Planning a wedding at a waterfront venue offers breathtaking views that create the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos, making your special day truly unforgettable! Florida has some of the most breathtaking venues, perfect for couples who want to say their vows with stunning backdrops, whether it’s a serene lake, a tropical beach, or a historic waterfront city. Having worked at these venues, I can tell you they’re not just pretty—they’re designed to make your big day stress-free and unforgettable! Let’s dive into three of my absolute favorites:
Top Waterfront Wedding Venues in Florida
Lake Mary Event Center
Lake Mary Event Center is elegance and simplicity wrapped up in one beautiful package. This venue is by Crystal Lake, just outside Orlando, it offers a mix of modern design and natural beauty. Whether you want an indoor event with floor-to-ceiling lake views or an outdoor ceremony under a canopy of trees, this venue can do it all.
Why You’ll Love It:
The Grand Ballroom is the star of the show here! Imagine 30-foot-tall windows with panoramic views of the lake. Add elegant chandeliers and neutral tones that work with any wedding theme, and you’ve got a space that’s as gorgeous as it is versatile.
The Outdoor Lakeside Lawn offers an intimate, picturesque setting for your ceremony. The backdrop of Crystal Lake creates a peaceful and romantic vibe that looks amazing in photos.
The event center is spacious but not overwhelming, making it a great choice whether your guest list is 50 or 250.
Extra Details You’ll Appreciate:
You won’t have to stress about the essentials because the venue’s got you covered with tables, chairs, and basic linens – all you need to bring are your creative ideas! Plus, it's super convenient for your out-of-town guests, being close to several great hotels and restaurants. And the best part? They’re all about giving you the freedom to make your day uniquely yours by allowing outside vendors, so you can add your personal touch to every single detail!
Pro Tips:
Plan your ceremony around sunset – trust me, the lake looks like it’s glowing during golden hour, and it's the dreamiest backdrop for your photos! If you're aiming for perfect weather, consider a spring or fall wedding. You’ll get that Florida sunshine without sweating through the summer heat!
Islander Resort in Islamorada
If you’ve always dreamed of a tropical destination wedding, Islander Resort in Islamorada might just be your slice of paradise! Located in the Florida Keys, this venue delivers laid-back luxury with breathtaking ocean views and an authentic island vibe. It’s the perfect balance of relaxed and refined.
Why You’ll Love It:
Beachfront Ceremonies: Say “I do” with your toes in the sand, surrounded by swaying palms and turquoise water. It doesn’t get more quintessentially Florida than this.
Flexible Reception Spaces: From their oceanfront lawn to their open-air event pavilion, the resort has spaces to fit your vibe, whether it’s casual or upscale.
On-Site Accommodations: The resort offers bungalows, suites, and cottages, so your wedding can double as a mini-vacation for you and your guests.
What Sets It Apart:
This place takes the stress out of planning with fully customizable wedding packages that cover everything from catering to decor, so you can focus on the fun stuff! The in-house event team? They’re absolutely amazing—detail-oriented, super accommodating, and ready to help you every step of the way. Plus, the location is a total gem! Your guests will love having the chance to snorkel, paddleboard, or just kick back and enjoy the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys.
Pro Tips:
Add a little adventure to your wedding weekend with a daytime activity like a sunset cruise or group snorkeling trip—such a fun way to bond with your guests before or after the big day! And for that true Florida Keys feel, make sure to add tropical touches to your decor and menu—fresh flowers, citrusy accents, and local seafood will totally bring the vibe to life!
The White Room in St. Augustine
For couples looking for a mix of historic vibes and waterfront elegance, The White Room in St. Augustine is the perfect match. Located in the heart of the nation’s oldest city, this venue combines coastal beauty with timeless architecture, offering breathtaking views of the Matanzas River.
Why You’ll Love It:
Rooftop Ceremony Space: Picture this—standing on a rooftop with the river in the background, surrounded by your loved ones as the sun sets. It’s a moment straight out of a movie.
The Grand Ballroom: Inside, you’ll find crystal chandeliers, large windows, and hardwood floors that create an elegant but welcoming atmosphere.
The Loft: For a more modern yet cozy vibe, The Loft is perfect. Its exposed brick walls and industrial-chic design make it an amazing space for cocktail hour or an intimate reception.
What Makes It Special:
The White Room really checks all the boxes, and as a photographer, it’s the dream venue! I love that they handle everything from catering to event coordination—it allows me to focus on what I do best: capturing the moments that matter. And being right in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district? It’s honestly a photographer’s paradise. From the charming cobblestone streets to the iconic landmarks, there’s no shortage of breathtaking backdrops for those timeless shots. Plus, the venue’s team is so familiar with the city, they know all the hidden gems and work seamlessly with local vendors, which makes the whole day flow smoothly.
Pro Tips:
If you’re like me, you’ll want to leave plenty of time for portraits around St. Augustine. The Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions are not only iconic—they provide the most stunning settings for those dreamy, romantic shots. And when it comes to lighting, nothing beats an evening ceremony to capture the river’s golden-hour glow—it’s pure magic! Honestly, I can’t wait to shoot here again.
Ready to Find Your Dream Waterfront Venue?
These top waterfront wedding venues on Florida are truly next-level, and these three are some of the best. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Lake Mary Event Center, the tropical vibes of Islander Resort, or the historic beauty of The White Room, you really can’t go wrong! Looking for a Florida wedding photographer? Let’s chat! With my years of experience and love for all things waterfront, I can help you turn your vision into reality!
Check out more of my most recent blogs for more inspiration on wedding venues and elopement locations in Florida!
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