Florida Beach Weddings: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Day
- georgianastrait1
- Sep 17, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 9, 2025
Dreaming of saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, the sound of waves in the background, and a Florida sunset painting the sky? A beach wedding in Florida offers romance, affordability, and unforgettable memories. From small intimate ceremonies to all-inclusive wedding packages, this guide covers everything you need to know about planning your perfect Florida beach wedding.
Why Choose a Florida Beach Wedding?
Florida’s coastline stretches more than 1,300 miles, giving couples endless options for wedding backdrops. Whether you imagine a glamorous Miami celebration, a laid-back ceremony on the Emerald Coast, or a sunset vow exchange in Key West, Florida has it all:
Year-round sunshine and warm weather
Affordable options compared to destination weddings abroad
Variety of beaches — from lively, resort-style locations to quiet, hidden gems
All-inclusive packages that simplify planning
Average Cost of a Florida Beach Wedding
One of the first questions couples ask is, “What is the average cost of a beach wedding in Florida?”
Budget-friendly weddings: $1,000 – $5,000
Mid-range weddings: $5,000 – $15,000
Luxury weddings: $15,000+
Your cost depends on factors like location, guest count, décor, photography, permits, and whether you choose an all-inclusive wedding package.
Want a breakdown of affordable options? Explore our budget-friendly Florida beach wedding packages for under $5,000.
Best Beaches in Florida for Weddings
With hundreds of beaches to choose from, which ones are the best for weddings? Here are a few top picks:
Siesta Key – Famous for its soft white quartz sand and turquoise waters.
Destin & 30A – Emerald Coast charm, perfect for intimate beach weddings.
Clearwater Beach – A mix of vibrant nightlife and stunning sunsets.
Key West – Laid-back island vibes with breathtaking oceanfront venues.
Miami Beach – Trendy, stylish, and perfect for larger celebrations.
Can You Just Get Married on the Beach in Florida? (Permits & Legalities)
The short answer: yes, but you need to plan ahead.
Most Florida beaches require a county permit for wedding ceremonies, especially if you’re hosting more than a handful of guests or setting up décor. Fees typically range from $50 to $300 depending on the county. Some private beaches and resorts waive permit requirements if you book through them. And there are a few areas where permits are not required, you’ll just need to research the county requirements during your planning.
You’ll also need:
A Florida marriage license (no residency requirement)
An officiant (many packages include this)
Compliance with city/county rules on chairs, arches, or amplified music
Florida Beach Wedding Packages
Choosing a wedding package can take the stress out of planning. Packages usually include essentials like venue scouting, an officiant, décor, photography, and sometimes even flowers and music.
All-Inclusive Packages: Everything bundled for convenience.
Budget Packages: Streamlined services for couples on a budget.
Small/Elopement Packages: Perfect for intimate weddings and vow renewals.
Budget-Friendly & Free Beach Weddings
Is it cheaper to have a beach wedding? Absolutely. Many couples save thousands by choosing a simple beachfront ceremony.
Tips for saving money on your Florida beach wedding:
Book during off-season (late summer or early fall/winter)
Choose a weekday ceremony
Keep the guest list small
Use natural beach scenery instead of elaborate décor
All-Inclusive Florida Beach Weddings
For couples who want a stress-free experience, all-inclusive packages are a great option. These often cover:
Ceremony setup, rentals & décor
Licensed officiant
Photography and/or videography
Flowers
Music and sound system
Coordination services
Reception planning
Small & Intimate Florida Beach Weddings
Not every couple wants a big wedding. Florida’s beaches are ideal for small ceremonies and elopements. Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of loved ones, intimate weddings allow for personalization and affordability.
FAQ: Florida Beach Weddings
Is it cheaper to have a beach wedding?Yes — most couples spend significantly less compared to traditional venues.
What is the average cost of a beach wedding in Florida?Anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000+, depending on style and package.
What’s the best time of year for a Florida beach wedding?Spring and Fall are the most popular seasons thanks to pleasant weather. Summer is also an option, but it tends to draw large crowds and the heat can be intense, making it less ideal for wedding participants.
Can you just get married on the beach in Florida?Yes, but you’ll need to research if your ceremony will require a county permit. While a few states allow you to use your home state marriage license in Florida, most do not. Research your home state requirements.
Fortunately, obtaining a Florida marriage license is straightforward - and there’s even options to complete it entirely online, with no need to visit a courthouse in person.
Ready to Plan Your Florida Beach Wedding?
From budget elopements to all-inclusive celebrations, Florida offers the perfect setting for your dream beach wedding. Explore our package options, compare locations, and start planning today.
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