Jonathan Beach Club Review
Heirloom Event Company does not receive a commission for positive reviews or venue referrals for Jonathan Beach Club.
We haven't yet had the pleasure of producing a wedding at Jonathan Beach Club. But after diving deep into venue research, reviews, and virtual tours, we can confidently say this: If your heart is set on a classic California beach wedding, this is one venue that checks nearly every box.
Jonathan Beach Club sits right on Santa Monica's iconic shoreline, blending more than a century of history and hospitality with the serene sophistication of oceanfront views. It's all-inclusive approach means far less legwork for couples—food, beverage, rentals, setup, and all the other details are handled in-house. As the happy couple, all you have to do is focus on dreaming up the moments and memories you want to create.
Price
From what we've found, Jonathan Beach Club operates as a true all-inclusive. Think of it as "wedding planning made simpler." You get a beautiful setting and experienced hands taking care of everything from tables and chairs to china, linens, and even portable bars.
Full wedding packages: Start at $35,000 for off-peak dates, $40,000 for peak.
Catering: $250 per person for off-peak dates, with a $25,000 minimum spend.
Capacity: Accommodates up to 300 guests for a seated reception.
This pricing includes setup, cleanup, chairs, flatware, glassware, basic rentals, and more—which is an enormous benefit if you want to walk in and feel at home on day one. While the investment is significant (and membership may be required for booking), the value is in the peace of mind and convenience. It's one of the few venues we've researched where you're truly "covered" on all the wedding basics.
Rating: 7/10
Planning Process
Feedback from real couples and planners alike agrees: the on-site coordination team at Jonathan Beach Club is a true asset. Christie DeMoss, the Club's Wedding Event Coordinator, receives frequent accolades in online reviews for her warmth, attention to detail, and creative event suggestions. Couples describe feeling genuinely supported from the early food tasting to the final run-of-show.
That said, we always see the biggest transformations (and smoothest experiences) when couples bring in a dedicated wedding planner alongside the in-house team. While the venue handles logistics, timeline basics, and core details, an external planner is your advocate and brings your vision to life. Our LA wedding planners will dedicate their time to personalizing every moment and making sure your vision comes to life—not just the logistics. That looks like:
Assisting with design details
Vendor communication beyond the venue
Timeline changes
Family wrangling
And countless small decisions that the venue team simply doesn't have the capacity or context to cover.
When both teams are in sync, the experience is seamless and personal.
Keep in mind: parking is limited and available for a fee, so providing guests with clear instructions or organizing a shuttle is a smart move. It's also wise to check if membership is required to book before getting too attached to the space. Still, if you're seeking a team that handles logistics gracefully—and want your own planner to tailor the experience—JBC truly shines based on our research.
Rating: 8/10
Day-Of Execution
While we can't speak from direct experience yet, recent reviews and detailed testimonials paint a consistent picture: service at Jonathan Beach Club is thoughtful, precise, and guest-oriented. From ceremonies in the sand to elegant receptions inside, the event staff make transitions seamless. Couples hosted weddings on the Sand Deck with views of the Pacific, danced in the Catalina Room (with its glass doors open to the ocean), or toasted on the Penthouse Terrace beneath twinkling lights and a glowing sunset.
Reviewers rave about the friendly and attentive staff, the elevated food (which, according to several families, wowed even the pickiest eaters), and the flexibility to customize the space with florals or lounge furniture. The little details—like built-in heaters for chilly evenings, fire pits for roasting s'mores, and well-coordinated flow between indoor and outdoor spaces—make guest comfort a top priority.
Rating: 9/10
Value
Based on our research, Jonathan Beach Club offers true value for couples hoping for an all-inclusive beach wedding and a stress-free experience. The ease of having so much included means less time sourcing vendors and more space to focus on the personal touches that matter most. The feeling of exclusivity and the Club's storied history add an intangible "wow" factor to make your day a little bit extra.
We'd be remiss not to mention the price point. It’s definitely a premium experience offered here—especially for non-members. But, that investment can make sense for couples seeking a full-service, stunning venue with an oceanfront location. The combination of professional service, in-house amenities, and prime Santa Monica sand is unmatched in much of LA.
Rating: 7/10
Is This the Venue for You?
If you're dreaming of a stress-free, all-in-one California beach wedding with ocean views and an experienced in-house team, Jonathan Beach Club is absolutely one to consider. Their all-inclusive approach offers wonderful peace of mind, especially when it comes to logistics and hospitality.
Our perspective here is rooted in research and the stories of couples and planners who have celebrated at Jonathan Beach Club before us. We're excited for the day we experience it firsthand. Until then, we give Jonathan Beach Club a warm recommendation for those craving a luxe, all-inclusive coastal celebration—just be sure to confirm membership requirements and plan ahead for guest parking and logistics.
We give it an overall rating of