Best Beach Wedding Venues in Sarasota County

Plus great options for your reception afterwards!

For couples thinking of a beach wedding, SW Florida has some of the prettiest beaches in the world. With Sarasota, Tampa, Punta Gorda and Ft. Myers airports nearby, they’re easily accessible so your guests can fly in from anywhere and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. See the best beach wedding venues in Sarasota County below.

Hi there, I’m Stephanie Snow, your SW Florida wedding photographer. I work with couples planning their beach weddings and have personal recommendations based on your needs. Each beach area has unique photo opportunities and are a little different. Click below to schedule a complimentary consultation.

1. Siesta Key Beach

Known for its incredibly soft, white quartz sand, Siesta Key Beach creates a dreamy atmosphere for wedding pictures. With turquoise waters and vibrant sunsets, this beach is perfect for capturing timeless moments with a classic Florida feel. The expansive shoreline provides ample room to avoid crowds, allowing for intimate shots that truly focus on the couple’s love story. After the ceremony, couples can celebrate nearby at Ophelia’s on the Bay, known for its seafood and waterfront views, or The Cottage, a cozy spot offering a mix of local and tropical dishes. These venues add the perfect relaxed vibe for beachside wedding receptions.

2. Lido Key Beach

Lido Key is a slightly quieter option, offering wide sections of sand, gentle waves, and a range of shaded areas perfect for capturing romantic and serene images. Couples can choose from open shorelines or tucked-away beachside palms for a variety of backdrops. The combination of seclusion and diverse scenery makes Lido Key an ideal location for couples seeking more private and natural wedding photos. Nearby, Tommy Bahama Restaurant is a fantastic choice for a laid-back yet elegant reception, while Shore at St. Armands Circle provides a vibrant, upscale option with fresh coastal dishes and a lively atmosphere, just a few minutes away.

3. Longboat Key

Longboat Key is a pristine, upscale beach perfect for couples who want a refined aesthetic. Known for its elegant shoreline bordered by lush, tropical greenery, this beach offers an intimate and polished look. The calm ambiance and wide-open spaces provide a luxurious feel for wedding photographs, especially during sunset, when the golden hour light enhances the beach’s sophisticated charm. Afterward, consider The Resort at Longboat Key Club for an intimate reception with sweeping Gulf views, or Chart House, offering seafood and romantic waterfront dining that’s perfect for smaller gatherings and stunning sunset views.

4. Venice Beach

There are several different beaches in the Venice area to have your wedding. The most popular places are Maxine Barritt Park or Caspersen Beach. The beach by the Venice Fishing Pier has plenty of room to hold a large wedding but can also be perfect for an intimate ceremony. Plus, it’s convenient to have your reception at Fins at Sharky’s afterwards. Fin’s is popular for its seafood and perfect for a fun afterparty. On the north end of the island is Crow’s Nest Marina Restaurant. They offer scenic harbor views and a relaxed atmosphere. The Venice Yacht Club is also a great option for members and non-members alike. They have the beautiful Sunset Room upstairs with gorgeous views over the ICW and a great chef and staff to help you plan your reception.

5. Nokomis Beach

Known for its natural charm and “Old Florida” feel, Nokomis Beach offers a peaceful escape with fewer crowds. With seagrass-lined dunes and lots of sand, this beach creates a serene backdrop, ideal for capturing earthy, organic wedding photos. The relaxed vibe and scenic views make it a beautiful choice for couples wanting a laid-back yet picturesque location. After photos, head to Pop’s Sunset Grill for casual waterfront dining and live music or Pelican Alley Restaurant, a laid-back spot for seafood and tropical drinks. Both options embrace the laid-back, Old Florida ambiance that makes Nokomis Beach so special.

6. Englewood Beach

Known for its quiet, scenic coastline, Englewood Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere with lovely photo opportunities. Magnolias on the Bay provides an intimate setting for receptions, while The Waverly Restaurant and Bar offers coastal-inspired elegance with breathtaking Gulf views directly across the street from Englewood Beach.

If you’re planning a Florida beach wedding and would like to discuss which beach wedding venues in Sarasota County may be best for you and your photography needs, I’d love to help. Click below to schedule a complimentary phone consultation.