How to Have a Point Dume Beach Wedding: Ashley & Ryan's Wedding Day

If you’re dreaming of tying the knot with your toes in the sand and the ocean as your backdrop, you’re in for a treat. I’m here to share the details on how to have a swoon-worthy Point Dume beach wedding, inspired by Ashley and Ryan’s Malibu beach wedding.

Bride and groom holding one another during their Point Dume beach wedding

Why a Point Dume Beach Wedding?

First off, Point Dume in Malibu seriously has it all! Picture dramatic cliffs, endless ocean views, and that golden California sunshine. Ashley and Ryan picked this location for their big day, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! They wanted everything to feel natural and effortless, and their Point Dume beach wedding was delivered in abundance. The way the light hit the waves and the cliffs? Pure magic.

Bride and groom holding hands during their Point Dume beach wedding
Black and white photo of bride and groom kissing at Point Dume beach

Permits and Planning

Planning a Point Dume beach wedding can be confusing if youre doing it all yourself, you have to do a bit of homework. So here are some tips to help you get started, 

  1. Permits: First on your list is snagging a permit. You’ll need to obtain a permit from the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors. You can contact Beaches and Harbors at 424-526-7880. But do this early because you don’t want any last-minute hiccups!

  2. Timing is Everything: SoCal is blessed with awesome weather almost all year, but if you’re looking for prime time, aim for late spring, summer, or early fall. The weather is pretty reliable, and you’ll get those epic sunsets. Winter weddings can be amazing too, just keep an eye on the forecast!

  3. Logistics: Point Dume has limited parking, so think about carpooling or arranging transport for your crew. And check those tide schedules! You don’t want to get washed away mid-vows.

  4. Have a Plan B: Weather can be pretty unpredictable. Make sure to have a backup plan just in case—maybe have a tent or a nearby indoor spot.

Bride and groom running on the beach during sunset during their Point Dume beach wedding

Where to Stay Near Point Dume

Finding the perfect place to stay nearby can add a touch of luxury and convenience to your wedding experience. Ashley and Ryan chose to stay at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel. This elegant hotel provided a serene and sophisticated environment for them to get ready before heading to Point Dume. With spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and a relaxed atmosphere, it was the perfect spot to kick off their special day. Plus, the location offers easy access to the beach, making the transition from getting ready to saying "I do" smooth and stress-free.

Other fantastic options include:

  • Malibu Beach Inn: This upscale boutique hotel offers stunning ocean views and luxurious rooms, perfect for a romantic stay.

  • The Surfrider Malibu: A chic, modern hotel right across from the iconic Surfrider Beach, offering a laid-back vibe and beautiful suites.

  • Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club: Nestled in the Malibu hills, this rustic yet elegant resort offers a tranquil setting with private beach club access.

Bride and Bridesmaid running through the hotel hallway of Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel laughing and smiling
Bride and bridesmaid drinking champagne in the room of Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel
Bride and bridesmaid drinking champagne in the room of Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel

Ashley & Ryan’s Malibu State Beach Picnic

After their dreamy Point Dume beach wedding ceremony, Ashley and Ryan kept the good vibes rolling with a beach picnic set up by Blush and Ivy Design at Malibu State Beach. Their ceremony was really breathtaking, but the picnic after somehow was even more so! They had a beautifully decorated table with comfy pillows for seats, perfect for lounging and soaking in the moment. They had an array of delicious snacks, but the highlight was definitely the donuts! It was intimate, relaxed, and totally them. 

Pro tip: A picnic is a fantastic way to keep things low-key and personal while adding a touch of elegance. 

Beautiful beach picnic setup for wedding at Malibu state beach
Beautiful beach picnic setup for wedding at Malibu state beach
Beautiful sunset at Malibu State beach

Capturing the Magic

What made Ashley and Ryan’s Point Dume beach wedding extra special was how intentional they were about every detail. They kept it simple and focused on what mattered most—their love and the beautiful setting. As a photographer, my heart was bursting capturing those candid, imperfectly perfect moments. The giggles, and the teary-eyed glances, these are the moments that make my job so rewarding.

Bride and groom hugging at Point Dume state beach
Bride and groom posing smiling to the camera during sunset at Malibu state beach

Book Your Southern California Wedding Photographer! 

Honestly, being a wedding photographer in Southern California is the best “job” ever. From stunning beaches to lush vineyards, there’s no shortage of epic locations. 

If you’re considering a Point Dume beach wedding, let's hang out! With my candid approach and expertise in capturing those imperfectly perfect moments, I'll ensure your special day is everything you've dreamed of and more. Book me as your SoCal photographer, and let's start planning your unforgettable Southern California wedding.


See more of Ashley & Ryan’s Point Dume Beach wedding below on Film and more of my work on Pinterest!

Film wedding photo of bride and groom
Film wedding photo of bride and groom exchanging vows
Film wedding photo of bride and groom walking on the beach during sunset
Film wedding photo of bride and groom sitting in a hotel room on eachothers laps

Vendors:

Hotel: Luxe Sunset Blvd

 Picnic setup:  Blush and Ivy Design

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