People choose destination beach weddings in Panama City Beach and the Forgotten Coast for all sorts of reasons, not the least of which is the natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and romantic setting that the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide as a backdrop.
Beach weddings can be formal, but more often they feature a more casual and laid-back vibe, giving couples and guests the chance to relax and enjoy the moment without the formality of traditional venues. For many, it’s a perfect blend of celebration and vacation, allowing loved ones to gather and celebrate in a unique, picturesque environment.
Whether an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, these wedding dreams can become a reality, and the Gulf Coast of Florida is an ideal place to make it happen. Destination weddings on the beach can be budget-friendly with a variety of venues to choose from. Beach weddings are also ideal for hosting bachelor and bachelorette parties, receptions, and romantic honeymoons.
Types of Venues for your beach wedding
For your destination wedding, you can choose to get married at any number of places including a private home, a local church, at a State Park, or directly on the beach. There are also some beachfront restaurants in Panama City Beach that have beach wedding packages. Many vacation rentals in Panama City Beach and Cape San Blas allow small weddings that will make your wedding one to remember. The State Parks are a great option to enjoy the untouched beauty of nature on the beach.
Beach Weddings in Panama City Beach
There are countless beautiful places to say "I do" in Panama City Beach along 27 miles of white sand beaches. With its breathtaking natural setting, the beach continues to be PCB's most famous wedding location. The sun sets over the gulf, creating a stunning sky for your wedding night, making golden hour on Panama City Beach the perfect moment for your ceremony.
If you plan on getting married directly on the beach, consider an evening wedding to capitalize on the beautiful sunsets. An intimate bonfire for your wedding party is another popular choice for brides. There are several services available that will be honored to host your wedding reception bonfire. They provide comfortable seating, smores, fire pit permits, and cleanups.
Marriage Licenses, permits, and other details
A special events permit may be required for a wedding on the beach, depending on the event's size and details. Be sure to contact the City Government to check on event permits, which often do not require a fee. When planning a wedding in the state of Florida, even if you are not a Florida resident, you will need to obtain a Florida Marriage License. You can apply for a license at any courthouse in the State of Florida. You do not have to apply to the same county in which you wish to marry. Visit Panama City Beach is a great resource when you begin to plan your beach wedding.
Private Beach Houses for Weddings in Panama City Beach
Getting married on the beach is an unforgettable experience for most couples and something many dream about for years. Panhandle Getaways has private home vacation rentals that allow beach weddings on the private beach in front of each house. Four beachfront homes in particular fit the bill to host your special wedding day on the beach.
Each of these gorgeous homes sleeps 12 guests and features five bedrooms with en suite baths, multiple balconies to watch the sunset or sunrise, and a splash pool overlooking the gulf. Host your intimate wedding on the beach in front of any of these homes and rent one (or all) for your entire wedding party. Look into booking Whale Rested, Shellebration, Reel Em Inn, and/or Anchors Aweigh for the perfect backdrop to host your beach wedding in Panama City Beach, Florida.
A Beach wedding at Cape San Blas on the Forgotten Coast
Florida’s Forgotten Coast offers tranquil stretches of coastline overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay. This makes it a fabulous choice when deciding to plan a destination wedding in the small coastal town of Cape San Blas.
Panhandle Getaways has three exclusive beach houses in Indian Pass near Cape San Blas where you can host your special celebration. Each home accommodates up to 24 guests and has six bedrooms, 6.5 baths, private pools and each is pet friendly, too. With these beachfront houses located next to each other, you can book individually or book all three for multiple families and the entire wedding party. Details about each of these beachfront homes, Sandpiper, Starfish, and Seahorse, can be found on the Panhandle Getaways website.
Consider a State Park Wedding Venue for your destination wedding
State Parks are another great option for beach weddings for the perfect natural beach setting. Many State Parks on the Emerald Coast have beach wedding services. This allows you to exchange vows at the untouched beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.
St. Andrews State Park in Panama City Beach hosts an unforgettable island wedding experience. They offer all-inclusive wedding packages that include a private ferry to Shell Island, a ceremony and reception, a dinner buffet, and a beer and wine bar.
If you are looking to get married on the beautiful Forgotten Coast consider St. George Island State Park. This is a lovely beach spot to host a wedding, free of high rises and full of natural beauty. They have several unique venues from public beach access to getting married at a lighthouse.
Make your Dream Beach Wedding Come True
A beach wedding is most definitely an unforgettable experience that will make your special day a singular event. Your special moment should be everything you dream it to be, and the Emerald Coast offers the perfect spot for your beach wedding. If you are looking for a beachfront house to accommodate a grand wedding or a small intimate gathering, we have something perfect for you. We also have luxury vacation rentals for honeymoons and other special events leading up to your wedding. Book your stay with us as you start planning your dream beach wedding.