Joshua Tree Wedding Venues: Stunning Locations for Your Desert Wedding or Elopement
- marissaaden
- Dec 27, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Dec 27, 2025
Joshua Tree has this way of slowing everything down. The light feels softer. The air feels quieter. And suddenly, nothing else really matters except the two of you standing out there together.
I’ve photographed a lot of couples in Joshua Tree — full wedding days, intimate celebrations, and quiet elopements tucked into the desert. And every time, it feels different in the best way. No rushing. No pressure. Just space to breathe, be present, and actually enjoy what you’re doing here.
If you’re planning a wedding or elopement in Joshua Tree, choosing the right venue sets the tone for everything. Some couples want the raw, iconic landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Others are drawn to thoughtfully designed Joshua Tree wedding Airbnbs or private desert venues that feel equal parts stylish and laid-back.
In this guide, I’m sharing some of the best Joshua Tree wedding venues and locations. For each venue below, I’m sharing three things: why it might be the right fit for you, what it offers from a photography perspective, and a few notes worth keeping in mind as you plan.
Why this may be the perfect venue for you: If you love modern design with a wow factor, this mirrored house is your jam. Set on 90 acres of desert, you get iconic Joshua Tree vibes without stepping foot inside the park. With 4 large bedrooms, it’s perfect for a small elopement where you and your closest loved ones can stay right on site.
Photo opportunities: Mirrored walls + desert light = dreamy, surreal shots. The long indoor pool, floor-to-ceiling glass, and endless desert around the house give tons of options for dramatic, editorial-style photos.
Things to know while planning: Small gatherings shine here, but big weddings may be a bit tricky. And because it’s an architectural gem, plan ahead if you’re bringing in professional photographers or gear.
Why this may be the perfect venue for you: Sacred Sands is a Joshua Tree classic for a reason. Just a mile from the park, it’s perfect if you want that desert magic and luxury. You’ve got everything you need for your day: a bespoke ceremony circle, boho-styled arbors, a sunset cocktail patio, and expansive outdoor reception spaces. Plus, the indoor ballroom opens right to the outdoors with polished concrete floors — perfect for dancing under desert skies. Two soundproofed luxury hotel rooms mean some guests can stay on-site, and Lobo Luna, their full private home experience, is just a short stroll away for extra space.
Photo opportunities: Golden light hits everything just right here. The ceremony circle framed by mountains, the arbors, sunset cocktail patio, and reception courtyard all give gorgeous, naturally framed shots. Inside, the ballroom’s polished concrete floors and seamless indoor/outdoor flow are perfect for movement, dancing, and candid moments. And at night? Stars for days. Literally. You’ll get shots you didn’t even know you wanted.
Things to know while planning: Sacred Sands comes with full amenities: a full kitchen, 45 on-site parking spaces, and a range of rental options to fit intimate elopements or big weddings. The veteran planner team keeps everything running smoothly, so you can actually enjoy the day. It’s flexible, magical, and fully geared for couples who want to celebrate under the desert sun ... and stars.
Why this may be the perfect venue for you: Set on 350 acres of untouched Mojave Desert, Morada feels like your own private escape from the city. Mountains, cacti, and stunning sunsets make it ideal for intimate elopements or weddings up to 150 guests. The main home and outdoor lounge give you plenty of space to get ready, relax, and hang out with your closest people.
Photo opportunities: Desert landscapes + mountain views + golden-hour sunsets = endless dreamy shots. The 1,900-square-foot outdoor lounge, pool, firepit, and surrounding plants all give natural, cinematic backdrops for both portraits and candid moments.
Things to know while planning: You get full flexibility with your vendors, and the on-site team handles cleanup and 24/7 management. Big weddings work here, but the space still keeps that private, desert retreat vibe—perfect if you want epic views without feeling crowded.
All photos are mine. Afull wedding blog posts can be viewed here.
Why this may be the perfect venue for you: If cookie-cutter weddings make you yawn, Nxwhere is your playground. 100 acres of desert just outside Joshua Tree, 6 homes, 18 bedrooms, and total freedom to do you. Food trucks, your own caterer, or even a camel for the grand entrance? Go wild. Multi-day celebrations or intimate elopements — this place handles it all.
Photo opportunities: Desert vistas, firepits, a pool, a skateboard pool, and yes… a giant trampoline. Open-air amphitheater, indoor/outdoor ceremony spaces, and wide-open landscapes make every shot epic. Candid dancing, sunset portraits, or jumping on the trampoline — all make for incredible photos.
Things to know while planning: It’s remote — bumpy dirt roads included — but hosts usually help with guest transportation. Accommodates up to 38 overnight, 150+ for the party, and gives you total creative freedom. Basically: your rules, your wedding, your desert adventure.
Why this may be the perfect venue for you: If you love a little Wild West flair, this is your spot. Spread over 17 acres of private desert, it’s perfect for small weddings or elopements where you want all your guests on-site. With 5 bedrooms and a quirky little chapel, everyone has a place to sleep and hang out. Bonus: it’s walking distance to Pioneertown & Pappy & Harriet’s.
Photo opportunities: From the cowboy tub and hot tub on the huge deck to the saloon, chapel (with a real, working bell!), hammocks, and desert landscape, this property screams “editorial meets fun.” Sunset, starlit skies, or just chilling in the hammock — all of it makes for incredible shots.
Things to know while planning: It’s private, rustic, and a little kitschy, which is part of the charm. Cell service is limited, so you’ll really unplug. The property comes with some rules about noise and hot tub use, and any professional photos or videos need prior approval. Otherwise, the space is yours to play, relax, and celebrate.
Why this may be the perfect venue for you: Le Chacuel is quiet. Private. Tucked on 7.5 acres on the edge of Yucca Mesa, it’s perfect for a small elopement or intimate wedding with your closest people. Four bedrooms give you space to spread out, but the design keeps you connected to the desert. Everything feels low to the ground, cozy, and intentional—like it was made to help you slow down.
Photo opportunities: The white plaster walls against the sand and Joshua Trees? Chef’s kiss. Minimalist interiors, huge sliding glass doors, and a saltwater pool all frame the desert in the most cinematic way. Sunsets, starlit nights, or a quiet moment by the fire pit — you’ll get shots you didn’t even know you wanted.
Things to know while planning: This is a retreat. Quiet, respectful neighbors. Pets are welcome (deposit applies). The pool is heated seasonally, and extras like private yoga, sound baths, reiki, and massages are available if you want a little extra calm for your day.
Ready to Plan Your Joshua Tree Wedding or Elopement?
After photographing Joshua Tree weddings and elopements for over 10 years, I know this desert like the back of my hand. I know the best Joshua Tree wedding locations, the hidden spots that make photos magical, and how to work with the desert light at any hour. I also know the top vendors in Joshua Tree, so you don’t have to stress about who to trust.
If you’re planning a wedding or elopement in Joshua Tree, I can help you craft a day that feels effortless, romantic, and totally you. I even have a curated list of Joshua Tree Airbnbs perfect for getting ready or intimate elopements — these homes double as dreamy backdrops for your photos.
Ready to make your Joshua Tree wedding vision a reality? Reach out to me here and I’ll help you plan the perfect desert celebration.