Kick off your heels and sink your toes between the sand – it’s beach wedding time!
If you’re dreaming of getting married on a beach, but don’t have the cash for an expensive, over-the-top destination wedding, we’re here with our favorite affordable beach wedding locations in the U.S. And, being the cheap wedding invitation experts, we have opinions on what invites pair best with each….
#1: Narragansett, Rhode Island
Have you ever been to Rhode Island? It’s sweet. It’s charming. And, it’s a surprisingly affordable location to get married in.
Narraganset is our top pick for affordable beach wedding locations in Rhode Island. Its location is convenient for travelers (just an easy and really pretty drive from Boston), and is bursting with east coast beach vibes.
There are shockingly affordable venues that offer ceremony and reception packages with awesome beach views. Keep in mind, the beaches in Rhode Island are not tropical (if that’s what you’re looking for, read on). Narragansett’s shoreline has a coastal feel with rocky beaches and the smell of oysters in the air.
Bring your best dock shoes and you’re ready to roll!
Best Cheap Coastal Invitation Theme for a Rhode Island Wedding
#2: Destin, Florida
When it comes to beach weddings in Florida, the northern part of the sunshine state doesn’t always come to mind. But, don’t count it out.
Destin is located right on the gulf, giving you clear, emerald water and white sand beaches. If you didn’t know better, you’d think you were in the Caribbean. And your guests will love it here; there’s awesome restaurants and a plethora of activities like deep sea fishing and water sports. Plus, it’s easy to find incredible condos to rent right on the beach.
Lucky for brides and grooms, the City of Destin allows couples to rent space to host their own beach-side wedding. It doesn’t get much more affordable than that. If you’re looking for a wedding venue instead, they are plentiful and offer a range of packages, depending on your budget.
Best Cheap Coastal Invitation Theme for a Destin Wedding
#3: San Clemente, California
San Clemente is located in southern California, right between San Diego and Los Angeles. This beach town exudes sophisticated California culture and is known as the “Spanish village by the sea”. And, it is! The landscape is gorgeous, architecture charming and atmosphere is laid-back.
You can drop a ton of dough on wedding in San Clemente, or do it for absolutely free on one of the public beaches. It’s first come, first served and the rules dictate that only 20 guests may attend. But, if you’re hoping for a small wedding in California that won’t cost you a dime, this is a great location! Check out Calafia or Mariposa beaches to get your planning started.
Best Cheap Coastal Invitation Theme for a San Clemente Wedding
#4: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Let’s head back to the east coast. Cape Cod is so iconic that it may come as a surprise that it has plenty of options for beach weddings.
The town of Dennis is a great spot to host your wedding, and the city only charges $150 to reserve your beach wedding. Instead of booking a reception at a Kennedy-inspired fancy-pants wedding venue, opt for a local restaurant like Chapin’s Fish and Chips.
Your friends and family will have plenty to keep them busy in Cape Cod. From sea-kayaking to exploring local glass and pottery shops, this is one destination beach wedding spot that everyone will fall in love with.
Best Cheap Coastal Invitation Theme for a Cape Cod Wedding
#5: Key Largo, Florida
Anyone else read “Key Largo” and immediately begin humming the Beach Boys classic “Kokomo”? This tropical oasis was in good company in the 1988 beach-themed hit – Bermuda, Bahamas, Aruba, Jamaica and Key Largo!
Key Largo is located in the Florida Keys, way, way, wayyyyy down past the southernmost tip of the state. It’s as close to a tropical island-vibe you can get without hopping down to an island. Key Largo is full of fun to be had, making it a great spot to get married.
Guests will enjoy exploring John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, swimming with dolphins and paddle boarding the crystal clear water.
For a cheap wedding in Key Largo, hold your ceremony on the beach and throw a casual reception. The Florida Keys Wedding Center is an excellent resource to find affordable and all-inclusive beach elopements and small weddings.
Best Cheap Coral Reef Invitation Theme for a Key Largo Wedding
#6: Mission Beach, California
If you’re looking for a beach wedding that’s loaded with fun, Mission Beach is the one for you! A bustling beach located in San Diego, this location isn’t your typical quiet, romantic beach wedding location…which is why we love it.
Mission Beach looks like a photo from a California postcard. Crashing waves, sky-high palm trees and a bustling boardwalk full of beach bums zipping by on long boards. Not to mention, historic Belmont Park’s roller coaster will make for some killer post-wedding photos.
You can have a free wedding on Mission Beach, but need to get a permit from the city first. For an extra that’s-so-Cali wedding, say your vows at sunset then host a beach bonfire, complete with s’mores.
Best Cheap Invitation Theme for a Chill San Diego Beach Wedding
#7: Holualoa, Hawaii
Can you get married in Hawaii on the cheap? YES!
Obviously Hawaii is an amazing place to get married, but most couples cross it off their list without a second look because it feels like a total budget-breaker. But, you don’t have to get married at the Four Seasons.
Our top pick for affordable wedding locations in Hawaii is Holualoa. Located on the Big Island, this beach town is small and full of rustic Hawaiian charm. It’s known for two things – as being a community for local artists and for the Kona coffee bean farms that line its country roads.
For a unique and affordable venue, check out Sunshower Farms. This place is so cool with its boho vibe and views of the ocean. And, wedding packages start at just $1,500. Nope, I’m not missing a zero! Just $1,500 for a dream wedding in Hawaii.
Best Cheap Invitation Theme for a Hawaiian Wedding
Happy beach planning, brides and grooms! xoxo
