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Dubbed the world’s leading wedding destination three times since 2014, The Bahamas is a top choice for destination weddings. If you’ve ever dreamed of exchanging vows against a backdrop of picture-perfect coastlines and breathtaking tropical flora, you won’t want to miss out on Bahamas wedding venues.
From extravagant ceremonies at luxury resorts to serene elopements on private islands, The Bahamas has it all. And who knows? You may just fall in love with The Bahamas, in which case the team at MCR Bahamas would be happy to help you find the perfect home, or investment property.
But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s tap into the local knowledge and expertise MCR Bahamas has and take a look at some of the best Bahamas wedding venues for your special day.
Table of Contents
Cost of a Bahamas Destination Wedding
The cost of a wedding in The Bahamas varies depending on a few different factors. Rates for cheap Bahamas wedding venues typically range from $950 to $2,650, but for more opulent celebrations, the cost can reach $250,000.
Costs vary based on the island and venue, the number of guests, accommodations, and the wedding package selected. Each package offers different coverage, inclusions, and levels of luxury. Most include essentials like marriage licensing, an officiant, floral arrangements, and photo services. However, costs increase with a more extensive guest list and additional customizations.
Types of Bahamas Wedding Venues
One of the well-known facts about The Bahamas is that it’s an archipelago made up of over 700 islands. For those seeking adventure, island hopping allows you to explore multiple breathtaking locations, each offering unique experiences and picturesque settings for your wedding day.
But while the world-renowned vibrant resorts may first come to mind when you think of The Bahamas, the country offers many more wedding venue options, including laid-back private villa beachfronts, exclusive clubs, and even secluded private islands you can have all to yourself.
Beaches
Whether you’re coveting an Atlantis Bahamas wedding or seeking more budget-friendly options, there’s undoubtedly a beach for you among The Bahamas’ vast islands and cays.
From the pink sands of Harbour Island to the serene sands of Exuma, each beach offers a unique charm and ambiance. MCR Bahamas is deeply knowledgeable about the most sought-after destinations and properties around the Bahamas. They can also assist with rental needs for you and your guests. Visit MCR Bahamas for more information and to get started.
Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels in The Bahamas offer an intimate and unique setting for weddings, blending personalized service with charming accommodations. Unlike larger resorts, boutique hotels typically feature a limited number of rooms, allowing for a more exclusive and tailored experience. These venues are perfect for couples looking to host a wedding with a close-knit group of family and friends, providing a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.
Restaurants & Private Clubs
Private clubs offer a combination of luxury, exclusivity, and state-of-the-art amenities—perfect for couples who want an intimate, yet world-class experience for their wedding. Known as a haven for the wealthy, including global leaders and celebrities, these exclusive gated communities offer guests and residents a full array of onsite activities, dining venues, and top-notch amenities.
For instance, Lyford Cay offers a serene environment with world-class golf courses, tennis courts, and a private marina, ensuring a memorable and luxurious wedding experience. Those who want more than a one-off stay can make the private club their home. Let MCR Bahamas help you find your dream home in Lyford Cay!
Old Fort Bay Club, with its rich history and stunning beach club, offers exquisite dining and elegant event spaces perfect for a romantic, sophisticated wedding. Discover MCR Bahamas’ exclusive listings for sale in Old Fort Bay if you’re considering a more permanent move.
Private Luxury Villas & Buyout Resorts
Want to have an entire resort or luxury villa entirely for you and your guests? Buyout resorts and private luxury villas are the solution. This option is great if you want exclusivity and high levels of personalization. For instance, venues like the Ocean Club Four Seasons give you the freedom to transform their spaces, like hosting your reception on the shore or turning the pool area into a party venue.
Best Bahamas Wedding Venues
The Bahamas is rightfully crowned as a top destination wedding choice as it magically turns every couple’s wedding dreams into a reality. Here are some of the top Bahamas wedding venues, featuring breathtaking beauty, exceptional service, and top-notch amenities.
1. Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau
Location: Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas
Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau is an all-in-one package, with oceanfront accommodations overlooking the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, spacious suites, and top notch amenities. Choose from one of their vast event spaces, from the beach to restaurants, terraces, and even a boardwalk.
Partner with them to create a comprehensive itinerary for your big day, covering rehearsal dinners, after-party cocktails, and brunch. You can also choose from their selection of partner vendors or hire your own, for a truly customized experience for you and your guests to enjoy.
Looking to own a luxury residence in Margaritaville? Take a look at the luxury accommodations at One Particular Harbour.
2. Pink Sands Resort
Location: Harbour Island, Bahamas
The picturesque Pink Sands Resort is nestled on Harbour Island’s three-mile pink sand beach. Sleep on cottages and villas amid breathtaking, lush tropical gardens and have your intimate yet luxurious wedding setting on their famous powdery sand or their restaurant’s Garden Terrace.
Want to secure a piece of this paradise? Check out MCR Bahamas’ real estate listings in Harbour Island.
3. Atlantis Bahamas
Location: Paradise Island, Bahamas
Atlantis Bahamas spans five miles of pristine white sand beaches, a vast marine habitat, and thrilling water parks. Go barefoot on the sand while exchanging vows or host an elegant poolside dinner with views of the iconic Royal Towers. Regardless of your preference, an Atlantis Bahamas wedding ensures that you and your guests have an enjoyable stay beyond your big day.
Aside from Atlantis, there are plenty of other great places at Paradise Island. See MCR Bahamas’ listings for rent in Paradise Island.
4. Rosewood Baha Mar
Location: Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas
Rosewood Baha Mar is one of the premier Bahamas wedding venues that seamlessly blends sophistication with natural beauty. The resort features carefully curated activities that highlight Bahamian culture and elegantly designed rooms and suites.
Enjoy a comprehensive wedding experience at the resort. Indulge in pre-wedding pampering at Sense Spa and choose from one of Rosewood Baha’s stunning venues. The resort also partners with top island-based vendors to provide everything from florals and décor to transportation and gifts.
Thinking of buying a home in Nassau? Contact the team at MCR Bahamas to get started!
5. Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Location: Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is an opulent resort with luxurious accommodations featuring ocean, fountain, and island views. Spend your big day at an intimate chapel, an elegant ballroom, or on picturesque lawns and beach. Personalize your wedding to the tee as you partner with their professional event planning and catering services.
Check out MCR Bahamas’ luxury rental listings in Nassau for ideal wedding guest rentals!
6. Resorts World Bimini
Location: Bimini, Bahamas
Resorts World Bimini is a 4.5-acre resort with modern accommodations, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Opt for a serene beach or wedding gazebo, or celebrate indoors at Ocean View Ballrooms or Rooftop Terrace. The resort features comprehensive wedding planning services and packages tailored for every budget to ensure a perfect, stress-free event.
MCR Bahamas can assist you in finding condos and houses for rent in Bimini, Bahamas, or help you discover your dream real estate if you’re seeking a permanent residence!
7. Goldwynn Resort & Residence
Location: Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas
Goldwynn Resort & Residences is a boutique 81-room oceanfront resort that provides a private seaside sanctuary but also gives you easy access to vibrant Bahamian nightlife and daytime activities. Celebrate outdoors on the north shore or the panoramic ocean views at the SkyScape rooftop.
Explore luxurious properties near Goldwynn Resort and Residences through MCR Bahamas listings!
8. French Leave Resort, Autograph Collection
Location: Eleuthera, Bahamas
French Leave Resort accommodates intimate to modest-sized weddings with stunning venues, including a beachside setting, an open-air wedding pavilion, or an adjacent event lawn. Enjoy an unforgettable Eleuthera wedding with custom Bahama-inspired dishes from the culinary team of 1648, the resort’s exclusive island restaurant.
Enjoy amenities like an oceanfront pool, complimentary non-motorized water activities, and private golf carts for exploring the expansive property.
9. Sapodilla Restaurant & Estate
Location: Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas
Unlike the others in the list, Sapodilla Estate was first known as a restaurant. The 7-acre estate hidden just off Nassau’s main road offers exquisite dishes, making it perfect for romantic and luxurious wedding celebrations.
Aside from serving exquisite food, they’ll also handle every aspect of your wedding, from décor and transportation to lighting and sound systems to ensure every detail of your special day is flawlessly executed.
10. Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina
Location: Bimini, Bahamas
Bimini Big Game Club is a historic boutique resort and marina visited for its fishing and diving opportunities. If you’re looking for something intimate, this resort offers the perfect boutique setting either on the beach or its Great Lawn. You can host your celebration indoors at Hemingway’s, adding a touch of classic charm to your special day.
11. Squires Estate
Location: Eleuthera, Bahamas
Standing atop a breathtaking hillside, Squires Estate offers 18 beautifully restored 19th-century villas, homes, and cottages. The estate can accommodate anywhere from a dozen to over 100 guests, making it your best choice if you have a modest guest list. Choose from lush green gardens or a dramatic oceanfront function deck overlooking the Caribbean for your special day.
12. Bahama Beach Club
Location: Abaco, Bahamas
You don’t need to buy out a resort for exclusivity. Bahama Beach Club, set on 3.5 miles of pristine beachfront, offers exclusive “one at a time” ceremonies, ensuring your day is uniquely yours.
To ensure you get nothing short of a blissful wedding day, they’ll provide you with a dedicated onsite wedding planner for a fully customized event. Their wedding packages range from $950 to $6,500, catering to those seeking both luxurious and cheap Bahamas wedding venues.
MCR Bahamas offers several listings of exquisite properties at the Bahamas Beach Club, perfect for making your vacation home away from home. Visit MCR Bahamas for more details.
13. Swain’s Cay Lodge
Location: Andros, Bahamas
Swain’s Cay Lodge is a beachfront retreat known for excellent fishing and watersports opportunities. You and your guests can also enjoy bike rides or guided trips into the Bights of Andros, exploring the natural habitats for birds and wildlife. Celebrate your special day with authentic Bahamian cuisine in the beachfront pavilion or directly on the beach.
14. Grand Isle Resort & Spa
Location: Exuma, Bahamas
Grand Isle Resort merges Caribbean island living with luxury through its spacious Bahamian villas, offering stunning views of Emerald Bay. Like all luxury properties in Emerald Bay, Grand Isle gives you access to a mix of serenity and adventure.
Personalize your wedding getaway with activities like water sports, golf courses, and unique experiences, such as swimming with Exuma’s famous pigs. Enjoy exclusive access to the 30,000 sq ft 23° North Beach Club on your wedding day, and delight your guests with authentic Caribbean cuisine in scenic poolside or air-conditioned indoor venues.
15. Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach
Location: Freeport, Bahamas
Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach is an all-inclusive paradise situated on the south shore of Grand Bahama Island. As an all-inclusive resort, you and your guests can enjoy your entire stay with world-class dining, a wide selection of water and land activities, and nightly entertainment.
For a totally hands-off experience, Viva Resorts does all the work, from finding you a scenic wedding venue, to perfecting your dinner receptions, to ensuring your personalized touches are ticked off. Wedding packages range from $625 to $2,999 and cater to intimate gatherings or larger celebrations.
Looking to rent a property in the area? See MCR Bahamas’ real estate listings in Freeport and Grand Bahama.
Tips to Choose the Right Bahamas Wedding Venue
Now that you have a selection of the best Bahamas wedding venues for your big day, here are some tips to help narrow your options and choose the perfect location.
Establish Your Needs
- Having a clear vision for your dream wedding will help ensure you have everything you need: Write down your vision and plans. Including images of your ideal design and setup helps when working with planners and venues.
- Finalize your guest list to ensure your venue can accommodate everyone.
- Check wedding packages to ensure they cover all your needs.
- Choose a theme for a cohesive look. Make sure it matches your style and personality.
Set a Budget
Having a list of non-negotiables and a budget helps keep your wedding expenses in check and avoids overspending on less important items. Research each island and venue, as prices and offerings vary widely.
Remember to include unexpected costs in your budget to handle any surprises. Share your budget with the venue’s planner and ask them to tailor offerings to your needs, including using the possibility of working with cheaper vendors or eliminating unnecessary extras.
Pick a Time of Year
Consider the weather patterns and peak seasons when choosing your wedding date. Here are some things to take note of:
- Peak season starts from December to April. You can expect great weather at this time, but it comes with higher prices and larger crowds.
- Booking during the summer or fall, from June to November, is more budget-friendly, partly due to hurricane season.
- Avoid August to October to minimize disruptions when rainfall and hurricane risks are highest.
- June to August is generally safe, with brief rain showers lasting about 30 minutes to an hour, fewer crowds, lower travel costs, and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Decide on a Location
The Bahamas consists of over 700 islands, giving you a wide range of options to find one that fits your vision perfectly. Choose based on your desired activity level and privacy. For instance, Eleuthera’s tranquil beaches offer a secluded escape, while Nassau’s vibrant city atmosphere is ideal for lively culture and amenities. You can also select locations based on activities like diving, fishing, or exploring historic landmarks.
Choose Your Dream Bahamas Wedding Venue
Choose a location that matches your wedding style, theme, and personality. Consider an intimate setting with an all-inclusive venue, or choose a resort rich in vibrant Bahamian culture and activities, like an Atlantis Bahamas wedding.
Factor in your budget and available wedding packages, whether you prefer a DIY approach or a hands-off experience. Think about activities you’d like to enjoy during your stay, especially if you plan to honeymoon there. Also, consider your guests’ distance and ease of travel, especially if they’ll be flying in.
More on Bahamas Wedding Venues
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about having a destination wedding in the Bahamas.
What is the average cost of a wedding in The Bahamas?
Expect to spend anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 for a wedding in the Bahamas. This covers accommodations, venue, catering, and basic wedding services but excludes travel costs and additional expenses like entertainment, upgrades, and activities. Note that most venues have a minimum length of stay for their wedding packages, so be sure to include these in your budget.
What is the average cost of a wedding in the Caribbean?
Getting married in the Caribbean is generally affordable and costs around $1,000 to $5,000, excluding hotel accommodations, travel, and other expenses. This range can go lower or higher depending on the location you choose and other factors. Wedding cruise packages are also popular and can vary widely in cost, but typically cost from $3,000 to $4,000.
Where is the best place in The Bahamas to get married?
The best place to get married depends entirely on your vision for your wedding. Your venue should give you that “this is it feeling” and have the experience, activities, and design needs you have in mind. It should also meet your budget and be able to accommodate your guests. For exclusivity, private clubs or all-inclusive resorts are ideal but may be more expensive than restaurant or resort weddings.
Is a wedding in The Bahamas recognized in the US?
Yes, marriages that are valid and legally performed abroad are recognized in the US. Just be sure to secure a marriage certificate from The Bahamas. However, note that each state has its own marriage regulations so remember to contact the state’s attorney general about it.
Find Your Dream Bahamas Wedding Venue
Finding your dream Bahamas wedding venue means considering your style, budget, and desired experience. Whether you envision a secluded getaway or a grand celebration, the perfect venue awaits you in The Bahamas.
Better Homes and Gardens MCR Bahamas specializes in luxury real estate and has deep local expertise and a stellar reputation in the community. Let the team assist you with all your rental needs or help you find the perfect property in The Bahamas. Contact MCR Bahamas today to discover your piece of paradise.