Destination Weddings In St. Pete: Why Couples Love Tying the Knot In St. Pete, FL.

Planning a wedding is all about creating those core memories, and choosing the right location is a game-changer. If you're dreaming of a destination wedding in St. Pete and actually want it to feel like a vacation (but with vows), St. Pete, Florida, is where it's at. Think endless sunshine, unreal sunsets, and main-character energy for your big day.

As wedding planners who know St. Pete like the back of our hands, we’re here to spill all the tea on why couples are coming over here to say "I do" and how we make the entire planning process way easier for them.

Why St. Pete is THE Destination Wedding Spot

St. Pete isn’t just another beach town, it’s got vibes. You’re getting that perfect mix of laid-back coastal vibes and luxury without feeling stuffy or overdone. Here’s why couples are obsessed:

Insane Waterfront Views – Beach ceremony? Sunset yacht wedding? Rooftop overlooking the bay? St. Pete has it all. Your wedding album is guaranteed to be Pinterest-worthy.

Aesthetics – Between the artsy murals, historic charm, and modern venues, there’s a spot to match every wedding style. Boho? Classic? Luxe? St. Pete delivers honey.

Vacation Mode = ON – Guests will love making a trip out of it. Whether it’s chilling at the beach, hitting up rooftop bars, or exploring cute downtown spots, they’re in for a good time, which is very important for a destination wedding.

Super Easy to Get To – St. Pete is close to Tampa International Airport, which means less stress for your out-of-town guests. No one wants an exhausting travel saga before a wedding.

The Best Wedding Venues in St. Pete

Now, let’s talk venues. Whether you want barefoot-on-the-beach vibes or full-blown black-tie elegance, St. Pete has options. Here are some of our faves:

Hotel Zamora

If you're looking for a boutique-style, Mediterranean-inspired wedding venue with stunning waterfront views, Hotel Zamora is where it's at. This hidden gem on St. Pete Beach is perfect for couples who want a modern yet intimate setting.

Why Couples Love It:

• Rooftop – The rooftop terrace is insane (in the best way). Imagine exchanging vows with the Gulf as your backdrop, then transitioning into a breezy sunset reception.

• Small, Stylish, & Intimate – Hotel Zamora is ideal for mid-size weddings (think 50-100 guests), so you get that exclusive feel without feeling lost in a massive resort.

• Beach Access Without the Sand Drama – Unlike full-on beach weddings (where the wind and sand can be unpredictable), you get unobstructed waterfront views without worrying about your dress getting sandy.

• A Built-In Wedding Weekend Spot – The boutique hotel vibe means your guests can stay on-site, turning your wedding into a full-on destination experience.

Sunken Gardens

If you’re into greenery, waterfalls, and a “secret garden” aesthetic, Sunken Gardens is the place. One of St. Pete’s oldest attractions, this botanical garden gives you fairytale vibes with its beautiful pathways, towering palms, and exotic flowers.

Why Couples Love It:

• Tropical Elegance – Feels like you’re getting married in an enchanted rainforest.

• Unique Photo Ops – From koi ponds to vibrant blooms, every inch of this place is aesthetic.

• Perfect for Intimate Weddings – It’s ideal for couples who want a non-traditional, nature-focused wedding with a cozy, romantic feel.

The Birchwood

For couples who want chic, sophisticated, and downtown energy, The Birchwood is it. Located in the heart of St. Pete, this venue has a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking Tampa Bay, plus an elegant ballroom with vintage-meets-modern decor.

Why Couples Love It:

• Skyline Views – The rooftop is chef’s kiss for sunset ceremonies and receptions.

• Historic, Yet Modern – The 1920s architecture mixed with contemporary design makes it feel classic but fresh.

• Intimate, But Luxe – The venue is perfect for mid-size weddings with a touch of upscale charm.

The Don CeSar

If you’ve seen wedding photos from St. Pete, chances are The Don CeSar was in them. This legendary pink beachfront hotel is one of the most sought-after wedding venues on the Gulf Coast—and for good reason.

Why Couples Love It:

• Straight-Up Luxury – If you’re going for elegance, this is the venue.

• Beachfront + Ballroom Perfection – Say “I do” with your toes in the sand, then head inside for a stunning reception in one of their ballrooms.

• Old Hollywood Glam – The Don has been hosting weddings for nearly 100 years and has that timeless, Gatsby-esque energy.

How to Make Planning Stress-Free

Planning a destination wedding can feel overwhelming, but St. Pete makes it so much easier. Here’s why:

✔ All-Inclusive Venue Options – Many venues here offer full-service packages, meaning you won’t have to DIY everything from scratch.

✔ Vendor Dream Team – The wedding industry in St. Pete is stacked with amazing planners (AKA us), photographers, florists, and caterers who specialize in destination weddings.

✔ Guest-Friendly Accommodations – From luxury beachfront resorts to cute boutique hotels, there are plenty of options for guests at every budget.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like a vacation and a celebration all in one, St. Pete should definitely be on your radar. Between the stunning venues, laid-back atmosphere, and endless activities, it’s got everything you need for a stress-free, unforgettable wedding.

So, if you’re picturing yourself saying “I do” with an ocean breeze, golden-hour views, and a cocktail in hand—St. Pete might just be your perfect match. 💍✨