Do I need a permit for a beach wedding in St. Augustine?

Yes, you need a special event permit from St. Johns County for any wedding ceremony on public beaches. Private beach access through hotels or vacation rentals typically handles permits internally.

What's the best time of year for a St. Augustine beach wedding?

April through October offers the warmest weather, but March and November can be perfect with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. We've photographed beautiful ceremonies year-round.

How do tides affect beach wedding timing?

High tide reduces available beach space and can bring waves closer to your ceremony site. Check tide charts when planning your timeline—we typically recommend ceremonies 2-3 hours before high tide.

Can we have music and decorations on the beach?

Most public beaches allow small speakers and temporary decorations that don't require stakes or permanent installation. Check your specific beach's regulations and permit requirements.

What happens if it rains on our beach wedding day?

Most beach venues have indoor backup options, and many couples move ceremonies to covered pavilions. We always scout backup locations during our venue visits to have options ready.

How many guests can we have for a beach wedding?

This varies by location and permit type. Public beaches typically allow 50-100 guests with proper permits, while private venues set their own limits based on space and regulations.

What should we tell guests about beach wedding attire?

Advise guests to wear flat shoes or go barefoot, choose lighter fabrics, and bring sunglasses. We recommend including these tips on your wedding website or save-the-dates.

How far in advance should we book vendors for a beach wedding?

Start booking 12-18 months ahead, especially for peak season (April-October). Beach weddings require specialized vendors familiar with coastal logistics, and the best ones book quickly.

St. Augustine Beach Wedding Guide: Complete Planning Resource

Last updated: January 2026

St. Augustine's 42 miles of pristine coastline offer some of Florida's most beautiful beach wedding settings. After photographing hundreds of ceremonies along these shores, we've learned what makes beach weddings successful—from navigating permit requirements to timing ceremonies with tides and weather. Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony for 20 or a celebration for 100, this guide covers everything you need to know about getting married on St. Augustine's beaches. ## Permits & Legal Requirements

Essential Permit Information

All weddings on public beaches in St. Johns County require special event permits. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks, so apply early in your planning process.

### Public Beach Permits St. Johns County requires special event permits for any wedding ceremony on public beaches, including: - **St. Augustine Beach** - Main public access areas - **Vilano Beach** - North of St. Augustine - **Crescent Beach** - South of St. Augustine - **Butler Beach** - Flagler County (different permit process) **Permit costs** range from $75-200 depending on guest count and duration. Applications require: - Event details (date, time, guest count) - Site diagram showing ceremony layout - Proof of liability insurance ($1 million minimum) - Vendor contact information - Cleanup plan ### Private Beach Access Many couples choose private beach access through: **Beachfront Hotels:** - Handle permits internally - Provide setup and breakdown - Often include backup indoor spaces - Guest parking included **Vacation Rental Properties:** - May require separate event permits - Need property owner permission - Additional liability insurance often required

Vacation Rental Warning

Always confirm your rental allows events before booking. We've seen law enforcement arrive at weddings where owners weren't notified about the celebration. Get written permission and understand any additional fees.

### Marriage License Requirements Florida marriage licenses are valid statewide and require: - Both parties present at clerk's office - Valid photo ID - Birth certificates - $93.50 fee (St. Johns County) - 3-day waiting period (waived with premarital counseling) ## Best Beaches for Weddings Each beach along our coast offers different advantages for wedding ceremonies:

St. Augustine Beach

The most popular choice with wide sandy beaches and consistent accessibility. Multiple access points make vendor loading easier, and the historic pier provides a stunning backdrop.

Best for: Medium to large weddings | Parking: Ample metered spots | Amenities: Restrooms, boardwalk

Vilano Beach

Quieter northern beach with softer sand and fewer crowds. The more residential setting offers intimate ceremony options, though vendor access can be challenging.

Best for: Small, intimate ceremonies | Parking: Limited street parking | Amenities: Few public facilities

Crescent Beach

Protected by sand dunes with calmer waters, this southern stretch provides natural windbreaks. Less crowded than St. Augustine Beach but requires careful tide planning.

Best for: All sizes | Parking: Beach access parking | Amenities: Basic restroom facilities

Anastasia State Park

Pristine natural setting with guaranteed space reservation. Higher permit fees but includes tables, basic setup, and dedicated parking areas.

Best for: Nature-focused weddings | Parking: Dedicated lots | Amenities: Full facilities, backup pavilions

### Private Beach Venues Several beachfront properties offer private access: - **Ocean House Restaurant** - Ceremony space with reception options - **Guy Harvey Outpost** - Beachfront hotel with event coordination - **Aloft Tapestry Park** - Modern hotel near Vilano Beach - **DoubleTree Riverfront** - Matanzas Bay waterfront (not ocean) For comprehensive venue details, see our [St. Augustine wedding venues guide](/st-augustine-wedding-venues/). ## Timing & Weather Considerations

Peak Season

Apr - Oct

Best Weather

Mar, Nov

Hurricane Season

Jun - Nov

Avg High Tide

6.2 hours

### Seasonal Planning

Spring (March - May)

Perfect temperatures (70-80°F), fewer crowds, lower vendor pricing

Occasional spring storms, Easter week crowds

Summer (June - August)

Warmest water, longest days, lush vegetation

High humidity, afternoon storms, peak pricing, hurricane risk

Fall (September - November)

Comfortable temperatures return, beautiful light, less humidity

Hurricane season continues through November

Winter (December - February)

Mild temperatures (60-70°F), no humidity, lowest costs

Cooler for guests, shorter daylight, occasional cold fronts

### Daily Timing **Sunrise Ceremonies (7:00-8:30 AM):** - Cooler temperatures - Softer light for photography - Fewer beachgoers - Requires early vendor coordination **Late Afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM):** - Golden hour lighting - Comfortable temperatures - Popular with guests - Busier beach conditions ### Tide Considerations High tide significantly impacts your ceremony space. We always check tide charts when helping couples plan timelines: - **2-3 hours before high tide** - Optimal beach space - **At high tide** - Minimal beach, waves closer to ceremony - **2-3 hours after high tide** - Beach space returning, wet sand

Pro Tip: Tide Planning

Download a tide app and check your wedding date 6 months ahead. If high tide falls during your preferred ceremony time, consider adjusting your schedule by 2-3 hours.

### Weather Backup Plans Florida weather requires backup planning: 1. **Covered pavilions** - Available at most beach parks 2. **Hotel ballrooms** - Many beachfront hotels offer backup spaces 3. **Rental tents** - Require additional permits and professional setup 4. **Postponement policies** - Discuss with all vendors upfront ## Beach Venue Options Beach weddings fall into three main categories, each with different logistics: ### Public Beach Ceremonies **Advantages:** - Lower venue costs (permit fees only) - Spectacular natural setting - Flexible guest counts - Photography freedom **Considerations:** - Permit requirements - Public bathroom access only - No guaranteed weather protection - Vendor coordination more complex ### Beachfront Hotel Weddings **Full-service options** handle permits, setup, and coordination: - **Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach** - Beachfront ceremony, ballroom reception - **Guy Harvey Outpost** - Intimate beach ceremonies, poolside receptions - **Hampton Inn & Suites St. Augustine-Vilano Beach** - Beach access with indoor backup **Advantages:** - Professional event coordination - Guest room blocks - Backup indoor spaces - Full-service catering ### Vacation Rental Beach Houses Popular for destination weddings and intimate celebrations: **What to Look For:** - Direct beach access - Two-story layout for getting ready photos - Outdoor space for receptions - Parking for vendors and guests

Rental Property Requirements

Confirm your rental allows events before booking. Get written permission for your specific guest count and notify the property management company well in advance.

## Vendor Selection & Logistics Beach weddings require vendors experienced with coastal conditions and logistics: ### Essential Beach-Experienced Vendors **Photographers:** - Familiar with beach lighting conditions - Experience with wind and sand - Backup equipment for coastal environment **Florists:** - Understanding of salt air effects on flowers - Wind-resistant arrangements - Sand-friendly ceremony structures **Musicians/DJs:** - Weather-protected equipment - Battery backup systems - Wind-resistant setups **Caterers:** - Food safety in outdoor conditions - Sand and wind considerations - Permit familiarity for beach service ### Vendor Coordination Challenges **Beach Access:** Most beaches require vendors to: - Park in designated areas (often far from ceremony site) - Carry equipment across sand - Time deliveries around tide schedules - Have cleanup plans meeting park regulations **Setup Timing:** - **4-6 hours before ceremony** - Large tent installation - **2-3 hours before** - Tables, chairs, floral arrangements - **1-2 hours before** - Sound system, final details - **30 minutes before** - Final sweep and guest seating ### Questions to Ask Potential Vendors 1. How many beach weddings have you done? 2. Do you have weather backup plans? 3. What's your sand and wind equipment protection? 4. How do you handle beach access and parking? 5. Are you familiar with local permit requirements? ## Guest Comfort & Expectations Beach weddings require additional guest communication and planning: ### Guest Attire Guidance Include on your wedding website: - **Shoes:** Flat sandals or barefoot recommended - **Clothing:** Light, breathable fabrics; avoid long trains in sand - **Accessories:** Sunglasses, light wraps for evening - **Hair:** Consider wind when planning updos ### Comfort Amenities **Essential for Guest Comfort:** - Ceremony programs as fans - Bottled water stations - Parasols or umbrellas for shade - Basket of flip-flops for guests - Welcome bags with sunscreen and water **Reception Considerations:** - Tent or covered area for dining - Lighting for evening celebrations - Bug spray stations (seasonal) - Easy beach-to-reception transition ### Transportation and Parking **Guest Transportation:** - Share specific parking locations and costs - Consider shuttle service for large weddings - Provide walking directions from parking to ceremony site - Include backup parking locations **Accessibility:** Beach access can be challenging for: - Elderly guests - Guests with mobility limitations - Children in formal wear Plan accessible ceremony locations and communicate limitations upfront. ### Managing Expectations

Guest Communication Tips

Create a wedding website section specifically about the beach ceremony. Include what to expect, what to bring, and what you'll provide. Photos from other beach weddings help guests visualize the setting.

**Let guests know to expect:** - Sand between their toes - Wind in their hair - Natural sounds (waves, birds) - Sun exposure during ceremony - Casual, relaxed atmosphere ## Photography Considerations Beach weddings offer stunning photography opportunities but require specific planning: ### Lighting Conditions **Golden Hour Magic:** - 1 hour before sunset provides warmest light - Ceremony timing affects portrait opportunities - We typically recommend 4:30-5:30 PM ceremonies in winter, 5:30-6:30 PM in summer **Overcast Advantages:** - Even, flattering light for portraits - No harsh shadows - Comfortable conditions for guests ### Wind and Weather Planning **Equipment Considerations:** - Extra battery power for wind-resistant cameras - Protective gear for sand and salt spray - Backup equipment in weather-sealed cases **Posing Adaptations:** - Hair and dress positioning for wind - Stable poses on uneven sand - Group positioning to minimize squinting ### Timeline Planning for Beach Photos **Typical Beach Wedding Photography Timeline:** - **2:00 PM** - Detail shots at getting-ready location - **3:00 PM** - Getting ready coverage - **4:30 PM** - First look (if planned) - **5:00 PM** - Wedding party photos - **5:30 PM** - Ceremony begins - **6:00 PM** - Family portraits immediately after ceremony - **6:30 PM** - Couple portraits during golden hour - **7:30 PM** - Reception begins

Ready to Plan Your St. Augustine Beach Wedding?

We'd love to help document your celebration along Florida's historic coast. With over a decade of local experience and 600+ weddings, we know how to make beach wedding photography seamless and beautiful.

View Our Wedding Photography

## Costs & Budgeting Beach wedding costs vary significantly based on your approach and guest count: ### Permit and Venue Costs

Venue Type	Base Cost	Includes
Public Beach Permit	$75-200	Ceremony space only
State Park Wedding	$300-500	Space, tables, basic setup
Hotel Beach Package	$3,000-8,000	Full coordination, backup venue
Private Beach Access	$500-2,000	Exclusive use, varies by property

### Additional Beach Wedding Costs **Logistics Expenses:** - **Tent rental** - $800-2,500 for weather protection - **Extra setup fees** - Vendors often charge 20-30% more for beach logistics - **Transportation** - Guest shuttles or valet parking - **Cleanup deposits** - Required by most permit authorities **Comfort Additions:** - **Portable restroom rentals** - $150-300 for upscale options - **Power generation** - $200-500 for ceremony sound and lighting - **Climate comfort** - Fans, heaters, or misting systems ### Money-Saving Strategies 1. **Off-season dates** - November through March 2. **Weekday ceremonies** - Thursday/Sunday often 30% less 3. **Public beach + restaurant reception** - Separate ceremony and reception venues 4. **Minimal decor** - Let the natural beauty be your backdrop 5. **Local vendors** - Avoid travel fees from out-of-area providers ### Hidden Costs to Budget For

Often Overlooked Expenses

Liability insurance for permits ($200-400)
Sand-friendly ceremony seating rentals
Extra vendor coordination time
Weather backup plan costs
Additional cleanup requirements

**Total Investment Ranges:** - **Intimate beach wedding (20 guests):** $8,000-15,000 - **Medium celebration (50 guests):** $18,000-30,000 - **Large beach wedding (100+ guests):** $35,000-60,000 These ranges assume photography, florals, catering, and basic rentals. Luxury upgrades and full hotel packages can increase totals significantly. ### Vendor Pricing Considerations Beach weddings often carry premium pricing due to: - Equipment protection requirements - Additional setup complexity - Limited access and parking - Weather contingency planning Budget an additional 15-25% above standard venue pricing when requesting vendor quotes.

## Planning Your Perfect Beach Wedding St. Augustine's beaches offer endless possibilities for beautiful wedding celebrations. Success comes from understanding the unique requirements—from permits and tides to vendor logistics and guest comfort. The key is planning early and working with experienced local professionals who understand coastal wedding challenges. Whether you choose a simple sunrise ceremony or an elaborate beachfront celebration, proper preparation ensures your day flows smoothly. **Next Steps:** 1. Research permit requirements for your preferred beach 2. Check tide charts for your target date 3. Interview vendors experienced with beach weddings 4. Create detailed guest communication about the beach setting 5. Plan weather backup options For more St. Augustine wedding planning resources, explore our [complete venue guide](/st-augustine-wedding-venues/) or learn about [elopement options](/elopements/) for intimate beach celebrations. *Planning a beach wedding or elopement? We'd love to help document your celebration along Florida's historic coast.*

St. Augustine Beach Wedding Guide