barbados


Wedding Venues
Hi there! I'm Leah, your go-to destination wedding photographer, and I'm beyond excited to share with you my top 8 picks for the best wedding venues in Barbados. As someone who's traveled to this beautiful island multiple times for both weddings and commercial work at luxury resorts, I can confidently say that Barbados is truly an unparalleled paradise for tying the knot.
So, what made me fall in love with this enchanting island? Well, it's hard to pinpoint just one thing! The vibrant culture, warm-hearted locals, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and sun-kissed sandy beaches come together to create an atmosphere that is nothing short of magical. Barbados is a gem in the Caribbean that has captured my heart, and I'm sure it will capture yours too.
Barbados offers a plethora of breathtaking wedding venues that cater to every couple's unique vision. Whether you're dreaming of a sunset ceremony by the beach or an elegant reception in a historic plantation house, you'll find the perfect setting for your special day here. Not to mention, Barbados is a foodie's paradise, boasting an exquisite culinary scene that will delight your taste buds and elevate your wedding menu to new heights.
As a photographer who genuinely cares about my couples, I've made it my mission to scout out the most luxurious and memorable wedding venues in Barbados. In this list, I'll be showcasing the best of the best, focusing on luxury resorts that provide the ultimate backdrop for your dream wedding. And don't worry, I'll be blending my personal experiences and passion for the island with the essential venue info to ensure you get a genuine, heartfelt recommendation.
So, without further ado, let's dive into the top 8 wedding venues in Barbados that will make your special day an unforgettable experience!
cobblers cove, barbados
the 10 most luxury wedding venues in barbados
cobblers cove, speightstown
One of my all-time favorite wedding venues in Barbados is the utterly enchanting Cobblers Cove. Not only have I had the pleasure of shooting there, but the team at Cobblers Cove is genuinely fantastic, and I hold a special place in my heart for this venue. In fact, the wedding I shot there was featured in Vogue and Brides, which speaks volumes about its incredible charm and elegance.
Cobblers Cove, a luxury boutique hotel, is a family-owned gem with a rich history dating back to the 1940s. Once a seaside retreat for the Hayes family, it now stands as a symbol of elegance, fine food, and exceptional hospitality. The hotel's two beaches and spectacular gardens are just as responsible for its popularity as the long-serving and charming staff.
When it comes to celebrations and weddings, Cobblers Cove truly shines. The romantic settings and glamorous backdrops make it a perfect choice for couples looking to tie the knot. Whether you dream of exchanging vows barefoot in the sand, at sunset in a seafront pavilion, in their glorious gardens, or in a picturesque stone seaside church, Cobblers Cove offers it all.
To ensure that your special day is tailored to your preferences, Dana Straker (I love Dana!) will be your go-to person for curating every detail of your dream wedding. From flowers and menus to cocktails and music, Dana will help you make your day truly unforgettable. So, all you need to do is book yourself into one of their ultra-luxe seafront honeymoon suites, and the Cobblers Cove team will work with you to create a day you'll cherish forever.
As goop.com fittingly says, "The 1940s mansion has drawn guests through its powder-pink walls for decades, thanks to the impeccable service & a restaurant hailed as the best on the island." The food, oh my, the food - it is exceptional. My husband dreams of their food. Cobblers Cove is not just a venue, it's a magical experience that will leave a lasting impression on both you and your guests.
fairmont royal pavilion, st james

Another Barbados wedding venue that I wholeheartedly recommend is the exquisite Fairmont Royal Pavilion. This luxurious hotel is the epitome of West Coast opulence, maintaining the highest service industry standards while always putting its guests first.
The Fairmont Royal Pavilion boasts 72 ocean view rooms and a fabulous 3-bedroom family-style villa, all combining modern sophistication with traditional Caribbean charm. Set amidst mature gardens and positioned perfectly on the enchanting Alleyne's Bay beach, guests are treated to breathtaking views from sunrise to sunset. It's a truly rewarding experience that you and your guests will treasure.
Each of the 72 beachfront suites and oceanfront rooms provides unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea, while the three-bedroom villa is surrounded by tropical gardens, offering both garden and ocean views from its terraces.
As a destination wedding photographer, I can't stress enough the importance of choosing a venue that provides an elegant and tranquil backdrop for your special day. The Fairmont Royal Pavilion in St. James, Barbados, with its impressive architecture, legendary style, and extraordinary service, is that ideal place to celebrate your love story.
Nestled along a serene and intimate stretch of beach, Barbados is undeniably one of the most romantic places on earth. Imagine celebrating your special day on these coveted shores, enveloped by the warm elegance of Fairmont Royal Pavilion's luxurious resort. The memories you create here will be cherished for a lifetime.
sandy lane, st james
Sandy Lane is one of those Barbados wedding venues that's truly legendary. As a destination wedding photographer, I've had the pleasure of researching and learning about this amazing resort that has hosted celebrities and royals since it transformed from a sugar plantation into a luxury hotel back in 1961.
What strikes me about Sandy Lane is not only its rich history but also its stunning beachfront location, complete with 113 spacious rooms and suites. It's also got fabulous amenities like four restaurants, seven bars, and a massive 47,000-square-foot spa, perfect for pampering.
As a photographer, I know that a beautiful backdrop is essential, and Sandy Lane definitely delivers. With its tranquil coral sand beach and mature mahogany trees, this resort is a picture-perfect Caribbean paradise. Plus, the warm Barbadian hospitality is something that always adds a special touch to any event.
When it comes to weddings at Sandy Lane, they really know how to cater to your individual style and vision, with several breathtaking locations to choose from, like The Spa, The Country Club, or a romantic sunset beach ceremony, you're sure to find the perfect setting for your big day.
For those looking to add an extra touch of magic to their Barbados wedding, The Villa at Sandy Lane is worth considering. With its romantic and private atmosphere, it feels like you're in your very own dreamy island home, making it an ideal choice for your special day.
With its rich history, luxurious amenities, and stunning locations, it's a place where unforgettable memories are waiting to be made. And as a fun, friendly, and caring destination wedding photographer, I can't wait to help capture those memories for you and your loved ones.
Image credit: sandy lane.com
the house, st james

If you're searching for an adults-only wedding venue in Barbados, let me introduce you to The House by Marriott in St. James. As a boutique resort, it provides a romantic atmosphere with a beachfront setting that sets the perfect tone for your special day.
One of the things that stands out about The House is the personalized service and care. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel pampered with a complimentary jet lag massage, afternoon tea, and sunset cocktails accompanied by canapés. Their service ambassadors are there to cater to your every need, making your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
With a variety of indoor and outdoor wedding venues, The House is perfect for intimate celebrations. With its 34 well-appointed rooms and suites and a stunning beachfront location, you can be sure that your wedding will be both memorable and elegant.
For those with children attending the celebration, the family-friendly Tamarind hotel is just next door, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities. The House has earned its reputation as one of the most romantic resorts in the Caribbean, and its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful setting make it an excellent choice for your Barbados wedding.
In a nutshell, The House by Marriott is a fantastic option for couples seeking an intimate, adults-only wedding venue in Barbados. Its beachfront location and dedication to luxury will ensure your special day is unforgettable.
Image credit: Marriott.com
coral reef club, st james
Coral Reef Club in St. James, Barbados, is a stunning wedding venue that beautifully captures the essence of West Indian elegance. Nestled in 12 acres of lush, landscaped gardens in historic Holetown, this family-owned, award-winning, five-star luxury boutique hotel is renowned for its exceptional ambiance and classic island style.
The resort's accommodations, including 88 cottages, suites, and rooms, feature traditional design elements such as wooden balustrading, fretwork, and shutters. Guests can expect spacious interiors with fine touches like crisp white Egyptian cotton bed linen, feather beds, air conditioning, and ceiling fans. Coral Reef Club also boasts two mosaic-tiled swimming pools, while Plantation Suites and Luxury Cottage Suites offer private plunge pools.
Coral Reef Club places great emphasis on dining, with its elegant restaurant presenting daily changing à la carte menus featuring fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes. The on-site colonial-style spa building offers an extensive menu of treatments to help you relax and rejuvenate.
As a wedding venue, Coral Reef Club provides a charming atmosphere, attention to detail, and beautiful plantation-style accommodations. The basic wedding package includes the minister's fee, ceremony cost, license and stamp, round trip transfers for obtaining the license, a decorated wedding location, a bride's bouquet and groom's boutonniere, a champagne breakfast for the couple the morning after the wedding, a wedding cake, and a bottle of champagne.
If you're looking for a dreamy Caribbean wedding venue that exudes elegance and charm, Coral Reef Club in St. James, Barbados is a fantastic choice for your special day.
Image credit: coralreefbarbados.com
the SANDPIPER, st james

The Sandpiper, one of Barbados' most acclaimed luxury hotels, boasts a stunning location on a sandy West Coast beach surrounded by lush tropical flora. Managed by Wayne and Karen Capaldi, the hotel maintains a perfect balance between meticulous attention to detail and a laid-back Caribbean atmosphere. The Sandpiper is renowned for its exceptional hospitality and attracts many returning guests year after year.
As a boutique, family-owned resort, The Sandpiper is the sister property of the Coral Reef Club. It features 50 rooms and suites, including three Tree Top Suites with private plunge pools and sun decks. The property is adorned with lush gardens and footpaths, allowing guests to fully appreciate the picturesque landscape.
The Sandpiper caters to families, offering activities for kids, a children's room service menu, babysitting services, and access to the playground at the Coral Reef Club. The resort is conveniently located in St. James, near Holetown Beach, the Lime Grove Shopping Center, and Chattel Village.
For a luxurious, intimate, and family-friendly wedding venue in Barbados, The Sandpiper is a wonderful choice, offering a perfect blend of elegance and relaxed Caribbean charm.
Image credit: sandpiperbarbados.com
sugar bay barbados, bridgetown
Sugar Bay Barbados is a gem among Barbados wedding venues that I came across while researching for this article, and I've heard fantastic things about this all-inclusive resort. As a destination wedding photographer, I've been to many beautiful locations, and Sugar Bay caught my attention with its picturesque surroundings and fantastic facilities.
Located on the south coast beach of Barbados, Sugar Bay offers an idyllic setting for a luxurious and fun-filled wedding. The resort is situated near the Historic Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing the perfect blend of history and modernity. The tranquil ocean lagoon, swaying coconut trees, and white sandy shores create a stunning backdrop for your big day.
One of the things I find appealing about Sugar Bay is the range of activities and amenities available for guests of all ages. The Karma Spa provides a peaceful retreat for pre-wedding pampering, while the Kids and Teens Clubs ensure everyone can join in the fun. The resort is also within walking distance of Bridgetown's vibrant nightlife and attractions, which means there's never a dull moment for your wedding party.
From what I've gathered, the team at Sugar Bay is committed to making your celebration truly memorable. They offer customizable wedding packages that cater to your preferences, and the elegant on-site venues can accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to grand receptions.
If you're looking for a wedding venue that embodies the fun, friendly, and caring spirit of the island, Sugar Bay Barbados is definitely worth considering.
Image credit: sugarbaybarbados.com
o2 beach club & spa, christ church

As I was exploring options for this article on Barbados wedding venues, I came across the recently transformed O2 Beach Club & Spa. This chic boutique all-inclusive resort caught my attention with its remarkable offerings and beautiful location.
Located at the end of St. Lawrence Gap, the resort sits on a pristine white sand beach, offering a tranquil setting for couples and their guests. The O2 Beach Club & Spa boasts a range of facilities, including multiple restaurants, swimming pools, and luxurious rooms and suites, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone.
What makes this resort stand out is its emphasis on creating memorable experiences for guests. The resort offers an array of land and water sports, engaging daily activities, and spa services for a well-rounded and enjoyable stay.
The romantic ambiance of O2 Beach Club & Spa makes it a fantastic option for couples looking to celebrate their love. Be it a wedding, honeymoon, or vow renewal, the resort provides a picture-perfect backdrop for these special moments. The resort's team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience for couples, even offering a complimentary wedding package for those who stay for seven nights or more.
Image credit: o2beachclubbarbados.com
Leah marie photography
wedding photography
I hope you found this collection of luxury Barbados wedding venues I've put together a useful resource in your wedding planning. The island has so many beautiful resorts, so picking the right one for you can be a bit daunting.
I'd love to book in a call to learn more about your wedding and offer any advice I can to help you pick the perfect Barbados wedding venue for you, and maybe even be your photographer!