Congratulations! You're engaged and the prospect of a beautiful wedding is on the horizon. One of the first things you will have to decide as a couple is where your wedding will take place. And by this, we don't just mean the venue but the destination itself. Blessed with beautiful coastlines, world-class rainforests and quaint wine regions, Australia is a country simply made to host unforgettable weddings. In this article, we provide some background information about thirteen of the most popular and best wedding destinations in Australia, setting you off on a journey of imagination towards your dream event.
Your Australian destination wedding
For those couples who are from the same state, city or even town, deciding on a wedding destination and venue can be simple. However, it's not always like this. For other couples, the thought of selecting a location for a wedding can be a challenge. If one of you is from Perth and the other from Cairns (and your family lives all over the place) it's hard to know where to host your event.
But it's not just couples who are locationally challenged who have a hard time settling on a wedding destination. For many, a destination wedding is a dream. Whether it's Darwin or Tassie, the Barossa Valley or Byron Bay, many couples revel in the thought of an Australian wedding destination far from home - perhaps one blessed with a gorgeous coastline, a cosmopolitan city backdrop or one held in a Northern Territory national park.
Beautiful wedding destinations in Australia
The question is, how do you pick? Thanks to Australia's sheer size and diverse cities and landscapes, there's a whole 7.688 million km² to battle with. I
n this article, we present to you some of the best wedding destinations in Australia. Whether you're after a sophisticated 5-star event in the city, or a laidback event between the vines, there's a perfect place for you just waiting.
Hunter Valley
For those living in Sydney, or anywhere in Australia for that matter, the Hunter Valley is an attractive option for a wedding location. Thanks to it's proximity to Australia's best known city and for its gorgeous nature, there's no wonder so many people dream of a wedding in the Hunter Valley immersed in the wines and hills.
With its breathtaking landscapes, rolling vineyards, and charming wineries, the Hunter Valley creates a romantic atmosphere that is simply perfect for celebrating love. And whilst the region's idyllic countryside provides a backdrop of natural beauty, its world-class wineries offer stunning venues for ceremonies and receptions.
Couples here can exchange vows amidst the vineyards, enjoy exquisite wine tastings, and treat their guests to delectable culinary experiences. The Hunter Valley's warm climate, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and friendly hospitality, makes it a desirable choice for couples seeking a memorable and captivating wedding experience.
Barossa Valley
For similar reasons, the world famous Barossa Valley in South Australia is a wonderful wedding location. An exceptional destination for all kinds of events, the Barossa Valley exudes charm and elegance in every aspect. With its breathtaking vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and historic world-class wineries, it sets the stage for a truly memorable celebration.
Here in the heart of South Australia, some of the region's most renowned wineries offer exquisite venues for ceremonies and receptions. Just imagine exchanging your vows amongst the peaceful hills and with kangaroos hopping by.
What's more, the Barossa Valley's rich culinary heritage and reputation will promise high quality wine and gastronomic for your guests, based on local produce. Plus, once your wedding day is over, you and your guests will be able to enjoy the tourist highlights of the region. When it comes to wedding destinations in Australia, this is a real secret gem.
Margaret River
Also famous for its wines, Margaret River in Western Australia is a stunning location within which to hold a wedding. Nestled in the state's beautiful southwest region, it's an idyllic destination radiating natural beauty and charm.
Margaret River is also known for its pristine beaches and lush forests, which are wonderful backdrops for your big day. Plus, wonderful wineries here also offer wedding packages and a focus on local produce will elevate your wedding's food and drink to the tastiest levels!
From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, Margaret River captures the essence of romance and creates unforgettable memories amidst its captivating surroundings.
Hamilton Island
When considering wedding destinations in Australia, it's hard not to think about the dreamy Hamilton Island.
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is a incredible destination for a wedding, boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical palm tree-framed landscapes. Let's just say, there are not many places like this in the world!
You could opt for a ceremony on the beach here, or a luxurious reception at a renowned resort. Plus, there's no better place to enjoy a honeymoon. All in all, Hamilton Island offers a serene and intimate setting for couples to share their special day with loved ones.
Darwin
Although Darwin isn't your typical wedding destination, there are a lot of drawcard characteristics of Australia's northernmost city that make it absolutely perfect for your upcoming nuptials.
Located in Australia's tropical Northern Territory, Darwin offers a very unique and vibrant setting for couples seeking a memorable wedding experience. Here, you'll find stunning coastal landscapes, as well as lush gardens, and an always-warm climate.
The city is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, so a Darwin wedding might be best suited to a couple that loves the outdoors and hopes for a more rustic-chic type event.
Yarra Valley
The gorgeous Yarra Valley stands as an extraordinary choice for a wedding destination thanks to its awe-inspiring natural beauty. We're talking about undulating hills, verdant vineyards and ancient gums.
One of the world’s premier wine-growing regions, the Yarra Valley is situated less than an hour away from Melbourne too, so if you're looking for a spot close to an airport, it's not a bad choice.
Despite its close proximity to the city, however, the Yarra Valley is a whole world away. Couples who choose to have their weddings here can indulge in exquisite wines and culinary delights, creating a memorable and sophisticated dining experience for their guests.
Plus, the Yarra Valley is also home to a wide range of stunning wedding venues. From rustic vineyard estates to elegant reception centres, couples have the flexibility to choose a location that matches their vision and style.
Byron Bay
Excellence in hosting weddings is just another thing that Byron Bay excels at (as well as being endlessly fun and totally gorgeous). As an idyllic and peaceful holiday spot, Byron Bay offers a plethora of delights, but its ability to host an unforgettable wedding is truly exceptional.
If you envision a dreamy beach-side wedding, Byron Bay may just be the perfect destination for you. With an abundance of charming cafes, restaurants, shops, and accommodations (not to mention the crystal-clear beaches) your loved ones will be treated to an extraordinary experience at your Byron Bay wedding. In fact, they won't ever want to leave.
Gold Coast
As dream wedding destinations go, the Gold Coast is pretty hard to beat. Boasting world-renowned beaches, a lush hinterland, and what feels like infinite wedding venues, Queensland’s vibrant southern coastline is one of the best places to say your vows.
And the great thing about the Gold Coast is, you can truly fit your wedding to your preferences. Whether you dream of a swish beachfront affair, a modern and luxury hotel reception or traditional and rustic party, there are a great deal of options for your big day.
Blue Mountains
Why not make your 'something blue', New South Wales' most beautiful natural feature: the Blue Mountains. Only a short drive or train journey from Sydney, the Blue Mountains get their name from the natural blue haze created by vast eucalyptus forests in this World Heritage area. Tiny droplets of oil released from the trees here mix in with water vapour and sunlight to produce this distinctive colour.
Within these dramatic landscapes of the Blue Mountains, a number of wonderful little towns are host to numerous beautiful wedding venues. From traditional and quaint to modern and luxe, the Blue Mountains has it all. When it comes to wedding destinations in Australia, it doesn't get much better than this.
And if its views you're looking for, you certainly won't be let down. Nearly every ceremony and reception venue in the Blue Mountains offers a backdrop of endless azure skies against hazy blue hills and valleys. Can't be bad.
Mornington Peninsula
Breathe in the fresh sea air of the Mornington Peninsula and sprinkle your wedding with coastal goodness in Victoria's favourite seaside region. Here, you'll be able to embrace an alfresco lifestyle just an hour from Melbourne.
With its scenic beaches, rolling vineyards, and lush gardens, the Mornington Peninsula creates an idyllic countryside backdrop for your special day. And one of the best things about this region is that it has a little bit of everything. Whether you choose a beachfront ceremony, a vineyard celebration, or a garden event, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and a serene atmosphere - wherever you are!
And don't forget, the peninsula is renowned for its world-class wineries, gourmet cuisine, and luxurious accommodations, so there's no doubt that your wedding will be blessed with all the good thing on life.
The Daintree
The Daintree is a natural wonderland that enchants with its lush foliage, ancient trees, and vibrant wildlife. As one of the oldest rainforests on Earth, it offers a magical escape, where crystal-clear streams and exotic creatures coexist in harmony, creating a captivating and unforgettable experience. It's simply magical.
So if you're a real nature lover or a keen adventurer, a wedding in or near the Daintree could be ideal for you. There are various venues and accommodations available in the area that cater to weddings, offering couples and their guests a truly memorable and intimate experience in the heart of the Daintree rainforest. Whether it's a small, intimate gathering or a larger celebration, you're sure to create lifelong memories between the towering trees.
Glenelg
Whilst some couples adore the thought of a quiet wedding with nature, for others, something with a little more spirit is preferred. That's why a wedding at Glenelg Beach in South Australia could be just perfect for the couple in search of a beautiful beach wedding with a lively twist.
Boasting the perfect balance of beauty, atmosphere and serenity, Glenelg is the ideal location for your wedding ceremony if Adelaide is your first choice destination. Locals know and love it, and travellers will fall for this patch of paradise where pristine sands meet clear azure waters.
Witness breathtaking sunsets and watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colours. Then, just a short walk from the beach, the iconic Glenelg Jetty which will add a touch of charm to your post ceremony wedding photos. Compared to other wedding destinations in Australia, Glenelg might not be as famous, but we can't imagine why.
Hobart
Hobart, nestled on the banks of the Derwent River, captivates all travellers with its unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. It's super charming, and since you have to fly here from the mainland, it feels absolutely miles away - creating the illusion of a far flung destination wedding.
Beautiful Hobart offers a picturesque setting for weddings, with its stunning waterfront, historic venues, and natural landscapes. At times, you'll feel like you're in Europe. Couples can choose from a range of beautiful locations here, including botanical gardens, stunning vineyards, and waterfront venues, all offering a romantic and memorable backdrop for their special day.
Looking for something a little different and a little special? Hobart's blend of heritage charm, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality makes it a wonderful destination for your dream wedding.
Bring your wedding to life with timeless wedding stationery by Peppermint Press
Once you've selected the perfect venue for your wedding, ensuring that it is wholly personalised to your taste and preference is key. With Peppermint Press, you can select wedding stationery - including signage, menus, seating charts and more - from our timeless collections and then personalise them to your taste.
