The East Coast is home to some of the most awe inspiringly beautiful waterfront wedding venues. Each with their own unique perspective yet united by a shared celebration of heritage and timelessness. Exchanging vows against the backdrop of sparkling water, clinking glasses beneath a purple pink sky, sailcloth tents and sprawling lawns dotted with Adirondack chairs, the East Coast has a forever appeal. And yet, as much as their waterfront vistas bring these venues together, each retains its own unique personality and style.
To help you plan your dream waterfront wedding, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 luxury East Coast waterfront venues. Whether you’re drawn to the crashing waves of Maine’s Cliff House or the serene charm of Lowndes Grove, these venues offer serene waterfront views and timeless beauty, ensuring your wedding day is filled with breathtaking moments and coastal charm. From historic estates to stunning coastal inns, these venues provide couples with an exclusive, romantic setting for a wedding day filled with salty breezes and personalized details.
1. Ocean House Weddings
The Ocean House is a crown jewel of Rhode Island’s coastline. It’s the perfect place to begin our tour of East Coast waterfront wedding venues! Originally built in 1868 and lovingly reconstructed, this grand Victorian-era resort overlooks the Atlantic Ocean from a bluff in Watch Hill. The entire resort offers breathtaking panoramic views. The resort blends timeless elegance with five-star luxury and is the only Forbes Triple Five-Star resort in Rhode Island.
Weddings at Ocean House are nothing short of extraordinary. The venue features a variety of sophisticated event spaces, including an expansive ballroom, a breezy oceanfront terrace, and a charming beach cottage nestled in the dunes. With a private beach and exquisite New England charm, Ocean House provides a one-of-a-kind setting for both intimate celebrations and grand affairs.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 250 guests.
- Ocean House Address: 1 Bluff Ave, Watch Hill, RI 02891
- Ocean House Phone Number: (401) 348-8000
- Ocean House Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Ocean House:
- South Lawn: An outdoor ceremony site with ocean views, accommodating up to 150 guests.
- East Lawn: A serene location for ceremonies of up to 150 guests, bordered by hydrangeas.
- Atlantic Ballroom: A grand indoor space with panoramic ocean views, suitable for receptions and ceremonies.
- Verandah: A covered outdoor space offering ocean vistas, ideal for cocktail hours or intimate gatherings.
- Private Beach: Ideal for unique ceremony moments or romantic photo opportunities, this serene stretch of sand is exclusively available to Ocean House couples.
2. Cliff House Weddings
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Cape Neddick, Maine, Cliff House offers unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean. With its roots as a historic coastal inn, this venue seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern luxury. The Cliff House’s stunning on the water location, surrounded by the rocky coastline and crashing waves, provides a storybook backdrop for a romantic and timeless wedding.
The venue offers multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces. This includes a luxurious ballroom and an outdoor terrace with sweeping ocean views. Whether you’re hosting an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Cliff House’s combination of natural beauty and elegant design creates an unforgettable setting.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 300 guests.
- Cliff House Address: 591 Shore Rd, Cape Neddick, ME 03902
- Cliff House Phone Number: (207) 361-1000
- Cliff House Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Cliff House:
- North Point Lawn: An outdoor ceremony site with panoramic ocean views.
- Atlantic Ballroom: A spacious indoor venue with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Atlantic, suitable for receptions and ceremonies.
- Oceanview Terrace Salon: A versatile space with ocean vistas, ideal for cocktail hours or smaller gatherings.
- Cape Neddick Salon: A private dining room with coastal views, perfect for intimate receptions or rehearsal dinners.
3. Vizcaya Museum Weddings
Located in Miami, Florida, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is an iconic waterfront estate that transports couples to a romantic Mediterranean paradise. Built in the early 1900s, this breathtaking venue features a grand mansion surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views of Biscayne Bay. The property’s unique architecture, featuring ornate details and classic European design, offers an unparalleled backdrop for a luxurious wedding celebration.
Vizcaya’s opulence and history will leave you and your guests enchanted. The venue’s combination of architectural beauty and natural surroundings makes it a truly one-of-a-kind destination.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 400 guests.
- Vizcaya Museum Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
- Vizcaya Museum Phone Number: (305) 250-9133
- Vizcaya Museum Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Vizcaya Museum:
- Formal Gardens: Perfect for an outdoor ceremony. The gardens feature Italian Renaissance-inspired design, with sculptures, fountains, and manicured hedges creating an enchanting setting.
- The Patio & Loggia: Overlooking Biscayne Bay, this space is ideal for a cocktail hour or reception. It offers stunning views of the water and Vizcaya’s lush surroundings.
- The Historic Stone Gazebo: A truly unique ceremony space. This serene spot nestled in the gardens offers a peaceful ambiance surrounded by nature.
4. Castle Hill Inn Weddings
Castle Hill Inn is situated proudly atop a private 40-acre peninsula on the coast of Newport, Rhode. With a history that dates back to the 19th century, this former mansion offers breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay. The estate’s pristine grounds provide a romantic setting for a wedding filled with both lush greenery and azure blue water.
Castle Hill Inn offers a variety of waterfront event spaces. The venue’s combination of elegance, charm, and natural beauty ensures that your wedding will be nothing short of coastal magic.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 150 guests.
- Castle Hill Inn Address: 590 Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840
- Castle Hill Inn Phone Number: (401) 849-3800
- Castle Hill Inn Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Castle Hill Inn:
- The Lawn: Offering sweeping views of the ocean, this spacious outdoor area is perfect for a waterfront ceremony or reception.
- The Dining Room: A beautifully appointed indoor space featuring large windows with views of the bay, ideal for an elegant reception or intimate gathering.
- The Tent: A large, waterfront tent perfect for a reception or cocktail hour, offering panoramic views of the water and surrounding landscape.
5. Inn at Perry Cabin Weddings
Situated along the tranquil shores of the Miles River in St. Michaels, Maryland, the Inn at Perry Cabin is a luxurious waterfront venue and getaway. This historic estate, dating back to the early 1800s, combines old-world charm with modern elegance, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for couples.
The venue features a variety of event spaces, from the romantic cricket lawn to the spectacular, waterside lawn. Its charming accommodations, exceptional dining options, and spa services ensure that every moment of your wedding experience is elevated. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a grand tented reception, the Inn can host celebrations of nearly every size.
Guest Capacity: Up to 250 guests.
- Inn at Perry Cabin Address: 308 N. Talbot St., St. Michaels, MD 21663
- Inn at Perry Cabin Phone Number: +1 410-745-2200
- Inn at Perry Cabin Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Inn at Perry Cabin:
- The Library: For more intimate gatherings or rehearsal dinners, this elegant space provides a cozy, refined atmosphere with a fireplace and intimate seating.
- Waterside Lawn: A beautiful, expansive lawn with stunning views of the Miles River. It is perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
- Cricket Lawn: A charming, floral filled space ideal for an intimate ceremony, cocktail hour, or small reception.
- The Pavilion: A sophisticated permanent tent venue situated in a wooded glen between the main house and the pool. It’s ideal for an intimate, open air reception.
6. The Wauwinet Weddings
Nestled on the secluded shores of Nantucket, The Wauwinet is a luxurious waterfront venue. With stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the peaceful Pocomo Head, this charming hotel combines rustic elegance with modern amenities, providing an unparalleled location for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience. Known for its serene atmosphere and impeccable service, The Wauwinet ensures that every detail of your wedding day is executed flawlessly.
The Wauwinet boasts multiple event spaces. This includes its iconic beach and garden areas. With a range of accommodations and an exceptional culinary team, the venue provides a truly personalized experience for each couple, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a more intimate, exclusive affair.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
- The Wauwinet Address: 120 Wauwinet Road, Nantucket, MA 02554
- The Wauwinet Phone Number: +1 508-228-0145
- The Wauwinet Wedding Website
Event Spaces at The Wauwinet:
- The Dining Room: For a more intimate reception or rehearsal dinner, this indoor venue provides a warm, inviting atmosphere with ocean views.
- The Beach: A beautiful stretch of private beach along the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for a romantic oceanfront ceremony or a sunset reception.
- The Garden: An elegant outdoor space surrounded by lush gardens and views of the water, perfect for a picturesque ceremony or cocktail hour.
- The Pavilion: A stylish, tented space ideal for receptions, offering panoramic views of the water and enough room for dancing, dining, and celebrations.
7. Glen Manor House Weddings
Located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Glen Manor House is a stunning, historic mansion that offers a picturesque waterfront setting for a wedding. It’s the perfect combination of a European chateau and waterfront New England mansion. With its elegant architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and tranquil water views, this charming venue provides a timeless and romantic atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a grand indoor celebration or a relaxed outdoor ceremony, Glen Manor House combines luxury with old-world charm to create an unforgettable wedding experience.
The venue’s spacious grounds provide multiple options for hosting your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Its stately interiors are equally impressive, with grand staircases, chandeliers, and historic details.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 250 guests.
- Glen Manor House Address: 3 Glen Manor Drive, Portsmouth, RI 02871
- Glen Manor House Phone Number: +1 401-683-4186
- Glen Manor House Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Glen Manor House:
- The Garden: A lush, peaceful space ideal for intimate ceremonies, cocktail hours, or post-ceremony photos.
- The Great Hall: A grand space with towering ceilings and elegant chandeliers, perfect for formal receptions or large ceremonies.
- The Lawn: A picturesque outdoor space with views of the water, perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour.
- The Terrace: Offering views of the water, this charming space is perfect for a relaxed reception or pre-dinner gathering.
8. Lowndes Grove Weddings
Located on the banks of the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina, Lowndes Grove is one of the area’s premier waterfront wedding venues. Built circa 1786, it spans 14 acres and features a grand lawn, a glass-enclosed portico, and a 750-square-foot piazza overlooking the river and oak grove. The property also boasts a private dock extending 700 feet into the river, offering unparalleled coastal views.
Ideal for weddings, Lowndes Grove offers multiple event spaces, including the Main House, a formal dining room, and a grand lawn with a picturesque river backdrop. The venue’s historic charm, combined with modern amenities, provides a versatile setting for both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions. Couples and guests can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the Lowcountry, highlighted by panoramic sunsets along the waterfront.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 560 guests.
- Lowndes Grove Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Lowndes Grove:
- Main House: This grand residence boasts expansive windows that provide sweeping views of the river, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for both ceremonies and receptions.
- Grand Lawn: Overlooking the Main House, this spacious outdoor area can accommodate up to 500 guests, offering a perfect spot for large ceremonies or receptions with scenic river vistas.
- Piazza: A 750-square-foot covered porch overlooking the oak grove and river, perfect for guests to relax and enjoy the serene views.
- Portico: A glass-enclosed area connecting the Main House to the Grand Lawn, ideal for dining, dancing, or lounging with river views.
- Private Dock: Extending into the Ashley River, the private dock offers a unique spot for ceremonies or guest arrivals by boat.
9. Chesapeake Bay Beach Club Weddings
Nestled along the beautiful shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Stevensville, Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club offers a truly exceptional waterfront wedding experience. This expansive, contemporary venue provides panoramic views of the Bay and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that seamlessly blend modern style with the natural beauty of its surroundings. With its elegant event spaces and luxurious amenities, the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club is the perfect setting for a waterfront wedding that is both chic and romantic.
The venue features a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces that can be customized to suit your wedding style. From the grand ballroom to the waterfront terrace, each space offers a stunning view of the Chesapeake Bay, ensuring that every moment of your celebration is unforgettable.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 350 guests.
- Chesapeake Bay Beach Club Address: 500 Marina Club Road, Stevensville, MD 21666
- Chesapeake Bay Beach Club Phone Number: +1 410-604-1933
- Chesapeake Bay Beach Club Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Chesapeake Bay Beach Club:
- The Bay Room: With its floor-to-ceiling windows, this room offers sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay, ideal for large receptions.
- The Pavilion: An elegant, spacious venue with a waterfront location for both indoor and outdoor weddings.
- The Water’s Edge: A picturesque outdoor ceremony space right by the water, perfect for a romantic waterfront exchange of vows.
10. The Oaks Weddings
Situated in the charming town of Easton, Maryland, The Oaks offers a beautiful waterfront setting for an intimate and romantic wedding. Set along the Tred Avon River, this private estate boasts stunning grounds, elegant event spaces, and a serene atmosphere that makes it one of the Eastern Shore’s most coveted wedding venues. The Oaks offers a blend of classic elegance and modern luxury, providing a memorable backdrop for couples seeking a tranquil, romantic celebration.
With both indoor and outdoor spaces, The Oaks provides flexibility for couples to design their perfect wedding day. The beautiful waterfront lawn is ideal for ceremonies, while the rustic-chic barn and elegant tented spaces provide options for receptions. The venue’s proximity to Easton and its range of accommodations make it a convenient yet picturesque choice for couples seeking a peaceful waterfront escape.
Guest Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
- The Oaks Address: 38290 Crickett Lane, Easton, MD 21601
- The Oaks Phone Number: +1 410-822-9020
- The Oaks Wedding Website
Event Spaces at The Oaks:
- The Orchard: A peaceful, shaded area perfect for intimate ceremonies or post-ceremony photos with stunning views of the surrounding grounds.
- Ceremony Lawn: An expansive outdoor lawn surrounded by lush gardens and the tranquil waters of Oak Creek, perfect for exchanging vows in a serene setting.
- Covered Dock (The Pavilion): A versatile covered dock area that can serve as a backup for ceremonies in case of inclement weather, offering panoramic water views and a unique ambiance.
- Waterfront Ballroom: An elegant indoor space featuring coffered ceilings, wood floors, and large windows that provide stunning views of the water, suitable for receptions, dinners, or large ceremonies.
Luxury Waterfront Wedding Venues
Inspired to plan your celebration at a Waterfront Wedding Venue? I would be so thrilled to talk more about how we can beautifully capture your love story! To inquire, please click here or use the link below. Katie Trauffer Photography is based in Maryland and happily serves beautiful destinations world wide.
