We have been talking all month long about coastal weddings, so what better way to end off a month of beach filled bliss than with one info filled roundup? Today, we’ve rounded up Australian wedding venues with amazing beachside and sea views. You know the venues you go to where you’re actually going to have a little trouble focusing on what’s happening in the room vs that captivating scenery?
We are so very lucky in Australia to be literally surrounded by the sea, so the options for a beachside wedding are practically endless. Add to the list below? Surf clubs, yacht clubs, beach clubs (we’ve omitted all of the above today, purely for space-saving reasons!). But the simple point is this – from formal and black tie to casual and Hamptons style, there is sure to be a beachfront venue that you’re going to fall in love with!
P.S Want to see the venues we love? Click here to see the Polka Dot wedding venues we recommend!
New South Wales
Byron Bay lovers, it’s almost mandatory that you marry with a view of the sea. Beach Byron Bay offers up incredible ocean views, and of course, a beautiful coastal vibe that completely marries seaside charm with modern elegance. See more of this venue in use here.
Photo by Sarkodie Photography via Brooke & Bruno’s Zero Waste But Maximum Romance Wedding in Byron Bay
Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel offers spaces for your wedding right on the waterfront, either right on the sand or a balcony overlooking the water and the glorious sunsets. See Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel in action here.
Above the shore of Manly Beach, Beachside Dojo, offers sweeping ocean views through the pine trees, and sea breezes aplenty. With a large alfresco space and Hamptons flair, this venue will wow you with its easy flow from inside to out – perfect for a summer celebration. See more of this venue here.
Looking for a private beach venue to celebrate your wedding? Then The Cove, Jervis Bay may just be for you. Offering a variety of places for your celebration, as well as accommodation for up to 111 guests, this resort also has a private beach for you to use during your stay. See more of the Cove here.
With a capacity of 150 guests for dinner or 200 for a cocktail celebration, Moby Dicks is just the ticket for a grand seaside celebration. Set right on Whale Beach, the venue has stunning views over the water. See it in our real, wedding features here.
Photo by Kevin Lue via Chloe and Mike’s Classic Wedding at Moby Dicks Whale Beach
From the sands of Little Austi Beach to an event space overlooking the ocean, Headlands Austinmer Beach can accommodate from 50 to 350 guests in beachside luxury. And after the wedding retire to luxury apartments – no need to drive anywhere. We know you love this venue, as evidenced by your wedding stories! See them.
If waves lapping at the shore close by are your idea of a perfect view, then look no further than Beach House Avalon, Sweeping views across Avalon Beach and a blank canvas event space able to cater for up to 180 guests, this venue brings the coastal feel you’re looking for.
High above Whale Beach sits Jonah’s. A garden overlooking the beach below is the perfect place for your wedding ceremony or pre-ceremony drinks – and then there is the facility of the restaurant, terrace and bar to provide a memorable evening for you and your guests. Check out the real stories we’ve shared at Jonah’s here.
With just steps to the sand and sea lies Avoca Beach House. Known for its amazing seafood and shared platters, the bright and breezy event space cater to functions of all sizes with an events team on hand to take the stress out of organising your big day.
Barrenjoey House in Palm Beach is the ultimate in coastal wedding venues. It has incredible views, elegant, relaxed style and of course, incredible food. You’ll be able to host 120 guests for a cocktail celebration here or 40 for a more formal sit down dinner. See Barrenjoey Hosue on Polka Dot Wedding here.
Central Coast venue Beachcomber Hotel & Resort comes complete with accommodation (84 rooms to be exact), so you can consider your weekend of beachy wedding celebration sorted! With Hamptons inspired styling, the Foreshore room can host up to 200 guests for a cocktail celebration or 120 seated.
Victoria
Overlooking Port Phillip Bay, Sandringham Yacht Club boasts some of the most beautiful views you could wish for. Large windows pulled shut in winter to watch the storms roll in across the bay or opened up to the terrace in the summer to enjoy pre-dinner drinks on, as well as a ceremony space, means that this venue offers flexibility and a sense of occasion for your wedding day. Your guests can mingle and enjoy the exquisite menu, while your event manager ensures your event runs smoothly. See more of this venue here.
Photo by Mark Davis via Brooke and Joshil’s Black Tie Wedding By The Water.
Encore St Kilda Beach is right on the iconic St Kilda Beach and offers modern interiors and a rooftop terrace for ceremonies in the summer. Flexible room layouts, a dance floor, an outdoor terrace and in-house event coordinators what more could you ask for. With the beach, St Kilda Pier and Marina close by the photo opportunities are many and varied. See more of this venue here.
With a drink in hand, you’ll want to step right into the sand at Elwood Bathers. On Elwood foreshore, this venue has a distinctly beachy vibe, with the Private Dining Room and Bay Room providing spaces to consider for your wedding. With large windows overlooking the bay, the water and bay are invited in as part of the decor. See more of this venue here.
Offering casual dining by day Sandbar Beach Cafe in Middle Park transforms into a private event venue by night. Ceremony and receptions for up to 150 people can be held here right by the bay. There’d be nothing nicer than a sunset ceremony, drink in hand watching a special couple getting married, while the sun dips below the bay. See more of this venue here.
This carefully restored ‘bathing beauty’ is right on the beach where you can kick your shoes off, and step off the deck onto the sand. West Beach Pavilion St Kilda presents seaside influenced food whilst guests are absorbed by the view of yachts and the twinkling lights of Williamstown. Prepare to be enchanted by this self-described ‘simple’ but truly magical venue. See more of this venue here.
With the green waters of the Sorrento foreshore and a long jetty at its feet, The Baths Sorrento has a simple open and beachy feel – just right for a coastal wedding. Two decks open onto the sand, and there is a fireplace for cosy winter dining. Find out more about their wedding options here.
Cocktail wedding venue All Smiles Sorrento is set right on the clifftop overlooking Sorrento’s Ocean Beach. Marry with Bass Strait as your backdrop, and enjoy the views as you toast with your guests after a beachside photo session. Specializing in cocktail style wedding receptions they are all about a less formal approach. See it in action here.
Photo by Matt Elliott via Tracey & Phil’s Relaxed Coastal Wedding
Queensland
Imagine balmy breezes, oceanfront and centre, and swaying palm trees and you’re right at Coral Sea Marina Resort. At the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays in Airlie Beach, this beautiful resort has lush gardens, the beach and the jetty to use on your wedding day. Choose from the beach, the jetty or inside at The Elbow Room for your reception and revel in the magic. For more of Coral Sea Resort, click here.
Photo by Brooke Miles Photography via Renee & Matt’s Intimate Airlie Beach Wedding At Coral Sea Resort
Located in the breathtaking Whitsundays, how could you not love Hamilton Island. The team offers everything from venue styling to photography to beauty – no need to worry about finding vendors. “With more than 10 ceremony locations and 15 unique reception venues, we can cater for anywhere between two – 200 guests.” We’re loving the thought of a reception on Catseye Beach or the dock watching the sunset – tropical escape dream weddings are made of this! See more of Hamilton Island here.
Photo by Hamilton Island Photographers from Claire & Sean’s Boho Luxe Hamilton Island Wedding
Tropical North QLD hosts Palm Cove venue Alamanda Palm Cove. A luxury resort, this venue offers 3 pools, views of the Coral Sea and all in an area not far north of Cairns. With ceremony and reception able to take place all within the resort, we love the thought of the Nu Nu Restaurant menu which includes local and indigenous ingredients. Dinner on the beach in an avenue of palm trees anyone? Yes – we’ll be there! Find the wedding we’ve featured at Alamanda here.
Let’s travel to the Sunshine Coast and Green Zebra. Waterfront dining on Double Bay Beach on Kawana Island, this venue features a modern interior and can seat up to 200 people, or smaller numbers in the dining alcoves or private dining room. A large alfresco deck is perfect for pre-dinner drinks and canapés, and the beach and surrounds invite you out for the perfect sunset photo opportunity. See in our real weddings here.
Photo by BXCSMXTH via Abagaile & Alex’s Glam Boho Beach Wedding
With a dining room opening up to Noosa Beach Bistro C is the epitome of a coastal venue. Modern coastal decor and seasonal local food make this venue one to choose if you want your dream wedding day by the beach. See real weddings at Bistro C here.
Located between Cairns and Port Douglas on a private headland this deluxe eco-resort has to be on your list for the ultimate wedding getaway. Thala Beach Nature Reserve not only has rainforest and a 2 km stretch of pristine beach but timber bungalow accommodation (some elevated in the treetops) and a choice of ceremony and reception locations.
Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa is located within easy reach of Cairns, Palm Cove and Port Douglas and offers private beachfront or rainforest accommodation in tree specked acres on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Choose from the sandy beach, gardens, deck or indoors for your ceremony and reception. What could be more delightful than sharing your wedding day with your loved ones, eating under the stars with the sounds of the waves as your background music? See it in action here.
Photo by The Raw Photographer via Lizzy & Ivan’s Bright & Colourful Beach Wedding
South Australia
Celebrate in style at Pier at Glenelg. Uninterrupted ocean views, an option of a beach ceremony, a variety of function rooms to choose from and a seasonal menu, Pier might just give you all the options you are looking for along with the bonus of a beautiful setting with unending ocean views.
Located right on Glenelg Beach the Stamford Grand offers not only a grand ballroom for larger weddings but two smaller rooms for more intimate functions. Start the wedding day with a ceremony on the jetty, the sand or the grassed foreshore, and continue in style in the Grand Ballroom with its private balcony with ocean views. Add in accommodation and you have the complete package.
Overlooking the Semaphore Coastline, the Palais Hotel can accommodate large weddings in their ballroom with the added treat of a balcony overlooking the sand and sea perfect for ceremonies or drinks and canapés.
An award-winning seafood restaurant, Sammys on the Marina boasts views of the marina and the beach. Feast on seafood platters and Kangaroo Island lobsters while watching dolphins play in the water. With three event spaces to choose from, watch the sunset in style while celebrating your wedding.
Overlooking the water this large space can accommodate 200 guests. The Function boasts ‘a private cocktail bar, beachfront balcony and all audio-visual faculties.’
Tasmania
Set above the waterline in amongst the Australian bush in Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay sits Freycinet Lodge. Fine food and wine, a team to assist you to plan your day – not to mention the views across the Bay make your wedding day here an unforgettable experience. Find out more here.
Cloudy Bay Beach House is set amongst the coastal scrub on 85 acres for you and your guests to explore. For a maximum of 16 guests, this venue will charm with its remote feeling, a boardwalk to the beach and a bush trail. Water views and wildlife will keep you entranced while enjoying views from the deck.
The private home of Avalon Coastal Retreat is the ultimate in Tassie coastal venues. Set right by the sea, overlooking the East Coast, Avalon Coastal Retreat can host a wedding of up to 60 people (and it sleeps six!) See our weddings at Avalon here.
Photo by Doxa Visual via Allison & Tom’s Contemporary & Coastal Wedding
With log cabin accommodation, landscaped grounds and views to the Bay Stewarts Bay Lodge is located in Port Arthur. The owners pride themselves on personalised service and attention to detail. A stroll along the beach, drink in hand after the ceremony sounds like the perfect way to unwind.
Set on Barilla Bay, Barilla Bay Oysters have a restaurant that caters for large groups of up to 250 and a small Pearl Room that holds more intimate gatherings. Outdoor dining under The Gazebo or on the Greens, and a wedding ceremony held against the backdrop of the oyster beds make this venue a unique experience.
Northern Territory
Situated on the waterfront of Fannie Bay and sweeping views across to the Darwin skyline Pee Wee’s At The Point might just be the perfect wedding venue for you. Territory focused cuisine and relaxing dining under the stars make the most of tropical ‘Northern Territory time’.
On stunning Mindil Beach and surrounded by tropical gardens Mindil Beach Casino Resort can cater for large numbers of wedding guests in the Grand Ballroom or Beachside Pavilion overlooking the Arafura Sea. During the dry season, our pick would be The Lawns with stunning views of the sea and sunset on a warm tropical night – how can you beat that?
Located right on the beach at Fannie Bay is the Darwin Trailer Boat Club. With a menu centred around fresh seafood, guests can enjoy the deck area or the lawn under the palm trees.
With a backdrop of the sea and located on the wharf, Crustaceans on the Wharf serves modern Australian cuisine and seafood. The outdoor area with views of the sea, boats bobbing on the water and the large ships docked at the Wharf adjacent to the deck, makes for a thrill in itself – let alone the stunning sunset to enjoy with a cocktail in hand.
Western Australia
Eco Beach Wilderness Retreat has vistas stretching for miles, a big sky and red cliff backdrops and an untouched beach on your doorstep. Located an hour south of Broome, this retreat boasts a “unique wilderness experience whilst having minimal impact on the surrounding landscape”. Treat you and your guests to amazing accommodation and most importantly of all, a wedding experience second to none. For your ceremony choose from beach locations with a backdrop of red cliffs and the turquoise Indian Ocean, or locations on top of the dunes or the Beach House. Make the most of the remote location and enjoy your reception on the sand with a sunset and a million stars to keep you company. See Eco beach Resort on Polka Dot Wedding here.
Photo by Lakshal Perera via Kara and Bart’s Eco Beach Wedding
Welcome to Bathers Beach House located in Fremantle. Floor to ceiling glass gives you panoramic views of Perth sunsets, with two terraces to entertain your guests. From cocktail style weddings to long table events, you’ll be able to enjoy superb food and stunning ambience with the venue a blank canvas on which to create your decor. A wedding team is there to advise you – we can just imagine winter weddings here watching the weather roll in. Dive into our weddings at Bathers here.
With views of the Indian Ocean across Leighton Beach to Rottnest Island, Bib & Tucker in Fremantle can accommodate 125 at a sit-down wedding or 150 at a cocktail style event. The menu is a ‘celebration of the best seasonal produce from suppliers around Perth’. The Terrace is an option for more intimate weddings, and the full venue can be booked for larger functions. See Bib & Tucker in action here.
Photo by Kitty Loves Love via Cheryl & Tom’s Palm Springs in Perth Wedding
Home to Barefoot Beach Weddings is The White Elephant Cafe located in Gnarabup Bay on the coast just 12 minutes from Margaret River. Wedding assistance includes styling packages, as well as menus featuring local produce, along with fine wines from the Margaret River region. Setting this venue apart are the views from the deck overlooking the beach and the sea fringed by dunes. See it on Polka Dot Wedding here.
This venue right on the beach has seven areas to choose from for your wedding. Coast Port Beach is bright and breezy and offers outdoor areas to make the most of the sunshine and coastal air, bars and indoor areas just in case the weather turns stormy. Weddings on the adjoining beach are also an option and if large celebrations of up to 1000 people are in your future, they can do these too. Find out more about this venue here.
Located right on Cottesloe Beach, Barchetta boasts incredible seaside views. Hosting up to 60 guests, the venue has all the casual cafe vibes and a Mediterranean style menu. See it on Polka Dot Wedding here.
Header photo by Hamilton Island Photographers from Claire & Sean’s Boho Luxe Hamilton Island Wedding
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