Congratulations on your engagement! Now where are you going to get married? It’s a question that doesn’t always come with a definite answer for everybody. Maybe you know that you want to have a beach wedding, but you’re not quite sure where to go.
Why not look to the Caribbean? The islands dotting the Caribbean Sea are popular destinations for picture-perfect weddings but there are thousands of islands to choose from, so picking one isn’t all that easy.
Here’s a short list to help you start your search.
Aruba
Located a few miles north of Venezuela, Aruba is sunny and inviting and full of friendly locals. The warm weather is a comforting constant and, unlike many islands in the Caribbean, the climate here is dry, not humid. Aruba also lies just outside the hurricane belt, leaving you one less environmental factor to worry about. A number of resort options and packaged deals make Aruba a great idea destination for larger guest lists. And aside from attending the wedding, there is plenty for your guests to do: swim, sail and snorkel by day and hit the casinos by night.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia is the largest of the Windward Islands, a chain along the eastern boundary of the Caribbean. Its exotic landscape includes both white sand and dark sand beaches as well as hidden coves and lush forests. The two volcanic peaks, the Pitons, create a dramatic backdrop for your ceremony. Many resorts have all-inclusive vacation deals, but you can also opt to rent a villa (or several) for you and your guests.
Martinique
Situated north of St. Lucia, Martinique is a lush and fertile French Caribbean island. Pearl white sands outline the sea to the south, while darker volcanic sands, volcanoes and impressive mountains dominate the northern end. A gentle breeze will keep your beach wedding cool, especially during the dry season (January to May). And, as on most of the islands in the area, there are many accommodation options to choose between, from 5-star resorts to rural cottages.
Anguilla
A British territory, Anguilla is a collection of low-lying islands east of Puerto Rico. Anguilla is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. The crystal clear waters are home to spectacular coral reefs and 33 of the most pristine white sand beaches in the Caribbean. There are no direct flights from the United States, but small puddle-jumper planes can get you there from neighboring islands like Puerto Rico and Antigua.
Barbados
Its accessibility, amenities and well-developed tourism industry make Barbados a prime destination. Sandstone and coral cliffs tower over the northern parts, and white sand beaches dotted with coral rocks can be found on the southern and western coastlines. Accommodations in Barbados range from beach houses to luxurious villas, and guest can entertain themselves after the wedding with exclusive shopping and an energetic nightlife.
Still can’t decide? Take some vacation time for just the two of you and island hop a little. Ambling down the streets and scoping out the resorts you’re considering may be all you need to help you find just the right stretch of sand.
Shezzi Kensington writes about wedding stationery. On her blog, she teaches you how to make everything from engagement party invitations to beach wedding invitations
