Saying "I do" on a beach destination wedding is the stuff dreams are made of. Whether you envision a sunset ceremony or an oceanfront reception, North Carolina's stunning coastline provides the picturesque setting for one of the most important days of your life.
Plan for summer at the beach, but be prepared for peak tourist season, blazing heat and possible stormy weather. Consider a beach wedding in September or October when things are a little more calm.
Oceanfront Wedding Venues
Destination weddings NC coast offer the most magical way to say "I do" with the rhythmic sounds of water waves and a stunning view of crystal clear waters. North Carolina's island beaches and charming coastal towns provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable oceanfront wedding. From elegant ballrooms to seaside aquariums, you'll find plenty of options for your destination wedding on the NC coast.
Say your vows on the sand or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many oceanfront venues in our area. The beach wedding venue options on the NC coast range from casual beachfront parks to luxury hotels. Some have full-service staff to assist with location planning, catering and wedding vendors. Others have rooms for overnight guests, so your celebration can be a weekend getaway.
Some beach weddings are best held during non-peak season. Beth Conery of OBXWA advises that summertime at the beach is peak tourist season, which means higher prices and more traffic on the roads. She recommends late September and October as better times for beach weddings.
Located on Topsail Island, this coastal restaurant and venue is famous for its panoramic ocean views that are the highlight of any wedding. The event center has walls of windows that make the beach part of your day from ceremony to reception and offers buffet choices plus a la carte options for your big day.
Outdoor Venues
At the Oxbow Estate in Clayton, couples will find a stunning venue that blends European-inspired architecture with a rustic and organic sense of luxury. The result is a one-of-a-kind experience that gives your wedding day an unmistakable feeling of effortless elegance.
If you’re looking for an outdoor beach wedding venue with a coastal feel, consider River Dunes in Oriental, NC. This venue offers a complete package with venues, accommodations, activities and catering for your entire wedding weekend.
Coastal North Carolina is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and beaches, which are perfect for destination weddings. Many of the hotels on the coast offer oceanfront ceremony locations and seaside reception spaces for your big day. Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach and even the secluded Topsail Island provide an idyllic setting for your vows.
Another option is a private location like the Lake House in Efland. Tucked beneath pine trees on a picturesque fly fishing lake, the venue provides horseshoes, oyster tables and a fire pit to keep your guests entertained throughout the night.
For something a little more rustic, there are farm wedding venues like Green Mountain Farm in Kernersville. This gorgeous venue also offers a spacious farmhouse to accommodate your guest for the reception. There are also winery wedding venues, such as Serre Vineyards in Mount Airy, that can accommodate your loved ones and make for a romantic atmosphere.
Historic Venues
From historic homes with blooming gardens to riverfront venues where guests can meander through exhibits and relive the glory days of a WWII battleship, Wilmington’s Historic District features a variety of locations to say “I do” in a setting that speaks to the heart. And at the same time, couples looking for a more modern wedding can enjoy the city’s vibrant downtown life and sophisticated restaurants and hotels.
For example, on Topsail Island – known for its pristine beaches and laid back vibe – Ocean’s Edge serves as the premier venue, full-service destination resort and event center. The 8-bedroom venue features a ceremony space, reception area and more. On-site accommodations are also available to allow your friends and family to stay close for the whole weekend.
Other Historic/Landmark wedding venues include:
Located in historic downtown Raleigh, 128 South is where urban-chic meets approachable luxury in this historic building with a rich legacy. This versatile venue includes the VonKampen building, a ballroom and two private rooms. If you are looking for a more romantic ambiance, the Ivy Hall mansion in Greenville is a wedding venue that exudes elegance and beauty. The grounds are beautifully manicured and provide a backdrop for your memorable day. And the Penelope Barker House in Edenton offers panoramic views of the Albemarle Sound and provides a stunning setting for a romantic ceremony.
Mountain Venues
From sweeping vistas to pristine landscapes, North Carolina’s mountain wedding venues capture the essence of romance and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re aiming for an intimate ceremony embraced by nature’s splendor or a grand celebration infused with rustic elegance, there is sure to be a mountain wedding venue that speaks to your vision in Asheville and Western NC.
The breathtaking ridge lines of the Blue Ridge Mountains serve as an enchanting backdrop for a range of wedding styles and sizes. From lush gardens and ponds to wooded forests and rocky waterfalls, there are limitless options for your mountain destination wedding. In spring and summer, the hills come alive with greenery and blooming gardens while fall explodes with vibrant color and a picturesque canvas for your big day.
For a more traditional style, the Barn on New River offers a charming rustic barn and outdoor ceremony site for up to 250 guests. This scenic venue is also BYOB and allows you to curate your ideal beverage selection. The Sawyer Family Farmstead is another fantastic option with a stunning mountain backdrop, a rustic barn and a bridal suite and groom’s cabin. This venue can accommodate larger weddings with a variety of package options or elopements with a two-hour window any day of the week from April to October.
