Beyond the Beach – Unexpected Caribbean Wedding Ideas

Exchanging vows on the shore is wonderful, but what if a gentle sea breeze and sand between your toes isn’t part of your wedding vision?

evening reception over the caribbean sea

Well, the good news is Caribbean weddings don’t have to take place on the beach! Read on to be inspired…

Unique Island Locations

As I’ve said before, the Caribbean Islands are not homogenous. They may have sun, sea and sand in common, but they’re all individual and unique. Every inch of the region feels like paradise, so your wedding will be incredibly special wherever you decide to say, ‘I do’.

Barbados is famous for its beautiful, pristine beaches, but it’s also relatively flat compared to other parts of the Caribbean. Much of the island is covered by a coral reef limestone cap, creating numerous caverns, caves, and grottos.

Saint Lucia is home to the Pitons, a pair of dramatically tapered mountains on the island’s west coast. You’ll also find volcanic mud baths, lush rainforest, waterfalls, botanical gardens, churches, and historical parks.

Jamaica is rich in romance and natural beauty. As well as its famous reef-lined beaches, there are mountains, rainforests, beautiful lagoons and shimmering waterfalls. The island’s colonial past means you’ll also find some truly magnificent architecture.

Voted the Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination multiple times, Antigua and Barbuda is home to some of the world’s most intimate and secluded locations. Alongside an array of luxury yachts, private villas and hotels, there are countless scenic spots and some beautiful historic churches.

in suite infinity pool - Jade Mountain - Saint Lucia

Unexpected Caribbean Wedding Ideas

  1. Instead of getting married on the beach, why not enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Sea from a distance? Look for a venue with an elevated location so you can really make the most of those breathtaking coastal views.

    You might like: Fustic House, Barbados

  2. Many of the islands present the opportunity to go even further above sea-level. In Jamaica, you can head for the steep slopes of the Blue Mountains. In Saint Lucia, imagine exchanging vows with a view of both the Piti and Gros Piton Mountains floating upon the Caribbean Sea.

    You might like: Strawberry Hill, Jamaica and Jade Mountain, Saint Lucia

  3. Away from the water, many of the Caribbean islands are covered in lush rainforest and tropical gardens. Some resorts offer the best of both worlds with beachfront accommodation alongside the beauty and serenity of the rainforest.

    You might like: Sugar Beach, Saint Lucia
  4. Modern beach resorts and luxury hotels are a relatively new addition to the Caribbean. Contemporary buildings can be beautiful, but the islands are steeped in history and filled with magnificent architecture. Many historic buildings have been updated and transformed into private villas, making them the perfect venue for an intimate Caribbean wedding.

    You might like: Pattoo Castle, Jamaica

Plan Your Caribbean Wedding with Benessamy

You’ll find more Caribbean wedding planning advice via the following links:

With extensive knowledge of the Caribbean's most beautiful wedding venues, and a deep appreciation for the area's outstanding natural beauty, you can trust Benessamy to find the perfect location for your wedding. We can also source the very best international suppliers, handle negotiations, assist your guests, confirm bookings and co-ordinate every aspect of your overseas wedding or elopement. Discover our Destination Wedding Planning Services or get in touch to arrange a consultation.

Val x

Val Mattinson
Val Mattinson
Director and Head Planner

Val Mattinson is the founder and Head Planner at Benessamy, specialising in luxury weddings and beautifully curated celebrations across the UK and the Caribbean. With over 15 years of experience, Val is known for her calm, reassuring approach and meticulous attention to detail — supporting couples and hosts who want an unforgettable experience without the overwhelm.

If you’re beginning your planning journey and would like expert guidance, get in touch to arrange an introductory call. Val would love to help you create a celebration that feels thoughtful, joyful and effortlessly seamless.

edit_calendar Book an introductory call
call +44 (0)7787 422451
mail events@benessamy.co.uk


You might also like...

Where to Start with Wedding Planning

Where to Start with Wedding Planning

So, you’re engaged and ready to embark on your wedding planning journey. Or at least you would be if you knew where to start!


Read more...


A Wedding Planners Guide to Serving Cake at Your Wedding

A Wedding Planners Guide to Serving Cake at Your Wedding

Will you be serving cake at your wedding? Have you chosen a design yet? Sampled any flavours?


Read more...