Best Beach Wedding Destinations Around the World
These amazing beach wedding destinations in the UK and worldwide might do the opposite of narrowing down your options for a coastal wedding - you'll want them all!
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If you’re planning a beach wedding, look no further than these stunning by-the-sea destinations located across the UK and around the world!
The lure of a sandy beach, turquoise ocean, sunny skies, and relaxed boho vibe is hard to beat, which is why beach weddings are so popular. It’s a favourite choice for celebrities too, with the likes of supermodel Cindy Crawford and action man Matt Damon saying "I do" on sandy shores.
But it can be hard to narrow down exactly where to hold your beach wedding, so we’ve found the 18 best places around the world to get married on the beach.
Once you’ve found your destination, all you need is your beach-style wedding dress and your flat wedding shoes, and you’re ready for a wedding in the sun!
Beach Weddings Abroad
Planning a beach wedding abroad? Here are our favourite beaches for destination weddings.
1. Wed in The Seychelles
Why we love it: The Seychelles is easily up there among the top beach wedding destinations. Famed for its breathtaking stretches of coastline, luxurious resorts, and loved-up vibes, it ticks every box for couples with wanderlust who want to say their vows surrounded by stunning landscapes. The lengthy travel time (around 14 hours from the UK) means it's an ideal choice if you want an excuse to cut the guestlist right down and opt for an elopement or intimate wedding abroad.
When to wed: April to October
Need to know: The Seychelles does not recognise same-sex marriage or same-sex civil unions. However, it is considered to be a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, making it an option as a honeymoon destination.
2. Abroad Wedding in Sicily
Why we love it: For couples dreaming of charming coastal towns, delicious cuisine and laid-back Mediterranean vibes, it has to be a beach wedding in Sicily. Just a short flight from the UK, it's easy for your guests to get to and suits intimate beach elopements and grand outdoor celebrations alike.
Venue-wise, you'll be spoilt for choice with hotels, restaurants, and even castles by the sea authorised for ceremonies. Oh, and if you're dreaming of a sun-soaked celebration, it should live up to that expectation, too, as the sunniest region of Italy, Sicily, gets around 300 sunny days a year!
When to wed: May to October
Need to know: In Italy, same-sex couples can choose to commit to a civil union, which provides most of the legal protections, benefits, and rights of marriage.
3. Laid-Back Mexico Beach Wedding
Why we love it: For wedding parties willing to travel further afield, Mexico is a dream beach wedding destination that'll prove irresistible to couples seeking a mix of natural beauty and bohemian luxury. Tulum’s coastline is a favourite for exchanging vows.
Lined with powdery white sands and turquoise waters and framed by ancient Mayan ruins, big-day backdrops don't come much more swoon-worthy than this. Imagine a barefoot beach ceremony followed by a reception at one of its boutique beachfront resorts, plus an extended honeymoon stay to explore this destination's varied landscapes and cultural richness.
Not to mention numerous just-married margaritas!
When to wed: November to April
Need to know: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Mexico since 2022.
4. Destination Beach Wedding in Thailand
Why we love it: Warm hospitality, exotic beaches, and affordable luxury are just some of the key elements that make Thailand a great destination for weddings. With more than 1,500km of beaches, Thailand has one to suit every couple, from serene castaway-style islands to livelier beach enclaves with local bars and restaurants nearby.
Railay Beach, a small peninsula between the city of Krabi and Ao Nang is said to be a particularly spectacular spot for "I dos". Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and offers a peaceful, secluded environment for a unique beach wedding.
When to wed: November to April
Need to know: Same-sex marriage has recently been legalised in Thailand, with the Senate passing a marriage equality bill on 18th June 2024. It also makes an epic honeymoon destination for all couples.
5. Intimate Beach Elopement in Hawaii
Why we love it: Hawaii's relaxed vibe, tropical scenery, and pleasant year-round weather make it a perfect spot for a private beach ceremony. Maui - the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands - is particularly popular with sea-and-sand-loving couples thanks to its 30 miles of stunning beaches, varying from the volcanic sands of Wailea Beach to the golden shores of Kapalua Bay.
You can marry on the beach, provided you have a permit, with a maximum of 25 guests. However, if you are happy to settle for scenic ocean views, larger ceremonies can take place at beachside venues, including restaurants, hotels, historic properties and golf clubs.
When to wed: April to May and September to November.
Need to know: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Hawaii since December 2013.
6. Cool Beach Ceremony in Miami
Why we love it: Also making our round-up of beach weddings abroad, Miami! Whether it's a sunset ceremony on the sand or a luxe rooftop celebration overlooking the ocean, it doesn't get much cooler than a South Beach big day. If opting for a ceremony on a public beach in Florida, you will require a permit, so be sure to check with your wedding venue or planner to see if that's included in your wedding package or if it's an additional cost.
The city’s year-round sunshine and Art Deco architecture will provide endless epic wedding photo opportunities, while its dynamic culture, world-class restaurants and lively nightlife will tick your honeymoon boxes.
When to wed: December to April
Need to know: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Florida since January 2015.
7. Abroad Wedding in Spain
Why we love it: Spain is a top contender for beach wedding destinations; with its sunny weather, short flight time from the UK, and beautiful coastal options, what's not to love? Hotspots like the Marbella, Ibiza, and Mallorca boast golden sands, twinkly blue waters, and killer sunsets.
For a more vibrant setting, combine city and sea by planning a cool Barcelona beach wedding. Or, if you're after a quieter atmosphere, the Costa Brava provides scenic beaches with more intimate, relaxed feels. For honeymooners, Spain doesn’t disappoint either. Some of our favourite Spanish honeymoon locations include Granada and Seville.
When to wed: May to September
Need to know: Spain was one of the first countries to legalise same-sex marriage, giving same-sex couples equal marriage rights as heterosexual couples since July 2005.
8. Tropical Destination Wedding in Jamaica
Why we love it: For a destination wedding location with natural party spirit, it has to be Jamaica. Pick from a choice of dream beach wedding venues spanning luxury hotels to over-water wedding chapels boasting tropical ocean views and uplifting hospitality.
Seven Mile Beach in Negril is one of Jamaica's most iconic wedding spots, with its long stretch of powdery white sand and warm, turquoise waters providing the ultimate setting for a romantic ceremony. Take off the planning pressure by booking an all-inclusive wedding package complete with a rum punch cocktail reception and authentic Caribbean feasting and entertainment.
When to wed: December to April
Need to know: In Jamaica, same-sex marriages are currently not permitted, which means that resorts cannot host either symbolic or legal ceremonies for same-sex couples. For those seeking a legal same-sex wedding in the Caribbean, Mexico is a great destination wedding option.
9. Romantic Coastal Wedding in Italy
Why we love it: Italy is a dream coastal wedding destination, offering romantic settings along the famous Amalfi Coast, particularly in Positano and Praiano, with their dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and panoramic sea views.
This destination is a match made in big-day heaven for couples seeking a super scenic wedding, whether planning a grand celebration at a luxury villa or a secluded beach ceremony. It’s also a hotspot for celebrity weddings, with Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker being some of the most recent A-listers to tie the knot here.
Beyond the ceremony, newlyweds can explore charming cliff-edge villages, indulge in delicious Italian cuisine, and enjoy boat trips along the iconic coastline.
When to wed: April to October
Need to know: As mentioned, in Italy, same-sex couples can enter into a civil union, which provides most of the legal protections, benefits, and rights of marriage.
10. Colourful Celebration in Cuba
Why we love it: Cuba is one of the most idyllic beach wedding destinations, offering pristine, uncrowded beaches with white sands and crystal-clear waters. Locations like Playa Paraiso in Cayo Largo or Varadero Beach are perfect for a relaxed, tropical big-day vibe.
With its rich culture, fascinating history, and vibrant atmosphere, it's also a truly special place for you and your guests to explore pre or post-wedding. Enjoy a catamaran cruise, swim with dolphins, experience Havana’s old-world allure and taste the best mojito of your life!
When to wed: December to March
Need to know: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Cuba since 2022.
11. Serene Beach Wedding in Greece
Why we love it: Home to some of the best wedding venues abroad, located across its picturesque islands, Greece is a top choice for chic beach weddings. From its iconic white-washed buildings to its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, Santorini stands out as an ideal coastal wedding destination.
The island offers intimate coves and quiet beaches like Vlychada or Perivolos, perfect for serene elopements or small ceremonies, while its magical sunsets will provide out-of-this-world backdrops for your piccies! After the wedding, we love the idea of an island-hopping honeymoon, exploring neighbouring Greek islands like Mykonos or Crete.
When to wed: April to May and September to November
Need to know: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Greece since February 2024.
12. Chic Beach Ceremony in France
Why we love it: With easy peasy accessibility and short travel time from the UK, France is great for destination weddings, including beachy ones! Popular spots like the French Riviera, particularly in Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, offer glamorous coastal settings with their clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and stylish feels.
Choose from some of the best wedding venues abroad, including beachfront chateaus, luxury hotels, private villas, or exclusive restaurants. Meanwhile, if seeking a more understated backdrop, regions like Normandy offer scenic beachside locations that are steeped in history, providing a quieter yet equally picturesque alternative.
Finally, combine the sea with the city by completing your trip with a Paris honeymoon.
When to wed: May to September
Need to know: Same-sex marriage has been legal in France since May 2013.
13. Elopement Beach Wedding in St Barts
Why we love it: Favoured by celebrities and royals, the beautifully romantic island of St Barts is the height of exclusivity and a dream setting to escape to if considering a luxurious elopement. Its stunning beaches, such as Gustavia, St. Jean, and Saline, offer idyllic backdrops for a private ceremony surrounded by lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
To really treat yourselves, we suggest staying at one of the premium beachfront resorts (complete with spa facilities, of course!), where staff will take care of your every need, from executing the perfect beach ceremony to organising couple massage treatments, candle-lit beach dinners, morning yoga classes and breathtaking island excursions.
When to wed: November to June
Need to know: Same-sex marriage is legal in Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts) following France's legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2013, which extends to all its overseas departments.
14. Paradise-worthy Wedding in the Philippines
Why we love it: Paradise doesn’t come close to describing the El Nido area of Palawan in the Philippines - voted the best island in the world and earning itself a place on our best beach wedding destinations. With a tropical forest as its backdrop, towering limestone cliffs, pristine white beaches, and a coral reef teeming with fish and sea turtles, this is what dream wedding locations are made of.
Exchange your vows in an intimate beach ceremony in one of the island's hidden coves, followed by a sunset cruise and a party under the stars.
When to wed: December to April
Need to know: The Philippines doesn't currently legally recognise same-sex unions, either in the form of marriage or civil unions. However, despite the lack of legal recognition, the Philippines is considered one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world, making it an ideal honeymoon destination for all.
Beach Wedding Destinations UK
The UK is not without its impressive wedding beach locations, offering stunning coastal settings for couples looking to tie the knot without needing to travel too far. Not only can this help keep costs down, but it will likely allow more of your friends and family to make the occasion if you dream of a big wedding day party. Plus, as same-sex marriages are legal here, lovers of all orientations can embrace the beauty of the seaside for their special day.
While the peak summer season (June to August) is typically the best time to be in with a chance of a sunny UK beach wedding, we're fortunate to have a whole host of atmospheric British seaside settings that lend themselves to the different seasons. So, while it might not be pleasant enough to exchange your vows barefoot on the beach, you'll be able to say your "I dos" with a memorable coastal view from a UK beach wedding venue such as a cosy rural barn, contemporary hotel or historic home.
From the breathtaking coast of Cornwall and the picturesque shores of Wales, there are countless dream beach wedding destinations to choose from. Scroll on for a handful of our favs!
15. Boho Cornwall Beach Wedding
Why we love it: For couples dreaming of a laid-back, boho wedding, the spellbinding Cornwall coastline offers the perfect UK setting. Picture a relaxed ceremony on the beach, with a macramé arch framing the sea views. After exchanging vows, enjoy casual drinks and fun beach games with your guests - whether it’s a friendly game of skittles, or a lively tug of war.
Cornwall's natural beauty allows for versatile reception options, from a rustic clifftop farm or rural barn to a marquee pitched near the seafront. Keep the free-spirited vibes going into the night with fire pits for roasting marshmallows and outdoor bell tent accommodation for you and your guests to sleep beneath the stars!
There are also several amazing wedding venues in Cornwall.
16. Coastal Wedding in Northumberland
Why we love it: Sitting pretty in the Northeast of the UK, Northumberland’s vast and unspoiled coastline provides a dreamy setting for couples wanting the freedom to say their "I dos" almost anywhere. A celebrant-led ceremony allows couples to exchange vows on Britain's beaches, and Northumberland is home to some of the most stunning, such as Bamburgh Beach, with its dramatic views of the iconic castle and the peaceful sands of Druridge Bay.
Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a larger celebration, the area is brimming with beautiful venues by the sea - think a chic period property for a more intimate gathering, or opt for a characterful barn or historic castle for larger guest lists.
Plus, whilst staying in Northumberland, there's plenty for you and your guests to do, from exploring charming coastal towns like Seahouses and Alnmouth, visiting the famous Holy Island, and getting your history geek on with a trip to Alnwick Castle.
17. Scotland Elopement Beach Wedding
Why we love it: When it comes to UK wedding beach locations, Scotland has some of the most magical! For us, its rugged coastline and romantic atmosphere make it an ideal destination for intimate elopements. With sweeping views and untamed beauty, couples can choose from a variety of breathtaking beaches for their special day.
Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris, with its turquoise waters and white sands, feels almost otherworldly, while Seacliff Beach in East Lothian provides dramatic views of the famous Bass Rock.
For something more secluded, Camusdarach Beach on the west coast provides a stunning mix of mountains and sea. Make the trip extra memorable by planning a touring honeymoon to stay in your Scottish loved-up bubble that bit longer, exploring coastal gems, rural highlands, and cool cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow along the way!
You're truly spoilt for choice when it comes to Scottish wedding venues - also, humanist weddings are legal in Scotland, which means you have a broader range of choices when it comes to your ceremony.
18. Breathtaking Beach Wedding in Wales
Why we love it: Wales' diverse coastline is perfect for adventurous couples looking to tie the knot in a wild and rugged setting. From the sandy beaches of the Gower Peninsula to the dramatic cliffs of Pembrokeshire, Wales offers a variety of stunning seaside backdrops.
Couples can opt for a ceremony on a secluded beach or celebrate in a charming coastal venue like a rustic barn or a cliffside hotel with sweeping sea views. For those who love adventure, Wales is an ideal destination to combine a wedding with an active honeymoon.
After exchanging your vows, head to Snowdonia for hiking, climbing, and zip-lining, enjoy wild swims at the magnificent glacially-formed lake Llyn Padarn and get an adrenaline rush while paragliding over Cardigan Bay.
Planning your honeymoon next? Check out our round-up of celebrity honeymoon destinations!
