HUNTINGTON BEACH, CALIFORNIA offers a romantic setting for weddings. Though it's not the wind-swept coves of Corona del Mar or the seaside cliffs of Dana Point, HB's wedding setting is picture perfect.  Flat sand beaches, stunning sunsets and the ocean waves at your feet can make for a site that can't be beat.  Weddings at Huntington Beach are as spectacular as their natural surroundings.

Getting married at Huntington Beach offers a few challenges, however. First, the beaches are public and there is no way to stake out a private, secluded wedding events spot..  The best you'll get is a hosted patio deck at Zack's Beach Catering.  It's not the Ritz, but it's as real as it gets. A wedding in Huntington Beach is for outdoor lovers. The wind can blow and it can get a little cool, or you can have thousands of people looking on during a busy summer weekend. With that in mind, beach operations for the City of Huntington Beach makes recommendations about a special event and they recommend you avoid holding one during those busy times.  Other considerations about the beach include a "no liquor " policy, and the beaches close at 10 p.m.

Several hotels provide courtyards and gazebos overlooking the ocean and though the are across the street from the beach, they have pleased many, many brides. The Four Diamond Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa and the Four Diamond Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort next door to each other provide the atmosphere discriminating guests seek. Ballroom facilities offer the "wow" factor for memorable events such as saying "I do."

For a wedding or honeymoon, some romantic ideas include strolls at sunset along the soft, sand beach, watching the sun go down over the Pacific Ocean. The Romantic Rituals Partner Massage at the Pacific Waters Spa at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach helps strengthen the bond between couples while teaching professional massage techniques to use at home. Cruise the bay with the ones you love in an electric Duffy boat in Huntington Harbour or book a romantic gondola ride for two with Gondola Getaway in Naples. The singing gondoliers stop under bridges so that in Italian tradition, couples can kiss. Up to 14 people can ride in the large gondola.

During the day, you may chose to pamper yourself at the oceanfront pool. Our staff recently saw a couple seated at a very special table overlooking the ocean at one resort. Rose petals were strewn to their prepared table which included chocolate covered strawberries and champagne that sparkled in the afternoon California sun. It was simple but elegant, and very romantic as she said "yes" and they made their wedding plans.

Another event we photographed above was a sunset wedding in Huntington Beach. A lifeguard and his bride walked into a ring made in the sand of tropical flower leis. Guests stood in bare feet as the Huntington Beach sunset put on a colorful and glorious show. One woman sang a song that simply floated in the evening breeze and mixed with soft sounds of ocean waves. It left a lasting impression on all who came to experience the special love that inhabited their space. The event was sealed with kisses and hugs.

The wedding ideas in Huntington Beach are as limitless as the ocean and sky.  For less pricey events, Hotel Huntington Beach is extremely popular for catered weddings, featuring an elegant dining facility, gazebo and affordability many seek. The hotel can accommodate approximately 200 people. Next door to Hotel Huntington Beach is a quaint chapel at Old World Village. For an intimate ceremony, the chapel provides beautiful stained glass windows and an alter. A pastor also offers services and ceremonies in German.

Warm, sunny days with blue skies and golden sunsets over the Huntington Beach Pier provide romantic settings overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Those who love sports find the city one of their favorite places to work out. The 8.5 mile path is suited for jogging, walking and bicycle riding. Water lovers can swim and surf in the ocean and there are skate parks nearby and skiing and sailing not far away.

FAQ's (Frequently answered questions) -  City Beach--Sunset Vista  714-536-5280   State Beach--Bolsa Chica 714-846-3460 or 800-444-7275 (call for reservations information). No liquor is allowed on Huntington Beaches except by special permit. Bonfires are allowed in fire pits at Bolsa Chica State Beach and State Beaches south of the pier (must bring own firewood). No fireworks are allowed in Huntington Beach.  Weddings are allowed by permit on the beach. Beach hours: Huntington City Beach: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., State Beaches: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Huntington Beach Pier: 5 a.m. to Midnight.