Wedding Information

If you’ve researched holding a simple ceremony barefoot on the beach, you may have found it short on privacy and practicality and long on logistical challenges.  But don’t give up your dream; you can comfortably and privately tie the knot a scant 800 feet from the sand, on the rooftop deck of Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge.

            The inn’s seasoned cedar shingles and whale weathervane remind us of the quaint bed-and-breakfast inns of Nantucket, that exclusive enclave off the coast of Cape Code.  Also reminiscent of New England coastal houses is the lodge’s rooftop deck, an expanded version of the 19^th-century widow’s walk, where a sailor’s wife would watch the sea for her husband’s returning ship.  At Cardiff Lodge, watching the sea is just one delightful aspect of your oceanside event.

            The staircase that winds around the hotel’s prominent tower leads to the sunny deck, bursting with rosebushes, foxglove, Peruvian lilies, red hibiscus, Marguerite daisies and bougainvillea—to name just a few.  Low walls offer an unobstructed view of the surrounding palm trees and, of course, the ever-changing sea that stretches to the horizon.

            The large deck comprises several smaller spaces that are each well suited to a different part of your celebration, yet the whole area is open and connected.  At the top of the staircase is a circular patio where you can pause on y our way to your ceremony to have your attendants fluff your dress and straighten your train.  From here, a straight path lined with flowers takes you to another circular spot, flanked by twin fountains, where most couples exchange vows.  It faces the water so you, your guests, and your photos will enjoy the best vantage point.  Much of the rest of the deck is used for an al fresco reception.  Buffet stations are popular because they allow guests to dine at a relaxed pace and mingle with one another.  Showcase your cake on a special stand overlooking t he surf, then let the good times continue as you dance to a band or DJ in the glow of the setting sun.

            If you’re planning on staying at the lodge-which will certainly make life much easier during the Big Day- you’ll love Cardiff’s unique atmosphere.  Each of its seventeen guestrooms has its own theme, but the Sweetheart Room is the ultimate romantic setting.  This circular hideaway, which has been featured in numerous local publications, occupies the second floor of the tower.  Hearts feature prominently: they’re carved into the grand, scrolled-beam ceiling; they decorate a luxurious white bed in t he form of heart-shaped cutouts in the headboard and footboard; a custom heart-shaped whirlpool tub faces a double-sided fireplace; and there’s even a custom heart-shaped skylight!  You won’t find another room like it anywhere.

            Cardiff Lodge may be just the ticket if you’re having a smaller wedding.  They’ve hosted parties for as few as 25 and max out at 100; groups of 50 to 60 are considered ideal.  Nobody will dictate the caterer or other vendors you choose to use so feel free to make your wedding the beachside celebration of your dreams.

            Ceremony, event/reception & meeting capacity: The site holds 100 seated or standing guests outdoors.

            Fees & deposits: 50% of the rental fee is required to reserve your date.  The balance is due 30 days prior to the event.  Rental fees start at $750.  There is a $100/hour charge after 5 hours.

            Availability: Year-round, daily, 10am-6pm for a 5-hour block of time.  Events must be over by 6pm.