Why You Should Say “I Do” on Alabama’s Beaches

Close your eyes and imagine saying “I Do” to your special someone with the sound of waves lapping in the background, sugar-white sand between your toes and the view of the Gulf all around you. You can have all of that, and more, on Alabama’s beaches.

Below are the top reasons why couples are choosing to get away to the Gulf Coast for their destination beach weddings.

Unique Venues On and Off the Beach

One of the many reasons couples choose to have a destination wedding is to travel somewhere new and find an out-of-the-box way to celebrate their big day. In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we have several options for couples.

• The main attraction in our destination is the beach! Alabama’s coast is home to 32 miles of white sandy beaches that line the Gulf of Mexico. Many brides and grooms choose to host their nuptials at either a private or public beach followed by a reception at a local restaurant or venue. For those looking for something more intimate, renting a beach house is a fantastic option! Say your vows out in the sand then head right up to the house for an after-party with all of your closest friends and family. Some houses in the area can sleep up to 42 people, so your whole crew can bunk up together once the party winds down.

• Speaking of bunks, for those outdoorsy couples out there we have the perfect wedding spot for you. At the Gulf State Park you turn your wedding into fully immersive summer beach camp extravaganza. Whether you host your ceremony at the park’s large beach pavilion, outside a cabin overlooking Lake Shelby or at the new Learning Campus facility, you will be surrounded by nature. Guests can choose to stay at one of the park’s many camping and cabin options or book a room at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, located beachfront across the street from the park’s main entrance. And, if you really want to make it feel campy, book the bunkhouses at the Learning Campus for your guests of honor.

• If your bride or groom is a history buff, consider a destination wedding at Fort Morgan State Historic Site. Located at the west end of the island, Fort Morgan is a spectacular backdrop for an intimate wedding ceremony and reception. Couples can choose from several sites to say “I Do” including the parade ground, under the bridge archway or on top of the fort. And if you have a special fur baby in your life, pets are allowed at this spot so feel free to have man’s best friend escort you down the aisle! 

• Lastly, if you’ve always wanted to sail into the sunset with your bride or groom…that can be arranged, too! Both Cetacean Cruises and Sail Wild Hearts in Orange Beach offer wedding packages that include a variety of special offerings and amenities. This venue is especially wonderful for smaller wedding parties and provides the most beautiful photo ops. 

We Can Keep It Traditional, Too

Just because you’re having a destination wedding, doesn’t mean you have to forgo a traditional experience if that’s what you’ve always dreamed of. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach has an art center overlooking the back bays, gorgeous chapels and historic homes that each provide the classic ceremony backdrop but outside the doors, you’re still a few feet from the beach.  

Small Budget? We’ve Got You

Between the ceremony and reception venues, catering, photographer and band, you can easily rack up a pretty large tab when planning a wedding. Luckily, Alabama’s beaches pride themselves on offering affordable options, and wedding festivities are no exception. Just because you want a more exotic locale for your big day, doesn’t mean you have to pay a big bill for it!

As you can see, you don’t need to travel far to have the destination wedding of your dreams. Also, learn about places to stay nearby so your guests can plan their lodging accommodations for your big day! We have everything you need right here on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

 Start planning your big day today!