The Best Time Of Year To Get Married in San Luis Obispo County
BURLAP & OAK WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
San Luis Obispo County is one of California’s most stunning wedding destinations. From vineyard-dotted hillsides to golden ranches, rugged coastlines, and charming small towns, it offers a little bit of everything. But one of the biggest questions couples ask when planning their wedding here is: What’s the best time of year to get married?
The truth is, each season on the Central Coast offers something unique. Spring brings rolling green hills and wildflowers, summer delivers long days and golden sunsets, fall offers perfect vineyard harvest backdrops, and winter provides cozy charm and dramatic skies. The “best” season really depends on the kind of atmosphere and experience you want to create for your day.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each season in San Luis Obispo County, along with the best months to tie the knot.
Spring Weddings
San Luis Obispo County
Spring (March–May) is one of the most breathtaking seasons for weddings in San Luis Obispo County. After winter rains, the hillsides turn a vibrant green, wildflowers dot the landscape, and vineyards begin to awaken with new growth. This time of year offers couples the most colorful and photogenic backdrops—from rolling hills near San Luis Obispo to bright coastal blooms along Montaña de Oro.
Pros: Spring brings mild, comfortable weather, usually in the mid-60s to low 70s. The fresh greenery and abundance of flowers create a romantic and vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect season for outdoor ceremonies and vineyard weddings. This is also the best time of year for couples who dream of photos filled with lush hills and blooming landscapes.
Cons: March and April can still bring unpredictable showers, so couples should have a rain backup plan. Afternoon breezes, especially near the coast, can make outdoor décor and hairstyles tricky. And because spring is so popular, prime venues and photographers book quickly.
Best Months: April and May are ideal. They offer the rolling green hills San Luis Obispo is famous for, abundant sunshine, and a lower chance of rain compared to early spring.
Summer Weddings
San Luis Obispo County
Summer (June–August) is a classic choice for weddings in San Luis Obispo County, offering warm evenings, long days, and glowing sunsets. This season is perfect for couples who want that golden California look—rolling hills, vineyard backdrops, and receptions under the stars. Coastal areas like Pismo Beach and Morro Bay bring bright skies after morning fog, while inland Paso Robles and Edna Valley vineyards feel straight out of the Mediterranean.
Pros: Summer sunsets are unbeatable, filling wedding photos with dreamy golden light. The long daylight hours allow for relaxed timelines, giving couples more time to enjoy both their ceremony and reception. Warm evenings also make outdoor celebrations inviting, whether under string lights or in the middle of wine country. Summer also tends to work well for guests traveling from afar since schedules are more flexible.
Cons: Inland venues, especially in Paso Robles, can reach the 90s or higher, which may be uncomfortable for midday ceremonies. Tourist towns along the coast can be crowded, making accommodations harder to secure. And because it’s peak wedding season, couples should expect higher prices for venues and vendors.
Best Months: June and early July strike the perfect balance, with warm but manageable weather before late-summer heat peaks.
Fall Weddings
San Luis Obispo County
Fall (September–November) is the most sought-after wedding season in San Luis Obispo County—and it’s easy to see why. Vineyard regions like Paso Robles and Edna Valley are in harvest, with vines heavy with grapes and colors shifting from green to warm golden tones. The light becomes soft and golden, creating the perfect atmosphere for romantic ceremonies and dreamy portraits.
Pros: The weather in fall is nearly perfect, with warm afternoons and crisp evenings. Harvest season creates vibrant, lively backdrops that are unmatched by any other time of year. The sunsets in autumn are famous for their golden glow, making every photo magical. This season also complements rustic and vineyard weddings beautifully, pairing well with barns, ranches, and wine country venues.
Cons: With fall being the most popular wedding season, venues and vendors often book more than a year in advance. And since the sun sets earlier, couples will need to plan carefully to ensure their ceremony and portraits take advantage of the light.
Best Months: September and October stand out for their reliable weather, vineyard vibrancy, and stunning sunsets.
Winter Weddings
San Luis Obispo County
Winter (December–February) is the most underrated season for weddings in San Luis Obispo County, but it offers its own kind of magic. While less common, winter weddings bring charm, intimacy, and unique beauty. After the first rains, the hillsides begin to turn green again, and the coastal skies take on moody, dramatic tones—perfect for couples who want something different from the traditional sunny wedding.
Pros: Winter weddings are often budget-friendly, as venues and vendors typically offer off-season discounts. The season also brings more availability, making it easier to secure your dream location or photographer on shorter notice. The romantic atmosphere is unmatched—think cozy indoor receptions, fireplaces, and festive touches for December weddings.
Cons: January and February are the rainiest months of the year, so outdoor ceremonies require a strong backup plan. Evenings can be chilly, so heaters or indoor venues are often necessary. Vineyards are dormant this time of year, meaning less greenery compared to spring or fall.
Best Months: December offers a festive holiday charm, while February brings the first signs of wildflowers and rolling green hills returning—an early preview of spring’s beauty.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Season for Your SLO Wedding
The beauty of San Luis Obispo County is that there truly isn’t a bad time to get married here—it just depends on the look, feel, and experience you’re dreaming of. Spring offers rolling green hills and vibrant colors, summer delivers long days and golden light, fall provides vineyard harvest magic, and winter creates cozy, intimate celebrations.
When deciding, think about what matters most: Do you want lush greenery, glowing sunsets, or cozy winter vibes? Do you prefer fewer crowds and better availability, or peak-season energy and vineyard harvest charm?
No matter which season you choose, San Luis Obispo County provides unforgettable backdrops, incredible weather, and the perfect atmosphere to say “I do.”