Bayfront Marin House Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to St. Augustine's charming waterfront bed & breakfast
We've photographed at Bayfront Marin House and can't wait to add our photos to this guide.
About Bayfront Marin House
Bayfront Marin House
More details Less details
Bayfront Marin House wedding venue is a historic bed & breakfast perched on Matanzas Bay in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. It has 15 guest rooms, a Victorian gazebo overlooking the water, and views of the iconic Bridge of Lions, it's a favorite for couples planning small waterfront weddings in the city.
The inn specializes in smaller celebrations with a 60-guest maximum, where every detail matters and every guest feels like family. Historic charm, a waterfront setting, and downtown convenience make it ideal for couples who want an intimate, meaningful celebration.
Event Spaces
- Victorian Gazebo: Waterfront ceremony space overlooking Matanzas Bay
- Bayfront Lawn: Manicured grounds with bay and Bridge of Lions views
- Wraparound Porch: Covered outdoor space with classic Southern charm
- Historic Parlors: Elegant indoor spaces for receptions or inclement weather
Accommodations
- 15 uniquely decorated guest rooms and suites
- Private bathrooms in all rooms
- Full gourmet breakfast included
- Walking distance to downtown attractions
- Bayfront and garden views available
What's Included
Wedding packages include exclusive use of the grounds, ceremony and reception spaces, bridal suite access, and coordination assistance. Catering can be arranged through preferred vendors or brought in from your choice of caterers.
Why We Love Photographing at Bayfront Marin House
The bayfront location gives us something most B&B venues can't offer: open water and sky. Matanzas Bay stretches out behind the ceremony space, and on a clear day you can see the Bridge of Lions framing the horizon. That wide-open backdrop makes portraits feel big, even at an intimate venue.
The covered porches are a hidden advantage. The columns and railings give us elegant, shaded portraits when the sun is high or weather is iffy. We move between the bayfront lawn, the wraparound porch, and the interior parlors without leaving the property, keeping the day relaxed.
The guest rooms have character that hotel rooms lack. Period furnishings, antique mirrors, and natural window light make getting-ready photos feel warm and polished. When the whole wedding party stays on-site, there's a relaxed energy that carries through the entire day.
Best Photo Locations
Bayfront Ceremony Area
Waterfront ceremony space overlooking Matanzas Bay with Bridge of Lions in the distance. Best lighting during golden hour with west-facing water views.
Waterfront Lawn
Manicured lawn area with Bay views perfect for cocktail hour and outdoor reception photos. Open shade from mature trees provides even lighting.
Covered Porch Areas
Classic Southern porch architecture with detailed columns and railings. Provides covered space for portraits during harsh midday sun or light rain.
Guest Room Suites
Historic guest rooms with period furnishings and antique details. Natural window light works well for getting-ready photos and detail shots.
Historic Interior Spaces
Interior common areas with Victorian-era decor and architectural details. Good backup option for portraits during inclement weather.
Downtown St. Augustine
Just steps from St. George Street, the Cathedral, and Flagler College for additional portrait variety within a short walk.
Photographer Tips
Prime Waterfront Location
The bayfront ceremony space is one of the most photographed spots along Matanzas Bay. The water backdrop with Bridge of Lions creates classic, timeless images.
Stay the Weekend
With 15 rooms on-site, your whole wedding party can stay together. This creates a destination wedding feel and the morning-after breakfast is a lovely touch for out-of-town guests.
Downtown is Steps Away
The inn's location on Avenida Menendez puts you within walking distance of the Cathedral, Lightner Museum, Flagler College, and St. George Street for additional portrait variety.
Intimate Celebrations
With a 60-guest maximum, this venue works best for intimate celebrations. The cozy scale means every guest feels close to the action, and portraits have a personal, relaxed quality.
Golden Hour on the Bay
The bayfront faces west, so sunset light is spectacular. Plan your ceremony timing to catch the golden hour glow over the water for optimal lighting.
Historic Character
The historic inn has character in every corner - period furnishings, architectural details, and Victorian-era charm. Getting-ready photos have more personality than standard hotel rooms.
Planning Your Timeline
We don't publish generic timelines. They're useless without knowing your date. Here's why:
A 5pm ceremony works great in summer. In winter, it means dark portraits. Your timeline must match your actual date and what matters most to you.
Lighting & Golden Hour
The bayfront location offers stunning water views and sunset light. The covered porch areas and waterfront spaces provide multiple portrait options.
Time for Photos
We recommend 45-60 minutes for portraits at Bayfront Marin House, covering the waterfront lawn, covered porches, guest rooms, and interior common areas.
Want more variety? Nearby options:
- Bridge of Lions — 5 minutes walk, add 15-20 minutes
Timeline Strategies
Sunset Portraits
Want golden hour magic? We work backwards from sunset. End the ceremony 60-90 minutes before. That gives time for family photos, couple portraits, and the best light.
Brunch or Daytime
Morning ceremonies and daytime receptions mean good natural light all day. Great for summer when afternoons get warm.
Winter & Nights of Lights
Bayfront location offers views of Nights of Lights across the water.
Venue Timing Notes
- Music curfew at 10 PM
- B&B setting—coordinate with other guests
Get a Timeline Built for Your Day
Tell us your wedding date, ceremony time, and what moments matter most. We'll build a custom timeline around sunset, this venue's best light, and your priorities.
Request Your Custom TimelineBayfront Marin House Wedding Cost
Wedding packages at Bayfront Marin House vary by day of week, season, and specific requirements. Contact the inn for current pricing. Packages include exclusive use of the property for your celebration.
What to Expect
- Exclusive use of grounds and event spaces
- Victorian gazebo for ceremonies
- Bayfront lawn for receptions
- Bridal suite access for getting ready
- Coordination assistance
- Tables and chairs for up to 60 guests
Accommodations
Room blocks for wedding guests include the gourmet breakfast that the inn is known for. Having your closest family and friends stay on-site feels like a true getaway.
For current pricing and availability, contact Bayfront Marin House at (904) 824-4301 or visit bayfrontmarinhouse.com.
Real Weddings Here
Browse galleries from weddings we've photographed at this location
Planning a Wedding at Bayfront Marin House?
We'd love to capture your Bayfront Marin House wedding day. Let's talk about your vision.
Get in Touch