Luxury Wedding Venues on the Connecticut Shoreline
There’s something magical about the Connecticut shoreline — the soft salt air, the pastel sunsets, the timeless New England charm. When couples imagine an elegant coastal wedding without leaving the state, the shoreline delivers in a way few regions can. From yacht-club celebrations to beachfront estates and resort-style waterfront spaces, Connecticut’s coast is filled with luxury venues that feel both refined and deeply romantic.
As a Connecticut wedding photographer, I’m drawn to how the shoreline transforms throughout the day — the shifting light, the wide horizons, and the quiet beauty that shapes every moment. Below is a curated list of the most luxurious wedding venues along the Connecticut shoreline, including several locations that offer unforgettable backdrops for your wedding day.
1. Saybrook Point Resort & Marina — Old Saybrook, CT
Classic coastal elegance with sweeping marina views.
Saybrook Point brings together everything couples love about a luxury New England celebration — bright coastal architecture, sparkling water, sailboats drifting in the background, and golden-hour portraits that feel like they belong in a magazine. The Lighthouse Suite, the dockside walkways, and the waterfront ceremony lawn make this one of the most picturesque venues on the shoreline.
It’s one of the best locations for couples dreaming of a sophisticated coastal wedding with an elevated resort feel.
2. Anthony’s Ocean View — New Haven, CT
Private beach, palm trees, sea breeze — a luxury, destination-style venue.
Anthony’s Ocean View is one of the rare Connecticut venues where you can have a true beachfront wedding. This space blends elegance with a destination atmosphere: ocean views, dramatic sunsets, and the kind of warm coastal light photographers dream of.
Couples who want oceanfront luxury without flying to the Caribbean fall in love with this venue. The portraits feel editorial, romantic, and cinematic — especially during that warm pastel shoreline sunset.
3. The Owenego — Branford, CT
Historic shoreline charm with open-air ocean views.
The Owenego sits right on the water, offering uninterrupted views of Long Island Sound. Ceremonies overlook the ocean, the breezes are constant and gentle, and receptions feel like classic New England summers elevated to something truly elegant.
With sailboats in the distance and beautiful rocky coastline, it’s one of the shoreline’s most timeless luxury venues — and an amazing backdrop for large celebrations or intimate weddings alike.
4. Water’s Edge Resort & Spa — Westbrook, CT
Resort-level amenities with a private-club feel.
Water’s Edge is an iconic CT shoreline wedding venue known for upscale service, coastal gardens, and a grand terrace overlooking the water. Couples love the blend of luxury and comfort — the ability to stay onsite, enjoy oceanfront views, and host a wedding that feels both elevated and deeply relaxed.
Portraits around the property feel naturally editorial, especially in the gardens and along the stone pathways with the ocean behind you.
5. Penfield Pavilion — Fairfield, CT
A bright, airy, beachfront venue for a clean luxury aesthetic.
Penfield Pavilion offers a minimalist, modern shoreline wedding experience. The bright white pavilion paired with sweeping beach views creates a fresh, clean aesthetic that feels refined and chic. Sunsets at this beach are incredible — soft pinks, warm light, and that glowing horizon make for gorgeous portrait sessions.
6. Madison Beach Hotel — Madison, CT
Boutique, upscale, beachfront hotel with intimate coastal charm.
For couples who want luxury without going overly grand, Madison Beach Hotel is the perfect balance. The ceremony space sits directly on the beach, the reception ballroom overlooks the water, and the hotel itself has a crisp, elevated design.
