Jersey Shore Weddings
Say 'I do' with ocean breezes and stunning views. From Victorian estates to beachfront resorts, find your perfect shore wedding venue.
Wedding Styles
Beach Ceremony
Toes in the sand with ocean backdrop. Many beaches allow permitted ceremonies.
Victorian Garden
Cape May B&Bs offer charming garden settings with historic architecture.
Oceanfront Ballroom
Grand venues with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Atlantic.
Bayfront Sunset
West-facing venues on the bay capture spectacular sunset ceremonies.
Featured Wedding Venues
Congress Hall
Cape May
A National Historic Landmark and the nation's oldest seaside resort, Congress Hall has hosted weddings since the 1800s. The grand Victorian architecture, manicured lawns, and proximity to the beach create an unforgettable setting. Full-service venue with on-site catering and accommodations.
- ✓National Historic Landmark
- ✓Full-service venue with catering
- ✓On-site boutique hotel
- ✓Multiple ceremony and reception spaces
- ✓Spa services for wedding party
Best For
Tip: Book 18-24 months in advance for summer dates. Off-season weddings offer significant savings and equally beautiful settings.
The Reeds at Shelter Haven
Stone Harbor
An intimate waterfront venue on the bay side of Seven Mile Island. The Reeds offers sophisticated charm with stunning sunset views. The boutique hotel accommodations make it perfect for intimate destination weddings where guests can stay on-site.
- ✓Stunning bay and sunset views
- ✓Boutique hotel for guests
- ✓Award-winning on-site restaurant
- ✓Intimate, elegant atmosphere
Best For
Tip: Request the waterfront deck for your ceremony—sunset timing is spectacular. The restaurant is excellent for rehearsal dinners.
Bonnet Island Estate
Manahawkin
A private estate on the bay offering exclusive use for your wedding. The secluded location provides privacy and incredible sunset views. Gardens, waterfront ceremony spots, and elegant indoor spaces create a truly special setting.
- ✓Exclusive use of entire property
- ✓Stunning bay sunset views
- ✓Beautiful gardens and grounds
- ✓Private and secluded
Best For
Tip: Book a sunset ceremony time—the views over Barnegat Bay are unforgettable. Consider a boat arrival for dramatic effect.
Icona Golden Inn
Avalon
A beachfront resort offering the complete package: ceremony on the sand, reception in elegant indoor spaces, and guest accommodations steps away. The property spans beach to bay, offering multiple venue options.
- ✓Direct beachfront location
- ✓Multiple ceremony options
- ✓On-site accommodations
- ✓Full resort amenities
Best For
Tip: The beach ceremony with barefoot guests is their specialty. Have a backup indoor plan for weather.
All Wedding Venues
The Grand Hotel
Cape MayHotel
Classic oceanfront property with wraparound porches and beach access.
Mallard Island Yacht Club
ManahawkinYacht Club
Waterfront venue with nautical charm and beautiful bay views.
McLoone's Pier House
Long BranchRestaurant
Oceanfront restaurant venue with stunning pier views and excellent catering.
The Channel Club
Monmouth BeachYacht Club
Waterfront yacht club with panoramic views of the Shrewsbury River.
Windrift Hotel
AvalonHotel
Beachfront boutique hotel with rooftop bar and ocean views.
Southern Mansion
Cape MayPrivate Estate
Italianate Victorian mansion with stunning gardens and historic charm.
Venues by Region
Northern Shore
Long Branch to Asbury Park
Urban-chic venues with ocean views and modern style.
- • McLoone's Pier House
- • The Channel Club
- • Asbury Park venues
Closest to NYC. Great for guests traveling from the city.
Central Shore
Bay Head to LBI
Yacht clubs and bayfront estates with nautical charm.
- • Bonnet Island Estate
- • Mallard Island Yacht Club
- • Bay Head venues
Beautiful bay sunset locations. Booking essential.
Cape May Region
Avalon to Cape May
Victorian elegance, beachfront resorts, and classic shore charm.
- • Congress Hall
- • The Reeds
- • Icona Golden Inn
- • Southern Mansion
Most wedding venues. Book 18+ months for summer.
Wedding Planning Tips
Book Early
Summer weekends book 1-2 years in advance. Consider shoulder season (May, September, October) for better availability and rates.
Weather Backup
Beach ceremonies need indoor backup plans. Most venues offer covered alternatives. Include tent rental in your budget.
Guest Accommodations
Block rooms early. Shore hotels fill fast in summer. Venues with on-site hotels simplify logistics.
Local Vendors
Shore vendors know the locations and logistics. Ask venues for preferred vendor lists. They often offer package discounts.
Transportation
Arrange shuttles between ceremony, reception, and hotels. Many towns have limited parking and narrow streets.
Off-Season Savings
September and October offer beautiful weather, fewer crowds, and significant savings—often 30-50% less than summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we have a beach wedding in New Jersey?
Yes! Many beaches allow permitted ceremonies. Popular spots include Cape May, Avalon, and LBI. You'll need a beach permit and usually must use the town's designated area. Most couples do ceremony on the beach and reception at a nearby venue.
What is the average cost of a Jersey Shore wedding?
Costs vary widely from $150-$500+ per person depending on venue and season. High-end venues like Congress Hall run $300-500/person, while restaurant venues and off-season dates can be $150-200/person. Budget $30,000-$100,000+ total.
When is the best time for a shore wedding?
September and early October offer the best combination: warm weather, beautiful light, off-peak rates, and hotel availability. Summer (June-August) is peak season with highest demand and prices. May is lovely but can be cool.
How far in advance should we book?
For summer weekends: 18-24 months. For fall/spring: 12-18 months. Off-season or weekdays: 6-12 months. Popular venues like Congress Hall book even further out.
Explore Romantic Destinations
Plan your engagement trip or honeymoon at the shore.
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