If you’ve decided to elope in Miami, congratulations — you’ve already made one of the best decisions of your life. Now comes the fun part: choosing your venue.
For most couples, it comes down to two options: a beach ceremony on the sand, or a garden ceremony surrounded by tropical greenery. Both are stunning, both are uniquely Miami, and both create unforgettable photos.
So how do you choose? Here’s an honest comparison from our team, who has planned hundreds of ceremonies at both types of venues.
The Beach Elopement Experience
There’s a reason beach weddings are so popular — the combination of sand, ocean, and sky creates a naturally dramatic setting that needs very little decoration.
What a Beach Ceremony Feels Like
Picture this: your toes in warm sand, the sound of waves behind you, and a golden sunset painting the sky as you exchange vows. Beach ceremonies have an effortless, natural romance that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
Miami’s beaches range from the vibrant energy of South Beach to the quiet, palm-lined shores of Crandon Park on Key Biscayne. Each has a distinct personality.
Best Beach Venues in Miami
- Crandon Park — Our most popular beach venue. Crystal-clear water, coconut palms, and a tropical island feel
- Bill Baggs State Park — The Cape Florida Lighthouse creates a one-of-a-kind historic backdrop
- South Beach — Iconic, vibrant, and perfect for couples who want that classic Miami energy
- Mid-Beach — Quieter and more intimate than South Beach, with the same beautiful ocean views
- Fort Lauderdale Beach — Golden sand and spectacular sunrises, 30 minutes north of Miami
Pros of a Beach Wedding
- Naturally dramatic backdrop — the ocean does the decorating for you
- Sunset and sunrise ceremonies create spectacular photos
- Generally more affordable venue/permit fees
- Guests can dress casually and comfortably
- Built-in activities before and after the ceremony (swimming, walking, champagne on the sand)
Things to Consider
- Wind can affect hair, veils, and decor — plan accordingly
- Public beaches mean other people may be nearby (weekday mornings are quietest)
- Sand and high heels don’t always mix — many brides go barefoot
- Summer afternoon rain showers are possible (mornings are usually clear)
The Garden Elopement Experience
Garden ceremonies offer a completely different kind of beauty — lush greenery, shade, exotic flowers, and a sense of being wrapped in nature’s embrace.
What a Garden Ceremony Feels Like
Imagine standing under a canopy of tropical trees, surrounded by orchids and butterflies, with dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves. Garden ceremonies feel private, romantic, and almost magical.
Miami’s tropical climate means our gardens are green and blooming year-round — something most cities can’t offer.
Best Garden Venues in Miami
- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden — World-class botanical garden with rare plants, butterfly gardens, and stunning backdrops
- Key Biscayne Gardens — Private tropical garden steps from the ocean — the best of both worlds
- Matheson Hammock Park — Hidden gem in Coral Gables with a man-made atoll beach and mangrove trails
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens — Italian Renaissance gardens on Biscayne Bay — in a class of its own
For more options, browse our complete Miami Garden Venues guide.
Pros of a Garden Wedding
- Shade and shelter from wind, sun, and light rain
- Lush, colorful backgrounds in every direction — amazing for photos
- More private than public beaches
- Cooler temperatures in the shade, especially during summer months
- Unique, varied settings (no two spots look the same)
Things to Consider
- Venue rental fees are typically higher than beach permit fees
- Mosquitoes can be present, especially at dawn and dusk in summer
- Some gardens have specific time restrictions or capacity limits
- High heels work better on garden paths than on sand
What About Vizcaya?
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is technically a garden venue, but it’s in a category all its own. The Italian Renaissance architecture, European-inspired formal gardens, and waterfront setting create a backdrop that feels like eloping in a European palace.
If you’re drawn to history, architecture, and old-world romance, Vizcaya might be your perfect venue. Read our complete guide: Everything You Need to Know About a Vizcaya Garden Wedding.
Can You Have Both?
Yes! Some of our venues offer the best of both worlds:
- Key Biscayne Gardens — A tropical garden that’s steps from the beach, so you can have your ceremony in the garden and take photos on the sand
- Crandon Park — Has both beachfront and a beautiful garden area
- Bill Baggs State Park — Beach, gardens, and the lighthouse all within walking distance
How to Decide: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself
- What shoes do you want to wear? — Barefoot or sandals = beach. Heels = garden.
- How do you feel about wind? — Love the breeze = beach. Prefer calm = garden.
- What time of day? — Sunset or sunrise = beach. Midday = garden (shade!).
- What’s your photo style? — Dramatic horizons = beach. Lush and intimate = garden.
- What’s your budget? — Tighter budget = beach. Willing to invest in venue = garden or Vizcaya.
Still Not Sure? We Can Help
Our team has planned ceremonies at every venue in Miami and we know each one intimately. Tell us what you’re envisioning and we’ll suggest the venue that fits your personality, style, and budget.
Browse our full list of ceremony locations, check out our elopement packages, or read the Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Miami for everything you need to know.
