The Hard Truth About Having a Beach Wedding in Florida

Permits and Fees: Navigating Florida’s Coastal Regulations

Most public beaches in Florida, including those in popular areas like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, require a permit for weddings. The cost of a permit varies but generally ranges from $55 to $135. While it’s a small fee to keep your event legal and safe, remember to factor in the cost of rentals—chairs, tents, arches, and more—to create the beach wedding of your dreams.

Pro Tip: Apply for your permit well in advance, as beach locations like South Beach in Miami or Fort Lauderdale’s shores are high-traffic areas, and permits can be limited.

Parking Challenges: South Florida’s Crowded Beaches

Public beach parking in South Florida, particularly in areas like Palm Beach, can be limited and expensive. Wedding guests might need to park far away and walk long distances in the heat or sand, which can be uncomfortable, especially for older guests or those wearing formal attire.

Solution: To make things easier, consider offering shuttle services from a nearby parking lot to the beach ceremony. This is especially helpful for popular wedding spots like Fort Lauderdale Beach or Delray Beach.

Weather Woes: Florida’s Unpredictable Storms

While Florida’s coastline is famous for its beauty, it’s also known for unpredictable weather. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially during summer. If your ceremony is on a public beach, options for a quick rain backup might be limited. Many public beaches in South Florida, like Deerfield Beach or Miami’s North Shore Park, don’t allow tents, leaving your guests and musicians exposed to the elements.

Pro Tip: Choose a beach venue that offers both outdoor beauty and a Plan B—such as covered areas or nearby indoor facilities. Look for places like Crandon Park in Key Biscayne, where backup spaces are an option.

Power Problems: No Electrical Outlets on Public Beaches

Many public beaches in Florida lack electricity. Whether it’s Miami Beach or Pompano Beach, you won’t have access to power unless you bring your own generator. This can be a problem for sound systems, microphones, and music setups, especially if you have a large guest list.

Recommendation: Work with an experienced beach wedding vendor who can supply generators and sound equipment to ensure your ceremony is heard loud and clear, despite the ocean waves and wind.

Florida Sun and Sand: Handle with Care

The Florida sun is powerful, and without proper preparation, it can be unbearable. Timing your beach wedding in the early morning or late afternoon can help avoid the heat of midday. Additionally, sand can be both a blessing and a curse—it adds charm to a beach wedding, but it will get everywhere, especially if you're in formal attire.

Tip: Choose attire that’s beach-friendly. Many South Florida beach brides opt for lightweight, breathable dresses, while grooms go for relaxed, linen suits. Also, don’t forget to provide your guests with comfort items like cold water, fans, or even parasols if you’re marrying in the hotter months.

Onlookers: Embrace the Crowd or Choose a Secluded Beach

In South Florida, popular beaches like Hollywood Beach or Boca Raton’s shores can be busy with tourists. That means curious onlookers may watch your ceremony—and some might even appear in your wedding photos! For more privacy, consider a less crowded beach like John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach, where it’s easier to find secluded spots.

Pro Tip: If you want to avoid large crowds, plan your wedding for a weekday or during off-peak seasons, when Florida beaches tend to be quieter.

Aisle Runners and Sand: A Hazardous Combo

If you plan on using an aisle runner for your Florida beach wedding, reconsider. Runners can quickly become uneven on sand, posing a tripping hazard for the wedding party. Beaches from Fort Lauderdale to Naples offer a gorgeous natural setting, so ditch the runner and let the sand serve as your aisle.

Best Practice: Keep it simple with natural elements and let the scenery speak for itself. Focus on a beautiful arch or floral arrangement to frame your ceremony instead.

Making Your Beach Wedding Dream a Reality in South Florida

A beach wedding in Florida can be everything you’ve ever dreamed of if you’re prepared. At Ceremonies with Cynthia, we specialize in creating personalized beach weddings across South Florida—from the sun-kissed shores of Miami to the serene beaches of Palm Beach. We’ll help you navigate the logistics, plan for any surprises, and ensure your day is as beautiful and seamless as possible.