Is a Luxury Destination Wedding in Antigua Worth It? Top Reasons Couples Say "Yes!"

Photo credit: Ahmet ÇÖTÜR

Imagine we’re chatting over coffee, and you mention a tropical wedding—I'll lovingly interrupt and say: “Hold up... have you thought about Antigua?”
As a romance travel specialist who’s seen countless dreamy destinations, there’s something truly special about Antigua and Barbuda. It’s elegant, enchanting, and surprisingly stress-free. With 365 beaches (yep, one for every day of the year), no residency requirements, and the blush-toned sands of Barbuda, it’s easily one of the most breathtaking and effortless places to say “I do” in the Caribbean.

Planning to Say “I Do”? Here’s Why Antigua Is a Top Wedding Pick

Photo credit: Watkins Multimedia – Couple near the Pillars of Hercules

As someone deeply immersed in the world of destination weddings, Antigua holds a special place in my heart—and my couples feel the same way. The moment you arrive, you’re embraced by ocean breezes, genuine smiles, and a relaxed energy that sets the mood for something unforgettable.
 
But it’s not just the natural beauty—it’s how easy Antigua makes the whole “getting married abroad” process. Planning a wedding in paradise should never feel like a headache, and Antigua gets it right with one of the most straightforward legal processes in the Caribbean.
 
Here’s what you’ll need to legally tie the knot:
 

• Valid passports
• Proof of citizenship (usually your passport)
• Proof of marital status (if divorced or widowed)
• A completed marriage application

 
Payment of government fees (USD):
 

• Registration: $40
• Marriage License: $150
• Marriage Officer: $250 ➡️ Total: $440 USD

 
Bonus tip: Many resorts offer packages that include all or part of these costs, so don’t forget to ask!

Antigua isn’t just a destination—it’s the start of a love story written in sunshine, simplicity, and stress-free celebration.

Photo credit: WMAG R6, little Ffryes beach

Here’s the incredible part: Antigua makes it refreshingly simple to say “I do”—no residency requirements, no waiting period. You can arrive, apply for your license, and legally get married the very same day!

This is a huge advantage compared to other destinations like Jamaica (which requires a 2-day stay) or Mexico (with a 4-day residency requirement).
 
My pro tip as a wedding specialist: Even though you can marry right away, many resorts prefer couples to stay at least 24 hours before the ceremony. This gives their team time to meet with you, finalize details, and go over your big day with care.

I recommend arriving at least two days early. It adds a cushion in case of travel delays—and gives you the chance to settle in, exhale, and feel every bit of the “we’re really doing this!” excitement.
Want to explore the difference between legal and symbolic destination weddings? 👉 Click here to learn more
 
365 Beaches Means Unlimited Venue Options

With 365 beaches—one for each day of the year—it’s no wonder Antigua is a wedding favorite. Whether you’re dreaming of a barefoot ceremony on the sand, exchanging vows with a dramatic cliffside view, or saying “I do” under a chic resort gazebo, this island makes every vision come true.
 
Some standout spots? Let’s dive into the beauty that makes Antigua truly unforgettable.
 
● Shirley Heights for dramatic sunset views
● Mermaid Gardens for hidden fairytale vibes
● Carlisle Bay for barefoot luxury
● Runaway Bay Beach for white sand perfection
● Ffryes Beach for another white sand paradise
 
One Island, Endless Possibilities—Plus a Pink Sand Bonus 
 
What I adore most is the variety—Antigua truly has something for every couple, whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a full celebration with 50 guests.

Photo credit: Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority - Cedar Tree Point Beach - Pink Sand

And don’t sleep on Barbuda. Just a short 15-minute flight or 90-minute ferry from Antigua, Barbuda is its serene sister island with a vibe that’s pure magic. Couples are honeymooning here, sneaking away for wedding portraits, and even choosing it for small ceremonies on its breathtaking pink sand beaches.
 
Top highlights include:
 

• Barbuda Belle – a luxurious eco-retreat that’s intimate and secluded

• Frigate Bird Sanctuary – a paradise for nature-loving pairs

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• Otherworldly caves – like Darby’s Sinkhole and Indian Cave, perfect for adventurous photo ops or private elopements

 
Barbuda feels untouched, serene, and wildly romantic—perfect for couples who crave quiet luxury and unforgettable scenery.
 
Couples' Paradise: Wellness & Romance Reimagined
 
Your destination wedding deserves more than just a beautiful ceremony—it should be an unforgettable experience from start to finish. And Antigua absolutely delivers.
 
What couples (and their guests) rave about:
 

• Indulgent couples’ massages and rejuvenating yoga retreats​

• Romantic sunset cruises aboard private yachts
• Authentic rum tastings and hands-on local cooking classes
• Thrilling helicopter tours with jaw-dropping coastal views
• Bucket-list encounters like swimming with stingrays

 
Bonus for food lovers: Antigua now celebrates Culinary Month every May—making it a dream spot for couples who want to blend their big day with world-class cuisine and immersive flavor experiences.
 
It’s not just a wedding—it’s the beginning of your best adventure yet.

Photo credit: Jonathan Borba

Antigua Accommodations: From Luxe All-Inclusive to Boutique Charm

Antigua masterfully blends upscale ease with intimate ambiance—making it the ultimate spot for romantic escapes and destination weddings. Whether you're dreaming of spa days, sunset views, or barefoot bliss, there’s a resort that fits your vibe perfectly.
 
Here are my top resort picks for couples:

• Sandals Grande Antigua – A couples-only, all-inclusive haven that’s pure romance from check-in to beachside cocktails.

 

• Hammock Cove – Known for its private plunge pools, personalized service, and serene spa experiences.

 

• Coco Bay Resort – Think boho beach chic with Caribbean charm—perfect for laid-back lovebirds.

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• Galley Bay – A luxurious adults-only retreat tucked into lush landscapes and turquoise waters.

Each offers a unique flavor of paradise—and trust me, you’ll find your perfect match.

Photo credit: Elite Island Resorts -Hammock Cove

Stress-Free Packages & Seamless Travel—Antigua Makes It Easy

Many of Antigua’s top resorts offer beautifully curated wedding packages that take care of every detail—think ceremony setup, floral design, officiant services, gourmet dinners, and even professional photography. Everything comes together effortlessly, leaving you free to soak up every magical moment.

Getting there is just as easy as falling in love: With frequent flights from U.S. hubs like Miami, JFK, Newark, and Atlanta, plus convenient airport services like fast-track immigration and sun-drenched departure lounges, even your travel days feel indulgent.

And once you land? You’re just 45 minutes or less from any resort—so your honeymoon vibes can start the moment you touch down.

In Summary: Why Antigua Deserves a Spot at the Top of Your Wedding List

Still searching for the ultimate Caribbean wedding destination? Consider this your gentle nudge—Antigua checks every box.

Here’s what makes it stand out: 

✅ Effortless legal requirements
✅ A stunning variety of venues 
✅ Picture-perfect scenery 
✅ Smooth, convenient travel 
✅ Unforgettable experiences for you and your guests
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Whether you’re envisioning vows in the sand or a luxury celebration at a top-tier resort, Antigua delivers romance and ease in one breathtaking package.

Photo credit: Simply Antigua Barbuda- Galley Bay wedding

Planning Your Destination Wedding Should Feel Like a Celebration—Not a Challenge!

Thanks to Antigua’s simple legal requirements and wide array of stunning beach locations, tying the knot here is as seamless as it is enchanting. Say “I do” with ease and let the island’s natural beauty handle the rest.
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Let’s Make Your Dream Destination Wedding Come True. Take the first step toward your unforgettable celebration—schedule your free consultation today, and let’s bring your vision to life.

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