It is time to close your eyes and picture yourself on your big day: the day you tie the know, exchange your love vows and start a brand new and exciting chapter of your life.
If your mind flies immediately to a place with sunny and clear skies, with a saltwater-tinged breeze, the sound of the waves gently lapping in the background, and your toes in the sand, then the answer is pretty easy: you envision your wedding on the beach.
Portugal, with its stunning coastline, might be the perfect destination option as it offers golden beaches, a romantic ambiance, and pleasant weather to throw this big event at the beach.
No wonder Portugal is a top choice for couples seeking a destination wedding, particularly a magical beach wedding.
If you can't stop thinking of your wedding with the most beautiful backdrop - the ocean -, we have come up with some tips to help you plan a fabulous beach wedding.
Choose your location
It's not a secret that Portugal boasts an array of breathtaking beach venues, that offer a unique charm and jaw-dropping views. To live the wedding on the beach that you always dreamed of, consider the following top destinations:
The Algarve:
The Algarve is famous for its dramatic cliffs, golden sands and luxurious wedding venues, which make the region perfect for either intimate or larger celebrations.
Destination Wedding in the Algarve: the most stunning wedding venues!
Lisbon Coast:
Pretty close to the Portuguese capital, beaches like Cascais and Estoril offer elegance and convenience with world-class amenities. Also just 30 minutes away from this charming city, couples can indulge in the incredible region of Costa da Caparica, with long and beautiful beaches.
Madeira or Azores Islands:
For a more exotic vibe, these volcanic islands provide lush landscapes and stunning ocean views. Nowadays, several couples have chosen these islands as the stage of their wedding.
Destination wedding in the Azores: the landscape where dreams come true!
Costa Vicentina
This lesser-known gem is perfect for couples seeking unspoiled natural beauty and a bohemian vibe.
Understand local regulations
Beach weddings in Portugal may require permits, depending on the beach and municipality. Work with a local wedding planner who understands the legalities and can secure the necessary permissions.
Usually, beach weddings are legally-compliant in Portugal with a single requirement - a marine police license that needs to be secured before your wedding day. Know more about the legal requirements to get married in Portugal!
Consider the best time of the year
Portugal’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination, but the best months for a beach wedding are from May to September. During these months, you’re likely to experience warm, sunny weather. However, try to avoid August if you’re concerned about crowds, as it’s peak tourist season.
Send over save-the-dates
If your beach wedding happens to be simultaneously a destination wedding, it's important that you give your guests an early heads-up so they have plenty of time to plan everything from their side: request vacation days at work and manage to get good deals on travel.
With that being said, a year in advance notice is ideal, especially for the closest family and friends.
The dress-code
One thing is certain: beach weddings are often more casual and have a carefree vibe. However, that doesn't mean that you have to wave goodbye to elegance and glamour.
Whatever dress code you decide on, make sure it is clearly stated in your invitation and save-the-dates. If the ceremony is taking place directly on the sand, your guests must be aware of that from the start so they are prepared, when it comes to the shoes they wear. Also, suggest your guests to bring sunglasses and little fans, as well as apply sunscreen.
Plan for comfort and logistics
Beach weddings are undeniably romantic, but they come with unique challenges. So, keep these tips in mind, in case some of tour guests forgot about them:
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Footwear: Provide baskets of flip-flops or encourage barefoot ceremonies to avoid sand-filled shoes.
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Shade and seating: Rent canopies or parasols for shade and consider sturdy chairs suitable for sandy terrain.
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Weather backup: Have a contingency plan in place in case of unexpected rain or strong winds.
Incorporate Portuguese traditions
Make your wedding uniquely Portuguese by incorporating local traditions. Serve vinho verde, a refreshing local wine, and have a traditional fado singer serenade your guests. Decorate with azulejo tiles as a nod to Portuguese art, or gift guests with small bottles of port wine as favours.
A beach wedding in Portugal offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and stunning natural beauty.
With its sun-kissed shores and warm hospitality, Portugal is ready to make your dream wedding a reality.
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