🌊 Beach Weddings on Cape Cod: What You Need to Know (And the Best Spots!)
There’s something timeless about a beach wedding: the waves in the background, bare feet in the sand, that salty breeze blowing through your veil. Cape Cod is one of the most iconic places in New England for a coastal wedding—and for good reason. From sun-drenched dunes to peaceful tidepools, it’s a dream setting for couples who want their day to feel both relaxed and meaningful.
While I haven’t photographed a wedding on Cape Cod yet, I’ve spent years capturing love stories in similar coastal locations—including Martha’s Vineyard and other iconic New England shorelines. I’ve done the research, studied the lighting, scoped out locations, and fallen in love with the charm of Cape Cod. So if you’re planning your day here and want a photographer who brings both excitement and a fresh perspective, I’d love to be considered.
Here’s what you need to know about planning a beach wedding on the Cape—and my favorite ceremony spots worth looking into.
📝 What to Know Before Planning a Cape Cod Beach Wedding
1. You May Need a Permit
Even if it’s just you and your partner exchanging vows on the sand, some public beaches require a permit for ceremonies. Each town has different rules, so reach out to the local town hall or conservation department early in the planning process.
Helpful tip: Apply early, especially during peak wedding season (June–September), since dates can fill up fast.
2. Timing is Everything
Cape Cod beaches are busiest in the middle of the day, and the sun can be intense. For fewer crowds and better light, plan your ceremony for:
Golden hour – The hour before sunset brings soft, romantic light and stunning skies.
Sunrise – The most peaceful time of day, with empty beaches and dreamy mist.
Weekdays – A great way to avoid weekend crowds and secure your spot.
3. Think About Accessibility
Some beaches are easy to access, while others require a bit of a walk. If you're inviting guests with mobility challenges or bringing lots of décor, keep the terrain in mind when choosing your location.
4. Embrace the Elements
Salt air, wind, sea spray—these are the things that make a beach wedding so beautiful and real. I always recommend going with the flow. Light fabrics, wind-friendly hairstyles, and minimal décor that can withstand the breeze are your best friends.
📍 Best Cape Cod Beaches for a Dreamy Ceremony
Here are a few standout options to start your search. Whether you’re eloping or planning a full celebration, each has its own kind of magic.
Mayflower Beach (Dennis)
Famous for its soft white sand, stunning boardwalk views, and dramatic sunsets. It’s a popular choice—and for good reason.
Race Point Beach (Provincetown)
A wilder, more dramatic location surrounded by dunes and open sky. There’s even a lighthouse nearby for portraits with a vintage coastal feel.
Sandy Neck Beach (Barnstable)
With both sandy and rocky stretches, this beach offers diverse backdrops and a quiet, intimate vibe.
📸 What You Can Expect From Me as Your Photographer
Even though I haven’t photographed a wedding on Cape Cod yet, I bring years of experience shooting in similar environments, from beachfront elopements to full weekend celebrations by the sea.
I know how to:
Work with the light and weather in coastal settings
Scout out the best angles and backdrops ahead of time
Keep things stress-free and relaxed, even when the wind picks up or timelines shift
And most importantly, I care deeply about capturing photos that feel like you—candid, meaningful, and full of joy.
💬 Let’s Talk About Your Cape Cod Beach Wedding
If you're planning a Cape Cod wedding and looking for someone who's genuinely excited to explore it with you, I’d love to connect. I bring a blend of preparation, curiosity, and creativity to every shoot—and I’d be honored to photograph your day.