Beach Wedding Venues: Pros, Cons & Top Resort Picks

Everything you need to know about tying the knot in the sand

There’s something undeniably romantic about a beach wedding — the sound of the waves, the warm breeze, and that golden light that makes every photo look like it belongs in a magazine. For many couples, saying “I do” with their toes in the sand is the very definition of a dream wedding.

But while beach venues are absolutely stunning, they also come with their own unique considerations.

In this post, we’re exploring the pros and cons of beach weddings, sharing expert tips from real destination experiences (including one of my own!), and highlighting a few of my favorite resorts for couples who want that picture-perfect oceanfront ceremony.

The Pros of a Beach Wedding Venue

🌊 Breathtaking Scenery

The beach is a built-in backdrop — no décor required (though a few tropical florals or a driftwood arch never hurt!). You’ll be surrounded by natural beauty from every angle.

💑 Romantic, Laid-Back Vibes

There’s something about the ocean that makes everything feel more relaxed — perfect for couples who want to keep things stress-free, heartfelt, and meaningful.

👣 Barefoot Bliss (Yes, Really!)

Hate heels? Me too. Don’t love shoe shopping? Same. The beach lets you skip the fancy footwear and walk down the aisle barefoot in the sand — comfortable and unforgettable.

BUT! If you love heels or don't want to go barefoot, no worries. We can definitely arrange for an aisle to be in place so you can walk safely & confidently down the aisle.

📸 Stunning Photo Ops

Soft natural lighting, wide-open views, and golden-hour magic. Your photographer will thank you.

🌴 Tropical Ambiance

It doesn’t get more “vacation wedding” than hearing the ocean as your soundtrack. This is what your guests will be talking about for years to come.

The Cons of a Beach Wedding Venue

(And How to Work With Them)

🌬️ Wind, Heat & Weather

Mother Nature doesn’t always RSVP. Breezes can be strong, midday sun can be intense, and beach setups offer little shade. Timing your ceremony closer to sunset can help — and looks amazing in photos, too.

👀 Privacy Isn’t Guaranteed… But It Can Be Reimagined

Because beach areas are usually open to all resort guests, your ceremony might have a few unexpected onlookers. But here’s the flip side — many couples find that these surprise “cheerleaders” add to the joy and celebration. Want more seclusion later on? Choose a private location for your reception away from the beach, or time your dinner and dancing for the evening hours when most resort-goers have cleared the sand.

👗 Attire Considerations

Heels and sand don’t mix. Long veils love to catch the wind. And makeup needs a tropical-friendly setting spray. But with the right planning, you can still feel and look fabulous — beach goddess edition.

🔊 Sound & Setup

Between crashing waves and breezy air, make sure your resort includes (or you request) a proper sound system. Your vows deserve to be heard.

Real Talk: A Personal Note from My Own Destination Wedding

One thing that completely surprised me during my own destination wedding — and probably shouldn’t have, in hindsight — was the walk from my bridal suite to the ceremony site.

When the resort coordinator came to escort my mom and me to the beach, it suddenly hit me: “I’m walking through the resort… in my wedding dress… to get married.”

And even though they took us through a quiet, tucked-away path, we still passed a few guests. The congratulations, kind words, and smiles were so genuine and heartwarming — it gave me this magical little boost and made the moment feel so real. It was the first moment that it hit me: This is happening. I’m getting married. Right now.

It’s a part of the day no one really talks about, but for me, it added something really special to the whole experience.

Tips for a Smooth Beach Ceremony

• Opt for Sunset or Early Evening: Cooler temps (less sweat / shine), better lighting, and fewer onlookers.

  
  

• Test Your Walk: Do a dry run in your wedding attire & footwear choice.

  
  

• Ask About Plan B Options: Always good to know your resort’s backup plan.

  
  

• Let Guests Know About Footwear: A fun quick note like “Barefoot friendly!” or “Shoes Optional” helps everyone prepare.

  
  

• Take Deep Breath, Let Yourself Be Pampered & Enjoy Yourself: Your onsite wedding coordinator will be taking care of everything -- trust me, they are amazing. And I will only ever recommend reputable resorts for your wedding with an excellent wedding team.

Top Resorts for Beach Weddings

Here are a few standout resorts known for their unforgettable beach venues — each offering expert planning teams, stunning ceremony setups, and seamless experiences:

🌺 Secrets & Dreams Playa Mujeres (Mexico)

Located just north of Cancun, these sister resorts share one of the most beautiful stretches of powdery white sand. Secluded, luxurious, and made for picture-perfect ceremonies with sweeping ocean views. My all time personal favorite for many many reasons-- plus Secrets Playa Mujeres is undergoing renovations right now (should be done December 2025) and it is promising to be even more amazing!

🐚 Sandals Royal Bahamian (Bahamas)

A classic island escape with a twist — you can get married on the main resort’s beach or take a boat to Sandals’ private offshore island for an ultra-exclusive ceremony. Ideal for couples looking for both glamour and serenity.

👨‍👩‍👧 Beaches Turks & Caicos (Turks & Caicos)

One of the most beloved family-friendly resorts in the Caribbean, this property sits on world-famous Grace Bay Beach. Powder-soft white sand, turquoise waters, and wedding options for all ages make it perfect for couples hosting multi-generational guest lists.

✨ Secrets Baby Beach Aruba (Aruba)

Be one of the first to say “I do” at this brand-new luxury resort on the shores of Baby Beach. With its calm, crystal-clear water and soft white sand, it offers a romantic, intimate setting and serious “hidden gem” bragging rights.

Final Thoughts

A beach wedding is the classic destination experience for a reason. It’s emotional, picturesque, and pure magic when done right — especially at a resort that knows how to handle all the little details.

Still deciding if the beach is right for you? Let’s chat! I help couples find the perfect resort and venue for their big day, based on their vision, vibe, and guest needs.

✨ Ready to explore your dream beach wedding destination? Contact me here — I’d love to help!