What could be more romantic than getting married in the sight of a sandy beach and lapping ocean, amidst the warm glow of the setting sun? Beach weddings are the blueprint for a showstopping and unforgettable celebration.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your coastal big day, look no further. We have 50 fun and creative beach wedding ideas to make your celebration as unique as your love story. From stunning decor to thoughtful touches, these ideas will help you bring the beauty and charm of the beach into every detail of your wedding day.
A beach wedding can either be a wedding that you hold on the beach or a wedding with a beach theme. Beach weddings tend to take place in warm climates — think Spain, Italy, Greece, the Caribbean… However, a beach wedding can be held anywhere with willing participants and a sandy shore.
The beauty of a beach wedding is that it blends the natural, laid-back charm of the ocean with the intimacy of a wedding. If you want a celebration that’s effortless, beautiful, and relaxed, a beach wedding could be just the thing.
You need to be married at a licensed establishment with a registrar present to be legally married in the UK. Beaches themselves don’t qualify as a licensed establishment. However, hotels attached to private beaches, venues with beach-facing balconies, and beach-themed decor can offer a beautiful alternative.
If you have your heart set on a beach vibe, you could have the legal ceremony at a nearby licensed venue and then head to the beach for a symbolic ceremony or reception. This way, you get the best of both worlds — making your dream of a beach wedding a reality while still following the legal requirements.
Looking for some beach-themed wedding venue ideas? Look no further. Check out these 10 ideas for beach wedding venue ideas.
A beachside hotel offers all the beauty of a laid-back, casual beach wedding while still ticking all the legal boxes. Look out for venues that offer both indoor and outdoor spaces, so you have a backup plan in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. Many beachside hotels also offer wedding packages that include everything from catering to decor, making it easier for you to focus on enjoying your big day.
What could be more glamorous than looking out over your own private terrace on an oceanfront rooftop bar? You can enjoy all the beauty of the ocean while staying a safe distance from any seafoam, flotsam, or jetsam. Plus, you’ll get some amazing cocktail hour photos of the sunset!
If you’re struggling to find an actual beach-side wedding venue, consider having a traditional wedding in a church or registry office, then heading to the beach with your guests and a celebrant for the final blessing. This way, you get the best of both worlds — a formal ceremony and a relaxed post-ceremony celebration.
You can find piers in most coastal or seaside towns for a unique and charming setting for your wedding. A historic pier adds a touch of nostalgia and romance to your special day, with the sound of waves below and the open sky above.
Whether you choose to have your ceremony at the end of the pier or prefer to set up a reception area along it, a pier wedding is sure to be memorable and picturesque. Just be careful of any missing slats!
Yachts and boating clubs usually have an attached function room, bar, or restaurant, making them the perfect place to host your wedding reception. These venues usually have great views of the water and a fun nautical theme, so you can embrace the maritime vibe for your big day.
Pro tip: Be sure to check whether you can use your own caterers, or whether you need to use their in-house staff. You wouldn’t want to be surprised by any restrictions at the last minute.
If all else fails and you can’t find a beach-side venue that you like in the UK, you can always go abroad. Destination weddings are more popular than ever, with 32% of weddings happening outside the UK. Mediterranean countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain are the most popular options. But, don’t discount more niche locals like the Canary Islands, Malta, or Croatia, which offer stunning coastlines and beautiful weather, often at a more affordable price.
You can find a ton of charming beach glamping sites that offer a unique blend of rustic charm and seaside beauty. These venues are perfect for couples who love the great outdoors but still want some of the comforts of home.
These venues will usually work with you to create the perfect wedding reception. Looking for tipis or yurts? They may be able to help. Fancy a hog roast or barbecue? No problem, let them do the work! But, equally, they’re likely to be pretty flexible when it comes to your own vendors, especially if they’re a family-run site.
Nature reserves offer a stunning, untouched setting for your wedding, surrounded by the beauty of protected landscapes. The only downside is you may find yourself exposed to the elements, especially in the rainy UK!
A happy medium would be to choose a nature reserve with sheltered areas or nearby indoor options that allow you to enjoy the natural beauty without worrying about the weather. You could have your ceremony outdoors with the stunning scenery as your backdrop and then move to a cosy, rustic lodge or pavilion for the reception.
Aquariums offer a true ‘Under the Sea’ feel while keeping you and your guests dry and comfortable. It’s a magical, one-of-a-kind setting that’s sure to wow your guests and create unforgettable memories.
Many aquariums also have event spaces with large tanks or underwater tunnels, so you can continue the oceanic theme throughout your reception. Plus, since aquariums are typically indoors, you won’t have to worry about the weather at all — perfect for the unpredictable UK climate!
Tiki-themed weddings are a fun way to bring the beach vibes if you can’t actually get near a beach. Say you live in a landlocked area or haven’t been to the beach in years, but you still want to capture that tropical, beachy feel — well, a tiki-themed wedding could be just the ticket! You can transform your venue with bamboo decorations, tiki torches, and vibrant floral arrangements.
Serve up tropical cocktails in coconut cups and have your guests dance to some island-inspired tunes. It’s all about creating a relaxed, festive atmosphere that makes everyone feel like they’ve escaped to a beach paradise, even if you’re miles from the ocean.
Looking for some ideas of what to wear to a beach-themed wedding? Check out this list of the best beach wedding dress ideas.
Floaty boho wedding dresses are very in vogue right now. They’re bohemian, beautiful, and suit a variety of skin tone and body types. Plus, they’re perfect for a beach setting! The lightweight, airy fabric will keep you cool, and the relaxed style complements the laid-back vibe of a seaside wedding.
Think flowing skirts, lace details, and maybe even a hint of fringe. These dresses move beautifully in the ocean breeze, making for some stunning photos too!
You can’t go wrong with a simple slip dress. A slip dress is sleek, elegant, and effortlessly chic. It’s the perfect blend of sophistication and ease, making it ideal for a beach wedding. The minimalist design not only looks stunning, but also allows you to move freely and stay comfortable throughout the day. Pair it with some delicate shell jewellery, a light shawl, or even a floral crown for a touch of whimsy.
If you aren’t a fan of wedding dresses but still want to lean into the beach wedding vibe, a light-coloured suit could be just what you’re looking for. A soft beige, light grey, or even a pale pastel suit can give you a fresh, modern look while still keeping things relaxed and comfortable. The light colours are perfect for reflecting the sun, keeping you cool, and blending beautifully with the natural beach surroundings.
Pair it with a simple blouse or camisole, and finish the look with some stylish sandals or espadrilles.
If none of these are up your street, anything chiffon will ensure you’re bang on theme. Remember, this is your big day, and you should wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable.
Not a fan of white? Opt for blue, pink, or sage green. Prefer the cut of a tea-length dress or a flowy maxi? Go for it! The most important thing is that you feel like the best version of yourself on your special day. Chiffon is a fantastic choice because of its light, breezy quality that suits the beach perfectly, and it comes in a variety of styles and colours to match your personal taste.
A casual button down and chinos is a classic choice for an understated wedding. Opt for light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton to keep cool under the sun. You can roll up the sleeves for an extra laid-back vibe, and pair the outfit with boat shoes or even go barefoot for a true beach feel. Add a splash of personality with a colourful tie, patterned pocket square, or fun suspenders to complete the look.
Look crisp and clean in a linen suit. Try light colours like crema, beige, or light grey, and opt for a tailored fit that’s comfortable yet stylish.
Pair your suit with a crisp white shirt or a pastel-coloured one for a pop of colour that complements the beach setting. Finish off the look with loafers or even stylish sandals, and don’t be afraid to go tieless for a more relaxed, beachy vibe.
Hey, what’s the point in having a laid-back wedding if you can’t have a little fun? This combination is perfect for a groom who wants to keep things lighthearted while still looking put-together.
Choose suspenders in a bold colour or pattern that contrasts nicely with a simple button-down shirt and chinos, or even shorts if you’re going for a super casual vibe. Pair them with a quirky bow tie that shows off your personality, and you’ll have a look that’s both fun and stylish.
A floral maxi dress is always a safe bet for wedding guests’ attire. Choose a cut and shape that you feel comfortable in, then pick a pattern that reflects the vibrant and joyful atmosphere of a beach wedding.
The flowing fabric of a maxi dress will keep you cool and comfortable, and the floral design adds a touch of elegance while still embracing the relaxed beach vibe. Pair it with some strappy sandals and a wide-brimmed hat, and you’ll be all set for the day.
A cotton sundress can mean a perfect blend of comfort and style for a beach wedding. It’s lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly chic, making it an ideal choice for staying cool under the sun. Choose a sundress in a bright colour or playful pattern to match the festive beach atmosphere. You can dress it up with some simple jewellery and a pair of cute wedges or keep it casual with flat sandals. Either way, you’ll look and feel great as you celebrate the happy couple.
Lean into the tiki vibes with a tropical print shirt and shorts combo. This look is perfect for anyone who wants to keep things fun and casual while staying cool on the beach. Opt for a vibrant Hawaiian shirt with bold patterns or palm prints, and pair it with well-fitted shorts in a neutral colour to balance the look. Finish off with some comfortable sandals or boat shoes, and maybe even throw on a straw hat and you’re good to go! Just make sure it fits the wedding dress code.
The uplifting sound of a steel drum is a staple of any island or beach-themed wedding. They’re undeniably distinctive, fun, and are sure to get the party going. Try looking on social media or wedding entertainment platforms to find talented steel drum players in your area. Many musicians are willing to travel, so don’t hesitate to reach out even if they’re not local.
A steel drum player can set the perfect tone for your ceremony or cocktail hour, bringing that authentic tropical vibe to your special day.
Set up a craft station with a “Message in a Bottle” activity for your guests. Provide small bottles, colourful paper, and pens, and invite your guests to write down their well-wishes, marriage advice, or favourite memories of you as a couple. They can then roll up their messages and place them in the bottles. Keep them as a special memory from your big day, and maybe consider opening them on special anniversaries? This is a great wedding guest book alternative!
A photobooth is a classic and foolproof wedding entertainment idea. You can either have a company come and set up your photobooth (there are plenty of professional photobooths right here on Bridebook, who will supply everything you need) or DIY it. To DIY your wedding photobooth, you’ll need a backdrop, a camera or smartphone with a tripod, and plenty of fun, beachy props. Think along the lines of seashell crowns, oversized sunglasses, straw hats, inflatable palm trees, and even a surfboard cutout.
You can set up the backdrop near the shore or under a tiki hut to really capture the beach vibes. Guests will love taking silly photos, and you’ll end up with a collection of fun memories from your big day.
This one will take a little more forward planning, but a sandcastle building contest can be a super fun and interactive activity that brings out everyone’s inner child. You can provide buckets, shovels, and other tools for your guests, or even ask them to bring their own. Set a time limit, and let the creativity flow! You can have different categories like “Most Creative,” “Tallest Castle,” or “Best Team Effort,” with small prizes for the winners.
This activity is great for all ages, and it gives your guests a chance to mingle and work together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your beach setting. By the end of the contest, you’ll have a beach full of beautiful sand creations, adding to the fun and festive atmosphere of your wedding day.
Do we really need to explain this one? Your guests will go wild for a classic ice cream van or cart at your beach wedding! It’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that adds a playful touch to your celebration. You can even personalise the ice cream menu to include your favourite flavours or offer fun options like sundaes and cones.
Having an ice cream van or cart is not only a delicious way to keep everyone refreshed, but it also creates a laid-back, summer vibe that perfectly complements a beach wedding. Whether it’s a mid-afternoon treat or a sweet surprise during the reception, an ice cream stop is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Pro tip: Have an ice cream van or cart instead of formal puddings. It’s more interactive, personalised, and will probably save you a lot of money on catering costs too!
A fireworks display is another classic choice for ending your beach wedding with a bang — literally! As the night falls and your celebration begins to wind down, surprise your guests with a dazzling fireworks display over the ocean.
The reflection of the fireworks on the water adds an extra layer of magic, creating a truly unforgettable moment. It’s a spectacular way to close out your special day, leaving everyone in awe as they watch the sky light up in vibrant colours. Plus, the photos will be spectacular!
Have you seen those floating lantern releases that always go viral on social media? This could be one of them. Hand out biodegradable lanterns, and invite everyone to jot down a wish or a message before releasing their lantern into the sky or over the ocean.
As the lanterns drift away, glowing softly against the twilight, everyone will be caught up in the peaceful, enchanting vibe. It’s the perfect way to bring a sense of calm and reflection to the end of your day, balancing out the excitement of the earlier fireworks. And honestly, just imagine the incredible photos you’ll get!
Pro tip: Some venues won’t allow this kind of entertainment for environmental reasons. Be sure to check if you have your heart set on this type of display. Equally, you need to be conscious that the lanterns you’re releasing are 100% biodegradable, including all their structuring. Nothing will kill the vibe of your wedding like causing a small environmental disaster.
This may not be for everyone, but a beach wedding with sea-themed face painting can add a playful and creative touch, especially if you have kids attending — or guests who are young at heart! Think colourful mermaid scales, starfish designs, or even simple waves and shells. Hire a talented face painter who can bring these ocean-inspired designs to life, or set up a DIY station with stencils and safe, easy-to-use face paints.
It’s a fun way for guests to get into the beachy spirit, and the face paint will look fantastic in photos, adding an extra layer of whimsy to your wedding album. Plus, it’s a great icebreaker that gets everyone mingling and having fun.
A scavenger hunt is a great way to get everyone on their feet and exploring the beach. You can create a list of items or clues related to the beach setting — like a unique seashell, a piece of driftwood, or a hidden message in a bottle — and send your guests off in teams to find them. It’s a fantastic way to break the ice and encourage guests to mingle while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
You can even offer a small prize for the winning team, adding a bit of friendly competition to the mix. This activity is especially great for families and kids, making sure everyone has a fabulous time at your wedding.
Everyone will love a beach-themed cocktail at your wedding. But, how about shaking things up (pun fully intended) and having guests create their own based on your expert recipe? Set up a DIY cocktail-making station with all the ingredients and tools needed to create a signature beach-themed drink. Provide a few recipe cards for inspiration — like a classic mojito, a tropical piña colada, or a zesty margarita — and let your guests get creative with their concoctions.
You can even add a twist by offering a contest for the best cocktail creation, with guests voting on their favourite mix. It’s a fun, interactive way to keep the party lively, and it gives everyone a chance to show off their bartending skills (or just have a good laugh trying).
Naked cakes are very popular at the moment for their understated, minimal design. Naked cakes are a cake where the layers are lightly iced or left exposed, giving them a rustic, natural look that’s perfect for a beach wedding. To add a tropical twist, decorate your naked cake with vibrant, fresh flowers like hibiscus, orchids, or even a few palm leaves.
As above, consider decorating your naked cake with edible seashells for a fun, beachy vibe. Imagine delicate seashells made of white chocolate or fondant, nestled between the layers of your cake. You can even add a touch of “sand” using crushed graham crackers or brown sugar sprinkled around the base. It’s a beautiful way to tie in the seaside theme while keeping that trendy, minimal look.
This one will take a little more design work, but the result is absolutely stunning. An ombre beach wave cake features layers of icing that fade from deep ocean blue at the base to soft, sandy hues at the top, mimicking the look of waves crashing onto the shore.
You can enhance the effect with subtle wave patterns in the icing and even add some small, edible decorations like sugar starfish, pearls, or tiny seashells. It’s a showstopper that will have your guests talking — and taking lots of pictures!
Tropical fruit cakes are cakes made with the flavours of kiwi, passion fruit, mangoes, or pineapple, bringing a burst of the tropics to every bite. Imagine a light, airy cake layered with tropical fruit jam fillings, and topped with a colourful array of fresh fruits. You can keep it neat and elegant with perfectly arranged fruit slices or get a bit playful with a cascade of fruit spilling down the side of the cake. Maybe even add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey to make those vibrant colours pop!
This kind of cake doesn’t just look amazing — it’s also super refreshing, which is perfect for a warm beach day. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase seasonal and local fruits, making your cake even more special.
Pearl-embellished cakes are the perfect addition to an understated, beach-themed wedding. Opt for a cake that’s iced with plain buttercream and then stud with edible pearls for a touch of elegance and seaside charm. The pearls can be delicately placed to mimic the look of a string of pearls or scattered like tiny treasures found on the shore. It’s a subtle yet beautiful way to bring in the beach theme without going overboard.
Sailboat cakes are a little more ‘on theme’, and would best suit a beach wedding with a nautical flair. This cake is perfect for couples who love the sea and want to incorporate a bit of that adventurous, maritime spirit into their wedding. It’s fun, creative, and definitely makes a statement.
Alternatively, you could keep it more low-key and use the colours of a sailboat. For example, light blue, dark blue, and white. This subtle nod to the nautical theme can be just as impactful and ties everything together beautifully without being too over-the-top. You could even add a few small, elegant touches like a thin navy ribbon around each tier or a simple anchor cake topper to keep the theme going.
Similarly to the ombre beach waves cake, an underwater colour cake can bring the deep blues and greens of the ocean to life on your dessert table. Imagine a cake that starts with rich, deep blue at the base and gradually fades into lighter shades of aqua and turquoise as it reaches the top. You could add hints of seaweed-like swirls, coral patterns, or even tiny edible fish swimming around the layers.
If you aren’t a fan of large scale or traditional wedding cakes, consider choosing muffins or cupcakes as your wedding cake. This way, everyone can pick their own little piece of sweetness, and you can still keep the beachy theme going strong. Seashell cupcakes are a perfect option — they’re adorable, easy to serve, and can be customised to fit your wedding’s colour palette.
Your seashells can either be made of fondant, chocolate, or marzipan, depending on your tastes. We recommend you keep them edible to prevent any surprises when your guests take a bite!
Coconut cake is delicious, effortlessly tropical, and perfect for a beach wedding. The light, fluffy texture combined with the sweet taste of fresh coconut make for the perfect wedding cake. To elevate the tropical vibes, consider adding layers of tangy lime curd or a rich passion fruit filling between the coconut layers. This not only adds a burst of flavour, but also gives the cake a beautiful, vibrant look when sliced. Decorate with a few tropical flowers or some desiccated coconut, and you’re good to go!
Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! Edible sand can be made from brown sugar, crushed digestive biscuits, chopped almonds, or a combination of all three for a deliciously sweet and crunchy texture. Tailor your edible sand to the flavours of the cake for a cohesive look and taste.
You can either cover your cake in edible sand by sticking it to the icing, or sprinkle it around the base of each tier to create the illusion of a cake resting on a sandy beach. For an extra touch of creativity, consider sculpting little mounds of ‘sand’ on top of the cake and nestling tiny edible seashells, pearls, or even a fondant starfish in them.
The beauty of underwater-themed wedding table centrepieces is that they can be as understated or overt as you’d like. Prefer something more low-key? Try filling glass vases with water, a few floating candles, and some subtle accents like seashells or smooth pebbles at the bottom.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can go all out with tall vases filled with blue-tinted water, faux coral, and colourful fish figurines. Add some fairy lights around the base for a soft glow that mimics sunlight filtering through the water. You can also use small LED lights inside the vases to create an illuminated effect that’s sure to catch your guests’ eyes!
Message in a bottle place settings are a simple but effective way to help everyone find their seats. Simply write each guest’s name and table number on a small scroll of paper, roll it up, and tuck it inside a miniature glass bottle. You can even add a sprinkle of sand or a tiny seashell inside for an extra beachy touch.
Place these bottles on the tables or in a designated spot where guests can easily find them. If you have extra time, consider writing your guests a sweet message to thank them for attending and how grateful you are for their support in your relationship. It’ll catch them by surprise and be a sweet addition to your big day.
If you’re really looking to hit the nail on the head of the beach theme, lobster traps and anchor decor will really bring that coastal vibe to life. They don’t have to be real lobster traps or anchors (which can be large and very heavy). But, you can find or create charming replicas that capture the essence without the bulk.
Adorn them with driftwood, fairy lights, seashells, and even a few sprigs of greenery or flowers to soften the look and tie it all together.
This one will take some forward planning, but is a great way to have a piece of your favourite places on your wedding day. Simply collect small amounts of sand from beaches that hold special meaning to you — perhaps where you first met, where you got engaged, or any special holidays you’ve been on.
Once you’ve gathered your sand, display it in small glass jars or vials with labels indicating the location each sample comes from. These jars can be arranged as part of your decor, whether near your guest book or as centrepieces, giving your guests a glimpse into the special places that have shaped your love story.
If you don’t mind them being mixed, try layering your sand samples in a single, larger glass vessel to create a beautiful and unique keepsake that represents all of your cherished memories together. Write any place names on the outside in permanent marker and consider including the year you visited that beach for a special touch.
You can’t go wrong with beautiful tropical flower arrangements as your decor. They’re bold, beautiful, and instantly bring that vibrant, beachy vibe to your wedding. Think of flowers like hibiscus, orchids, bird of paradise, and frangipani — these exotic blooms come in a variety of bright, cheerful colours that are perfect for a seaside celebration.
You can use them in your bouquet, centrepieces, decorations, on top of cakes — wherever your heart desires.
Similarly to the above, tropical fruit arrangements are a creative and unique way to bring the tropic, beachy vibes to your big day. Picture tables decorated with simple yet vibrant displays of pineapples, mangoes, papayas, and coconuts, mixed with bright oranges and limes. You can add a bit of flair with passion fruits, dragon fruits, and star fruits, making the table look as good as it tastes.
These fruit arrangements aren’t just for show — they can double as edible centrepieces, offering your guests a refreshing snack throughout the event. You could keep it straightforward by placing the fruits in bowls or on tiered stands, or get a bit creative by carving out a pineapple to hold colourful fruit skewers. It’s a laid-back, practical way to bring a taste of the tropics to your wedding.
Using sea glass as an aisle runner is a unique and fun way to bring the beach to your big day. The beauty of sea glass is that no two pieces are alike, so you’ll have a truly one-of-a-kind aisle that reflects the natural beauty of the ocean.
You can scatter the sea glass along a traditional fabric runner for a touch of sparkle, or get even more creative by using a clear runner with the sea glass underneath, making it look like you’re walking on a path of jewels.
Of course, it’s going to take you a while to collect enough sea glass to run alongside the aisle. Make sure you start early if you plan to use this decor option. You can also buy sea glass online to supplement any glass you find. This is a perfect backup plan in case you don’t gather enough in time.
Ocean-coloured confetti includes a mix of sea green, blue, white, navy, sky blue, and soft turquoise hues that mimic the colours of the ocean. Find companies that allow you to create a mishmash of wedding confetti and have your guests throw it over you as you leave your ceremony. It’s the perfect subtle way to incorporate the colours of the beach into your big day while still adding a touch of fun and celebration.
Pro tip: Make sure any confetti is biodegradable to prevent any harm to the environment, especially if you’re getting married near the beach. This way, you can enjoy the beautiful moment without worrying about leaving anything behind but happy memories.
If your venue allows for it, consider hanging nautical rope lanterns to add a cosy, seaside glow to your wedding. These lanterns, crafted from thick, twisted rope, can be hung from tree branches, tent poles, or even set on tables to create a warm, inviting ambiance. The soft light filtering through the rope will cast gentle shadows, mimicking the feel of a beachside evening as the sun dips below the horizon.
For an extra creative twist, you can weave small seashells, starfish, or even tiny pieces of sea glass into the ropes. This adds a personal, beachy touch to each lantern and ties them perfectly into your overall theme.
Simple but effective, beach stone place settings are a wonderful way to add a natural, coastal touch to your wedding decor. Gather smooth, flat stones from your favourite beach or purchase them online, and use them as unique place cards for your guests. You can write each guest’s name on a stone using a fine-tip paint pen or a metallic marker for a touch of elegance.
Planning your perfect beach wedding is easier than you may think. While it may seem like a mammoth task, pulling together your dream venue, dress, entertainment, cake, decor, and all the other little extra touches, will really come together beautifully with the right tools and a bit of inspiration. Plus, with Bridebook, you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Whether you’re dreaming of a casual, barefoot ceremony or an elegant seaside affair, we’re here to help you navigate every detail with ease. Sign up for your free account today and make your dream beach wedding a reality!