Destination Wedding Hotspots Around the World
In every issue, we scout a spot that's perfect for tying the knot away from home. Here are some standout venues we've covered that fit every couple's personality, budget and wedding needs. From top-notch wedding coordinators to breathtaking views to personalization options you might not have even thought of — including fireworks and chicken-and-waffles — there truly is something for everyone. Go ahead and choose your favorite!
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Ayana Resort and Spa Bali -140266
You can go all-out traditional or island-style with a modern twist when you marry at Ayana Resort and Spa Bali. The oceanfront resort offers six ceremony site options that range from the traditional Balinese thatch-roofed gazebo to all-glass wedding pavilions perched on a rocky cliff above the Indian Ocean.
Why you'll love it: Couples can opt for a dove release, traditional costume and a dance presentation. Modern add-ons include fireworks and a decorated car to whisk you off post-celebration.
Photo Credit: Ayana Resort and Spa Bali
Occidental Grand Aruba
Picture it: You, your sweetie and 20 of your besties on a white-sand strand toasting to your love. Spend seven nights in the Royal Club Master Suite at any one of the Occidental resort properties across the Caribbean and Mexico and it can be yours gratis. If you want a vibe that sizzles long after the sun goes down, Aruba is the destination for you.
Why you'll love it: The oceanfront, all-inclusive properties all offer fun activities — water polo or beach volleyball, anyone? — multiple bars and restaurants (Zen, the pan-Asian eatery at Occidental Grand Aruba, above, is a favorite). Golf, deep-sea fishing and scuba can be arranged by the resort staff.
Photo courtesy of Occidental Hotels and Resorts
St. Regis Princeville Resort in Hawaii
The St. Regis Princeville Resort, a 252-room property on lush and scenic Kauai, can accommodate everything from intimate sunset weddings on golden Hanalei Beach to full-scale receptions for up to 400 in its grand Astor Ballroom.
Why you'll love it: The St. Regis offers some of the most amazing views in the islands. It's perched high above Hanalei Bay, with sweeping panoramas of the emerald-green Na Molokama Mountains.
Photo courtesy of St. Regis Princeville Resort
Barceló Maya Palace Deluxe Los Cabos in Mexico
Book as few as 25 room nights at participating Barceló properties and get a free ceremony. The wedding program is available at 16 resorts across five countries (including the Barceló Maya Palace Deluxe Los Cabos, above) and offers couples the opportunity to swap vows in the sand.
Why you'll love it: Important celebratory items (like cake and champagne) are standard in each of the 50 wedding options offered. Reserve just 70 room nights at select Barceló resorts and they’ll throw in the reception too.
Photo courtesy of Barceló Hotels & Resorts
Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa
Get hitched Tahitian-style in a ceremony that features tropical flowers, local musicians and dancers, a tribal elder and you and your guy donning white pareos (sarongs). At Hilton Bora Bora, Nui Resort and Spa you can swap vows on the property’s stunning beach, the private Motu Tapu (a small island) or the hotel’s intimate chapel set high on a hill overlooking Bora Bora’s brilliant blue waters.
Why you'll love it: The overwater presidential suite, a sprawling two-bedroom villa with loads of deck space set on the edge of a floating pontoon, is ideal for hosting any other wedding weekend events.
Photo Credit: Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa
Paradisus Punta Cana Resort in the Dominican Republic
Located on the east coast’s famed Playa de Bavaro, Paradisus Punta Cana Resort is set amid lush gardens and native mangroves (that cover half the property!). The sprawling hotel features 684 oversized suites, 11 gourmet restaurants and seven swimming pools.
Why you'll love it: Weddings here are bespoke and intimate thanks to the resort’s one wedding per venue, per day rule. For a barefoot-on-the-beach vibe, swap vows beneath the thatched wedding palapa and then head to Gabi Lounge for a relaxed yet elegant reception.
Photo courtesy of Paradisus Punta Cana
The Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina in Maine
Couples can retrace the steps of the Gilded Age set with an elegant wedding at the Harborside Hotel, a sprawling property with 187 rooms, two pools, an infinity Jacuzzi, spa and several restaurants. After a sunset ceremony on the lawn overlooking Frenchman Bay, enjoy blueberry martinis and mini lobster rolls during cocktail hour on the patio outfitted with a stone fireplace. Then make your way to the historic 1929 ballroom for a dinner of stone-crab claws, steak and lobster tails.
Why you'll love it: By the end of your fairytale wedding, you’ll feel like a Rockefeller yourself.
Photo courtesy of: Harborside Hotel
The Tides Inn in Virginia
Vineyards have been a part of Virginia’s landscape since the Jamestown settlers first planted grapes more than 400 years ago. Today, you can find wineries all over the state, including along the Chesapeake Bay, home to the lovely 64-year-old Tides Inn. Signature dishes like crab cakes can be paired with one of the over 500 wines stocked in the cellars—many from nearby producers like Ingleside.
Why you'll love it: As a pet-friendly hotel, the Inn can accommodate Fido in your ceremony, too.
Photo courtesy of Tides Inn
The Biltmore in North Carolina
Opened in 1895, and modeled after a 16th-century French chateau, The Biltmore features a historic 250-room main house, a working winery, walled gardens, vast parks and the 290-room Inn on Biltmore Estate. Weddings can be held anywhere except inside the main house; popular ceremony spots include the front lawn and the Lioncrest Courtyard or Veranda, which overlook the woodlands.
Why you'll love it: Reception meals feature produce from local farms and on-site gardens. Romantic extras, such as horse-drawn carriages, can easily be arranged.
Photo courtesy of The Biltmore Company
The Chanler in Newport, Rhode Island
The Chanler, originally built as a summer home (err, mansion) in 1865 for a New York Congressman, is a magificient cliffside estate to get married. Intimate ceremonies can be held indoors on the Veranda, which has panoramic ocean views, or opt for a quiet affair at the award-winning Spiced Pear restaurant. The Chanler also offers an elopement package as well.
Why you'll love it: Each of the 20 rooms in the hotel offers a different theme to make your stay even more special, with gas fireplaces, Jacuzzi, skylights and private decks.
Photo courtesy of The Chanler
Thornewood Castle Inn & Gardens in Washington
Built between 1908 and 1911 and located just outside of Tacoma, Washington, Thornewood Castle is comprised of original materials shipped from Europe, including a grand staircase and oak doors from an Elizabethan mansion. Today, the restored property includes an antique-filled main house, with 10 guest suites, plus sprawling, gorgeous gardens.
Why you'll love it: Favorite ceremony sites include the Great Hall and the covered porch, while honeymoons are off to a good start in suites like the Lord Byron, with lake views and a heart-shaped hot tub.
Photo courtesy of The Thornewood Castle
The Westin Playa Bonita, Panama
In addition to lots of sandy beach and sweeping Pacific Ocean views from all rooms — you can even spot ships waiting to enter the Panama Canal in the distance — Westin Playa Bonita, Panama has over 37 event spaces and venues, making it a top spot for weddings. Dinners can be set up for up to a whopping 900 guests, and menus mix European classics with Latin flavors.
Why you'll love it: A VIP Lounge on the 19th floor featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a terrace is popular for the cocktail hour (signature drinks include blueberry Mojitos).
Photo courtesy of starwoodhotels.com
The Surrey Hotel in New York City
Built in 1928, and once host to guests like JFK and Bette Davis, The Surrey features modern-elegant suites (some with working fireplaces). With its tucked-away location on the Upper East Side, near Central Park, the hotel enjoys a more residential and intimate vibe, so its become a favorite for small, truly customized weddings. The hotel bar is a popular choice for wedding party photo shoots.
Why you'll love it: Thanks to its location, the hotel can arrange pretty much anything in terms of activities for guests and unique touches for the event; one couple wanted to recreate the style of food from their first-date restaurant, for example, while another bride asked for a cotton-candy machine on hand for guests to sweeten their espresso drinks.
Photo courtesy of The Surrey Hotel
Rosario Resort & Spa in Washington
At the 63-room Rosario Resort & Spa on Orcas Island, couples can exchange vows on the Point Lawn overlooking Cascade Bay, then feast on a menu of local seafood during the cocktail hour and reception. After, sneak off to the Cliffhouse Honeymoon Suite, a luxe cottage with fireplace and ocean-facing deck.
Why you'll love it: Hiking on wildflower-studded trails and whale-watching in Puget Sound are popular activities on this group of pristine Pacific Northwest islands off Washington’s coast.
Photo Courtesy of: Rosario Resort & Spa
Meadowood Napa Valley in California
Though Meadowood Napa Valley often makes news for its fine dining restaurant (Chef Christopher Kostow is one of the youngest chefs to earn three Michelin stars), there is much more to this breathtaking resort. For one, you can choose from a variety of venues and, with all the natural beauty, you don’t need to spend much on décor.
Why you'll love it: Food and wine are a big part of the draw here, and every event feels like a personalized fine dining experience. The team can also organize special entertainment (like live acrobats) and help plan weekend activities—winery tours are popular.
Photo courtesy of Meadowood Napa Valley
Lake Placid Lodge in New York
On the banks of tranquil Lake Placid in New York’s Adirondack Mountains stands a grand lodge and 17 arts and crafts cabins. Serene, pampering and delightfully easy to get to, Lake Placid Lodge is a perfect all-seasons setting for a wedding or romantic getaway.
Why you'll love it: Book one of the 17 cabin suites and feel as though you’ve gone upscale camping — each wooden suite has a cozy interior, fireplace, porch and, of course, exquisite service.
Photo courtesy of Lake Placid Lodge
The Grand Hotel in Michigan
This charmer in Lake Huron, with no fast-food chains or cars, is the jewel of the Great Lakes, and its landmark lodging, the Grand Hotel, dating from 1887, is this island’s most sought-out wedding venue. There are 385 rooms, a serpentine-shaped pool, tennis, golf, and a spa.
Why you'll love it: You'll feel as if you've transported yourself back in time. After arriving via horse and carriage, enjoy an evening of dinner— pecan-crusted whitefish and pork loin with dried cherry chutney—and dancing to the music of the hotel’s orchestra in the Grand Pavilion.
Photo Courtesy of: Grand Hotel of Mackinac Island
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & spa in California
Set in the heart of northern California’s wine country, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is a popular destination for exploring the wineries. On-site activities include an 18-hole golf course, several dining options and daily complimentary tastings showcasing local blends. There’s also a recently renovated spa, complete with thermal pools and grapeseed-infused treatments.
Why you'll love it: Receptions highlight the artful cuisine of the region but it's not all high-brow, though: One couple requested late night chicken-and-waffles, while others have asked the in-house pastry chef to incorporate photos of their pets or football team mascots into cakes.
Photo courtesy of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Texas
Set amid the rolling landscape of Texas Hill Country is the mammoth Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, a full-service property that encompasses four championship golf courses, 11 tennis courts, three pools and an amphitheater. And that’s just on the 4,000-acre grounds!
Why you'll love it: No matter the size of your function, you can choose from a delectable menu featuring such Texan delights as chicken and roasted corn quesadillas and Cajun-bronzed snapper.
Photo Credit: Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa
El Conquistador Resort, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in Puerto Rico
Stay at the El Conquistador Resort, a Waldorf Astoria Resort and Las Casitas Village & Golden Door Spa, and you and your guests will be royally pampered. The huge property (there are five separate hotel areas) boasts intricate Moorish and Spanish architecture, 8 swimming pools, 17 restaurants, 4 tennis courts and an 18-hole championship golf course, all of which impart a distinctive air of Mediterranean elegance.
Why you'll love it: You can exchange vows in the Casitas Garden, an arboretum perched 300 feet above the sea. Here, at the spot where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic Ocean, your guests can savor stunning views of the resort’s private Palomino Island and, in the distance, the Virgin Islands.
Photo courtesy of El Conquistador Resort, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Ocean Key Resort & Spa in Florida
Sunset celebrations are the house specialty at Ocean Key Resort and Spa. As the sun slips below the horizon into the blue-green Gulf of Mexico, wedding parties gather at the hotel’s Sunset Pier restaurant for the ceremony. Groups of up to 400 people can boogie the night away here at the waterfront bar and grill, while smaller parties can celebrate in the intimate Marina Garden.
Why you'll love it: The resort’s waterfront SpaTerre is an Indonesian-influenced oasis of pampering, which offers services like flower infused body wraps and massages with spiced oils.
Photo courtesy of Ocean Key Resort and Spa
Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort in Costa Rica
At the Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort in the town of Arenal you can soak in natural hot springs while marveling at the sight of the lava flowing from Central America’s most active volcano. The hotel’s 114 rooms and 12 hot-spring pools are ideal for entertaining large wedding parties.
Why you'll love it: You can tie the knot in a traditional Native American ceremony, held in a temazcal (an open-air cabin) in the rain forest. A shaman will rub cedar and sage on your bodies, then blow a conch toward the four points of the compass before blessing your union with an eagle feather. For you more modern couples, the resort also hosts civil services overlooking the volcano.
Photo courtesy of Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort
Hotel Riu Palace Tropical Bay in Jamaica
Couples looking for a big resort experience (sprawling grounds, tons of activities and lots of dining and nightlife options) with an island feel can opt for the all-inclusive Hotel Riu Palace Tropical Bay in Negril. Guests traveling with kids can stay next door at the more family-friendly sister hotel, the Club Hotel Riu, with access to all resort amenities, as well as to the palm-fringed beach on the much-more-picturesque-than-it-sounds Bloody Bay.
Why you'll love it: This enormous resort can accommodate a large wedding; at the same time, the property's low rise Victorian-style building gives it a more intimate feel. With five on-site restaurants, four bars and a hip, straight-from-Ibiza nightclub called Pacha, you'll have a number of location choices for wedding weekend events.
Photo Courtesy of Hotel Riu Palace Tropical Bay
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Canada
With its winding cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés and French ambience, Quebec City feels more like Europe than North America. After a traditional ceremony, stroll with your guests to the grande dame of Quebec: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Small parties can be entertained in the Salon Rose, the intimate space favored by Sir Winston Churchill. Or host a large group in the enormous Grand Ballroom.
Why you'll love it: No matter which venue you choose, your guests will be wowed by the Rococo decor, white-glove service and a menu that offers tender beef medallions, fresh-caught salmon and Quebec cheeses.
Photo courtesy of Fairmont Château Lake Louise
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
Zydeco jazz, restaurant tables and, of course, partygoers themselves all spill onto the streets of New Orleans, infusing the city with a special spark. But just because the Big Easy is a fun-loving place doesn’t mean that tradition is forgotten. The city’s St. Louis Cathedral is one of the more popular places to swap vows, while the Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, located in the famous French Quarter, is often the host for elegant receptions.
Why you'll love it: The hotel offers incredible spa amenities and brunch packages. But arguably the best part of having your celebration here is the fact that you can have the on-call Ritz-Carlton honeymoon concierge coordinate your trip of a lifetime.
Photo courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
Monmouth Plantation in Mississippi
Set on the banks of the fabled Mississippi River, Natchez, Mississippi, has more historic homes on the National Register than any other place in the South. Since it was never a Civil War battleground, its grand antebellum mansions escaped a sorry fate. Monmouth Plantation is one of the exquisite landmark homes that offer amenities for gatherings of all sizes.
Why you'll love it: You can exchange vows in the gardens in an arbor of flowering trees or in the brick courtyard just steps away from a picturesque pond. Guests will enjoy staying in the 30 individually appointed rooms, decorated with local antiques.
Photo courtesy of Monmouth Plantation
The Bellagio in Las Vegas
At Bellagio Las Vegas, beauty and luxury are on display at every turn. Your eyes will pop at the sight of the dancing fountains, glittering art-glass ceilings and sybaritic suites.
Why you'll love it: Nuptials may be held in picturesque chapels that are either sized for an intimate party or for everyone you know. A fabulously over-the-top option: pledging your vows on the fairytale-lovely Terrazza Di Sogno—Terrace of Dreams—overlooking Lake Bellagio, with a joyous, illuminated fountain fanfare cued to your marriage kiss.
Photo courtesy of Bellagio Las Vegas
The Equinox, a Luxury Collection Golf Resort & Spa in Vermont
Set in the heart of the quaint town of Manchester Village, Vermont, is The Equinox, a Luxury Collection Golf Resort & Spa. This posh hideaway—actually a series of historic homes combined—is just minutes from the popular ski mountains of Bromley and Stratton. For the big-day bash, choose from a myriad of indoor and outdoor venues, including the classic Pond Pavilion, located at the base of Mount Equinox.
Why you'll love it: Entertain guests with an outing to the award-winning golf course, go on an old-fashioned hawk hunt with the onsite School of Falconry, or give it your best shot at The Archery School. They may also want to simply wander among the pines, maples and old-growth trees on the quiet hiking trails behind the hotel that wind their way to Equinox Lake.
Photo Credit: North Photography
Riverside Farms in Vermont
Enjoy an elegant country-weekend escape with your guests at Riverside Farms in Pittsfield, Vermont, where untouched natural beauty reigns. These 300-plus pristine acres encompass lush meadows, towering pines and five restored and fully renovated barns.
Why you'll love it: Protected by the picturesque Green Mountains, this residence is the ideal retreat for those who’d love to break away from a traditional hall ceremony, yet still want to indulge in all the luxuries of a full-service estate. Over the course of your wedding weekend, you can entertain guests with onsite events such as hot air balloon rides and sleigh rides.
Photo Credit: Sabin Gratz Photography
Ocean Club Resorts in Turks & Caicos
Ocean Club Resorts comprised of two all-suite properties, Ocean Club and Ocean Club West, located in Providenciales, has a laid-back Caribbean atmosphere that is enhanced by its prime location on the best part of Grace Bay Beach. Guests will also fall in love with the resort’s beach front dining venues, Cabana Bar & Grill and Seaside Café, the perfect locations to catch an amazing Provo sunset. Basic wedding packages accommodate wedding parties of up to 8 guests, but the resort can easily accommodate larger groups and budgets if you have something more elaborate in mind.
Why you'll love it: Aside from the turquoise waters and white sand beach, Ocean Club Resorts’ fine-dining restaurant, Opus Wine Bar Grill, hosts a mouth-watering menu and is an ideal location for rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and romantic dining. Some Opus favorites include Grilled Lobster Tail with Spicy Habenaro Butter, Whole Snapper roasted in Lemon Caper Butter, Filet of Grouper with Mango, Cilantro & Black Bean Salsa, Wahoo Steaks steamed in Coconut Milk, Lemongrass & Ginger & Yellow Coconut Curried Conch.
Photo courtesy of Ocean Club Resort
Windjammer Landing in St. Lucia
Planning a large wedding? Check out the 219-room Windjammer Landing resort on St. Lucia's northwestern coast, where many of the best beaches are located. Exchange vows under a palm-shaded gazebo or at sunset on the property's 1,500-foot beach; each spot can accommodate about 100 guests.
Why you'll love it: Dance to Creole music performed by a "chak chak" band at your wedding, which uses handmade shakers filled with seeds that are similar to maracas.
Photo courtesy of Windjammer Landing
Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in the Bahamas
Set on a peninsula on Paradise Island, the supersize Atlantis is the definition of ritz, glitz and top-notch beachfront service. For your wedding ceremony, choose among various outdoor locations, including poolside near the resort’s famous waterfall, a patio with a lagoon view or the resort’s pink-sand beach.
Why you'll love it: This resort offers activities galore! Dance the night away in the Caribbean’s largest ballroom, try your luck at the Las Vegas-style casino and splash around at Aquaventure, the resort’s 63-acre water-park extravaganza.
Photo courtesy of Atlantis, Paradise Island
Four Seasons Resort, Scottsdale at Troon North in Arizona
With a wealth of boutiques, golf courses, spas and fine dining choices, Scottsdale will keep your guests well entertained. Choose the Four Seasons Resort, Scottsdale at Troon North and you’ll be surrounded by desert splendor, yet close enough to civilization to be completely comfortable.
Why you'll love it: Ringed by cacti and small mountain ridges, the Fountain Terrace is ideal for a sunset service. The hotel is known for its exemplary wedding services: An on-site wedding specialist assists with every detail, from obtaining a marriage license to arranging the ceremony and reception and reserving a honeymoon suite.
Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resort, Scottsdale at Troon North
Cayo Espanto in Belize
This six-cottage property has hosted a constellation of A-listers, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Penelope Cruz and Harrison Ford. Treat yourselves and up to 18 guests to the ultimate in luxury at Cayo Espanto, a five-star private island resort, located three miles off the coast of Belize. Weddings are hosted at Casa Ventanas, an overwater villa set on a 150-foot long pier, completely surrounded by the sea. Swap vows on the walkway and you’ll treat your guests to uninterrupted views of paradise.
Why you'll love it: It may appear super-remote, but this English-speaking country is just a two-hour flight away from Houston and Miami.
Photo Credit: Olivera Rusu
Vomo Fiji Island Resort
Long ago, Fijian royalty used this 225-acre island as a retreat. Today, the lush Southern Pacific isle is home to Vomo Fiji Island Resort with just 39 villa accommodations, a spa, golf course, watersports center and more.
Why you'll love it: Here, brides are carried down the aisle by local warriors dressed in grass skirts and body paint. A Fijian choir accompanies the ceremony that’s presented by a priest dressed in a formal sulu (sarong). To conclude the event, you can release a hawksbill turtle after you swap vows. Frangipani blooms, alfresco dining and unbeatable natural scenery are other hallmarks of the experience.
Photo Courtesy of Vomo Fiji Island Resort
