6 Barbados Destination Wedding Venues for a Stunning Island Celebration

Before you write off off this eastern Caribbean island as a cruise ship port—remember there’s a reason why its among the most popular vacation spots in the region. Especially for a couple who wants to plan a getaway nuptial on a budget, a Barbados destination wedding might check off all of your boxes. As an independent British Commonwealth nation, this tropical spot in the sea is known for colonial buildings, white-sand beaches, and botanical gardens. Because of its UK influence, you can expect many of the cultural traditions found across the Atlantic, like afternoon tea and cricket.

If the idea of a relaxed, yet refined celebration is what you’d prefer for one of the most special days of your life, here’s what you need to know to start planning a Barbados destination wedding.

The Best Time to Get Married in Barbados

Apart from when the hurricane belt threatens the islands of the Caribbean, nearly any time of year is ideal for a Barbados destination wedding. That is, if you and your partner (and all of your guests) can handle the heat! During the summer months of May to August, you can expect scorching and humid weather, which might have you taking your ceremony indoors. For milder, dry temperatures, the best time to get hitched is from December to April, which unfortunately, is also the peak of tourism season.

Marriage Laws in Barbados

Unlike other parts of the Caribbean—from St. Lucia to Mexico and others—Barbados is one of the easiest countries to marry in for non-natives. You don’t have to abide by a waiting period, and typically, a blood test is not required. Though you will need to bring along your passport, birth certificate and proof of death or divorce if applicable, the rest of the process is one, two, ‘I do!’

Best Barbados Wedding Venues

Thanks to its gorgeous beaches and copious amounts of Vitamin D, Barbados is home to plenty of resorts, all of which are waiting and ready for you to book your Barbados destination wedding. Here, a few to consider:

Landfall House

For this island nation, living slow and happy is the preferred style of the natives. So when you host your Barbados destination wedding, you’ll want to bring that warmth to your ceremony and reception. This six-bedroom property is a luxury rental villa offering an escape for you and your guests on one of the most desired beachfront areas. Spanning 12,000 square feet, Landfall House is the ideal setting for a quaint guest list, allowing you to exchange vows in the open courtyard, on the beach, in a gazebo or by the pool.

Treasure Beach

The top pick for most couples hosting a Barbados destination wedding is this luxury resort, complete with a pretty beach and ample amounts of tropical gardens. Treasure Beach is spread across many acres, offering countless venue options—from on the lawn to by the shore—and can host up to 1,000 guests. However, your guests will likely need to find another spot to call their temporary home, since the resort features only 35 all-suite rooms, ideal for close family members and beloved pals. With plenty in either direction, the wedding team will help you find a place for everyone who treks to your getaway nuptials.

Beach View

Though some couples want to bring out all of the bells-and-whistles for their special day, others prefer to keep their party intimate and small. If you’re more on the private side, consider this all-suite, self-catering condo hotel. Though it isn’t on the beach, there is a beautiful one across the road, where sea turtles are often found wading through the waters. Beach View's property itself is adorned with three acres of landscaped gardens, featuring fruit trees, flowers and a myriad of natural colors from Mother Nature herself.

Sandy Lane

You weren’t sure if you’d ever meet ‘The One’—especially after years and years of dating. So now that it is time to make it official with that partner who finally showed up, the last thing you want is an over-the-top party to remind you of the bar scene you grew weary of. Enter: this serene hotel that dates back to 1961. For couples seeking to wed indoors or outdoors, the on-site team at Sandy Lane will ensure your Barbados destination wedding is more tranquil and relaxed, just as you’d prefer it.

Fairmont Royal Pavilion

Located in the St. James region of this country, the Fairmont Royal Pavilion brings a whole new level of luxury to a Barbados destination wedding. Because it is tucked away, you and your guests will be able to savor the romance, without worrying about fighting crowds for beach chairs. Depending on what you and your partner choose for your ceremony and reception, you can deck out the beachfront lawn, their fine dining restaurant or of course, the beach. The onsite wedding team also offers several wedding packages, all of which include personalized services, marriage license fees, a wedding arch with fresh flowers, her bouquet and his boutonniere, a bottle of champagne, a two-tier wedding cake and more perks.

Sugar Cane Club and Spa

Ask couples who have married at this gorgeous spot for their Barbados destination wedding and they’ll sing the praises of such a special place. It’s located in Speightstown on the west coast, this hotel might be small in size, but it offers a big experience for any engaged twosomes who want to create magic. At Sugar Cane Club and Spa, you’ll find polished lawns, a manicured beach, and recommended local cuisine. Though it meets all of the must-haves for getaway celebrations in general, it’s the hands-on staff that goes above and beyond that really makes it stand out from other properties.