Best Coastal Maine Wedding Venues

Coastal Maine is a dream destination for couples looking to celebrate their love surrounded by stunning ocean views, historic charm, and naturally elegant landscapes. From the romantic lapping of ocean waves against rocky shorelines to lavish resorts steeped in New England history, the coastal region of Maine offers a diverse range of wedding venues that cater to every style and guest list. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best coastal Maine wedding venues, discuss why this destination is so enchanting, and offer practical tips for planning your unforgettable coastal wedding.

Why Choose a Coastal Wedding in Maine?

Planning your wedding in Maine means embracing a unique blend of natural beauty, local charm, and a relaxed vibe that allows you and your guests to feel completely at ease. Here are a few reasons why a coastal Maine wedding might be perfect for your special day:

  • Breathtaking Sceneries: Coastal Maine is celebrated for its rolling cliffs, serene waters, and endless ocean views. The natural scenery provides an exquisite backdrop for your wedding ceremony and photos.
  • Historic Charm: Many wedding venues in Maine boast rich history, from century-old inns and resorts to restored barns with timeless character.
  • Versatile Venue Options: Whether you prefer an intimate seaside gathering, a grand event in a luxury hotel, or a rustic barn wedding with coastal accents, Maine offers a variety of venues that fit your style.
  • Outdoor Spaces: With miles of untouched coastline and picturesque gardens, Maine’s outdoor ceremony spaces allow you to celebrate under the open sky with the gentle sound of the waves in the background.
  • Memorable Experience: A coastal wedding in Maine often comes with the bonus of extended weekend celebrations where guests can explore quaint coastal towns, enjoy local seafood, and create memories that go beyond just a single day.

Top Coastal Wedding Venues

Below, we’ve compiled a list of some exceptional coastal wedding venues in Maine that have caught the attention of couples and wedding professionals alike. Each venue offers its own special charm, ensuring that your big day is as unique as your love story.

French’s Point – Stockton Springs, Maine

French’s Point is a year-round, oceanfront estate that provides an exclusive experience for your wedding weekend. This venue spans 20 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds and boasts multiple ceremony locations – from elegant lawns with ocean views to sheltered indoor spaces for unpredictable weather.

Highlights: - Exclusive use for one wedding party each weekend - Variety of ceremony settings, including a waterfront lawn and clear-top ceremony tent - On-site guest rooms spread across beautiful historic homes

Couples love French’s Point for its intimate feel and the luxury of having everything you need in one location. With the ocean as your constant backdrop, you and your guests can enjoy an all-inclusive wedding weekend with the perfect blend of relaxation and celebration.

Spruce Point Inn – Boothbay Harbor, Maine

The Spruce Point Inn offers the classic New England coastal experience with spacious accommodations and exceptional service. Tucked away on Boothbay Harbor, this venue’s breathtaking views compliment its Old World charm and modern amenities.

Highlights: - Gorgeous panoramic views of Boothbay Harbor - Multiple outbuildings for separate events such as cocktail hours and rehearsal dinners - A mix of traditional and contemporary decor that adds to the venue’s charm

The venue mixes old-world elegance with modern comforts, making it ideal for couples who appreciate both tradition and contemporary style. The scenic vistas and historic appeal create an ideal setting for everlasting memories.

Bar Harbor Inn and Spa – Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor Inn and Spa is synonymous with Maine’s coastal elegance. Located just minutes from Acadia National Park, this venue provides a uniquely romantic setting for weddings, from intimate ceremonies to elaborate receptions.

Highlights: - Unparalleled views of the harbor and surrounding mountains - A variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit different ceremonies - Comprehensive services, including on-site accommodations and spa treatments

Many couples choose the Bar Harbor Inn for its combination of natural beauty and top-notch hospitality. Not only does it offer mesmerizing ocean views, but it also ensures that guests are well taken care of through luxurious lodging and warm service.

The 1774 Inn – Phippsburg, Maine

For those who dream of a rustic yet refined coastal wedding, The 1774 Inn in Phippsburg is an exceptional choice. This venue features a charming 19th-century barn, an elegant farmhouse, and stunning harbor views that are perfect for capturing that classic Maine seaside romance.

Highlights: - A picturesque harbor setting with direct access to one of Maine’s best beaches - Versatile event spaces including an outdoor area and a barn, perfect for managing weather changes - A blend of rustic charm with modern amenities that ensure comfort

The 1774 Inn allows couples to enjoy the nostalgia of historic Maine combined with the convenience of modern service. Its accommodation and event spaces are designed to make your celebration as seamless and beautiful as possible.

Linekin Bay Resort – Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Linekin Bay Resort encapsulates the essence of a coastal Maine getaway. With its secluded setting and direct access to the ocean, this venue is perfect for couples looking to celebrate with an extended wedding weekend.

Highlights: - On-site lodges and cabins provide comfortable accommodations for guests - A variety of outdoor spaces that include a saltwater pool, lush gardens, and a beachfront area - Exceptional hospitality from a team dedicated to making your day stress-free

The resort’s ability to host multiple events throughout a long weekend gives it a distinctive edge, making it ideal for those who want to blend celebration with a mini-vacation experience for their guests.

Planning Your Coastal Maine Wedding

When planning your coastal Maine wedding, keep in mind that there are many factors to consider to ensure that your day is unforgettable. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

1. Weather and Season Considerations

  • Best Time to Wed: The ideal months for a coastal Maine wedding are typically from May through October. During these months, the weather is usually mild and perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
  • Plan for Flexibility: Even in the summer months, coastal weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to choose a venue that offers both indoor and outdoor spaces so you can adjust your plans if necessary.
  • Guest Comfort: Consider providing cozy blankets, heaters, or even parasols depending on the time of year. This ensures that guests remain comfortable throughout the day regardless of the weather.

2. Embrace the Local Flavors

  • Local Cuisine: Maine is famous for its seafood, particularly lobster and clam chowder. Incorporate local flavors into your menu for a truly regional experience.
  • Decor Inspiration: Use natural elements like driftwood, sea glass, and local wildflowers as part of your wedding decor. This brings out the coastal charm while keeping your design simple and elegant.
  • Seasonal Touches: Depending on the season, you can incorporate elements such as autumn leaves or spring blooms to enhance the natural beauty of your venue.

3. Planning for a Multi-Day Celebration

  • Extended Celebrations: Many coastal venues offer accommodations on-site which allows you to host a multi-day celebration. Consider weekend festivities that include welcome dinners, rehearsal events, and post-wedding brunches.
  • Activities for Guests: Provide suggestions for local sightseeing. Guests can explore nearby coastal towns, visit local bakeries, or even take a scenic boat ride to fully embrace Maine’s coastal allure.

4. Working with Local Vendors

  • Expertise: Maine has a plethora of experienced wedding vendors who specialize in coastal weddings. From photographers who know the best sunset spots to caterers that highlight local produce, using local expertise can elevate your celebration.
  • Vendor Coordination: Many venues offer packages that include a curated list of vendors. Take advantage of these recommendations to ensure that every detail from the floral arrangements to the music is aligned with your vision.
  • Personal Touches: Work with your vendors to incorporate personalized details that reflect your story and connection to Maine, whether it’s a custom nautical theme or locally inspired favors.

5. Logistics and Transportation

  • Accessibility: Coastal venues in Maine often have limited parking due to their scenic locations. Plan ahead by arranging shuttle services or coordinating with local transport companies.
  • Accommodations: Ensure that there is ample accommodation for your guests, especially if most of your celebration is off-site. Providing a list of nearby hotels or rental options can ease the planning process.
  • Timing: Since coastal regions can be remote, make sure to provide detailed directions and transportation options to ensure every guest arrives on time and can enjoy the day’s events without hassle.

Additional Coastal Maine Wedding Venue Inspirations

While the venues listed above are some of the most popular choices, Maine offers many other stunning coastal locations that cater to various wedding styles and sizes. Here are a few more ideas to consider:

Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina – Bar Harbor, Maine

This revitalized venue offers a combination of modern luxury with historic charm. Perfect for couples who want to host an upscale wedding while enjoying panoramic views of the harbor, Harborside caters to both large receptions and intimate gatherings.

DiMillo’s On the Water – Portland, Maine

For a truly unique wedding, consider DiMillo’s On the Water. This venue, located on a barge in Portland Harbor, offers a one-of-a-kind experience where the water is literally the floor beneath your feet. Ideal for smaller, intimate weddings, it creates an unforgettable maritime ambiance.

Harbor View Jones Landing – Peaks Island, Maine

Enjoy the best of Maine’s coastal island charm at Harbor View Jones Landing. Although a bit off the mainland, its stunning, unobstructed ocean views and private setting make it an excellent option for couples seeking privacy and picturesque settings for both ceremonies and receptions.

Real Weddings and Experiences

Hearing directly from couples who have tied the knot at coastal Maine venues can provide extra inspiration and assurance that your wedding can be as magical as you imagine. For example:

  • Couples who celebrated at the Bar Harbor Inn often remark on how the nightly sunset over the harbor felt like a personal performance, creating a natural, ever-changing backdrop as they exchanged vows.
  • Those who chose The 1774 Inn highlight the versatility of the venue, noting how the barn transformed from a rustic space by day into a warm, inviting reception area by night, all while maintaining a distinctly coastal Maine vibe.
  • At Linekin Bay Resort, wedding guests and couples alike have raved about the seamless blend of luxury accommodations and outdoor beauty. The venue’s ability to accommodate long weekend celebrations adds a special dimension, allowing guests to linger and experience all that coastal Maine has to offer.

Real weddings not only highlight the architectural features and natural beauty of these venues but also share personal anecdotes that can help you envision how your celebration might unfold. Whether it’s a heartfelt speech during a cocktail hour by the ocean or the playful laughter during a bonfire gathering, these stories bring to life the essence of a Maine coastal wedding.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Coastal Venue

When choosing your wedding venue in Maine, consider these practical tips to ensure that your day is seamless and stress-free:

Choose the Right Venue for Your Guest List

  • Intimacy vs. Grandeur: If you’re planning an intimate wedding, a small coastal inn or a private residence like those found on French’s Point might be ideal. For larger celebrations, look for venues with spacious outdoor areas and versatile indoor facilities.
  • Guest Accessibility: Ensure that the venue can accommodate the travel needs of your guests. Some coastal locations might be more remote, so consider providing transportation options or a detailed guide to ease navigation.

Personalize Your Coastal Theme

  • Decor Elements: Incorporate elements such as rustic wooden accents, nautical décor, and fresh floral arrangements that reflect the coastal landscape.
  • Local Entertainment: Consider hiring local musicians or a band that can perform with a backdrop of the ocean in the distance. Live music that echoes the sound of the waves can add an ambient and romantic touch to your celebration.
  • Custom Favors: Provide wedding favors that celebrate Maine’s identity, like small jars of local honey, ocean-scented candles, or even locally sourced sea salt as a memento of your coastal celebration.

Consider a Multi-Day Celebration

Many coastal wedding venues offer accommodation on-site and facilities suited for extended celebrations. This allows you to turn your wedding day into a weekend-long event where you can relax, explore, and extend your celebration:

  • Welcome Events: Host a casual welcome dinner or a cocktail hour upon your guests’ arrival. This sets a warm, inviting tone for the days to come.
  • Rehearsal and Post-Wedding Brunches: Utilize the venue’s various spaces for intimate events that allow your guests to share more moments and say their goodbyes in a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Local Exploration: Arrange optional group activities like coastal hikes, boat tours, or visits to local attractions so that your guests can experience more of what Maine has to offer.

Work Closely with Your Vendors

  • Local Expertise: Engage with vendors who are familiar with the coastal Maine area. They can offer unique insights and creative ideas specifically designed for your venue and the local climate.
  • Coordination: Establish clear communication with your vendors to ensure that every detail, from lighting to sound, complements the natural beauty of your coastal surroundings.
  • Vendor Packages: Consider using venue-recommended packages that include vendor lists. These packages often streamline the planning process and ensure that every detail aligns with the venue’s aesthetic and logistical capabilities.

A Personal Look at Coastal Maine Weddings

Imagine walking down a sandy aisle with the gentle sound of waves as your background, the sun dipping below a horizon painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple. Every aspect, from the historic charm of your chosen venue to the personal touches you’ve created with locally sourced decorations, contributes to an atmosphere that is as relaxed as it is romantic.

Many couples who choose coastal Maine wedding venues emphasize the feeling of closeness – not just to nature, but to their loved ones. Extended celebrations at places like French’s Point or Bar Harbor Inn often turn into cherished mini-vacations. Guests enjoy not only the wedding but also the opportunity to explore quaint coastal towns, savor fresh seafood dinners, and participate in pre- and post-wedding activities. This connectivity and community spirit are what make a coastal Maine wedding truly special.

Beyond the ceremony itself, the entire wedding experience is elevated by the natural beauty beside you. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a weather-friendly clear-top tent with the ocean behind you or dancing the night away in a historic building filled with coastal accents, every moment is imbued with a sense of magic. The natural interplay of light throughout the day enhances every photograph, ensuring that your memories are captured with vibrancy and clarity.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and choosing the right venue sets the tone for unforgettable memories. Coastal Maine offers an array of venues that combine natural beauty, local character, and unparalleled scenic views. Whether you decide on the exclusivity of French’s Point, the timeless elegance of the Bar Harbor Inn, the unique maritime experience at DiMillo’s On the Water, or the inviting ambiance of The 1774 Inn, you’re sure to find a spot that resonates with your vision.

Keep in mind that planning a coastal wedding may involve additional considerations, such as weather preparedness and guest logistics. However, with careful planning and the assistance of experienced local vendors, these challenges can be easily overcome. The end result is a wedding that feels not only uniquely beautiful but also incredibly personal—a celebration that encapsulates the serene vibrancy of the Maine coast.

As you embark on your wedding planning journey, remember that your venue is more than just a backdrop. It is a character in your story, enhancing every moment of your day and providing a setting where dreams come to life. The best coastal Maine wedding venues are waiting to offer you a slice of beauty, history, and coastal magic that you and your guests will cherish forever.

Now, picture your wedding day unfolding against the backdrop of crashing waves, sunset skies, and a venue that feels like a warm embrace. With thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and the natural beauty of Maine, you’re all set to create a celebration that not only honors your love story but also gifts you with memories that will last a lifetime.

So, if you’re searching for the perfect blend of coastal charm and breathtaking scenery, take a closer look at Maine’s treasure trove of wedding venues. Whether you’re drawn to the intimate elegance of a seaside inn or the storied allure of a historic estate, your dream wedding awaits along Maine’s picturesque coast.

Ready to Start Your Coastal Wedding Journey?

From the charm of a wind-swept harbor to the luxurious serenity of a private estate, Maine’s coastal wedding venues pave the way for a celebration that is as grand as it is heartfelt. Embrace the beauty, history, and local hospitality that Maine offers, and let your wedding day be a beautiful reflection of your love story.

We hope this guide has inspired you and provided useful insights into what makes coastal Maine wedding venues so special. As you continue planning your wedding, take the time to visit your favorite venues, talk with local vendors, and imagine the possibilities that unfold with every wave, every sunset, and every lovingly crafted detail.

No matter which venue you choose, your coastal Maine wedding is sure to be nothing short of magical—a day where nature’s grandeur meets the personal touch of a celebration curated just for you.

Happy planning, and may your wedding day be filled with love, laughter, and the timeless beauty of Maine’s coast!

If you enjoyed this guide or have your own coastal Maine wedding experiences to share, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out on social media. We love hearing your stories and tips for making the most of the best coastal Maine wedding venues!