Getting married by the sea is one of the most shared dreams among couples who want a magical, intimate wedding surrounded by an unparalleled natural setting. Beach weddings in Spain offer the perfect backdrop for an emotional ceremony, a gentle sea breeze, and an unforgettable sunset. However, to ensure that this dream doesn’t turn into a source of stress, it’s essential to fully understand everything involved in planning this type of celebration.
From required permits and choosing the right location to logistical details and weather-adaptation alternatives, here’s everything you need to know before saying “I do” on the sand.
Is it legally possible to get married on the beach in Spain?
The short answer is yes — but it’s not as simple as choosing a beautiful beach and setting up an altar. For a wedding to be legally valid in Spain, it must take place in venues authorised by the Civil Registry. Beaches, as public spaces, require special permits and in many cases are not approved for legally binding civil ceremonies.
For this reason, the most common option is to hold a symbolic ceremony on the beach and complete the legal formalities either before or after the celebration at the town hall. In certain areas, such as getting married on the Costa del Sol, there are professionals and private venues that offer more flexible solutions for organising this type of event.
Beach wedding venues in Spain: which are the most popular?
Spain offers hundreds of spectacular locations to celebrate a wedding by the sea. Some of the most popular destinations for beach weddings include:
- Costa del Sol (Andalusia): warm climate, excellent tourist infrastructure, and wedding options available all year round.
- Costa Brava (Catalonia): charming cliffs, hidden coves, and Mediterranean landscapes ideal for intimate weddings.
- Balearic Islands: crystal-clear beaches and a bohemian vibe, especially in Ibiza, Mallorca, and Formentera.
- Canary Islands: perfect for winter weddings or couples looking for a more tropical climate.
- Lesser-known beaches: peaceful spots in provinces such as Cádiz, Huelva, Murcia, or Asturias that surprise with their beauty and authenticity.
The key is finding a location that suits the type of wedding you want, the number of guests, and the logistics involved in hosting an event in a natural environment.
Beach wedding tips that really work
Hosting a beach wedding means considering factors that don’t apply to traditional weddings. Here are some beach wedding tips that truly make a difference:
- Avoid the hottest hours: the best time for the ceremony is in the late afternoon, close to sunset.
- Choose the right footwear: forget high heels and opt for sandals, espadrilles, or going barefoot on the sand.
- Have a plan B: no matter how good the weather forecast looks, a tent or covered space is always recommended in case of rain or wind.
- Confirm permits: if the beach is public, check with the local town hall to see if authorisation is required.
- Keep décor minimal: the natural surroundings are already stunning, so there’s no need to overload the space.
- Inform your guests: include guidance in the invitation regarding comfortable attire, the exact location, and potential changes.
Advantages and challenges of getting married on the beach
Like anything else, getting married on the beach comes with both pros and cons. Here’s a summary to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for you:
| Advantages | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Romantic, natural setting | Municipal permits and regulations |
| Stunning photography | Weather dependency |
| Ideal for intimate or boho-style weddings | Accessibility limitations for elderly guests or those with reduced mobility |
| Opportunity for a truly unique experience | Ambient noise (waves, wind, beachgoers) |
What if I’m organising my wedding in Spain from another country?
Many international couples choose Spain as their destination for a beach wedding, thanks to the climate and the beauty of its coastline. If this is your case, it’s highly recommended to work with a local team that can handle paperwork, source suppliers, and coordinate everything remotely.
There are specialised services designed to simplify the entire process. You can explore this guide on how to organise your wedding in Spain from abroad to better understand the steps and timelines involved.
If you dream of saying “I do” by the sea, at My Natural Wedding we can help make it a reality. We have experience organising seaside weddings, offering options that adapt to different styles, budgets, and destinations.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to get married on the beach?
Yes, in most cases. If the beach is public, you’ll need authorisation from the local town hall. Some coastal hotels or private venues already hold the necessary licences for events.
Is a beach wedding more expensive?
Not necessarily. A simple, affordable beach wedding is possible, but if the location requires setup, transport, permits, or tents, costs can increase.
What happens if it rains?
You should plan an alternative option from the start. Tents, nearby covered spaces, or even moving the ceremony to an indoor venue with sea views are all excellent solutions.
Can I have a symbolic ceremony and sign the legal paperwork elsewhere?
Absolutely. This is the most common approach. Many couples complete the legal process at the civil registry and then hold a personalised symbolic ceremony on the beach with an officiant.
Conclusion: getting married on the beach is a dream… and one that can be planned
Beach weddings in Spain combine the emotion of a unique natural setting with the charm of a truly special event. But like anything worthwhile, they require planning, flexibility, and informed decisions.
Do you have questions about how to organise your beach wedding? Leave us a comment — we’ll be delighted to help!
