30+ Things To Know When Planning a Beach Wedding
If you love the ocean, a beach wedding can be a beautiful way to celebrate your love. Just imagine: the harmonious roll of the sea, soft white sand stretching for miles and brilliant, wide-open skies. The traditional has made room for the tropical, and all that lies ahead is everything you’ve ever dreamed.
Now, let’s bring it back to reality. What’s your next step? It’s time to embrace the idea of a beach wedding and all the wonderful possibilities it entails. Here begins your journey to planning the most incredible beach wedding imaginable!
Picture: Beachfront wedding at Beaches Turks & Caicos.
Insider Tip: If you’re dreaming of a beach wedding, the Caribbean is calling! With serene islands just a short flight from the U.S., saying ‘I do’ on sandy shores has never been easier. Check in at the all-inclusive Beaches Resorts or Sandals Resorts, where every detail is covered. Plus, stay 3 nights or more, and your wedding is on us!
What’s So Great About Beach Weddings Anyway?
Unlike traditional weddings, often held in churches or costly indoor venues, beach weddings bring their own unique charm. The intimacy and natural beauty of the outdoors are a big part of their appeal. While some beach weddings can be extravagant, they also offer the chance for a simpler, more relaxed celebration. You can plan your beach wedding exactly how you want—dressed up, dressed down, or anywhere in between. Other outdoor options, like garden weddings, have their own allure, but there’s just something about the ocean that gives beach ceremonies a timeless feel.
Good to know: With your Caribbean beach wedding, you have the freedom to incorporate or minimize traditional wedding elements as you see fit. This gives you ample opportunity to explore creative beach and oceanside wedding ideas.
In this article on the Beaches blog:
6 important things to know when planning a beach wedding
8 things to consider for your attire
12 things to consider for the ceremony
4 things to consider when selecting the venue
Things to consider when picking a vendor
BONUS: What’s it like to get married at a Beaches Resort?
6 Important Things to Note When Planning a Beach Wedding
There’s a lot to love about beach weddings, but a little planning goes a long way! If you’re heading to the Caribbean for a destination wedding and staying at an all-inclusive resort like Beaches or Sandals Resorts, your wedding team will have answers to all your big questions. In the meantime, here are a few key things to keep in mind when deciding how to get married on the beach:
1. Make sure the beach is accessible to everyone.
Falling in love with a beachfront venue is easy—but don’t forget to consider how easy it is to get there! Think about your guests’ comfort, as well as the logistics of setting up chairs, tables, and food. If the location is a bit off-the-beaten-path, be sure to plan ahead to make it as smooth as possible for everyone to get there.
2. Don’t let the sound of waves drown out your vows.
There’s nothing dreamier than waves crashing on the shore—until they’re competing with your vows! To make sure every word is heard, invest in a good sound system or check if your resort or wedding planner can provide one. A wireless mic and speaker work well, and a windscreen can help keep the ocean breeze from overpowering the moment.
3. Make your décor windproof.
Beach breezes are refreshing—but they can also send lightweight décor flying. Avoid tall candles, loose ribbons, and balloons that might not stay put. Instead, go for sturdy pieces and secure smaller items like name tags and photos with adhesive or weight them down. For flowers, choose heat-resistant blooms that can handle the sun without wilting before the ceremony even begins.
Expert tip: Chrysanthemums, calla lilies, king protea, and orchids thrive in beach settings. Want something different? Try adding fruits or seashells for a natural, tropical touch.
4. Make sure there’s some shade.
Picture: Wedding reception at Beaches Turks & Caicos.
Sunshine is part of the magic of a beach wedding, but you’ll want to keep your guests cool and comfortable. The best times for a beach ceremony are in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is softer. Shade is also key—especially for older guests and little ones. Consider a canopy for seating or bamboo poles draped with breezy white fabric to create a shaded, stylish space.
5. Keep your food cool!
If your wedding isn’t at a resort, food storage is a must-think-about detail. Heat can cause certain dishes—especially dairy-based ones—to spoil fast, and buttercream cakes don’t stand much of a chance against the sun. To avoid any mishaps, opt for heat-friendly menu choices.
Expert tip: If you’re concerned about food, you can also consider getting married on the beach, and having the reception at another location, like a nearby restaurant.
6. Select proper beach wedding attire.
Your wedding day is one of the most special moments of your life, and of course, you’ll want to dress the part! But since you’ll be on the beach, it’s just as important to choose something stylish and breezy. In the section below, you’ll find tips and ideas to keep you cool while looking absolutely radiant!
8 Things to Consider for your Beach Wedding Attire
1. Go for a lighter dress.
Long gowns may look dreamy, and you might make it down the aisle just fine, but once it’s time for beachside photos, things can get tricky—especially with a long train trailing through the sand. A lighter dress will make movement easier, or at the very least, choose one that can bustle effortlessly.
2. Wear lightweight fabrics.
The last thing you want is for lace trim to collect beach debris on your way to the altar. Instead, opt for fabrics like chiffon or charmeuse—they’re light, breezy, and move beautifully with the ocean breeze.
3. Skip the veil.
Elegance meets ease: At beach weddings, comfort is just as essential as style, ensuring that every moment feels effortlessly beautiful.
Not every bride wears a veil, but for those who do, consider this: an extra-long veil in windy beach weather can turn into a struggle. Instead, go for fresh flowers or a chic fascinator to complete your look without the hassle.
4. Try an updo.
A stylish updo can elevate your entire look—and for a beach wedding, it’s a smart way to keep your hair from taking on a life of its own in the wind. If you’re set on wearing it down, consider hiring a stylist to stay on hand for touch-ups throughout the day.
5. Ditch the heels.
Navigating sand in heels? Not worth the trouble. Instead, choose espadrilles or wedges for a chic, beach-friendly alternative. If you plan ahead, you can even customize them for an extra special touch.
Expert tip: No matter what shoes you wear, an aisle runner will help keep your feet cool on the way to the altar. Thick flower petals or soft fabric do the trick beautifully.
6. Stay tan-line free.
Sunscreen savvy tip for beach brides-to-be: Go heavy on the SPF, reapply often, and limit sun time to avoid those unwanted tan lines before your special day!
Tan lines are the last thing you want showing up in your wedding photos! To avoid any unwanted lines (or sunburn), wear waterproof sunscreen every time you’re in the sun leading up to your big day. Even better, coordinate swimsuit styles with your bridal party so everyone’s tan lines match their wedding-day attire!
7. Dress for the shore.
A full tux might not be the best fit for a beach wedding. Consider having the groom and groomsmen opt for lightweight pants or Bermuda shorts instead—they're stylish, comfortable, and perfectly suited to the coastal setting.
8. Wear an invisible undershirt to prevent sweat patches.
Beach weddings bring the heat—literally! To stay fresh and photo-ready, wear an invisible undershirt that helps prevent sweat marks from showing through.
Attending as a guest? We’ve got you covered! Check out some frequently asked questions about beach wedding attire later in this post.
12 Things to Consider for Your Beach Wedding Ceremony
1. Get a beach permit if needed.
This isn’t always required, but it’s worth looking into ahead of time to avoid any last-minute surprises. Check for noise regulations in both public and private settings so you can make the right arrangements.
2. Plan wisely and avoid crowds.
Before locking in your date, find out when the beach is least crowded to ensure a more private and peaceful ceremony. Beaches are typically quieter on weekdays and outside of holidays. Some destinations, like Hawaii, don’t allow event setups on public beaches, so in cases like this, renting a beachside villa is a great alternative—you’ll still get those dreamy beach photos after the ceremony!
3. Arrange sturdy seating.
Aluminum chairs, oak benches, foldable seats, or even chic waterproof ottomans can help keep guests comfortable while standing up to the breeze. Since beach weddings are often short and sweet, you may only need seating for older guests and children. Choose seating that won’t sink into the sand or tip over in the wind.
4. Accentuate the beach’s natural beauty.
The ocean and sand already set a stunning scene, so instead of going overboard on décor, focus on enhancing what’s already there. Use the colors of the sea and sand as inspiration, and consider natural elements like driftwood, stones, or dune grass to bring your vision to life.
5. Add pops of color to contrast with the sand.
To make your beach wedding setting more vibrant, add colors that contrast with the sand. Shades of green, orange, or coral work beautifully to bring warmth and energy to the space.
6. Shop local for destination weddings.
For a destination wedding, sourcing décor from local vendors can save you from import fees and unexpected shipping delays. Plus, it’s a great way to support the community and add authentic island touches to your big day.
7. Prepare for windy conditions.
If it can blow away, it just might! Secure anything lightweight ahead of time—tie programs to chairs, use heavier place cards, and weigh down decorations. If you’re planning to toss dried flower petals, wait until guests have arrived so they don’t drift away too soon.
8. Set up a shoe station.
No one wants sand in their shoes! A simple shoe rack lets guests swap their fancy footwear for comfy flip-flops. Set up a small station with seating, towels, a storage area for shoes, and a bucket of water so guests can rinse off before the swap. You might even want to consider including tools guests can use to brush the sand off their feet without getting wet at all.
9. Have refreshments on hand.
Just like any beach day, staying hydrated is key. A table with lemonade, ice water, or a signature cocktail will keep guests cool and refreshed throughout the ceremony.
10. Prevent bug bites.
Beach weddings come with incredible views—but also the occasional mosquito! Keep insect repellent handy and opt for a brand with skin-friendly ingredients that won’t stain your dress.
11. Welcome guests with a thoughtful package.
Make it easy for guests to navigate the beach venue by providing a welcome package with essentials like travel-sized sunscreen, hand towels, fans, and bottled water. It’s a simple way to keep everyone comfortable and prepared.
12. Have a backup plan.
Beach weddings are best kept short and sweet. Just in case the weather has other plans, have a backup ready—whether it’s a covered canopy or an indoor space nearby where the celebration can continue.
Things to Consider When Selecting the Best Beach Wedding Venue
1. Pick a location: close to home or a destination wedding in the Caribbean?
When it comes to planning your wedding venue, you’ll need to decide if you prefer something close to home or if you’re ready to pack your bags for a dreamy destination wedding in the Caribbean.
2. Pick a date. Keep guests with kids in mind!
If you’re traveling with family, timing is key. Consider school breaks and holidays to make it easier for loved ones with kids to attend. Once you’ve settled on a date, choose a venue that’s not only beautiful but also convenient and comfortable for everyone joining the celebration.
3. Choose a beach wedding venue.
Picture: Overwater wedding chapel, available at Sandals Montego Bay (Jamaica), Sandals Ochi (Jamaica), Sandals South Coast (Jamaica) and Sandals Grande St. Lucian (Saint Lucia).
Planning a beach wedding means thinking through all the details. Are you exchanging vows on a public beach or are you hiring a private jet to fly to one of the more exclusive islands in the Caribbean? If your venue is part of a resort, request a wedding information packet—especially if you’re staying on property. For public beaches, check with local authorities to understand the rules and requirements.
Go to Wedding information Beaches Resorts
Go to Wedding information Sandals Resorts
Don’t just go by word of mouth when choosing a venue. Do your research—ask questions, read reviews, watch videos, and browse photos. If possible, visit the location in person to get a real feel for it.
4. Book the beach venue upfront if it’s part of a resort.
Nothing dampens wedding-day excitement like realizing the venue wasn’t officially secured! If you're getting married at a resort, book your beach venue in advance to ensure everything is set for your big day.
Things to Consider When Picking a Vendor
Looking for help to plan and organize your beach wedding? A wedding vendor can take the stress off your shoulders. There are plenty of options both in and outside the U.S.!
When choosing a vendor, make sure they assist with marriage licenses and certifications, especially for destination weddings. Find out if they offer 24/7 communication, have a guest limit, or impose scheduling restrictions. Some venues charge extra for sunset weddings or weekend ceremonies, so get clarity on pricing and availability early.
Some vendors may also charge additional fees for meetings, calls, or emails. If professional photography and videography are must-haves, check whether they’re included in your package.
Expert tip: Some beach wedding vendors offer discounts for active military, firefighters, and law enforcement personnel. Even a 10% discount can save you quite a bit of money on a big expenditure like a wedding.
Best Time for a Beach Wedding
Morning: 8 AM – 10:30 AM
Morning weddings may not be for everyone, but they’re a great choice for many couples. The beach is quieter and cooler, keeping you and your guests comfortable. Plus, with milder temperatures, you can easily transition into a brunch or lunch celebration.
Mid-day: 11 AM – 3 PM
A mid-day ceremony means you can sleep in a little and have more time to get ready—perfect for larger wedding parties. If you’re planning a dinner reception later, the mid-day timing allows for a well-paced break in between, so everything flows smoothly.
Late afternoon: 3:30 PM – 5 PM
By this time, the sun isn’t as intense, making it more comfortable for you and your guests. You’ll still have plenty of daylight for photos, and as the sun starts setting, the celebration naturally shifts into a more festive vibe—perfect for heading straight into your dinner reception.
Sunset: Timing depends on the season
For a sunset wedding, start at least an hour before sunset to make the most of the dreamy lighting. This time of day brings softer, romantic hues for stunning photos, cooler temperatures, and of course, an incredible ocean view. And the best part? You can roll right into an evening dinner celebration with friends and family.
BONUS: What's it like to get married at a Beaches or Sandals Resort?
The perfect beach wedding requires thoughtful planning and great ideas, and that’s what you can expect once you book a destination wedding at Beaches Resorts. For one thing, you’ll have someone there with you to walk you through the entire process, which helps so you never feel overwhelmed. Here’s what you can expect during your wedding planning journey with Beaches Resorts:
See what’s included in your beach wedding at Beaches.
Let the wedding concierge agent help you find the best options
One of your first points of contact will be a Beaches Resorts wedding concierge agent, ready to gather all the details to kick-start your wedding journey. They’ll chat with you about your beach wedding dreams and guide you in choosing the ideal venue to say “I do.” No rush—take your time over multiple sessions to make the best decision for you and your family. Once you’ve found your spot, the concierge agent will handle the booking arrangements to bring your dream Caribbean wedding to life.
See all Beaches all-inclusive resorts (family friendly)
See all Sandals all-inclusive resorts (adults-only)
Fill in the details with your personal wedding planner
Once the initial process is complete, you’ll be introduced to your personal wedding planner. They'll share everything you need to know about planning a beach wedding. You can make your first appointment with them at this time. Expect to receive a welcome letter by email.
At this point you’ll also be able to book accommodation for yourself and your group. Ask about available add-ons or wedding inclusions, which can enhance the classic free wedding package available with your booking (conditions apply). You can also choose to trade your free wedding (if you qualify for one) for $500 worth of credit towards your customized wedding. This credit can be used for décor, the reception, entertainment, activities, photographer, DJ, and other wedding preparation including select options at the spa.
Share your wedding vision
Once you make contact with your wedding planner, you’ll be able to go over your ideas for your wedding and start planning the finer details. Your wedding planner will also share ideas, locations, documents and tools. This is where you find out about all the services available for your Beaches Resorts wedding. The goal is to come up with a wedding plan that you absolutely love, so don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Focus on ceremony and reception
Once the venue has been selected, you’ll be able to shift your focus to guests and attire. That is, if you haven’t already done so. Keep in mind that your work with the wedding planner is minimal—you’ll be providing input, and they’ll be taking care of the execution. All you’ll need to do is make sure everyone else is ready for the trip of a lifetime. Once you and your party arrive on the property, everything else will be handled from there.
Insider tip: Book at least 60 days before your wedding to receive a complimentary garment bag for your wedding dress!
Get ready for your tropical island wedding!
Things really start taking shape when you arrive at the resort. The team will be anticipating your arrival, and once you and your family get there, they’ll do everything in their power to ensure your vacation and your beach wedding go as planned.
In addition to ensuring that every aspect of your wedding goes smoothly, your comfort and indulgence will be top of mind too. Adults can relax while the staff take care of the details, and kids can simply have the time of their lives! And by that we mean the little ones will be able to spend as much time as they’d like in and around the water (supervised, of course!). All Beaches Resorts include a water park and all our resorts are located on the beach!
Good to know: With Beaches, the more people you bring with you for your destination wedding, the more perks you stand to receive from the resort!
Your honeymoon starts right after
Alright, so your dream wedding unfolded just as you’d anticipated. Now’s the time to get to your honeymoon escape, only… you’re already there! After experiencing all the feel good moments that come with a wedding by the sea, you can simply wake up still in all-inclusive mode and continue to enjoy the perks of your getaway.
At Beaches Resorts, indulge in themed dining at up to 21 specialty restaurants per resort, drinks and anytime snacks, spectacular swimming pools and water parks, and just about every land and water sport you can think of. With beachfront suites complete with mesmerizing views, there’s hardly a better place to relax and soak in your new beginning.
Insider Tip: Prefer to have your honeymoon at an adults-only resort? Book a honeymoon suite at one of the all-inclusive Sandals Resorts like Sandals Ochi, Sandals South Coast, Sandals Royal Plantation, or any of the other Sandals Resorts in the Caribbean!
You Decide How Your Caribbean Beach Wedding Unfolds!
Like most things in life, having a beach wedding starts with commitment—and deciding, this is exactly what I want. To begin planning your Beaches Resorts wedding, click through to our wedding inquiry page or call Beaches’ bridal team at 1-877-232-2437 to get the wheels in motion for your special day.
Beaches Resorts offers a ‘Test Drive Your Wedding’ option for guests to review their celebration at the resort before the big day! Book this option and stay at the resort for 3 days with rates starting at $275 per couple, per night. Aside from this, there are many other incredible wedding promotions that you can take advantage of with Beaches Resorts. We can’t wait to help you bring your dream wedding to life!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about beach weddings
Do you need special permits to have a beach wedding?
You won’t always need a special permit for a beach wedding, but it’s worth checking to be sure. Even if a permit isn’t required, find out about any restrictions on alcohol, music, guest count, or bonfires. If a permit is needed, be sure to ask what it covers and how far in advance you’ll need approval. Staying at the all-inclusive Beaches Resorts? No worries—your wedding team will typically handle all these details for you.
What to do in the event of bad weather?
Bad weather is always something to consider for a seaside wedding. It’s a good idea to have tents or a covered space where guests can stay dry if the weather shifts. Also, have a backup location in mind just in case an outdoor ceremony isn’t possible on the big day.
How much is a beach wedding?
Beach weddings can be more budget-friendly or more expensive than hotel or church weddings—it all depends on the location, personal preferences, and extras like décor, food, drinks, and the size of your wedding party. At Sandals Resorts, if you stay 3 nights or longer, your beach wedding is free!
Do you have to pay to have a wedding on the beach?
It depends. Most beach wedding locations are free. If they aren’t, the fee is usually small.
What’s safe/environmentally friendly to throw at the couple at a beach wedding?
Biodegradable options are best! Check with your resort (if you're staying at one) to see what’s allowed. Popular choices include bubbles (mini bottles make great favors), biodegradable or sugar confetti (a fun DIY project), dried flowers like lavender or rose petals, birdseed in cute pouches, or even mini beach balls for a playful touch.
What should I wear to a beach wedding?
When it comes to dressing up for a beach wedding, the most important thing is to follow any guidance from the couple on attire and formality. While the beach setting may feel casual, it's all about finding the right balance between comfort and style.
For women, great options include dresses, jumpsuits, or two-piece ensembles. Men can opt for a traditional suit and tie or a relaxed combo of slacks with a dress shirt.
Can you wear white to a beach wedding as a guest?
Wearing white to weddings has become less of a faux pas, especially for beach ceremonies, which tend to be more relaxed. If you’re set on wearing white, choose something that won’t outshine the bride. Consider off-white shades or outfits with a white lace overlay to keep it subtle.
Is it a good idea to wear black to a beach wedding?
There’s nothing wrong with wearing black to a wedding, but for a beach celebration, you might feel a little out of place. Black tends to be more formal, and in hot weather, it may not be the most comfortable choice. Consider lightweight fabrics if you do go with darker tones.
What material is good for a beach wedding?
Popular fabrics for beach wedding attire include linen, chiffon, satin or charmeuse, tulle, lace, and taffeta. Lightweight, breathable fabrics in soft colors are ideal for staying cool and looking elegant.
What do grooms wear to a beach wedding?
It all comes down to personal style and comfort. Many grooms opt for a short-sleeved collared shirt without a jacket—polished yet laid-back. Think lightweight fabrics, colorful prints, or a crisp white button-up. Pair it with breezy chinos or relaxed linen shorts to keep things cool and stylish.
A Serenade of the Wind and Waves at Your Caribbean Beach Wedding!
Dreaming of a one-of-a-kind wedding in the islands? A beach wedding can be a great way to tie the knot with the sand, sea, and sun as your backdrop. Whether you keep it laid-back or go all out, your ceremony can be as intimate or as grand as you'd like.
For a truly stress-free beach wedding, planning is key—especially when hosting an outdoor celebration. Having a beach wedding planner on your team makes all the difference, handling every detail so you can focus on the magic of the moment. If you're saying 'I do' at Beaches Resorts, you'll have a dedicated wedding planner by your side to ignite your vision.
With this list of 30+ must-knows for planning a beach wedding, you're already on your way to a beautiful day. Just remember—this is about celebrating your love, no matter what. While there may be a few surprises along the way, it’s all part of the adventure. So, take a deep breath, soak it all in, and get ready to make the sweetest memories with your love, family, and friends!
Let your Caribbean beach wedding unfold with ease at the all-inclusive Beaches Negril in Jamaica!
