Dreaming of a romantic Texas beach wedding with waves crashing and sand between your toes?
The Lone Star State’s Gulf Coast offers over 350 miles of stunning shoreline, perfect for tying the knot.
From the vibrant shores of Galveston to the serene sands of South Padre Island, this guide covers the best beaches in Texas for weddings, top venues, trusted vendors, and all the paperwork you’ll need.
Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, we’ve got you covered with details to make your big day unforgettable.
Why Choose a Texas Beach Wedding?
Texas beach weddings blend natural beauty with Southern charm. With venues ranging from historic resorts to open public beaches, couples can enjoy affordable options, customizable packages, and year-round mild weather.
Keywords like “beach wedding venues Texas” and “Gulf Coast weddings” dominate searches, and for good reason—these locations offer postcard-worthy sunsets and easy access for guests.
Top Texas Beaches for Weddings
Here’s a breakdown of the best Texas beaches for your wedding, complete with venue options, permit requirements, and vendor recommendations.
1. Galveston Island Beaches
- Why It’s Great: Just 50 miles from Houston, Galveston boasts 32 miles of coastline with iconic spots like Stewart Beach and East Beach.
- Venue Options:
- Hotel Galvez & Spa: A luxurious historic hotel with Gulf views and elegant ballrooms.
- Galveston Island Palms: Outdoor settings with tropical vibes for up to 200 guests.
- Moody Gardens Hotel: 242 acres of lush scenery for grand or intimate ceremonies.
- Permits: Required for public beach events. Contact the Galveston Park Board for a Special Event Application (starting at $250). Note: Beaches are public under the Texas Open Beaches Act, so privacy isn’t guaranteed.
- Vendors:
- Planner: My Island Weddings—beach setups from $500.
- Photography: Galveston Beach Photography.
- Rentals: Beachfront Event Rentals—chairs, arches, and more.
- Galveston Beach Sunset – Perfect for a romantic ceremony backdrop.
2. South Padre Island Beaches
- Why It’s Great: Known for wide, pristine sands and clear waters, South Padre is a top pick for Texas beach wedding venues.
- Venue Options:
- Villa Picasso: A luxury beachfront home with private boardwalk access.
- La Copa Inn Beach Hotel: Affordable beachfront ballroom for up to 150 guests.
- Permits: Required for ceremonies. Apply through South Padre Island City Hall (costs vary based on sound amplification and setup).
- Vendors:
- Planner: A Beach Affair—packages from $500 to $3,000.
- Catering: South Padre Catering.
- Rentals: SPI Party Rentals—tents, tables, and decor.
- South Padre Beach – Ideal for barefoot elegance.
3. Port Aransas Beaches
- Why It’s Great: Clean, accessible shores on Mustang Island, perfect for laid-back Gulf Coast weddings.
- Venue Options:
- Chapel in the Dunes: A historic chapel with beach proximity.
- Beauty and the Beach: Lighthouse-front pavilion built for weddings.
- Permits: Obtain a permit from Port Aransas City (fees vary, public access applies).
- Vendors:
- Planner: Two Doves in the Sand—packages from $750.
- Florist: Port A Blooms.
- Rentals: Coastal Bend Party Rentals.
- Port Aransas Shoreline – Rustic and charming.
4. Corpus Christi Beaches
- Why It’s Great: Offers urban convenience with bay and Gulf access, including North Beach and Whitecap Beach.
- Venue Options:
- North Beach: Public beach with calm waters.
- Whitecap Beach: On North Padre Island, ideal for open-air ceremonies.
- Permits: Contact [Corpus Christi Parksgettext:City permits are not required for small weddings, but check with Corpus Christi Parks & Recreation for larger setups.
- Vendors:
- Planner: Everlasting Elopements**: All-inclusive packages from $599.
- Photography: Corpus Christi Photography.
- Rentals: A-1 Rentals—beach-friendly equipment.
- Corpus Christi Bay – Serene and scenic.
5. Rockport Beach
- Why It’s Great: A quieter alternative with pavilions and shallow waters, perfect for small Texas beach weddings.
- Venue Options:
- Rockport Beach Park: Pavilions for receptions, beach for ceremonies.
- Permits: Required via Rockport Parks Department (around $100-$200).
- Vendors:
- Planner: Rockport Weddings.
- Catering: Rockport Catering Co..
- Rentals: Texas Coastal Rentals.
- Rockport Beach Pavilion – Intimate and picturesque.
Texas Beach Wedding Planning Checklist
| Step | Details | Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Choose Your Beach | Pick from Galveston, South Padre, Port Aransas, Corpus Christi, or Rockport | See above sections |
| Secure Permits | Contact city offices for special event permits | Links provided per beach |
| Book a Venue | Decide between public beach or private venue | Venue hyperlinks above |
| Hire Vendors | Planner, photographer, rentals, catering, florist | Vendor links per beach |
| Plan Decor | Use natural elements like shells, driftwood, and ocean-inspired colors | Beach Wedding Decor Ideas |
| Check Weather | Avoid spring break (March) and winter chills | Texas Weather Guide |
Tips for a Perfect Texas Beach Wedding
- Timing: Opt for sunrise or sunset ceremonies to avoid midday heat.
- Guest Comfort: Provide flip-flops, sunscreen, and shaded areas.
- Backup Plan: Book an indoor venue option in case of rain.
- Permits Early: Secure permits 30-60 days in advance.
- Local Flavor: Serve BBQ or Tex-Mex for a true Texas touch.
Ready to Say “I Do” on a Texas Beach?
Whether you’re drawn to Galveston’s historic charm, South Padre’s tropical allure, or Port Aransas’ rustic simplicity, Texas beaches deliver unforgettable weddings. Start planning today—contact vendors, secure permits, and let the Gulf Coast set the stage for your love story.