

Look for:

• Local Florists – Seasonal blooms from nearby farms like Pastorino Farms or Farmer John’s.
• Photographers – Consider up-and-coming local photographers who may offer lower rates and a fresh perspective.
• Caterers – This place has fantastic farm-to-table options and food trucks that offer high-quality, budget-friendly meals.
• Musicians – Hire a solo guitarist or acoustic duo rather than a full band to create ambiance without overspending.

Ask vendors if they offer wedding packages or discounts for weekday weddings.

DIY What You Can (But Don’t Overdo It)

DIY décor and stationery can be big money-savers, but be strategic. Focus your DIY efforts on simple projects like:

• Wedding signage (welcome signs, seating charts)
• Centerpieces using local greenery and candles
• Handwritten place cards
• Guest favors like homemade jam or candles

Skip high-stress DIYs like bouquets or catering. Those are best left to professionals unless you have specific skills or help from friends and family.

Plan a Simple Reception (With Big Impact)

Not every wedding needs a formal, plated dinner. Consider these budget-friendly reception ideas:

• Buffet-Style Reception – A buffet can be less expensive than a 3-course dinner, yet still provides a gourmet meal with great variety for guests to choose from. 
• Brunch Wedding – Morning weddings followed by brunch are generally more affordable and feel fresh and fun.

If your venue doesn’t include tables and chairs, consider renting only the essentials and skipping extras like chargers or extravagant linens.

Opt for Affordable Attire and Styling

You don’t need a designer gown or tux to look amazing on your wedding day. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that look high-end:

• Browse online retailers like Azazie, Lulu’s, or BHLDN for affordable wedding dresses.
• Consider renting a tuxedo or suit from companies like The Black Tux.
• Hire a local stylist who offers wedding day packages or ask about group deals for bridal parties.

And don’t forget that beach weddings often call for less formal attire, which can naturally lower costs.

Take Advantage of the Scenery

One of the best things about getting married in Half Moon Bay is that you don’t need to spend a lot on decorations—the view does it for you. A ceremony on the sand or in front of the ocean requires little more than an arch or a few floral touches. Let the crashing waves, sea breeze, and dramatic cliffs serve as your backdrop.

Use nature to your advantage. Keep your decor simple and elegant—wooden chairs, driftwood centerpieces, and seashell accents fit right in.

Save on Invitations and Stationery

Go digital or semi-digital with your wedding invites. Services like Paperless Post, Minted, or Canva offer affordable (and even free) design options for save-the-dates, invites, and RSVP tracking. If you want printed invitations, opt for postcard-style invites or print-at-home options to cut costs without compromising on style.

Look for Wedding Packages and Deals

Many venues and vendors in this place offer wedding packages that include essentials like venue rental, catering, and even photography. These packages often come at a lower cost than booking everything separately.

Be sure to:

• Ask about weekday or off-season discounts
• Inquire about wedding package specials
• Book early to lock in lower rates

A waterfront wedding in Half Moon Bay doesn’t have to come with a five-figure price tag. With smart planning, local resources, and a focus on what matters—celebrating your love—you can create a beautiful and meaningful wedding that doesn’t break the bank. If you’re looking for wedding venues in Half Moon Bay, CA, Oceano Hotel & Spa is the best option. Contact them today via email or call +1 (650) 726-5400 & +1 (888) 623-2661