Wedding Venues in East London, South Africa

Discover the finest wedding venues in East London, South Africa. From stunning coastal settings along the Sunshine Coast to elegant estates nestled in the Eastern Cape, this vibrant city offers a diverse range of beautiful spaces. Explore a curated selection of unique venues to begin picturing your perfect day in this scenic South African gem.
Whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, East London provides breathtaking backdrops for every style. Consider charming garden venues, modern city hotels, or rustic countryside barns. Each location offers a distinct atmosphere, ensuring your wedding day feels truly personal and unforgettable.
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Thistlewoods

East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
At Thistlewoods we understand how special your wedding day is to you. We acknowledge that each couple has their own ideas and that each wedding should be unique & different.
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  • 220
  • Moderate ($$)
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Marine Lodge

East London, Eastern Cape
The Kat Leisure Hotel Group offers you the perfect spot to celebrate your wedding in the Eastern and Western Cape. From seaside hotels to mountain getaways, we strive to meet your expectations.
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  • 80
  • Affordable ($)
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Blue Lagoon Hotel and Conference Centre

East London, Eastern Cape
We understand that your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life and should be treated as such. Here at the Blue Lagoon, we offer you our gorgeous sunset wedding venue with spectacular views of the Nahoon River.
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  • 150
  • Moderate ($$)
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Gonubie Manor

East London, Gonubie
At Gonubie Manor we understand that every Wedding is different and we have proven to go out of our way to make sure that your Wedding day will be extra special.
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  • 450
  • Moderate ($$)
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Santa Paloma Guest Farm

East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
Our wedding venue is flexible and offers couples a one-stop wedding destination. Our farm offers beautiful natural vistas and quiet secluded hideaways where photographers can record your special day forever
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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2 Swans

East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
2 Swans is a wedding venue in a picturesques setting with a beautifully designed white marquee on the banks of a huge lake.
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  • 2000
  • Moderate ($$)
Wedding Venues around East London
These next few wedding venues match your search but are slightly outside of East London
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Areena Riverside Resort

East London
Our wedding venue, on the banks of the Kwelera River, is the perfect setting for small intimate weddings of 50-60 guests. You have the option of an outdoor ‘chapel’ on the riverbanks or an indoor wedding ceremony and reception.
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  • 60
  • 20 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Yellowwood Forest

Morgan Bay, South Africa, Amathole District Municipality
Expect an unpretentious & rustic wedding experience with self-catering accommodation and camping, just 1.5 km from the Morgan Bay beach.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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OppiePlaas Country Estate

Haga-Haga, Amatola Coastal, Amathole District Municipality
OppiePlaas Country Estate – located near Haga Haga on South Africa’s magnificent Wild Coast – caters for private weddings. We have a fully-licensed restaurant, and offer self-catering and bed & breakfast accommodation.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Trennerys Hotel

Qolora Mouth
Trennerys Hotel is the perfect setting for that special wedding day. Have your wedding here, and your honeymoon will be compliments of us!
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  • 110
  • Moderate ($$)
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Liamara Estate

East London AH, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
Make your wedding memorable by hosting it at the uniquely captivating Liamara Estate. A world-class destination with exceptional wedding service and scenic views.
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  • 60
  • Moderate ($$)
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L'Avion

East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
L’Avion Wedding Venue is set in the peaceful and tranquil surrounds of Wings Park Airfield, situated only 19km from Merrifield School on the N6 towards Stutterheim. We can host and cater for any variety and size of weddings.
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  • 130
  • Moderate ($$)
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Olivewood Estate

East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
All weddings at Olivewood Private Estate celebrate life, love and happiness. We understand how every wedding detail represents your unique style and taste.
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  • 180
  • Moderate ($$)
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Knotwood Forest

East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa
From the wedding ceremony to a picnic reception or intimate harvest 'soiree' and to the photoshoot, we would be honoured to host you on the day you begin your journey together!
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  • 100
  • Moderate ($$)
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Tea in the Trees

amatola, Amathole District Municipality
Celebrate your special day with us at our unique and versatile wedding venue, situated in a coastal forest just 2 minutes drive from 12 km of pristine beaches, simply perfect for wedding photographs.
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  • 80
  • Moderate ($$)
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Prana Lodge

Chintsa
More Pricing Inside
Prana Lodge's unparalleled natural surroundings and luxurious modern décor create the perfect setting for scenic destination weddings.
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  • 60
  • From R 35 000
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Crawfords Beach Lodge

East London, Amathole District Municipality
Crawfords Beach Lodge located on the beautiful Chintsa East beach offers the perfect location for a beautiful seaside backdrop wedding worth celebrating in style.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Haga Haga Hotel

Haga-Haga
Haga Haga Hotel is the perfect place to celebrate your wedding. A stone’s throw from unspoilt endless beaches set against the backdrop of rolling hills and magnificent ocean views
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in East London

The Scenery & Vibe

East London, affectionately known as Buffalo City, combines coastal beauty with urban sophistication. Its position on the Sunshine Coast offers dramatic ocean views and pristine beaches, providing stunning natural backdrops for your wedding. The city has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere perfect for a memorable celebration.

Diverse Venue Styles

The city's venues are as varied as its scenery. You will find a perfect match for any wedding style, including:

  • Luxury beachfront hotels with panoramic sea views
  • Historic manors with classic colonial charm
  • Private game reserves for an adventurous touch
  • Modern, chic event spaces in the city centre

Average Venue Costs

Venue hire in East London can range from ZAR 20,000 to ZAR 80,000+, depending on the venue's exclusivity, capacity, and inclusions. Many venues offer all-inclusive packages, which can be a cost-effective option covering catering, decor, and staffing, often priced per guest.

Budgeting Tips

  • Off-Season Savings: Consider a wedding between May and August for potentially lower rates.
  • Weekday Weddings: Venues often offer discounts for Monday-Thursday bookings.
  • Package Deals: Look for venues that bundle services to simplify planning and manage costs effectively.

The Best Time to Marry

East London enjoys a mild, subtropical climate, making it a great year-round destination. The most popular wedding seasons are:

  • Spring (Sept - Nov): Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora.
  • Summer (Dec - Feb): Warm and sunny, ideal for beach weddings.

Off-Peak Considerations

Autumn (Mar - May): Offers beautiful golden light and milder temperatures.

Winter (Jun - Aug): Cooler and drier, ideal for cosy indoor venues with fireplaces. This low season can mean more availability and better pricing.

Getting There & Around

East London is served by King Phalo Airport (ELS), connecting it to major South African cities. For guests travelling within the city, ride-sharing services and car rentals are widely available. Consider arranging shuttle services for guests if your venue is located further afield.

Guest Accommodation

Accommodation options are plentiful, catering to all budgets.

  • Luxury Hotels: Major hotel chains offer premium stays.
  • Boutique Guesthouses: Charming B&Bs provide a more intimate experience.
  • Self-Catering Villas: Ideal for families or groups.
FAQ's

What is the average cost of a wedding venue in East London, South Africa?

Costs vary widely based on the venue type and package. On average, you can expect to pay between ZAR 20,000 and ZAR 80,000 for venue hire alone. All-inclusive packages, which include catering, typically range from ZAR 800 to ZAR 1,500 per guest.

Are there legal requirements for getting married in East London?

Yes. To get legally married in South Africa, you and your partner must appear before a marriage officer and meet the requirements of the Marriage Act. You'll need to provide identification and other documentation. It's best to consult with your chosen marriage officer well in advance.

What are some unique wedding venue styles in East London?

East London offers diverse options beyond traditional halls. Consider a beachfront ceremony on the Sunshine Coast, a rustic celebration at a countryside farm, an elegant event at a historic colonial estate, or even an adventurous wedding at a nearby private game reserve.

What's the best time of year for an outdoor wedding in East London?

The best months for an outdoor wedding are typically during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). These seasons offer pleasant, mild temperatures and lower humidity compared to the peak of summer.

Are there accommodation options for guests near most wedding venues?

Yes, most popular wedding venues in and around East London are located near a range of accommodation. This includes city hotels, charming guesthouses in suburbs like Berea and Vincent, and coastal resorts. Many venues also offer on-site rooms or have partnerships with local hotels.

How far in advance should we book a wedding venue in East London?

For popular venues, especially for weekend dates during the peak seasons of spring and summer, it is advisable to book 12 to 18 months in advance. For off-peak dates or weekday weddings, you might find availability with 6 to 9 months' notice.

Explore 20 venues in East London
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