Gulf Coast Wedding Venues

When you're planning a Gulf Coast wedding, there is so much beauty, fun and enjoyment to await you and your family and friends during your stay. From the sparkling waters and the sandy beaches to the unique diners and museums, there are so many places to go for bridal photographs and other wedding-related activities along the Gulf Coast.

Events Around the Florida Gulf Coast

There is always something going on around Florida's Gulf Coast for guests to enjoy. Favorite annual events to enjoy during a wedding celebration on the area islands and mainland include:

• J.N. Ding Darling Days on Sanibel. Take the whole bridal party out for a night on the town.

• Annual American Sandsculpting Championship Festival, which is perfect to include in bridal party photos and activities. You could even have a bridesmaids versus groomsmen competition of your own!

• Annual Sanibel Shell Fair and Show. You could even include shells as part of your wedding jewelry, decor, or guest gifts.

Wedding Venue Options on the Gulf Coast

In addition to churches or the local city halls and courthouses on the Gulf Coast, there are many other wonderful wedding venues to offer fun activities and once-in-a-lifetime memories for you and your guests. You could get married:

• At a resort. Local accommodations like the elegant South Seas Island resort provides both indoor and outdoor options for ceremonies, parties and more.

• On the shores. You can't visit Captiva or neighboring Sanibel Island without someone suggesting shelling. This is because the beaches have some of the most plentiful shelling areas in the world. From sand dollars to shark teeth to scallops, you'll find beautiful shells with each step you take on the sandy shoreline.

• On a trail. Protected wildlife areas and beaches offer ample opportunity to stretch your legs, watch the wildlife and take a deep breath of fresh air, or even as a venue for your wedding. Some guests enjoy a secluded area for a smaller and more intimate wedding venue.

• At a shop. Bring a slice of island paradise home with a little souvenir of your visit. Or, buy that "something new" for your special day. Some of the local shops could be a perfect venue for a modern or eclectic look to your wedding.

• On a cruise. Take a daytime or evening cruise. Many of the Captiva cruises offer dining options, fireworks and more.

• Out on the seas. From fishing to jet skiing and everything between, there's a water sport to suit your activity level and desires here on the island. If you're really adventurous, you could even get married under the sea.

• On the beach at sunset. What could be more romantic than a wedding ceremony at sunset over the sparkling Gulf Coast waters? There's nothing quite like it.