The Beauty of Waterfront Weddings

There’s something undeniably magical about waterfront weddings. The gentle lapping of waves, the soft glow of the sun reflecting off the water, and the natural backdrop of stunning views make waterfront venues an enchanting choice for couples looking to tie the knot. Whether it’s a serene lakeside ceremony or a grand celebration by the bay, waterfront weddings offer a unique combination of romance and tranquility that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

Waterfront weddings provide a naturally beautiful setting that requires minimal décor, allowing the couple to focus on personal touches that enhance, rather than compete with, their surroundings. The water itself becomes a dynamic element of the wedding, offering opportunities for breathtaking photography during both daytime and sunset hours. The serene environment also provides a relaxing atmosphere for guests, where they can enjoy the fresh air, stunning views, and the calming presence of water.

From the Chesapeake Bay to picturesque rivers and serene lakes, Maryland offers an array of stunning waterfront wedding venues. Each one has its own unique charm and character, providing couples with a variety of options to match their vision. Here are ten of the best Maryland waterfront wedding venues:

10 Maryland Waterfront Wedding Venues

1. Herrington on the Bay
   Location: North Beach, MD
   Herrington on the Bay is a premier eco-luxury waterfront venue on the Chesapeake Bay. With lush gardens, palm trees, and expansive views of the bay, it offers a tropical feel without leaving Maryland. The venue features two stunning ceremony sites and multiple reception options, including an elegant ballroom and a spacious tented area.
2. Chesapeake Bay Beach Club
   Location: Stevensville, MD
   Nestled on Kent Island, the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club offers panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay. The venue provides multiple ceremony and reception spaces, including beachside lawns, waterfront pavilions, and an elegant ballroom. Couples can choose from a range of settings that seamlessly blend indoor elegance with outdoor beauty.
3. The Oaks Waterfront Inn
   Location: Royal Oak, MD
   Located on a private waterfront estate, The Oaks Waterfront Inn offers a secluded, intimate setting for weddings. This charming venue combines rustic charm with waterfront beauty, featuring a historic inn, a waterfront pier, and beautifully landscaped grounds perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
4. Celebrations at the Bay
   Location: Pasadena, MD
   Overlooking the Chesapeake Bay, Celebrations at the Bay offers a stunning waterfront setting with multiple ceremony sites and reception spaces. Whether you prefer a sandy beach ceremony, a waterfront lawn, or an elegant ballroom with sweeping views of the bay, this venue provides a variety of options to suit any couple’s style.
5. Swan Harbor Farm
   Location: Havre de Grace, MD
   Swan Harbor Farm is a historic waterfront estate set on 531 acres along the Chesapeake Bay. With a combination of rolling lawns, beautiful gardens, and a charming manor house, this venue offers a timeless, classic backdrop for weddings. Couples can exchange vows overlooking the water and celebrate in the elegant tented pavilion.
6. Silver Swan Bayside
   Location: Stevensville, MD
   Silver Swan Bayside is a secluded waterfront venue located on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Known for its stunning sunsets, this venue provides both indoor and outdoor options, including a charming gazebo, a sandy beach area, and a chic, modern ballroom. It’s a perfect spot for couples who want a romantic and private waterfront wedding.
7. Kent Island Resort
   Location: Stevensville, MD
   Kent Island Resort offers an idyllic setting on the Eastern Shore, combining the charm of historic architecture with the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay. The venue features a variety of options for both ceremonies and receptions, including a waterfront lawn, an elegant ballroom, and a rustic barn for a unique and personalized wedding experience.
8. Great Oak Manor
   Location: Chestertown, MD
   This elegant 18th-century estate sits on a bluff overlooking the Chesapeake Bay, offering breathtaking views and a sense of timeless elegance. Great Oak Manor provides a secluded, exclusive setting with stunning gardens, a private beach, and multiple ceremony and reception sites that cater to both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
9. Cove Point Lighthouse
   Location: Lusby, MD
   For a truly unique waterfront wedding, Cove Point Lighthouse offers a historic and scenic backdrop. This working lighthouse, situated along the Chesapeake Bay, provides a picturesque setting with panoramic views of the water and a charming keeper’s house for receptions. It’s an ideal venue for couples seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.
10. Inn at Perry Cabin
    Location: St. Michaels, MD
    The Inn at Perry Cabin is a luxurious waterfront venue located along the Miles River. Renowned for its elegance and charm, the venue offers a beautiful waterfront lawn, a private dock, and gardens that create a picture-perfect setting. With its historic manor house, exceptional service, and stunning views, it’s ideal for couples looking for a sophisticated and timeless waterfront wedding.

Waterfront weddings capture the essence of romance and natural beauty, creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Maryland’s diverse range of waterfront venues ensures that every couple can find the perfect backdrop for their special day, whether you’re dreaming of a grand celebration or an intimate gathering by the water. Each venue offers its own unique charm, making Maryland one of the best places to say “I do” by the water.