The refreshing breeze of the ocean, endless views, and one-of-a-kind charm that can only be found on these North Eastern shores — each of these waterfront wedding venues in New England have it all. Let’s dive into the details of what makes each of them stand out.
The waterfront is always a great choice.
Ocean House
Watch Hill, Rhode Island
With Victorian-era grandeur, sweeping coastal views, and five-star service it’s no wonder why BRIDES Magazine named Ocean House the top venue for destination weddings in the country. Reopened in 2004, this property is modeled after the first estate that was built on the land in 1868 and still includes many of its original furnishings. You’ll find an array of options for your wedding weekend, but the most stunning location has to be the Ellipse Lawn. Tented receptions here are truly breathtaking backdropped by the yellow-clad architecture on one side and ocean views on the other.
Photo 1: Ocean House Photo 2: laura klacik photography
Wychmere Beach Club
Harwich Port, Massachusetts
Overlooking the shores of Nantucket Sound, this private resort offers breathtaking ocean news and an effortless coastal atmosphere — all with the classic style of Cape Cod. At Wychmere Beach Club, couples can exchange vows on the sand or in one of their three stunning event spaces. The Ocean Room has a contemporary feel with a clean color palette, while the Harbor Room features a classic Cape Cod vibe with wood beams and surrounding views of the harbor. My favorite, however, is The Dune – a two-story, indoor-outdoor space complete with a rooftop terrace and chic lounge areas.
Photos: wychmere
Wentworth by The Sea Country Club Weddings
Rye, New Hampshire
Just minutes from the charming town of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this waterfront venue boasts manicured greens and sweeping views of the Little Harbor. A ceremony on the lush lawn feels almost cinematic — the graceful sailboats passing in the distance, the salty ocean air, the soft sway of the surrounding wildflowers. Receptions held under their in-house Sperry sailcloth tent perfectly tie in with the New England atmosphere while the Pavillion offers a timeless indoor setting with vaulted ceilings and a flood of natural light.
Photo 1: Casey Durgin Photography Photo 2: scarletroots
White Elephant Nantucket
Nantucket, Massachusetts
A landmark of Nantucket Island since the 1920s, White Elephant Resort has been recently reimagined to honor its storied past while embracing timeless aesthetics. Here, you’ll find a refreshing take on nautical themes and luxurious accommodations too. Sitting at the mouth of Nantucket Harbor, its manicured grounds and private dockside create a feeling of understated luxury and inviting comfort. The Harborview Lawn is an undeniable highlight, offering a striking ceremony backdrop where the Atlantic stretches behind you. With over 4,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, in-house catering, and on-site accommodations, this is a quintessential waterfront New England venue.
photo 1: rebecca love photography Photo 2: zofia photo
Wequassett Resort & Golf Club
Harwich, Massachusetts
Set on 25 acres of waterfront land, this award-winning resort blends timeless New England charm with modern luxury. In celebration of its 100th anniversary, the Wequassett Resort has been thoughtfully renovated to include upscale amenities and freshly appointed rooms. Although there are seven event spaces, the standout location for ceremonies here is the Grand Lawn where you’ll find English-style gardens and panoramic views of Nantucket Sound. From a sunset welcome party on the terrace to an afternoon of golf to end the weekend, every moment of your wedding weekend here will be accounted for.
Photo 1: griggieri Photo 2: Sarah Murray Photography
More Waterfront Wedding Venues In New England To Consider
- The Crane Estate — a Stuart-style mansion on the coast of Massachusetts with 2,100 acres of land that is completely unforgettable.
- Castle Hill Inn — Victorian-era inn on its very own peninsula in Rhode Island, with a luxurious planning experience led by David Tutera.
- Rosecliff Mansion — a museum and historic estate modeled after The Grand Trianon in Versailles and host to some of the most lavish soirees of the Gilded Age.
Looking for more wedding venues in New England?
You can find more information about some of the best New England wedding venues over on this blog. As a wedding photographer in New England and Pennsylvania, I can assure you each of these venues embody that iconic atmosphere of the area.
But if you’re ready to discover the possibilities, I’d love to chat!
