Great Wedding and Honeymooning Spots in California
By Andrew Collins

When the California State Supreme Court legalized gay marriage in May 2008, the Golden State quickly became one of the nation's leading destinations for same-sex weddings and honeymoons. In fact, even before the ruling, plenty of inns, resorts, and hotels around the state encouraged same-sex commitment ceremonies and romantic getaways. But now with the ruling, gay couples are flocking to California. Of course, the state's stunning scenery and wealth of sophisticated, luxurious hideaways has long made it an excellent choice if you're planning a romantic vacation.

California has an abundance of inviting accommodation options, from 400-room hotels offering gay-wedding packages and assistance with planning to intimate B&Bs that ooze charm and are ideal for smaller, low-keyed nuptials and celebrations. Here's a look at a dozen noteworthy wedding and honeymoon spots around the Golden State - from affordable, secluded inns to over-the-top, posh resorts.

Black Bear Inn, Lake Tahoe
California's premier four-season destination, the Lake Tahoe region exudes romance whether it's covered with fresh snow in January or abloom with flowers in July. Among the area's many ultra-romantic accommodations, consider the gay-owned Black Bear Inn. The airy, contemporary main lodge [which has five guest rooms) and three private cabins contain river-rock fireplaces, beamed cathedral ceilings, and stylish rustic-chic furnishings and fabrics. Although the Black Bear is an intimate property, the owners enthusiastically welcome small weddings for the extremely reasonable rate of $300.

Groveland Hotel, Groveland
Anchoring the small mountain town of Groveland, not far from Yosemite National Park, the rambling Groveland Hotel opened in 1849 during the region's gold-mining heyday. Friendly owners Peggy and Grover Mosley bought and completely renovated the property several years back. The mood at this charming, pet-friendly property is easygoing and informal, but two things make it notable as a romantic retreat: the inn's restaurant serves astoundingly delicious contemporary American fare [with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and well-chosen regional wines), and there are few more naturally stunning settings in California than Yosemite and the surrounding mountains and forests. Weddings at the Groveland can take place in the restaurant or, during the warmer months, outside in a picturesque garden courtyard.

Hacienda at Warm Springs, Palm Springs
Long one of the most luxurious and romantic gay-exclusive mini-resorts in Palm Springs, the Hacienda is more couples-oriented and low-keyed than some of its more festive, playful neighbors, and that makes it a fine choice for a honeymoon hideaway or even a small wedding. The inn's helpful staff can assist guests with wedding arrangements [from finding an officiant to perform your ceremony to helping you order a fantastic custom wedding cake), and the Hacienda offers a lavish three-night Honeymoon Package that includes rose petals, breakfast in bed, complimentary bathrobes, and dinner at two of the city's top restaurants.
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