For those of you who need to have sandy toes and ocean views on your wedding day, you need to find some of the best beach wedding locations in the US before making your final choice. This guide goes beyond just helping you pick a pretty cove– it’s about helping you to take the right steps to find your own perfect coastline, one that meets your vision as well as providing some guidelines about the practicalities of choosing it.

If you’re looking for inspiration for other types of locations away from the beach, say in the mountains, a city, or elsewhere, check out our overall, comprehensive guide to the best destination wedding locations in the US.

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Table of Contents

1. Define Your Ideal Beach Vibe

When exploring the best beach wedding locations in the US, begin by picturing which area of the country that resonates most with your eyes closed—because each coastline offers a unique charm. Once you have a preference it’ll go a long way in narrowing your scope. Here’s how to approach it practically:

Consider Your Lifestyle and Versatility: Are you drawn to calm, serene beaches for a relaxed vibe, or are you drawn to resorts, restaurants, places for photos and post-ceremony celebrations
Your guests’ impressions: How will they react? A private, intimate beach might be perfect for small ceremonies, while larger groups may enjoy being near parking, restrooms, and entertainment.
Distance and Travel Needs: Will this be a destination wedding where guests travel across the country, or do you want a location closer to home? Figure the level of convenience you’re after and it’ll help you eliminate unsuitable options early on.

How to Search for Your Perfect Beach Location

Once you know, in general, what you’re looking for, here’s how to start your search for the best beach wedding locations that meet your criteria:

Leverage Online Sites:
- Use sites like The Knot and WeddingWire to browse beach venues by location, size, and amenities.
- Search for destination-specific hashtags on Instagram (e.g., #FloridaBeachWeddings or #CapeCodWedding) to discover unique spots and see real weddings in action.
Explore Local Tourism Websites:
Beach towns have vastly improved their tourism boards with dedicated pages for weddings with venue directories, local vendor recommendations, and helpful tips for planning.
Ask for Recommendations:
- Use Facebook and Reddit. They might have firsthand experience with venues you’re considering.
- Local wedding planners are great for giving their insight into the hidden gems and unknown spots to outsiders.
Read Reviews and Testimonials:
Yelp, Google and other review sites will show you other couples’ feedback so you can learn about everything — accessibility, weather, etc.
Check Venue Websites Directly:
Private beaches, resorts, and clubs have detailed websites with photos, pricing, available packages, and galleries that showcase real weddings.
Use Google Maps for Virtual Tours:
Satellite and street views let you explore the surrounding area.
Visit in Person when Possible:
If time and budget allow, take the trip and visit. Walk the beach, meet venue coordinators, and envision your ceremony in the space. This step often seals the deal for couples who want confidence in their choice.

Takeaway: Plan with Confidence

Do thorough research and you’ll not only narrow down your options but you’ll feel more confident in choosing one of the best beach wedding locations for your big day. The key is to do this systematically.

2. Consider Accessibility for Guests

Not all of the best beach wedding locations in the US are equally accessible so your guests’ experience should factor in your decision. You should be making sure your loved ones can easily attend as it’ll also reduce stress for you as the host.

Evaluate Accessibility Factors

Proximity to Major Airports: Most popular destinations are located near an airport making travel straightforward for out-of-towners. Is your beach within a reasonable drive/Uber?
Ease of Local Transportation: If your venue is in a popular area check for ample parking for those who drove. For more remote destinations, such as Bald Head Island, North Carolina, which requires ferry access.

Plan Accommodations Thoughtfully

Offer a Range of Options: Popular wedding locations will usually give you a mix of luxury resorts, mid-tier hotels, and Airbnbs. You’ll be able to cater to your guests’ varying budgets and preferences.
Secure Room Blocks Early: Many venues partner with nearby hotels to offer discounted room blocks for wedding parties. Booking early ensures your guests have affordable and convenient lodging close to the venue.

Provide Detailed Travel Information

Create a Wedding Website: Include all the essential travel details, such as the nearest airport, driving directions, parking information, and any transportation options.
Highlight Local Amenities: Guests will appreciate recommendations for nearby restaurants, attractions if they’re traveling from out of town and turning your wedding into a mini-vacation.

How to Make Remote Venues Accessible

Secluded beaches, such as Tybee Island, Georgia, or private resorts in the Florida Keys, offer exclusivity but can pose logistical challenges. Here’s how to make these venues guest-friendly:

Arrange Transportation: For islands or remote beaches, consider chartering shuttles, buses, or even ferries to transport guests from a central location to the venue.
Organize Group Accommodations: Encourage guests to stay at the same hotel or nearby rentals to simplify coordination and foster a sense of togetherness.

Special Considerations for Older Guests or Those with Mobility Challenges

If your guest list includes elderly family members or individuals with mobility issues, take extra care to ensure the venue is accessible:

Look for venues with paved pathways, ramps, and easy access to the ceremony and reception areas.
You can sometimes even rent golf carts or provide shuttle services to help guests navigate longer distances.

Final Touch: Anticipate Your Guests’ Needs

Even at the best beach wedding locations in the US, a little extra planning for accessibility goes a long way:

Prepare Welcome Kits: Include maps, transportation details, sunscreen, and perhaps a fun local guide to help guests feel at home.
Communicate Early and Often: Send save-the-dates well in advance and follow up with regular updates as your plans solidify.

3. Research Venue Options

Choosing the right venue is one of the most critical steps in your planning. Not all of the best beach wedding locations are created equal—some public beaches may seem idyllic in photos but they’re lacking in the essentials. So thoroughly research each venue’s options.

Public vs. Private Beach Venues

Public Beaches: Picturesque and cost-effective, yes! But public beaches come with challenges. They can sometimes lack restrooms, parking, or changing facilities, and their accessibility can be limited during peak seasons. They also can require permits for events and may impose restrictions on music, alcohol, and decor.
Private Venues: Resorts, beach clubs, and boutique properties will give you exclusive access and typically offer added conveniences like on-site coordinators, catering, and restrooms. They’ll also handle permits and ensure that the space is finely tailored to your needs, from seating arrangements to setups.

Key Features to Look for in a Venue

When exploring the best beach wedding locations in the US, focus on venues that offer these critical features:

Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easy for both you and your vendors to reach with ample parking or valet services, as well as straightforward vendor load-in access.
Amenities: Does the venue provide essentials like restrooms, changing areas, or shaded spaces for guests? Some private venues even offer bridal suites, which can be a convenient place to get ready.
In-House Services: Many venues offer packages that include catering, furniture rentals, or day-of coordination. This simplifies your planning and can even reduce the need for hiring external vendors.
Customizability: Can you personalize your wedding decor or have flexibility in arranging spaces?

How to Narrow Down Your Options

Use Wedding Venue Directories:
Sites like The Knot or WeddingWire let you filter venues by location, capacity, and amenities. Use these tools to create a shortlist of potential venues.
Research Online Reviews:
Google Reviews, Yelp, or TripAdvisor let you read other couples’ experiences so you can learn about staff responsiveness, event management, and overall quality.
Ask Questions During Virtual Tours or Consultations:
How about a virtual tour or consultations? You can ask specific questions about amenities, pricing, and package inclusions. For example:
- Are permits required, and does the venue handle them?
- What’s included in their wedding packages?
- How do they manage weather contingencies?
Leverage Local Planners:
Wedding planners familiar with the best beach wedding locations in their respective regions, so they can often recommend hidden gems or venues. They may also have insider knowledge about venue discounts or seasonal promotions.

Sample Venue Options to Consider

If you’re drawn to tropical waters, venues like Ocean Key Resort & Spa in Key West have stunning views and full-service packages. For a luxurious yet contemporary vibe, Montage Laguna Beach in California gives you coastal charm and high-end accommodations.

Looking for something more intimate? Try some private beach clubs or boutique venues, like on Bald Head Island, North Carolina who cater to smaller weddings.

What to Avoid

Overcrowded Beaches: You may want to avoid venues in areas known for heavy tourism because they can easily detract from the intimacy of a wedding.
Unvetted Locations: Always visit or do heavy research on your venue before booking. Pictures can be misleading, and logistical details like accessibility and space layout are critical.
Hidden Fees: Are there extra costs for things like permits, furniture rentals, or overtime charges? No one likes to see surcharges in the end.

Final Tips for Finding the Right Venue

Schedule Site Visits: Whenever possible, visit. Walk the space and assess its ambiance, size, and potential for customization.
Compare Packages and Value: While private venues often cost more upfront, they can include services that save time and money in the long run.
Prioritize Flexibility: Look for venues that offer contingency plans, such as indoor spaces or tent rentals, in case of bad weather.

4. Understand Permits and Regulations

Navigating permits and regulations is just part of the planning at public beaches. Many require them for events, especially with larger groups and amplified music. Understanding the requirements early will save you time, stress, and money (paying fines) while ensuring your celebration is seamless and legally compliant.

Key Considerations for Public Beaches

Permit Requirements:
Most public beaches have specific rules for hosting events. These permits typically cover:
- The size of your gathering.
- The use of amplified sound systems or live music.
- Alcohol consumption or catering services.
- Erecting temporary structures, such as arches, tents, or seating.
Tip: Contact the local parks or recreation department for the requirements. It’s best to apply for permits early, as processing times can vary.
Timing Restrictions:
Public beaches may have time limits for private events–some beaches may only allow weddings during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or evenings.
Environmental Regulations:
Many public beaches have strict environmental protections and their rules may prohibit certain decorations (e.g., confetti or balloons) to avoid harm to wildlife.
Parking and Accessibility:
Public beaches may have limited parking so consider arranging shuttles.

Benefits of Private Venues

If navigating permits feels overwhelming, the best private beach wedding locations can offer you attractive alternatives. Resorts, beach clubs, and boutique venues will handle all necessary permissions on your behalf.

Simplified Planning: Private venues typically manage permits, setup, and cleanup, freeing you to focus on other aspects of your day.
Fewer Restrictions: Private venues probably allow alcohol, custom decor, and amplified music.
Exclusive Use: You won’t need to worry about sharing your space with the general beach-going public.

How to Ensure Compliance

Whether you choose a public or private venue, follow these steps to avoid last-minute complications:

Contact Local Authorities:
If you’re planning a wedding on a public beach, reach out to the city or county’s parks department for their permitting process. They’ll give you all the information about fees, requirements, and timelines.
Understand Venue Policies:
Private venues may still have noise regulations, guest capacity, and decor limitations so just ask your venue coordinator.
Work with a Planner:
Local wedding planners always have experience navigating permits and can handle applications and compliance for you. Their expertise is especially valuable for destination weddings, where you may be less familiar with local regulations.

Additional Tips

Budget for Permits: Permit costs vary widely.
Keep Documents Handy: Keep copies on hand during your event in case someone shows up during your event.
Inform Vendors: Share the relevant regulations such as restrictions on vehicle access or setup times.

5. Time Your Wedding Around the Environment

The best beach wedding locations can come with some unique challenges, like changing tides, unpredictable weather, and seasonal fluctuations in tourism. Plan around them and your celebration will happen seamlessly.

Don’t Forget the Tides

They can dramatically affect your ceremony setup, especially if you’re planning a beachside event:

Check Tide Charts: NOAA’s tide prediction charts will give you high and low tide times. While a low tide provides more space for guests, high tides just may well encroach on your setup. Be careful.
Schedule Accordingly: Plan your ceremony during a stable tide period to avoid the need for your guests to scramble out of the way of rushing water. Because most opt for late afternoon weddings to catch the golden hour, the tide may help alter your well-made plans.

Know the Weather Patterns

Weather varies significantly across all of the best beach wedding locations in the US, so understanding the local climate is crucial:

Cape Cod, Massachusetts: Best enjoyed in summer when temperatures are mild, and seaside gardens are in full bloom. Avoid late fall and winter when cold winds dominate the coastline.
Florida’s Gulf Coast: Ideal in spring, offering warm but not stifling weather. Summer months bring high heat, humidity, and frequent storms, so aim for early April to mid-May for the best conditions.
California Beaches: Big Sur and Malibu offer pleasant weather almost year-round, though fog can be an issue in early mornings during spring and summer. Late summer and early fall often provide the clearest skies.

Avoid Peak Tourist Seasons

Many beach towns experience an influx of visitors during holidays and summer vacations, which can lead to crowded beaches, limited accommodations, and higher costs:

Research Local Tourism Trends: Look for data on peak travel seasons for your chosen destination. For example, Florida beaches are busiest in March and April due to spring break, while Cape Cod sees its highest traffic from late June to August.
Choose Shoulder Seasons: Opt for less-crowded times, such as late spring or early fall, to enjoy favorable weather while avoiding the tourist rush. Shoulder seasons often bring lower venue rates and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Plan for Hurricane and Storm Seasons

Tropical destinations are especially vulnerable to hurricanes and severe weather:

Hurricane Season: Runs from June to November, peaking in late summer and early fall. If you’re planning a wedding in Florida, the Caribbean, or the Gulf Coast during this time, invest in wedding insurance to protect your investment.
Watch the Forecast: Work with your venue and vendors to monitor weather conditions in the weeks leading up to your wedding. Have a solid contingency plan for unexpected storms, such as moving to an indoor space or rescheduling if necessary.

Work with the Venue

Your venue coordinator is often the best resource for understanding local environmental factors:

Tide and Weather Expertise: Experienced coordinators know how the tides, winds, and weather affect their site and can recommend the best timing for your event.
Seasonal Setup Suggestions: Venues may have recommendations for optimizing your layout based on seasonal changes, such as windbreaks, tent placements, or shaded areas.

Final Tips for Timing Your Wedding

Time Your Ceremony: Late afternoon or early evening ceremonies allow you to take advantage of the golden hour, ensuring stunning photos and a comfortable temperature for guests.
Budget for Contingencies: Allocate a portion of your budget for weather-related backups, such as tent rentals, space heaters, or cooling fans.

6. Explore Lesser-Known Gems

Iconic spots like Malibu, California, or Key West, Florida, offer some of the best beach wedding locations, but they’re busy and expensive. Explore lesser-known beaches and find the hidden treasures offering intimacy, uniqueness, and a more personalized experience.

goose rocks beach, ME

Why Lesser-Known Coastal Regions Make for Some of the Best Beach Wedding Locations

More Intimate: Smaller crowds and quieter settings give you a more private and personal feel.
Cost Savings: Lesser-known spots can cost a fraction of what you’d spend at a more popular spot.
Distinctive Charm: Unique locales can make your wedding stand out while giving you scenery not overused or seen in every wedding photo album.

How to Find Hidden Gems

Search Google with Greater Specificity:
Instead of generic terms like “best beach wedding locations,” include descriptive keywords in your search. For example:
- “Secluded beach wedding venues East Coast”
- “Underrated beach wedding locations near Charleston”
- “Hidden beach wedding spots California”
Leverage AI Tools:
Use sites like ChatGPT and describe the setting you envision. These AI tools can give you unique inspiration.
Search Local Tourism Websites:
These days there’s barely a small town or coastal areas without their own tourism boards with directories of venues that cater to weddings. They’ll give you all the off-the-beaten-path spots.
Ask for Recommendations:
- Local wedding planners will know the area’s hidden gems.
- Join some Facebook and Reddit groups and ask for recommendations.
Look Beyond Wedding-Specific Sites:
While The Knot and WeddingWire are great starting points, exploring vacation rental sites like Airbnb or VRBO can reveal private homes or estates with beachfront access. Ask them if they’d be able to host your event.

Tips for Choosing a Hidden Gem

Visit Before Booking: Lesser-known venues may not have extensive online galleries or reviews, so visiting in person allows you to see the space and assess its potential.
Ask About Amenities: Ensure the venue has the basics you need, such as restrooms, parking, and space for vendors.
Check for Exclusivity: Some hidden gems are public spaces with limited privacy. Confirm whether you can reserve the area exclusively for your event.
Plan for Guest Travel: While off-the-radar locations are beautiful, they may require more detailed travel instructions for guests. Provide clear directions and suggest accommodations nearby.

Balancing Intimacy and Practicality

While lesser-known locations offer charm and privacy, ensure they meet practical needs:

Capacity: Check that the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
Accessibility: Verify that the location is easy to reach for you, your vendors, and your guests.

7. Plan a Site Visit

Choosing from the best beach wedding locations goes beyond stunning photos or glowing reviews. A site visit can be essential as pictures and videos are only able to tell you a part of the story. Walking the space in person gives you invaluable insights into its ambiance, accessibility, and suitability for your big day.

Why a Site Visit Matters

Visualize the Setup: Experience the venue firsthand to make sure it matches your expectations.
Identify Logistical Challenges: From vendor access and parking to restroom availability, address practical concerns early in your planning.
Plan Around Natural Factors: Beaches are dynamic environments, so observing the space at your chosen time of day allows you to assess lighting, tides, and potential wind patterns.

Key Steps for a Productive Site Visit

Schedule Strategically:
- Visit During Your Ceremony Time: The lighting and ambiance can change dramatically depending on the time of day. Visiting in the late afternoon, for example, allows you to visualize how the golden hour will enhance your photos and guest experience.
- Account for Seasonal Variations: Keep in mind how things change with the seasons.
Walk Through the Guest Experience:
- Start at the parking area or drop-off point and follow the same path your guests will take.
- Identify potential challenges, such as uneven terrain, long walks, or confusing directions, and plan solutions like signage or transportation assistance.
Assess Vendor Logistics:
- Confirm where vendors will load and unload equipment and supplies.
- Ensure there’s enough space for your caterers to set up and break down, photo stations, and other key elements of your wedding.
- Ask about power sources or generator requirements if you need sources of electricity.
Discuss Contingency Plans:
- Confirm the venue’s backup options for rain, extreme heat, or other weather-related issues.
- Ask about their protocols for rescheduling in case of emergencies, especially in areas prone to hurricanes or storms.

Questions to Ask During Your Visit

Amenities: Are restrooms, changing areas, and shaded spaces available?
Guest Accommodations: Are there nearby hotels or Airbnbs, and does the venue offer recommendations?
Noise and Privacy: How busy is the beach, and will your event be private? Are there noise restrictions?
Permits and Restrictions: What permits are required, and does the venue handle them? Are there limits on decor, music, or alcohol?
Setup and Cleanup: Who is responsible for setting up and removing decor, chairs, and other items?

Tips for Virtual Alternatives

If you can’t visit maybe there’s a virtual tour or video consult. No, it’s not as comprehensive as a physical visit, but they’re sometimes adequate.

Ask for a live video walkthrough at your planned ceremony time.
Request detailed photos of key areas, including parking, vendor access, and ceremony and reception spaces.
Use satellite maps to examine the surrounding area for potential noise sources, privacy issues, or other factors.

Final Steps After Your Visit

Take Notes: Document your observations and any concerns to discuss with your planner or venue coordinator.
Confirm Your Vision: If the site visit matches your expectations, finalize your booking with confidence.
Follow Up on Open Questions: Address any logistical or environmental issues you’ve identified to avoid surprises on the big day.

Looking for more wedding inspiration? Check out our comprehensive guide to the best destination wedding locations in the US.

Say your vows by the beach

Then come to the mountains to vow you’ll never leave our cozy Airbnb retreat. Waterfalls included—no tux required!

How to Plan Your Dream Wedding at the Best Beach Wedding Locations in the US