There’s something innately relaxing and romantic about being by the water. So, for an effortlessly idyllic ‘I do’ day, heading seaside makes a lot of sense. Luckily for us, our coveted local coastlines and waterways are peppered with boatloads of incredible wedding destinations.
So to help you water babes find ‘the one’ (venue that is), we’ve rounded up a dozen standouts worthy of a slot on your shortlist. Among them, you’ll find peaceful and private locations that spotlight local nature (like Spring Bay Mill), tropical paradises for all-weekend-long parties (looking at you, Elementa Whitsundays), a Mediterranean-inspired jewel on the Marina (Pelis Noosa), and much more.
We’ve taken a few liberties here, too, as some of the venues listed are not technically on the water, but rather a short drive away. As far as we’re concerned, this still totally counts.
Once you’ve locked a venue in, let’s tick a few other items off your to-do list, shall we? Click to find our favourite wedding cake pros, florists, stylists and planners. Or get some ideas from these real couples and their coastal nuptials.
But without further ado, let’s dive into this collection of wow-worthy wedding spaces by the water.
Kauri Bay Boomrock
Last on our list but certainly not least is Kauri Bay, Auckland. Private and peaceful, this 500-acre property offers sweeping coastal views over the Hauraki Gulf. Just imagine saying ‘I do’ in front of that view, or celebrating the night away in The Lodge – their warm and oh-so-inviting reception space. And don’t even get us started on how superb your photo album would be! But Kauri Bay’s undeniably beautiful outlook is just one of the many reasons we’re obsessed with this NZ gem. For gatherings of 10 – 250, Kauri Bay offer complimentary on-site games for your guests to enjoy, practice farm-to-table catering, and – get this – can work with you to organise every detail from bespoke menus, to transport, to entertainment options. What are you waiting for? Click here to secure yourself a spot on their books.
Location: Auckland, North Island, New Zealand
Images: Valo
Elementa Whitsundays
Envisioning a wedding and festival all rolled into one? Somewhere you can host welcome drinks right through to recovery brunch? Elementa Whitsundays was basically made for you. The aim for this space was “to create a warm and welcoming environment, where guests can come to relax and absorb the natural beauty of the Whitsundays.” And these folks have truly thought of everything. You can exchange your vows overlooking the Coral Sea. You can take advantage of their state-of-the-art air-conditioned marquee. Then there’s the lush tropical gardens, rooftop bar and boutique accommodation. With all this revelry, you’re sure to be hungry. But don’t worry, Elementa has got you covered with the finest locally-sourced produce, spirits made in their own distillery and the option to add food stations like liquid nitrogen ice cream, caviar, and hibachi grill. See, told you they’ve thought of everything. Get planning here.
Location: Airlie Beach, QLD
Images: The Lost & Wild
Rickys Noosa
Rickys Noosa is a real class act. Elegant and chic, with romantic waterfront views, it goes without saying this location is easy on the eyes. You can book a lunch or dinner reception, or if you want full exclusive use of the space, they can sort that out too. We’d be remiss not to draw your attention to one of the best features – a private jetty, allowing for an iconic and memorable grand entry/exit via gondola or boat. We also love that Rickys Noosa works with couples to create event menus focusing on seasonal, local produce AND offers guests the choice of four dishes per course, allowing everyone the freedom to choose their meal. In other words, everyone is happy (phew!) Tap here if you’re hungry for more info.
Location: Noosa, QLD
Images: Taylor Kezia Photography
Spring Bay Mill
Oh boy, we do love a Tassie wedding, and ones at Spring Bay Mill are particularly magical. This former industrial site has been lovingly transformed into a breathtaking oasis to celebrate life’s big moments, immersed in Tasmania’s raw natural beauty and overlooking the Tasmanian coastline. These folks love love, and they love our planet too, focusing on sustainability and garden-to-plate catering. They offer a plethora of indoor or outdoor options, elopement/micro-wedding packages if that’s your thing, and can sleep up to 116 of your guests in their off-grid accommodation (just wait till you see the outdoor hot tubs!). The only issue that we foresee is that you might not want to leave. Head to the directory to get more details on this stunner.
Location: Triabunna, TAS
Images: Jon Gazzignato
The Jackson Ranch
We get giddy with excitement whenever a Jackson Ranch wedding lands in our inbox – Alice and Lachlan’s, for example. “We really wanted somewhere where our whole bridal party could stay in one place, and we loved the overall modern country-coastal vibe of The Jackson Ranch,” the newlyweds told us. “And of course, the pool was a necessity with our wedding being in December.” Based in New South Wales’ South Coast, The Jackson Ranch is surrounded by tranquil natural forest with serene lakeside views. They welcome weddings from 40-200 guests and can sleep up to 40 in their gorgeous, freshly renovated cabins. Exclusively yours to enjoy for the duration of your celebration, there are ample awe-inspiring backdrops to pick from for the formalities, feasting, and photos, of course. It’s really a no-brainer as far as we’re concerned. Agree? Get in touch here.
Location: Bawley Point, NSW
Images: Jonny Scott Photo
Audley Dance Hall
Say hello to the lush slice of Aussie paradise that is Audley Dance Hall – a refurbished heritage-listed dance hall nestled in New South Wales’ Royal National Park (just 45 minutes from Sydney!) Oozing easy-going energy and surrounded by natural beauty, it’s easy to imagine grooving all night long with your favourite humans in this historic, nostalgic timber panelled hall, which opens out to a vast verandah overlooking the Hacking River. In love? Well, join the club. Audley Dance Hall is a much-adored wedding venue by the water among Hello May couples. Click here to suss out some of our favourite Audley Dance Hall weddings and reach out to the team.
Location: Audley, National Park, NSW
Images: The Salty Shutter
Worrowing
Worrowing is a fave of HM couples, and it’s not hard to see why. Just minutes away from the pristine beaches of Jervis Bay lies their landmark Georgian-style homestead nestled amongst 250 acres of magnificent gardens. For Caroline & Jared, they immediately knew they had found their special place to get hitched. “We really wanted to choose a venue where we could have the ceremony and reception all in one place and the gorgeous bush setting, the reception area, the beautiful on-site accommodation and the amazing staff just blew us away!” Who could blame them? Read more about their love-fest here then head here to get in touch with the wonderful Worrowing team.
Location: Jervis Bay, NSW
Images: Alex Marks Photography
Manly Pacific
For a sophisticated, luxurious seaside soiree not too far from the city, you really can’t go past Manly Pacific. Celebrate with friends and fam outside on the terrace or in one of the venue’s delightful indoor spaces boasting natural light, floor-to-ceiling windows and an uninterrupted outlook of world-famous Manly Beach. Known for impeccable service and 5-star accommodation, you’ll be well taken care of. Oh, and to ensure optimal pre- or post-wedding zen, don’t forget to take advantage of their magnesium rooftop pool, yoga classes, saunas, and more.
Location: Sydney, NSW
Images: Supplied
Palms Pavilion
A tranquil lake lies just metres away, there’s laughter from loved ones on the lawn, and folks are feasting in the pavilion as the sun sets over the water. Palms Pavilion has all the hallmarks of a total dream day. This heavenly boutique coastal wedding venue is nestled between Seven Mile Beach and Wallis Lake in New South Wales. These legends share that many couples choose to have their ceremony in The Green Cathedral, a stunning outdoor church enclosed by the palm forest less than 50 metres away, before continuing celebrations at The Pavilion, which can comfortably host between 120 and 140 guests sit down, and up to 200 guests cocktail-style. Hosting weddings and events since 1979, this team know what they are doing, with the option to customise your booking or simply pick from a collection of thoughtfully pre-prepared packages. What more could you want? Jump over to the directory and say g’day.
Location: Pacific Palms, NSW
Images: Chamore Creations
The Cove
Tucked away in the heart of Booderee National Park is where you’ll find The Cove. With breathtaking views of Sussex Inlet, this place is really something special and a total masterclass in modern coastal elegance. Their private stretch of glistening beach is an idyllic option for your ceremony. Sipping cocktails in the sunshine on the beachside lawn is sure to be a highlight for your guests. Then keep the good times rolling with reception in their modern, chic wedding hall, backdropped by ocean views. After a big day of marrying your best friend, you and your crew can rest easy in The Cove’s cabins or glamping tents. Oh, and they can hook you up with a delish next-day breakfast too. Ticking the boxes? Click here to reach out.
Location: Jervis Bay, NSW
Images: Supplied
The Marion
Looking for something a little luxe? Located in Regatta Point, Canberra, The Marion has sophistication in spades, and spectacular views of Lake Burley Griffin are the cherry on top. Their all-weather terrace can cater for 60 seated or up to 80 standing. Or for bigger soirees, you can book The Marion’s indoor space, which has a capacity of 160 seated to 250 standing. Here, the scenery isn’t the only thing guests will go home raving about. You see, The Marion’s team of talented chefs have a wealth of experience working for top restaurants, and they put a whole lot of love into each wedding meal, showcasing the best of what Australian producers have on offer. If that’s got you excited (maybe a little hungry), get in touch here.
Location: Regatta Point, ACT
Images: Transluscent Photography
Pelis Noosa
If you ask us, this location encapsulates elevated beachside elegance with the warmth and love you’d expect from your Greek grandmother’s kitchen. Pelis Noosa is a Mediterranean-inspired gem located right on Noosa Marina, offering a front-row seat for waterfront views. As you would expect, this team is serious about amazing food and fresh ingredients, and they are big advocates for a communal, share-style feasting experience. For full-scale weddings, Pelis can cater for up to 120 guests seated or for more intimate nuptials, they also have an exclusive private dining room. Sound like a winner? Get in touch here.
Location: Noosa, QLD
Images: Taylor Kezia Photography
The Woods Farm
If you’re dreaming of a coastal wedding that feels more like a whimsical weekend getaway, The Woods Farm in Jervis Bay delivers just that – and then some. Tucked just minutes from some of the world’s whitest beaches on the NSW South Coast, this destination wedding venue is all about magic, memory-making, and serious feel-good vibes. With onsite accommodation for your whole crew (yep, the entire guest list can stay together!), a charming bush chapel for those quiet, meaningful moments, and a whole farm full of friendly animals, The Woods turns weddings into full-blown experiences. Get in touch.
Location: Jervis Bay, NSW
Images: KLD Photography
