Can Beaches Be Booked For Private Weddings?

Dreaming of a beach wedding? You're not alone. The idea of exchanging vows with the sun, surf, and sand as your backdrop is undoubtedly appealing. But before you start planning your big day, it's essential to understand the logistics and legalities involved.

One of the critical aspects to consider is whether the beach is publicly or privately owned. If you're set on a public beach wedding, you'll likely need to obtain a permit, as most public beaches have strict rules regarding events. These permits typically come with a fee, and the cost varies depending on the location. It's also important to note that a permit doesn't grant you exclusive use of the beach, and you'll have to share the space with other beachgoers.

Another factor to keep in mind is the impact of nature. From high tides to unpredictable weather, wind, and fog, beach weddings can be a bit of a gamble. It's always a good idea to have a backup plan, like an indoor location, in case Mother Nature doesn't cooperate.

Additionally, there may be restrictions on decorations, music, and even alcohol consumption, depending on the location. These are crucial details to iron out during the planning process.

While beach weddings can be challenging, they offer a unique and intimate experience. With careful planning and a bit of flexibility, your dream beach wedding can become a reality.

Permits: Check if you need a permit, how much it costs, and how far in advance you need to apply for it

Permits are an important part of planning a beach wedding. While some beaches don't require a permit for small weddings, many public beaches do, and you may need one to reserve a section of the beach for a certain amount of time.

How to Check if You Need a Permit

Before setting your heart on a particular beach, ask the following questions:

• Does the beach require a permit to hold a wedding?
• If so, how much does it cost, and are there any other fees?
• Is it a flat rate or a "per hour" charge?
• How far in advance must the permit be submitted?
• How large an area of the beach does the permit cover?
• Will liability insurance be required?
• What is the maximum number of people allowed?

How Much Permits Cost

Permit costs vary depending on location. In California, they typically range from $100 to $150, with some being cheaper, and an additional insurance fee of $100 in some counties. In Tampa, Florida, permits range from $250 to $450.

How Far in Advance to Apply

Permit application timelines depend on the location. In LA County, applications must be submitted no earlier than 90 days and no later than 3 weeks before the desired date. In California, most beaches require a 15-30 day advance notice, while some beaches in other states may issue permits up to a year in advance.

Hiring a Wedding Planner

If the permit process seems overwhelming, consider hiring a wedding planner. They can handle the permit logistics and include the cost in their services.

Logistics: Consider parking, restrooms, and accessibility for guests

Logistics are an important aspect of any wedding, but especially so for a beach wedding. Here are some things to consider when it comes to parking, restrooms, and accessibility for your guests:

Parking

Depending on the location of your beach wedding, parking may be a concern. If there is limited parking available, consider providing a shuttle service for your guests to and from a designated parking area. Alternatively, you could encourage guests to carpool or use a ride-sharing service. If there is ample parking near the beach, be sure to communicate the parking rules and regulations to your guests in advance. This includes any parking fees that may apply.

Restrooms

One of the most important considerations for a beach wedding is providing adequate restroom facilities for your guests. If there are no restrooms nearby, you may need to rent portable bathrooms. When deciding on the number of restrooms, consider the size of your guest list and the duration of the event. As a general rule, you should have at least one restroom stall per 100 guests, with a minimum of two stalls. Don't forget to budget for any additional costs, such as soap, paper towels, and toilet tissue, as these are not always included in the rental price.

Accessibility

To make your beach wedding accessible for all guests, there are several things you can do:

• Communicate with your guests: Let them know about any difficult terrain or transportation requirements in advance. This is especially important if you know any of your guests have physical disabilities or mobility issues.
• Provide transportation: If there is a decent distance to travel on the property, consider providing transportation for all guests, such as golf carts or buses.
• Install temporary ramps: If any of your guests have accessibility needs, consider installing temporary ramps or walkways on the sand.
• Choose the right location: Opt for a venue that is easily accessible for all guests, especially those with disabilities. Consider factors such as ramps, restroom stalls with bars, and elevators when selecting your beach venue.
• Ushers and greeters: Have ushers or greeters available to assist guests as they arrive and help them get to their seats, paying special attention to those who may need extra help.
• Seating arrangements: When creating your seating chart, consider the needs of guests with wheelchairs or mobility challenges. Seat them in a way that allows easy access to the dance floor, bar, and restroom, avoiding a maze of tables and chairs.
• Dietary restrictions: Ask for dietary restrictions on your RSVP forms to ensure you have accessible food options for all guests.
• Lighting: Ensure the venue is well-lit, especially if there isn't an established path or boardwalk. This will help keep guests safe and facilitate wayfinding.

Restrictions: Research what decorations are allowed, and whether amplified sound or alcohol is permitted

When it comes to beach weddings, the specific permissions and restrictions will vary depending on the location. While weddings are allowed on most public beaches, you may need special permission to marry on a private beach. If you're planning a destination wedding outside of your home country, be sure to check the local regulations. In many cases, you'll need a permit for your beach wedding, and this may include additional rules on noise, light, and access.

Amplified Sound

Some beaches have strict noise restrictions, which may include a ban on amplified sound. This could mean no microphones, speakers, or even a DJ. If this is the case, you may need to rely on acoustic instruments and your natural projection for your ceremony. It's worth noting that without a microphone, your guests may struggle to hear your vows. If you're set on having amplified sound, you may need to look for a different venue.

Alcohol

The alcohol policy of your beach wedding will depend on the specific location and the country. Some venues may only allow beer, wine, and champagne, while others may have a no-alcohol policy. If serving alcohol is important to you, be sure to check the restrictions before booking your venue.

Decorations

Beach weddings offer a beautiful natural backdrop, so you may not need extensive decorations. When it comes to beach wedding decor, lightweight, flowing materials that complement the natural surroundings are often a good choice. Decorations such as fabric, seashells, and tropical flowers can enhance the coastal ambiance. For a rustic feel, consider adding greenery or flowers to your wedding chairs. Personalized signage, monograms, and soft pastel colours can also add a special touch.

When selecting table decorations, aim for a coastal vibe with natural materials like driftwood, seashells, and coral. Keep table settings simple and airy, allowing the beauty of the beach to shine through. For a head table, choose soft, flowing fabrics and candlelight or string lights to create a romantic atmosphere.

Overall, the best approach to beach wedding decor is to choose a theme that you would use for an indoor venue and adapt it to the beach with strategic, complementary decorations.

Timing: Choose a time to avoid crowds and high tides

When planning a beach wedding, it's important to consider the timing carefully to avoid crowds and high tides. Here are some tips to help you choose the best time for your special day:

Research Tide Times

First, it's crucial to check the tide times for your chosen beach. Websites like saltwatertides.com and tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov can provide valuable information on low and high tides. By planning your ceremony around low tide, you can avoid the possibility of your wedding being dampened by unexpected waves. This is especially important if the beach is smaller or has limited space above the high-tide line.

Choose a Less Crowded Day

To ensure a more private and tranquil ceremony, aim for a day when the beach is less crowded. Typically, beaches tend to be quieter outside of weekends and holidays. If your dream beach tends to be busy on Saturdays, consider a weekday wedding. You may also want to opt for a morning or late afternoon ceremony, as these times often have fewer beachgoers.

Consider the Season

The time of year can also play a significant role in reducing crowds. If your chosen beach is popular during the summer months, consider an off-season wedding. For example, early spring or fall can offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists. Just be mindful of the weather patterns and plan accordingly.

Book Early for Popular Times

If you have your heart set on a popular time, such as a sunset ceremony, be sure to book well in advance. Sunset weddings are in high demand and tend to fill up quickly, sometimes even a year in advance. The same goes for Saturdays, which are a traditional choice for many couples.

Check for Local Events

When planning your timing, be mindful of any local events or activities that could overlap with your wedding. Check the schedule for the beach and the surrounding area to avoid potential disruptions or noise. This includes public events, cleaning, construction, or other activities that could impact your ceremony.

Be Mindful of Weather Patterns

In addition to tides, keep an eye on the weather forecast. While you can't control the weather, choosing a time with milder temperatures and calmer conditions can enhance your beach wedding experience. This is especially important if you're planning an outdoor reception as well.

By following these tips and staying flexible, you can increase your chances of having a beautiful beach wedding with minimal disruptions from crowds and high tides. Remember to check local regulations and work with a wedding planner or coordinator who can help you navigate the unique challenges of a beach wedding.

Back-up plan: Prepare an alternative in case of bad weather

Planning a beach wedding is a unique challenge, and one of the most important things to consider is the weather. It's crucial to have a backup plan in case of bad weather, and here are some detailed suggestions to ensure your special day goes smoothly:

The "Second Location" Backup:

If your chosen beach venue has an indoor option, this is ideal. You can still have your dream beach ceremony, but if the weather turns, you can quickly move inside. Work with the venue staff to ensure a smooth transition, and be sure to inform your wedding party, DJ or announcer, and officiant of the plan. Practise in the alternate location with your wedding party to avoid any last-minute hiccups.

The "Rain Gear" Backup:

If there is no indoor option, providing rain gear like umbrellas, ponchos, or blankets as favours is a fun and functional idea. Assign someone to distribute these items to guests, or set up a self-serve station that guests must pass on their way to their seats. Don't forget to assign someone to hold an umbrella for you, your partner, and your officiant during the ceremony!

The "Short and Sweet" Backup:

This plan is best used as a Plan C, as a backup to your backup. Work with your officiant to create a shortened version of the ceremony, cutting out lengthy musical entrances and exits, extra poems or readings, and non-essential unity ceremonies. Practise the shortened version with your officiant, and be ready to spring into action if bad weather is on the way.

The "Wedding Canopy" Backup:

Rent or buy a pop-up tent or canopy to provide cover from blustery conditions or light precipitation. Ensure you don't place guest seating too close to the edges, in case of wind and rain.

Remember, flexibility is key when dealing with unpredictable weather. Even with the best-laid plans, things can go awry, so it's important to stay calm and roll with the weather. Your wedding planner, if you have one, will be a lifesaver in helping you navigate any last-minute changes, and your vendors will also play a crucial role in executing your backup plan.

Frequently asked questions