Dreamiest Beach Wedding Destinations Around The World – 10 Spots To Begin Your Forever

There’s something undeniably magical about saying “I do” with warm sand beneath your feet, the ocean humming in the background, and sunlight shimmering across the water. The whole scene – the breeze, the colors, the calm – turns your wedding day into something even more special. And whether you’re dreaming of an intimate “just the two of us” moment or a full weekend celebration with your favorite people, there’s a perfect shoreline venue waiting for you. From magical tropical escapes to charming Mediterranean gems, let’s dive into the world’s dreamiest beach wedding destinations to begin your forever.

Maldives: Island Magic Above Turquoise Waters

There’s something almost surreal about getting married in the Maldives. The moment you step onto a private island, it feels as though the world has been placed on mute just for you. The overwater villas, the still lagoons, and the sunsets that seem to melt behind the horizon create a wedding atmosphere that is both cinematic and deeply intimate.

Although weddings for non-residents in the Maldives are purely symbolic, this dreamy destination is still the perfect place to celebrate your love after making things official at home or renewing your vows.

A Maldivian ceremony turns your wedding into something truly special – a magical, once-in-a-lifetime moment surrounded by turquoise water, soft sand, and pure island romance. Resorts usually handle every tiny detail – from flower arches to traditional Bodu Beru (island drum and dance) and a romantic beach dinner.

A beach wedding in the Maldives is for couples who want quiet luxury and complete seclusion. Many celebrities choose resort islands here for ultra-private celebrations, for example, chef Jamie Oliver and his wife Jools, actress Sunny Leone and her husband Daniel Weber.

The best time for such ceremonies is between November and April, during dry, calm weather. Note that the most popular wedding resorts (like the SAii Lagoon Maldives Curio Collection by Hilton, LUX South Ari Atoll or the Sun Siyam Olhuveli) are usually booked far in advance – six months to a year is normal.

Budget-wise, expect that luxury comes with a price tag, unless you choose to hold your ceremony on a local island.

Bali, Indonesia: Spiritual Vibes And Boho Style

A traditional Balinese wedding ceremony is a truly special experience – a mix of ocean cliffs, lush jungles, and spiritual calm that makes the whole island feel like it’s blessing your love story. Whether you’re standing on a dramatic cliff in Uluwatu with waves crashing below or inside a peaceful villa filled with frangipani and lanterns, Bali has a way of turning your wedding into a beautifully cinematic moment.

For international couples, weddings in Bali can be legally binding, but they come with specific requirements (such as both partners declaring a religion recognized in Indonesia and completing documents in advance).

Because of this, many couples choose to have their official marriage at home and enjoy a symbolic or Balinese-style ceremony on the island instead, which is also a truly special experience; expect cultural rituals, offerings, gamelan music, flower blessings, and the serene presence of a Balinese priest. So, you can see that even symbolic ceremonies can include these elements, making the day feel deeply meaningful and unforgettable.

Bali is ideal for couples who want a mix of beauty, atmosphere, and flexibility. Even celebrities often choose to have their wedding and honeymoon here, like the Australian model, Jennifer Hawkins, and her partner, Jake Wall.

If you’re considering a Bali beach wedding, the best time is between April and October, when the weather is dry and golden-hour light is at its most magical. Most popular venues like the Upper Deck in Ubud or resorts like Ayodya in Nusa Dua book 6–12 months in advance, but Bali is wonderfully accommodating – last-minute elopements and small ceremonies can still be arranged without stress in private villas.

In terms of budget, Bali scales effortlessly: from affordable, charming villa weddings to ultra-luxe clifftop venues with spectacular ocean views, you’ll certainly find a place that fits your budget.

Santorini, Greece: Sunset Glamour Above A Volcanic Sea

Few places deliver romance as effortlessly as Santorini. The moment you arrive, the island feels like a living postcard – white cliffside villages stacked like sugar cubes, blue-domed chapels, and views that spill dramatically into the caldera.

Most couples exchange vows on terraces perched high above the Aegean, where every angle looks like it was designed for a wedding album. Just a heads-up: Santorini’s famous breeze can be your friend or foe, so choose a hairstyle, like loose waves, a braid, or a low bun, that’s both beautiful and secure (hairpins are essential).

What makes Santorini one of the world’s top wedding destinations is that even non-residents can legally marry in Greece. This volcanic island has long attracted celebrity elopements, boutique ceremonies, and ultra-stylish micro-weddings (think Madeleine White, fashion influencer and Andrew Fedyk special day, at Cavo Ventus, a breathtaking cliffside wedding venue on the Caldera of Akrotiri). Ceremonies usually incorporate touches of Greek tradition, such as stefana (wedding crowns) or a slow, symbolic walk around a ceremonial table.

Planning is key in Santorini: venues often fill up a year in advance, especially for prime weekend dates. Small elopements can still come together quickly, but large events require early coordination. The most enchanting months are April–June and September–early October, when the weather is warm and skies are clear without the summer rush.

But, prepare yourself that Santorini has become extremely popular and therefore expensive lately, meaning that a beach wedding here leans toward mid-to-luxury end, particularly during peak season – but the views and atmosphere are truly unmatched.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Where The Lagoon Feels Like It’s Blessing Your “I do”

Bora Bora isn’t just beautiful – it feels otherworldly, like you’ve stepped into a dream painted in every shade of turquoise. No wonder it is one of the world’s dreamiest beach wedding destinations, best suited for intimate elopements, luxury micro-weddings, or a wedding-plus-honeymoon experience.

And yes, you can legally marry in Bora Bora, but the official civil ceremony must take place at the local town hall, according to French Polynesian law. You’ll need to prepare in advance, all translated into French, so planning ahead is essential.

Therefore, many couples have ‘just’ a symbolic Polynesian ceremony here, creating a day that is deeply personal. Big resorts like the Four Seasons Bora Bora, the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa or The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offer full packages with thoughtful and distinctive service.

The rich and famous also adore Bora Bora for ultra-private celebrations and honeymoon-wedding combos, featuring couples like Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux or Paris Hilton and Carter Reum.

Because flights and overwater-villa resorts are limited, it is recommended to book in advance (9-12 months). The best time to visit this is May-November, when the weather is dry and the lagoon is at its brightest. Prepare for unapologetic luxury, both in sights and budget, reflecting the island’s remote location and stunning overwater settings – but the memory will last a lifetime.

Maui, Hawaii: Aloha Spirit And Tropical Ease

Maui has a way of making every wedding feel relaxed, magical, and effortlessly beautiful. Picture exchanging vows on a sun-drenched beach as palm trees sway and waves lap gently at the shore, or on a cliffside terrace overlooking the Pacific, with the island’s volcanic ridges framing the scene. There’s a natural elegance here – no need for anything over the top, just the right mix of ocean, light, and aloha energy.

The great news for couples is that Hawaii allows foreign and domestic couples to obtain a marriage license easily, and most beaches, resorts, and wedding planners are experienced in arranging both the civil paperwork and the ceremonial touches.

If you prefer, you can also have a purely symbolic beach ceremony, which is perfect for those who have already tied the knot elsewhere or just want a stress-free celebration in paradise. Popular wedding venues include the Four Seasons Resort, The Ritz-Carlton and the Olowalu Plantation House which offers a charming oceanfront setting.

Many couples choose to incorporate Hawaiian traditions, such as exchanging leis, a blessing by an officiant, or a conch-shell ceremony to honor the ocean. The island is also a favorite of celebrities seeking intimate or family-filled beach weddings; the actor Woody Harrelson and the NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes married their partners here.

Planning-wise, Maui is wonderfully flexible. Large resort weddings should be booked several months in advance, but intimate elopements and symbolic ceremonies can be arranged last-minute without a hitch. The best months for a Maui wedding are March–May or September–November, when the weather is warm but the crowds are smaller.

The island offers everything from charming small beaches to five-star resorts with oceanfront terraces, so budget-wise, it is somewhere between mid-range to luxury (depending, of course, on where you are flying in from, as flights can be expensive from the other side of the world but more affordable from US cities).

Iceland: Black-Sand Drama For The Bold And Romantic

I’ve never thought a beach wedding could work in a cold-climate destination – until my jaw dropped at photos of a ceremony on Iceland’s black sand. The dramatic mountains, the roaring Atlantic, the mist, the wind, sometimes even snow and drifting pieces of glacier ice…

It’s definitely not your typical palm-tree wedding scene, and maybe that’s exactly what makes it so unforgettable. For me, it instantly became one of the world’s most unique beach-wedding destinations.

Picture this: you’re standing on Reynisfjara iconic black sand or Diamond Beach, where Mother Nature hands you a color palette no designer could replicate: basalt columns rise behind you like sculpted architecture, waves crash in front of you in rhythmic layers of silver and slate, and bright blue ice shards scatter across the coast like gemstones. It’s raw, moody, almost cinematic – the kind of place where you half expect a film crew to materialize out of the mist.

The best is that you can legally marry in Iceland as a non-resident (regardless of gender!). Just be prepared to send in the necessary documents ahead of time and translations where needed. Most couples do the official paperwork in Reykjavík or at a local town office, then hold a symbolic ceremony on the beach for that breathtaking “Iceland moment.”

When to come:

• June–August for milder temperatures, long daylight, easier travel.
• Winter if you want snow, icy textures, and a truly wild atmosphere.

But, expect wind – sometimes gentle, sometimes dramatic – and fast-changing weather, which brings challenging conditions but makes the photos more magical.

An Icelandic wedding ranges from mid-range to luxury, depending on how adventurous you get. You’ll need to factor in travel, accommodation, a local planner/guide (highly recommended for permits and safety), and transportation to remote beaches. But, if you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels elemental, intimate, and wildly different from the usual sandy postcards, Iceland delivers something no tropical island ever could.

Seychelles: Granite Boulders, Hidden Coves & Island-lux Magic

If the idea of a beach wedding brings to mind powder-white sand and swaying palms, Seychelles will feel both familiar and wildly different – because the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by sculpted granite boulders, crystalline water, and an elegance that whispers “island fairytale, but make it timeless.”

Seychelles has its share of celebrity charm – the most famous being Prince William and Kate Middleton, who are widely believed to have honeymooned on a Seychellois private island. While that wasn’t a wedding, it speaks volumes about how desirable Seychelles is for couples seeking beauty, privacy, and a touch of royalty.

Civil (legal) weddings are possible. Local or destination couples can have a legal ceremony, and registrars are available through local planning companies. But if you’re more drawn to a symbolic ceremony, you’ll find your heart’s match here too. Whether it’s exchanging vows beneath a floral arch by Anse Lazio (Praslin) or whispering promises at the iconic Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue, Seychelles provides settings that feel deeply personal and dreamlike.

Dream venues & resorts:
• Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas: This luxe resort offers an elegant wedding package, but with specific legal-ceremony requirements
• Four Seasons Resort Seychelles or Raffles Seychelles are also popular for their romantic hideaways and attentive wedding services.

The best time for a Seychelles wedding is April–May and October–November, when the climate is relatively calm, less humid, and beautifully tropical without being wet. Tradewinds from June–September bring cooler, drier weather – perfect for outdoor gatherings.

The budget can range from mid-range to high-luxury, depending on your choices. Basic legal ceremony packages start in the few-thousands-euros/dollars range. Ultra-luxury options – especially at private-villa resorts – can rise significantly.

Koh Samui, Thailand: Coconut Groves, Golden Sand & Easy Island Romance

Koh Samui is one of those places where everything feels instantly warm and welcoming – the nature, the people, the ocean, even the breeze. It’s tropical, yes, but with a softer, more grounded energy than some of Thailand’s busier islands.

Expect a blend of tropical ease and Thai hospitality – soft waves, delicious food, warm-hearted locals, and touches of Thai tradition like water blessings or long drum parades. Samui is especially lovely for couples wanting a destination that feels romantic but not overly “formal.”

Picture a ceremony on a quiet stretch of sand lined with coconut palms, or under a floral arch at sunset, while long-tail boats glide in the distance. It’s relaxed, sun-soaked, and wonderfully heartfelt.

Thailand does allow legal weddings for foreigners, but the process can be a bit paperwork-heavy: you’ll need to visit your embassy in Bangkok first, have documents translated into Thai, and get them certified – only then can the marriage be registered locally. For this reason, many couples make things official at home and come to Koh Samui for a symbolic beach ceremony instead. Resorts and planners here are very experienced with both options.

The island has no shortage of stunning venues, from intimate hideaways to full-scale luxury resorts. Some of the most popular include:
• Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui: secluded, ultra-romantic cliffside and beachfront venues with sweeping Gulf of Thailand views.
• Conrad Koh Samui: dramatic overwater platform, infinity-edge backdrops, and cinematic sunsets.
• Anantara Bophut or Anantara Lawana: elegant beachfront settings with lush tropical gardens.

For a more budget-friendly and intimate feel, boutique villas offer beachfront ceremonies, perfect for micro-weddings.

The best wedding season is December–April, when the weather is sunny and dry. May-September can still be beautiful (and less busy), with short tropical showers followed by sunshine.

When it comes to budget, Koh Samui caters to a wide range – from mid-range beachfront villas to luxury five-star resorts. Even high-end weddings here often cost less than ceremonies in the Maldives or Bora Bora, making Samui a fantastic balance of beauty and value.

Cancún, Mexico: Turquoise Shores, Fiesta Energy & Effortless “Yes” Moments

Cancún is the kind of destination where the beach looks like it’s been Photoshopped – bright turquoise water, powder-white sand, and sunshine that seems to last forever.

But unlike some ultra-remote islands, Cancún adds a lively twist: vibrant culture, incredible food, world-class resorts, and that unmistakable Mexican warmth that makes every celebration feel bigger, happier, and more joyful: think sparkling seas, mariachi performances, mezcal toasts, and dance floors that stay full until late. It’s great for couples who want beauty and buzz, or who are bringing guests excited for a fun, sunny getaway.

Mexico allows fully legal weddings, and Cancún is one of the easiest places in the country to arrange them. Many couples still choose to do the paperwork at home and come for a symbolic beach ceremony – but if you want a legal oceanfront “I do,” Cancún delivers.

Where to wed:
Cancún has a resort for every vibe – glamorous, boho, party-friendly, or ultra-private. A few standout venues:

• NIZUC Resort & Spa: sleek, serene, and incredibly stylish; perfect for luxury micro-weddings.
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun: famous for its ocean-surrounded lighthouse gazebo and vibrant atmosphere.
• JW Marriott Cancun: timeless elegance with polished service and pristine beachfront.
• Secrets The Vine or Live Aqua Beach Resort: adults-only sophistication with stunning ceremony decks.

If you prefer something more local and soulful, nearby Isla Mujeres or Puerto Morelos offer quieter beaches and boutique venues.

The prime wedding season is December–April, with dry, sunny weather and perfect beach conditions. May–November can be more humid with occasional storms, but also brings lower prices and calmer, quieter resorts.

Because it is hugely popular for destination weddings, larger celebrations often book 9–12 months ahead. Symbolic ceremonies or elopements can be organized in just a few weeks – resort wedding teams here are incredibly efficient.

Cancún offers one of the best value ranges of any major beach destination:

• Mid-range packages at all-inclusive resorts
• Premium setups at upscale hotels
• High-luxury experiences at five-star properties

Compared to places like Bora Bora or the Maldives, your budget stretches significantly further here.

Positano, Italy: Cliffside Romance Wrapped In Pure Italian Elegance

If your idea of a dream wedding leans more toward timeless beauty than tropical breezes, Positano might steal your heart in a single glance. This cascading village on the Amalfi Coast feels like it was built for romance – pastel houses climbing the cliffs, bougainvillea spilling over balconies, and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea stretching out below. It’s the kind of place where even a simple stroll down the steps feels cinematic.

Positano has a quiet, refined charm that makes it especially appealing for couples who want something elegant, chic, and deeply romantic rather than beach-party vibes. It’s also a wonderful choice for older or mature couples, vow renewals, or anyone who wants that “grown-up Italy” feeling – effortless sophistication, impeccable food, and intimate settings that feel tailor-made for love.

Weddings here tend to happen on cliffside terraces overlooking the sea rather than directly on the sand – but the beach and the water are always right below, completing the picture.

Top venues include:

• Le Sirenuse: iconic, luxurious, and famous for its sweeping sea views.
• Il San Pietro di Positano: cliffside perfection with a private beach platform.
• Hotel Marincanto: beloved for intimate ceremonies and postcard-worthy terraces.
• Villa Magia: romantic, private, and perfect for stylish micro-weddings.

You can have a fully legal wedding in Italy, and many couples choose Positano’s local town hall for the civil ceremony, followed by a cliffside symbolic celebration. Paperwork must be handled in advance, but planners in the area are very experienced and make the process smooth.

The most ideal months are May–June and September–early October, when the weather is warm and golden but the village isn’t unbearably crowded. July and August are beautiful but busy and hot; winter is peaceful, but many venues close for the off-season.

This is one of Italy’s most coveted wedding locations, so popular terraces and hotels often book 12–18 months ahead, especially for weekend events. Very small elopements can sometimes be arranged last-minute, but flexibility is key. Positano tends to sit firmly in the luxury bracket. The views, the service, and the setting are extraordinary – and priced accordingly. But smaller elopements can be surprisingly manageable.