TL;DR
Beach weddings cost $5,000-$40,000+ depending on location, with permits ranging from $50 (Palm Beach County) to $500+ (premium Australian beaches)1. Schedule ceremonies 1-2 hours before sunset for golden hour lighting2. US beaches require municipal permits ($75-$200), UK law mandates licensed venue structures for legal ceremonies, and Australian councils charge $100-$500 for beach access3. Always arrange backup plans for weather, check tide schedules, and provide guest comfort essentials like shade and water.
Complete Beach Wedding Planning Guide
Public beach weddings require permits costing $50-$500, while private beaches and resorts offer all-inclusive packages from $5,0001. The natural backdrop reduces décor costs, but weather contingencies, rentals, and logistics add complexity compared to indoor venues.
Beach weddings have surged in popularity, with couples drawn to the romantic combination of ocean views, natural lighting, and relaxed atmosphere. However, successful beach celebrations require careful planning around permits, timing, weather, and guest comfort that traditional venues handle automatically.
This guide covers everything from permit requirements across the US, UK, and Australia to timing your ceremony for perfect photos and keeping guests comfortable on sand.
Choosing Your Beach Type
Public Beach
Public beaches offer the most affordable option but require permits and come with restrictions on setup, timing, and guest counts.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Permit Cost | $50-$318 (varies by municipality) |
| Guest Limits | Typically 50-100 maximum |
| Privacy | Shared space with beachgoers |
| Control | Limited—must follow public rules |
| Best For | Budget-conscious couples, small ceremonies |
Private Beach
Private beaches require owner permission but offer more control over the event space and fewer restrictions.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Varies—negotiated with owner |
| Guest Limits | Flexible, owner-dependent |
| Privacy | Exclusive use possible |
| Control | High—negotiate your terms |
| Best For | Larger weddings, flexible timing |
Resort Beach
Resort beaches combine convenience with comprehensive services, often including wedding packages.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Package Cost | $5,500+ (Mexico all-inclusive for 30-50 guests)4 |
| Guest Limits | Resort-dependent, often flexible |
| Privacy | Designated ceremony areas |
| Control | Medium—work within resort guidelines |
| Best For | Destination weddings, all-inclusive convenience |
Permits and Legal Requirements by Region
United States
US beach wedding permits vary significantly by state and municipality. National Park beaches charge federal rates, while city beaches set their own fees and requirements.
| Location | Permit Cost | Processing Time | Guest Limit | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holmes Beach, FL | $75 | 30+ days before | Varies | Non-refundable application fee5 |
| Virginia Beach, VA | $200 | 45 business days | 3-hour maximum | Exclusive beach use included6 |
| Cape Hatteras NPS | $100-$200 | 30+ days before | 49 (small), 50+ (large) | Monitoring fees $55/hour additional7 |
| Clearwater Beach, FL | $100 | Varies | 100 guests | Contact Parks & Recreation |
| Palm Beach County, FL | $50 | Varies | Varies | Only if photographer/videographer present |
Key US requirements:
- Most permits restrict setup/breakdown to 2-3 hours total
- Alcohol policies vary—many public beaches prohibit it
- Noise restrictions apply, especially after sunset
- Check for seasonal restrictions (lifeguard season, turtle nesting)
United Kingdom
English law requires legal wedding ceremonies to take place under a permanent licensed structure with a roof8. This means you cannot legally marry directly on a UK beach unless there's a licensed venue structure present.
Workaround options:
- Legal ceremony at registry office + symbolic beach celebration (most common)
- Licensed beachside venue with covered ceremony space
- Scotland option where outdoor ceremonies are legally permitted
For symbolic beach ceremonies in Cornwall, Brighton, or other coastal areas, you may need permits from the local council for any structures like arches or chairs. Contact the council directly for specific requirements and fees.
Popular UK beach wedding areas:
- Cornwall (check tide times—beaches change dramatically)
- Brighton (consider Brighton Palace Pier for licensed option)
- Bournemouth and Dorset coast
- Scottish beaches (legal outdoor ceremonies permitted)
Australia
Australian beach wedding permits are handled by local councils and state governments, with costs varying by beach popularity and location.
| Location | Permit Cost | Guest Limit | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Coast, QLD | Contact council (07 5667 5987) | 50 maximum | 2-hour limit including setup, no confetti/balloons3 |
| Sunshine Coast, QLD | Contact council | Varies | Must be outside flagged bathing areas |
| NSW beaches | $200-$500+ | Varies by council | Council-specific applications |
| General range | $100-$500 | 50-100 typical | Wildlife protection rules apply |
Australian requirements:
- No confetti, balloons, or rice (wildlife protection)
- Non-alcoholic beverages only on many public beaches
- Reasonable amplified sound levels
- No driving or parking vehicles on beach
Weather and Timing Considerations
Best Months by Region
| Region | Peak Season | Avoid | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | November-April | July-August (hottest, rainiest) | Hurricane season June-November9 |
| Hawaii | Year-round | None—always pleasant | April, May, Sept, Oct offer best prices10 |
| California (SoCal) | Year-round | N/A | Consistent mild weather |
| UK | June-September | October-March (cold, wet) | Always have backup plan |
| Australia (QLD/NSW) | October-April | Cyclone season (Nov-April in far north) | Check specific region |
Best Time of Day
Schedule your ceremony 1-2 hours before sunset for golden hour photography2. The warm, low-angle light creates flattering portraits and romantic atmosphere.
| Time Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 hours before sunset | Golden hour light, romantic atmosphere, cooler temps | Tight timeline if delays occur |
| 30 minutes before sunset | Peak golden hour, stunning photos | Very short ceremony window |
| Morning (before 10am) | Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, stable weather | Less dramatic lighting |
| Midday | Maximum daylight, flexible timing | Harsh shadows, peak heat, uncomfortable |
Critical timing factors:
- Check tide schedules—high tide can eliminate ceremony space
- Verify sunset times for your specific date and location
- Allow buffer time for guest arrival and setup
- Consider wind patterns (often calmer morning and evening)
Backup Plan Requirements
Always have an indoor option or tent ready. Many permits and venues require a contingency plan before approval.
Backup options:
- Nearby covered pavilion or venue
- Event tent (check if permit allows temporary structures)
- Indoor restaurant or hotel ballroom
- Delayed timing if weather clears
Essential Beach Wedding Setup
Ceremony Setup Essentials
| Item | Purpose | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Arch or arbor | Focal point, frames couple | $150-$500 rental |
| Aisle markers | Guide guests, define space | $50-$200 |
| Chairs | Guest seating (sand-stable styles) | $3-$8 per chair rental |
| Microphone/speaker | Overcome wave sounds | $100-$300 rental |
| Aisle mat or carpet | Stable walking surface | $50-$150 rental |
| Weights/anchors | Secure décor against wind | $20-$50 |
Guest Comfort Essentials
Beach conditions require extra consideration for guest comfort:
- Shade options: Umbrellas, canopy tent, or ceremony timing
- Water bottles: Essential for warm-weather ceremonies
- Sunscreen station: Provide SPF 30+ for guests
- Fans or misting stations: For hot weather
- Flip-flops or shoe bags: Let guests remove heels for sand
- Clear directions: Beach locations can be confusing to find
Sound and Music Considerations
Most beach permits allow small Bluetooth speakers for ceremony music, but amplified sound may require additional permits7. Check specific restrictions—some beaches limit volume levels or prohibit sound systems entirely.
Sound solutions:
- Small Bluetooth speakers (often permitted within 50 feet of ceremony)
- Acoustic musicians (guitar, violin) for intimate ceremonies
- Battery-powered amplification for larger groups
- Consider wind direction—position speakers downwind
Beach Wedding Attire
Beach ceremonies require modified attire choices for sand, heat, and wind. For comprehensive guidance, see our beach attire guide.
Quick recommendations:
- Bride: Lighter fabrics, shorter trains, secure veils or skip them, comfortable shoes or barefoot
- Groom: Linen or cotton suits, open collar option, loafers or barefoot
- Guests: Light colors, breathable fabrics, no stilettos, sunglasses
Décor Ideas
Natural Elements
The beach itself provides stunning décor—avoid over-decorating. Focus on elements that complement the natural setting:
- Shells and starfish (collected or purchased)
- Driftwood for aisle markers or table décor
- Sea glass in centerpieces
- Local flowers that withstand wind—see our flowers by season guide
- Lanterns for evening ceremonies
- Natural fiber runners (jute, sisal) for aisles
Budget-Friendly Options
Beach weddings can significantly reduce décor costs by embracing simplicity:
- Skip elaborate florals—the ocean is your backdrop
- Use collected shells and driftwood instead of purchased décor
- Choose potted plants that can be replanted after
- Rent rather than buy specialty items
- Consider sunset timing as your main "décor"
Common Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Wind affecting décor | Weighted bases, wind-resistant materials, stakes | $50-$150 |
| Sand in equipment | Protective covers, elevated platforms | $30-$100 |
| Tide timing issues | Check tide charts, schedule appropriately | Free (planning) |
| Guest sun exposure | Umbrellas, canopy, morning timing | $100-$400 |
| Hair and veil issues | Secure styles, braids, skip veils | Stylist consultation |
| Sound carrying poorly | Microphone system, acoustic placement | $100-$300 |
| Permit restrictions | Early application, understanding rules | Permit fees |
| Weather changes | Backup venue secured in advance | Varies by venue |
Beach Wedding Cost Comparison
| Wedding Type | Average Cost | Guest Count | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico all-inclusive | $5,500-$10,000 | 30-50 | Venue, catering, basic décor, DJ4 |
| Florida beach | $28,000 | 75-100 | Full wedding, local vendors |
| California coast | $40,000+ | 75-100 | Premium venues, full service |
| Hawaii destination | $30,000-$50,000 | 50-75 | Venue, vendors, some guest activities |
| UK coastal venue | £20,000-£35,000 | 50-100 | Licensed venue, catering, décor |
| Australia beach | $26,000-$42,000 AUD | 50-100 | Venue, vendors, permits |
Sources and References
Footnotes
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Sun & Sea Beach Weddings, How Much is a Wedding on a Beach: Costs and Tips, 2024. https://sunandseabeachweddings.com/blog/how-much-is-a-wedding-on-a-beach-costs-and-tips-for-your-dream-day/ ↩ ↩2
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RamaRossi, What Time of Day Is Best for a Beach Wedding Ceremony?, 2024. https://ramarossi.com/choosing-perfect-time-your-beach-wedding-ceremony/ ↩ ↩2
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City of Gold Coast, Beach Wedding Permit, 2024. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/Services/Report-pay-apply/Permits-licensing/Beach-wedding-permit ↩ ↩2
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Destify, How Expensive Are Destination Weddings in 2025?, 2024. https://destify.com/blog/how-expensive-are-destination-weddings/ ↩ ↩2
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Holmes Beach FL, Beach Wedding Permits, 2024. https://www.holmesbeachfl.org/departments/pay_apply_online/wedding_permits.php ↩
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City of Virginia Beach, Beach Weddings, 2024. https://cvb.virginiabeach.gov/resort-management/special-events-film/beach-weddings ↩
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National Park Service, Wedding Permits - Cape Hatteras National Seashore, 2024. https://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/wedding-permits.htm ↩ ↩2
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Confetti UK, Where You Can't Get Married in the UK, 2024. https://www.confetti.co.uk/wedding/ceremonies/why-you-cant-get-married-where-you-want/ ↩
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Gulf Beach Weddings, The Best Months to Have a Beach Wedding, 2024. https://gulfbeachweddings.com/the-best-months-to-have-a-beach-wedding/ ↩
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One Moment Hawaii, The Best Months to Get Married in Hawaii, 2024. https://www.onemomenthawaii.com/blog/the-best-months-to-get-married-in-hawaii-weather-prices-amp-more ↩