A http://vacation.com/insider original post.
The soft sand. The curl of a wave. The blues of the sky and sea melting into one another. It’s no wonder that so many couples long for a beach wedding. Are you one of those searching for a lovely stretch of sand on which to have your destination wedding in the United States?
Then you’ll want to check out the following ten stunning beaches. Each of these destinations would make a truly lovely backdrop for your special day.
Monterey Peninsula, California. This area, which includes Pebble and Carmel Beaches, offer some of the most picturesque backdrops for weddings in the entire state. If you’re going to have a small wedding, check out Wedding Rock, a formation that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. This site is small, so it is best for groups of 20 or under.
Sanibel Island, Florida. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Sanibel is one of Florida’s prettiest sites for a destination wedding. It has, in fact, been recognized by Dr. Beach, America’s foremost beach expert, as being one of the top ten best beaches in Florida.
Scenic Beach State Park, Washington. With a name like this, it’s hard not to want to hold your wedding at Scenic Beach State Park, especially since it is as beautiful as its moniker implies. The Emel House, which is available for rent, is a vintage 1911 structure that boasts lovely gardens and a stunning view of Hood Canal.
Jekyll Island, South Carolina. Looking for a lovely backdrop that combines Southern charm, the beauty of live oaks draped in Spanish moss and a beach setting? Then you should consider having your wedding on one of South Carolina’s most pristine beach destinations — Jekyll Island.
Lake Tahoe, California. Beaches are not just an ocean thing. With a backdrop of towering mountains rising above this gorgeous blue lake, this destination offers a dramatic beach setting unlike any other.
Gulf State Park, Alabama. This park, which boasts two miles of pretty white sand, is an ideal setting for a beach wedding. The park has a Beach Pavilion that is available for rental or, if you prefer, you can have your wedding at a hotel or at a condo located on the beach.
Melody Key, Florida. Are you searching for the ultimate luxury — a wedding on a private island? Then you need to check out Melody Key, a spectacular private island retreat located in the Florida Keys. If you rent this little gem, you will have its three acres all to yourself for your wedding party.
Molokai, Hawaii. The Hawaiian Islands offer many truly stunning sites for a beach wedding, but if you’re looking to get married on an island that will take you back to a simpler time, away from the hustle and bustle of, say, Honolulu, then Molokai should top your list. This island has no traffic lights, night clubs or high-rises. What it does have is charm and gorgeous beaches that are especially perfect for a wedding at sunset.
Outer Banks, North Carolina. Famous for its beautiful beaches and the wild ponies that wander the northern part of these barrier islands, the Outer Banks is a lovely setting for a destination wedding. Some couples choose to rent one or two of the area’s huge oceanfront houses, have the entire wedding party stay in these places, and then they have their ceremony on the beach or on a deck overlooking the ocean.
Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia. There is something very romantic about lighthouses, so why not choose one for the backdrop for your special day? The Cape Henry Lighthouse is located near Virginia Beach in Preservation, Virginia. This sandstone structure, which was authorized by George Washington, is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Cape Henry can accommodate up to 75 people for a wedding outside of the lighthouse. Weddings with 20 or less attendees can be held in the lantern room at the top of the lighthouse.
When planning a destination wedding, it can be very helpful to work with a travel agent who is familiar with the area as they can recommend or arrange for photographers, officiants and other vendors. In addition, they will also know the rules and regulations regarding a beach wedding for a particular destination and whether you will need a permit for your wedding and may even help you to obtain one.
Find a destination wedding travel agent near you!
The post Ten Beautiful Beach Wedding Ideas Located in the United States appeared first on Vacation.com Insider.